The 2023-2024 Ford Lightning electric pickup truck is facing a new recall due to a potentially dangerous issue with a loose nut that could lead to a loss of directional control. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) announced this alarming discovery on Monday, urging owners to take immediate action.
The problem arises from an error in the assembly process, where the incorrect torque was applied to a nut on the front suspension. Specifically, the nut in question is located on the ball joint that connects the front upper control arm to the steering knuckle. If this nut becomes loose, it could cause the upper control arm to separate from the knuckle assembly, resulting in a significant loss of directional control. In some instances, drivers have reported experiencing an “uncommanded left turn” at high speeds, leading to dangerous situations such as collisions with guardrails.
In addition to the potential loss of control, owners and operators may notice unusual symptoms such as increased vehicle vibration and a clunk or rattling noise when traversing bumps in the road. These warning signs should not be ignored, as they could indicate a serious safety issue that needs immediate attention.
The affected vehicles were manufactured between Nov. 6, 2023, and Feb. 12, 2024, totaling 11,922 electric pickup trucks. It’s important to note that the recall does not include the 2022 model year, which was the first year of production for the Ford F-150 Lightning.
This latest recall marks the sixth for the 2023 Lightning, contributing to Ford’s 63rd recall in 2024. While Ford has had a significant number of recalls this year, they still trail behind Stellantis in the total number of recalls. Ford has been a leader in the industry for several years, but the recent spike in recalls is cause for concern.
Ford has acknowledged two field reports related to the loose nut issue and is taking proactive steps to address the problem. Owners can expect to receive notification by mail starting on Feb. 3, 2025, instructing them to bring their F-150 Lightnings to a Ford or Lincoln shop for inspection. If the torque on the front control arm ball joint nut meets specifications, it will be replaced as a precaution. If it fails to meet the required torque, the knuckle and nut will be replaced at no cost to owners. Those who have already paid for repairs related to this issue will be reimbursed accordingly.
For more information and to stay updated on the recall process, owners can contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332 or visit Ford’s official recall site. The recall number for this specific issue is 24S76. It’s crucial for owners to act promptly and follow the instructions provided to ensure the safety and integrity of their vehicles.
