The Kansas City Assembly Plant assembly station installed a shorter, lower-grade fastener incorrectly on the lower steering column I-shaft after receiving a box of fasteners meant for a different purpose, according to documents made public by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. A week after the assembly team leader discovered this blunder, on April 18, 2024, Ford opened an inquiry.
The assembly team leader directed personnel to identify and remove any incorrect fasteners from stock. According to the Critical Concern Review Group, the shorter fastener poses a risk of loosening over time, potentially causing steering issues or unusual sounds during turns.
Fortunately, there have been no reports of incidents, warranty claims, or customer complaints related to this oversight. The affected 2024 model trucks, produced between April 10, 2024, and April 11, 2024, are subject to a recall.
Ford has notified dealers of the recall, instructing them to replace the lower steering shaft fastener with the correct part listed as N808684-S101. Owner notification letters will be sent out from May 20, 2024, through May 24, 2024. Owners can also check their vehicle’s status by inputting the VIN into Ford’s recall portal.
While Ford did not specify which variants/configurations of the F-150 are affected, it’s worth noting the range of options available for the popular truck, including various cab styles, box lengths, and engine choices, such as the new 2.7-liter EcoBoost twin-turbo V6.
Despite the recall, Ford continues to offer a diverse lineup of F-150 models, including the PowerBoost hybrid variant, which has gained popularity among buyers. While competitors like Toyota offer formidable alternatives, the F-150 remains a top choice in the half-ton truck segment, offering a blend of performance, versatility, and innovation.
