Ford F-150 Front Seat Risks Result in Recall of 200,000 Vehicles

More than 200,000 Ford pickup trucks have been recalled, due to a risk that the front power seats may loosen and fall out of the guide track, posing an increased risk of injury in the event of a crash. 

The Ford F-150 recall was announced on December 1, after the manufacturer discovered issues with the front seat adjuster assembly.

The upper left-hand pivot bolt for the front power seat adjuster in the recalled Ford vehicles may loosen or fall out, causing the front seat cushion to experience increased movement in a crash, potentially coming completely off the track. Although no injuries have been linked to the problem, Ford Motor Company warns that this may result in vehicle occupants not being properly restrained in the event of an auto accident.

Included in the recall are model year 2016 Ford F-150 vehicles built at the Dearborn Assembly Plant from January 22, 2016 to April 19, 2016, model year 2016 Ford F-150 trucks built at the Kansas City Assembly Plant from January 22, 2016 to April 19, 2016, and model year 2016 Ford F-150 trucks built at the Chicago Assembly Plant from January 22, 2016 through April 19, 2016.

Ford estimates 202,274 vehicles are impacted by the recall, including 177,264 sold throughout the United States and federalized territories and another 22,620 sold in Canada and another 2,390 that were distributed for sale in Mexico.

Dealers will be instructed to measure the torque of the power seat track upper pivot link bolt. In the event the bolt passes the torque inspection, dealers will remove and clean the bolt and apply a new thread lock, and reinstall the bolt to the specified torque. If the bolt fails the torque inspection, a thread lock will be added and the bolt will be reinstalled as an interim repair until parts become available for a final repair, which will include replacement of the lift link with new bushings and fasteners.

The auto manufacturer said it will notify affected customers by mail with instructions on how to schedule a free repair. Customers with further questions may contact Ford customer service at 1-800-392-3673 and reference the recall number 17S11.