Ford F150 Brake Problems Might Affect Later Models Not Covered by Recall

Consumers are warning that F150 brake problems aren’t limited to the 2013 and 2014 models that have been subject to a recall. Owners and lessees allege other models of 2013-2018 Ford pickups have the same F150 brake problems, but Ford has not included these other models or later vehicles among the recalled trucks.

On May 24, 2016, Ford issued a recall of certain models of its 2013 and 2014 F150 pickup trucks manufactured between Aug. 1, 2013 and Aug. 31, 2014 that are equipped with 3.5-liter engines.

Ford said the master cylinder rear cup seal might roll, causing brake fluid to leak from the main reservoir into the break booster, the mechanism that allows the driver to obtain braking action without placing too much force upon the brake pedal.

This loss of brake fluid from the primary reservoir leads to a complete loss of functionality in the front brakes, which could increase the risk of an accident. If all of the brake fluid has been lost, the brakes can fail without warning, which means drivers could fail to stop at red lights and stop signs if they are unable to get the brakes to respond.

Under the recall, dealerships will replace the brake master cylinder and the brake booster if that component also needs to be replaced, free of charge. However, Ford is facing allegations that dealers are replacing some of the defective parts with new parts that have the same defect.

F150 Brake Problems Plague Newer Pickups

A driver of a 2015 Ford F150 pickup filed a complaint with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) last month after his truck lost brake power. The Tennessee driver said he was lucky he noticed the loss of power in his driveway when the brake pedal went all the way to the floor. An inspection of the truck’s master cylinder found the brake fluid was almost completely gone.

Another driver said he was vacationing with his wife in Georgia when the brakes on his 2015 Ford F150 failed. He claims the brakes have failed since then, and the only indication anything was wrong was a brake light warning lit up on the dashboard.

The NHTSA reportedly has received similar complaints regarding 2015 and 2016 Ford F150 brake problems from consumers in 38 states, according to an investigation by WSMV News 4 of Nashville, Tenn.

The NHTSA sent Ford a letter on Sept. 18, 2018 asking for information regarding model year 2015 through 2018 Ford F150 brake problems so that the NHTSA can evaluate the “alleged defect.” The letter addresses the following circumstances surrounding F150 brake problems:

• Brake fluid leaking from the master cylinder into the brake booster;
• Allegations the brake warning lamp turns on and/or low fluid level in one or both chambers of the brake fluid reservoir; and/or
• Increased brake pedal movement, including allegations of the pedal going to the floor, accompanied by reduced brake effectiveness.

If you own or lease a 2013-2018 Ford pickup truck, you could be eligible to participate in this lawsuit investigation regarding F150 brake problems.

Join a Free Ford F-150 Brake Failure Lawsuit Investigation

If you own or lease a 2013-2018 Ford F-150 and have experienced a brake failure or loss of brake fluid, you may be entitled to compensation.

Learn More