Another Ford F-150 recall is only the most recent in a chain of them over the past several years. The problem with the Dearborn manufacturer’s best seller is the spontaneous engagement of its electric emergency brakes. Almost 870,000 F-150s are part of this recall that takes in trucks from 2021 to 2023. 

Only F-150 pickups with a single exhaust system are in this recall. “In certain circumstances, the rear axle wiring harness bundle may contact the rear axle housing. Over time, contact with the rear axle housing can cause the abrasion-resistant tape and circuit insulation of the wiring harness assembly to wear, exposing the wiring,” according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

Are there any accidents or injuries in this F-150 recall?

Ford says 918 warranty claims over the problem alerted it to the issue. There are also three field reports as well. Of those, there are 19 reports of sudden engagement while being driven. But Ford says no injuries or accidents have occurred. 

Owners should take their F-150s to their local Ford dealer, where it will inspect both the wiring harness at the rear end and the abrasion tape for the wiring. Should it see damage, the dealer will replace that portion of the wiring harness. Dealer techs will install an additional tie strap and tie wrap if no damage is evident. 

How often has the F-150 had a recall in 2023?

Today’s recall again focuses the spotlight on Ford’s ongoing quality issues over the past several years. So far this year, there have been 35 Ford recalls, affecting over 4.4 million vehicles. This is on the heels of last year’s 67 recalls, the most in the industry by a wide margin. That amounts to over 8.7 million vehicles getting a recall notice in 2022. 

Going back one more year, there were 53 recalls in 2021, affecting 5.4 million vehicles. Virtually every Ford model has been swept into a recall of one type or another. CEO Jim Farley told Automotive News in January,  “We’re improving our launch and initial quality, but our overall quality isn’t as good as it should and can be. That’s why we’re deploying a comprehensive end-to-end process to raise quality and keep it high in design, production, delivery, and after-sale service and support.”

The 2021 to 2023 F-150 owners will receive recall notices by September 15. Should you have questions or concerns about your F-150, there are several ways you can find more recall information. You can contact Ford through its Recall Support website or the NHTSA website. Have your VIN handy, as you’ll need it when you contact either source.