The Ford Lightning electric pickup truck for the 2023-2024 model year is undergoing a recall due to a loose nut that may lead to a loss of steering control, as reported by the NHTSA on Monday.
The problem arises from incorrect torque being applied to a nut located in the front suspension during production. This particular nut is found on the ball joint that links the front upper control arm to the steering knuckle. If this nut is not secure, the upper control arm may disconnect from the knuckle assembly, which could compromise steering capabilities. One driver noted that at highway speed, the truck made an “uncommanded left turn” into a guard rail.
Owners may notice noticeable vehicle vibration and hear a clunking or rattling sound when driving over uneven surfaces.
The affected vehicles were manufactured between November 6, 2023, and February 12, 2024. This recall impacts 11,922 electric pickup trucks and does not include the 2022 model year, which marked the inception of the Ford F-150 Lightning.
This marks the sixth recall for the 2023 Lightning model, and the 63rd recall for Ford in 2024, positioning it as the automaker with the second highest number of recalls, behind Stellantis, based on NHTSA data. Ford had previously held the top position in recalls for three consecutive years prior to 2024.
Ford has received two field reports concerning the loose nut issue.
Owners can expect to receive official notification via mail starting from February 3, 2025. They will be advised to bring their F-150 Lightnings to a Ford or Lincoln dealership, where a technician will examine the torque on the front control arm ball joint nuts. If the torque is within specifications, the nut will be replaced; if not, both the knuckle and nut will be replaced at no charge. Owners who have already incurred costs to resolve this issue will be eligible for reimbursement.
For further assistance, you can reach Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332 or visit Ford’s recall website. The recall number assigned by Ford is 24S76.
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