by Ford Recalls F-150 Due to Rear Axle Issues
Ford has announced a recall of F-150 pickups manufactured from January 2023 to May 2025. The issue concerns models equipped with the powerful 9.75-inch HD version rear axle, which may lose drive connection. This is already Ford’s 95th recall this year, and it will affect over 103,000 vehicles.
Full-size pickups like the F-150 are often used for hauling heavy loads, but it has been found that the rear axle in the version with the Max Tow package may not withstand the stress. Engineers discovered that the axle bolts can break due to metal fatigue, leading to spline wear and a potential loss of vehicle control.
Problem Details
According to the investigation, the rear axle bolts can fracture, especially in high-humidity conditions or with regular towing use. This can result in the vehicle either losing drive or, in the worst case, becoming impossible to control. Although Ford estimates the probability of such a scenario at only 1%, the company has already received 194 complaints from owners.
The manufacturer has already updated the rear axle design for new models, increasing the contact area and replacing the fasteners. Owners of the recalled vehicles will be able to receive free repairs at dealerships in the fall. For now, they are advised to listen for any unusual noises that may indicate a problem with the bolts.
This situation once again highlights the importance of regular technical inspections, especially for vehicles operated in extreme conditions. Ford continues to work on improving the reliability of its models, but this case may impact consumer trust in the brand, particularly against the backdrop of numerous recalls in 2025.
