Ford · Model Year Profile · 2023

2023 Ford F-150 Problems: Recalls, Complaints & Service Bulletins

The 2023 Ford F-150 has faced 5 recalls addressing issues with the axle, steering wheel clock spring, moonroof wind deflector, and airbags. This profile details known problems, safety risks, and what owners should do.

Byeditor david chenUpdated
2023 FORD F-150 safety profile — editorial illustration
Editorial illustration generated for this model-year profile.

The 2023 Ford F-150 has been the subject of several safety recalls, primarily concerning critical components such as the axle assembly and the steering system. While no owner complaints or federal investigations have been reported to NHTSA for the 2023 model year, owners should be aware of these recalls. This reliability profile details the known issues, potential risks, and recommended actions for 2023 Ford F-150 owners.

At a glance

The 2023 Ford F-150 has 5 recalls on record with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). These recalls address potential safety issues with the power train (axle hubs and assembly), steering column, air bags, and the moonroof assembly. There are no open federal investigations or owner complaints directly reported to NHTSA, nor are there any manufacturer service bulletins for the 2023 Ford F-150.

Recalls

Owners of the 2023 Ford F-150 should be aware of five distinct safety recalls issued by Ford Motor Company. These recalls address various components that could pose safety risks.

Power Train Recalls

Two recalls pertain to the power train system, specifically the axles:

  • Axle Hub Bolt Issue: Ford has issued a recall, NHTSA ID 25V512000, for certain 2023-2025 F-150 vehicles equipped with the Trailer Tow Max Duty package. This recall, also known by Ford Recall 25S82, addresses a potential issue where the rear axle hub bolt may fatigue and break. Such a failure could lead to a loss of drive power or, in severe cases, cause the wheel to detach, increasing the risk of a crash.
  • Front Axle Pinion Issue: Another power train recall, NHTSA ID 23V128000, affects certain 2023 F-150, Expedition, and Lincoln Navigator vehicles. In these vehicles, the front axle pinion may not have been properly heat-treated. This manufacturing defect could lead to a fracture of the pinion, resulting in a loss of 4-wheel drive capability and potentially causing the front wheels to lock up, significantly increasing crash risk.

Steering and Airbag Recalls

Critical safety systems like steering and airbags have also been subject to recalls:

  • Steering Wheel Clock Spring: A recall, NHTSA ID 23V847000, has been issued for certain 2023 F-150 vehicles due to a potentially faulty steering wheel clock spring. This defect can interrupt the electrical connection to the driver's frontal airbag, preventing it from deploying in a crash and thereby increasing the risk of injury.
  • Airbag Deployment Interference: Ford also issued a recall, NHTSA ID 23V072000, for certain 2023 F-150 vehicles. This recall addresses a concern where the passenger-side instrument panel top cover might interfere with the proper deployment of the airbag. Such interference means the vehicle fails to meet federal safety standards and increases the risk of injury during a collision.

Moonroof Wind Deflector Recall

  • Inadequately Attached Deflector: A recall, NHTSA ID 25V729000, covers certain 2021-2023 F-150, 2021-2022 Expedition, and Lincoln Navigator vehicles. The moonroof wind deflector clips in these vehicles may be inadequately attached. If the deflector detaches, it can become a road hazard for other drivers, increasing the risk of a crash.

Owner complaints

As of the latest data, there are no owner complaints reported to NHTSA specifically for the 2023 Ford F-150. This indicates that while recalls have been issued, owners have not yet filed formal complaints regarding these or other issues with the agency.

Federal investigations

No federal investigations have been opened against the 2023 Ford F-150 by NHTSA.

Service bulletins

There are no manufacturer service bulletins reported for the 2023 Ford F-150.

Should you be worried?

The presence of five safety recalls for the 2023 Ford F-150, particularly those affecting critical systems like the power train and airbags, indicates significant potential safety concerns. While the absence of owner complaints and federal investigations might seem reassuring, it is crucial for owners to address any open recalls promptly. The issues identified, such as axle failure and airbag non-deployment, could lead to serious safety incidents if not rectified. These are not minor inconveniences but fundamental safety defects that require immediate attention.

What 2023 Ford F-150 owners should do

Owners of a 2023 Ford F-150 should take the following steps to ensure their vehicle's safety and address any potential 2023 Ford F-150 problems:

  • Check for Recalls: Regularly check your vehicle's recall status using your VIN on the NHTSA website or Ford's recall portal. This is the most important step to identify if your specific truck is affected by any of the recalls mentioned.
  • Contact Your Dealer: If your 2023 Ford F-150 is subject to a recall, contact an authorized Ford dealership immediately to schedule the necessary repair. All recall repairs are performed free of charge.
  • Monitor for Symptoms: Pay attention to any unusual noises, vibrations, or changes in vehicle behavior, especially related to the power train (axle, transmission) or steering. Also, be vigilant for any airbag warning lights.
  • Keep Records: Maintain records of all recall repairs and service visits for your vehicle.

Sources