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Ford Motor Company has announced a recall affecting approximately 123,611 vehicles due to a potential brake fluid leak that could compromise braking performance. The recall targets specific 2017-2018 Ford F-150, Expedition, and Lincoln Navigator models equipped with 3.5L EcoBoost engines. A defective brake master cylinder may allow fluid to leak into the brake booster, reducing front wheel brake function and increasing stopping distances, which heightens the risk of crashes.
Key Highlights:
- Affected Vehicles: 87,738 F-150s, 30,200 Expeditions, and 5,673 Navigators from February 1, 2017, to June 30, 2017.
- Defect Cause: Brake fluid contamination or a faulty rear cup seal in the brake master cylinder.
- Safety Risk: Reduced brake function, potentially leading to longer stopping distances and crash risks.
- Warning Signs: Audible chime, message center alert, red brake warning light, or changes in brake pedal feel.
- Remedy: Free replacement of the brake master cylinder and, if needed, the brake booster at Ford or Lincoln dealers.
- Notification: Owner letters will be mailed starting April 28, 2025.
The issue stems from brake fluid contamination or a seal defect in the master cylinder, impacting an estimated 1% of the recalled vehicles. Ford has identified 73 warranty claims for Expeditions and Navigators and 17 for F-150s as of January 31, 2025, with no reported accidents or injuries. Owners will be notified to contact dealers for free repairs, including a replacement master cylinder and, if leaking, a new brake booster. Ford’s customer service line (1-866-436-7332) and the NHTSA hotline (1-888-327-4236) are available for inquiries. Owners can also check vehicle eligibility via Ford’s OASIS database or www.safercar.gov. This recall expands on a prior NHTSA recall (22V-150), addressing vehicles produced after January 31, 2017.
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