Ford is recalling nearly 45,000 model-year 2014 F-150 pickup trucks after determining that a previous safety recall repair may not have been completed correctly, as the automaker works to make the recall process more seamless for dealers.
The details: According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), affected vehicles were incorrectly recorded as having received a software update required under an earlier recall tied to an issue first reported in late 2024.
The recall, identified as Ford recall number 26S45 and NHTSA recall number 26V378, affects certain F-150 trucks built between June 19, 2013, and Dec. 23, 2014.
If the software update is missing, the vehicle could unexpectedly downshift into first gear, increasing the risk of a crash due to a potential loss of vehicle control.
Owner notification letters are scheduled to be mailed between July 6 and July 10, 2026, with affected VINs searchable beginning July 6.
Why it matters: The recall highlights the operational challenges associated with completing and tracking recall repairs, underscoring the importance of accurate recall execution.
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Between the lines: The latest recall comes as Ford works to improve how dealers manage recalls by shifting more remedies to software-based fixes. Approximately 80% of Ford's recalls so far this year can be resolved through software updates, Ford spokesperson Mike Levine told CDG News.
When a physical repair is required, Ford prioritizes customer convenience and reducing pressure on dealerships through its Mobile Service network, Levine said, via email.
For repairs requiring a dealership visit, customers can use dealer pickup and delivery services and the FordPass app to ensure necessary parts are available before arrival, “streamlining the entire experience," he added.
Bottom line: As vehicles become increasingly software-driven, software-based recalls are likely to become more routine, making streamlined recall processes and proactive customer outreach essential to maintaining service capacity and owner loyalty.
You can see this recall announcement and many more throughout the entire year by visiting the CDG recall tracker, powered by BizzyCar:
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