1.48 Million Ford F-150 Pickup Trucks Recalled Over Crash Concerns

Ford Motor Company says it is aware of at least five car accidents involving its popular Ford F-150 pickup trucks caused by unintended downshifting into first gear, which can lead to loss of control and crashes. According to a news report in the Detroit Free Press, Ford issued a recall for 1.48 million F-150s in North America for model years 2011-2013 along with recalls on brand new cars and SUVs.

In addition to this recall, Ford also recalled about 28,000 Lincoln Continentals (2017-2019) with door latches that could open while driving and issued a third recall for 2019 Mustang, Nautilus and Navigator vehicles, about 4,350, that may show blank instrumental panels when the vehicles start.

Recall Details

Ford released a statement saying some 2011-2013 Ford F-150 vehicles with 6-speed automatic transmissions may experience an intermittent loss of transmission output speed sensor signal to the powertrain control module, potentially resulting in a temporary, unintended downshift into first fear. A downshift to first gear without warning could result in a loss of control. So far, Ford is aware of five reports of accidents including one report of whiplash linked to this auto defect.

This recall affects approximately 1.48 million vehicles including about 1.26 million in the United States. Affected vehicles were built at the Dearborn Assembly Plant. When the recall begins, dealers will update the powertrain control module software in the affected vehicles. The company has issued seven vehicle safety recalls in the first six weeks of 2019. If you own one of the vehicle models included in these Ford recalls, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to find out if your vehicle is included in the recall.

Auto Liability Issues

Based on this news report, it appears that there were at least five crashes involving the pickup trucks downshifting into first gear. When a vehicle defect causes or contributes to a car crash, the automaker and/or the manufacturer of the defective part can be held financially responsible for the injuries, damages and losses caused. Injured victims can seek compensation for medical expenses, lost income, hospitalization, rehabilitation, pain and suffering and emotional distress.

Victims would also be well advised to contact an experienced auto defect attorney who will remain on their side, fight for their rights and hold the negligent automakers accountable. The best auto defect law firms will always offer a free consultation and comprehensive case evaluation to injured victims and their families.

Source: https://www.freep.com/story/money/cars/2019/02/13/ford-f-150-pickup-recall-accidents/2857572002/