A driveshaft issue has led Ford to recall nearly 185,000 F-150 pickups for model years 2021 and 2022.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports on its website that “underbody heat and noise insulators may loosen and contact the aluminum driveshaft, which could damage the driveshaft and cause it to fracture.”
In a recall chronology report submitted to NHTSA, Ford states that as of Dec. 7 “there have been 27 reports of fractured aluminum driveshafts potentially related to a sagging underbody insulator on these vehicles.” Ford is not aware of any accidents or injuries associated with the defect.
[Related: 'Do not drive' seatbelt recall for 2021 Ford F-150 SuperCab]
NHTSA warns that a fractured driveshaft “can cause a loss of drive power, or a loss of vehicle control if the driveshaft contacts the ground. Additionally, unintended movement could occur while parked if the parking brake is not engaged. Any of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.”
Dealers will inspect and repair the driveshaft as necessary, and properly attach the underbody insulators, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed January 31, 2022. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S56.
Owners may also contact NHTSA’s Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.nhtsa.gov. The NHTSA campaign number for this recall is 21V986000.
