In late September, Ford announced a recall affecting select Super Duty truck model years, which all owners need to be aware of. Impacting roughly 115,539 Super Duty trucks between the 2020 and 2021 model years, this recall relates to a defect in the steering column, which can lead to dangerous accidents. Learn exactly what this Ford recall entails, how to check if you’re impacted, and how to get your Ford fixed so you can keep yourself safe on the road.

What the Recall Covers and Potential Safety Risks

As mentioned, the recall covers over 115,000 vehicles across two model years. Specifically, there is a reported issue in the steering column of these Super Duty models. This defect may cause the upper shaft of the steering column to separate from the column because something known as the hard slider mechanism does not meet proper specifications.

This can essentially cause the steering shaft to loosen or detach over time, potentially leading to a lack of ability to steer the vehicle. The initial internal review conducted by Ford traced the root problem to be due to a single staking used in the manufacturing process that was not as robust as a dual-staking method for support.

The model years affected by this potential loss of steering control include:

• Ford Models: F-250, F-350, and F-450 Super Duty pickup trucks
• Model Years: 2020 and 2021
• Manufacturing Dates: Between February 2019 and September 2020

If you’re not sure whether or not your vehicle has been impacted, don’t hesitate to take the time to check.

How to Check Your VIN in 2 Minutes

Luckily, checking whether or not your Ford is impacted by this recall is relatively simple and can be done in two minutes using the steps below:

1. Find your vehicle identification number (VIN): Typically located on the driver’s side inner door, the dashboard, or on the vehicle registration, you will need this unique identifier.
2. Visit the NHTSA Vehicle Recall site: Take your vehicle’s VIN and plug it into the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website to see if your Ford is included in the list of impacted vehicles.

With just those two steps, you’ll have your answer. If your vehicle has been impacted and you have additional questions, you can contact Ford directly online or at (866) 436-7332 and use the recall code 25S94 to get answers. You’re also welcome to call the NHTSA vehicle-safety hotline number at (888) 327-4236.

Interim Safety Steps Until the Remedy Is Complete

While you should get your Ford Super Duty to a dealership to get a free part replacement as soon as you are approved to, there are steps you can take in the meantime to stay safe:

• Avoid aggressive road maneuvers, harsh steering inputs, or sudden directional changes that place strain on the steering column
• Keep speeds moderate to reduce the stress on your steering components
• Extra force and torque during heavy loads may worsen the chance of component separation, so try not to tow anything
• Stay alert to any sudden looseness, vibration, or unusual behavior in the steering column or wheel feel, and pull over right away if you do notice this
• If possible, avoid high-speed highway driving or challenging driving scenarios until the fix is in place

The above tips will only keep you safe for so long and should only be relied on until the earliest appointment to get your vehicle serviced is available, once remedy letters are released.

Scheduling the Dealer Fix and What to Expect at Service

The automaker is currently sending interim owner notification letters in accordance with standards when a recall is announced. Remedy announcements from Ford will come near the end of the year.

If asked to bring your truck in for inspection at that point, you should expect the dealership to take a look at your steering column upper shaft. Should the parts pass inspection, they will be reinforced to stop the issue from arising at a later point. If they do not, they will be fully replaced.

Either way, the dealership will ensure that steering functionality is not compromised in the future. Per recall standards, this repair will also be free of cost. Be aware that depending on dealership location and part availability, there could be delays in the process. Don’t delay getting your appointment scheduled.

Documentation to Save After the Repair

For tracking purposes, to document the recall repair, there are a few items you should save:

• The repair or work order documents
• The recall reference number or your claim number
• The date you had the repair handled, and what your odometer was at
• The parts that were replaced (if applicable)
• The signature from the dealership confirming that the recall repair was successfully completed

The reason you want to keep the above information is primarily due to if you plan to sell your vehicle one day. Potential buyers may ask about its recall history, and having documentation will ensure your sales price isn’t impacted. Additionally, in the event of future repairs, having proof of the fix can help with warranty claims.

Where to Track Official Updates and Notices

To keep yourself current on official updates and notices related to the recall, it’s best to utilize the NHTSA official site or Ford’s communication with news outlets directly. Since remedy letters are going to be sent out later in the year, the rollout may end up being region-by-region. By monitoring both of the above, you can stay up-to-date on when your vehicle will be eligible for the repair.

Protect Your Vehicle From Future Breakdowns With Endurance

Those who own an F-250, F-350, or F-450 within the affected 2020 and 2021 model years shouldn’t wait to take action. The minute the remedy letter arrives at your door, you should get your vehicle to an approved dealership.

For manufacturing defects not covered under a recall notice, investing in an extended warranty or vehicle service contract can help. At Endurance Warranty Services, there is a range of customizable auto protection plans available, ranging from high-level stated coverage to that most similar to what a manufacturer offers for a new car.

This means you can enjoy cost coverage for repairs related to mechanical breakdowns affecting your Ford’s engine, transmission, air conditioner, fuel system, and so much more, depending on the plan you choose. Additionally, enjoy one year of Elite Benefits, which provides bonus perks such as complete tire coverage, windshield repair, key fob replacement, and more.*

To learn more about how Endurance can protect your Ford, contact one of our service plan advisors at (800) 253-8203 or request a FREE email quote. You can also see your price and plan recommendations on our eStore.