2018 Ford F-150 Problems: Recalls, Complaints & TSBs
The 2018 Ford F-150 has faced seven safety recalls, with significant concerns around its brake master cylinder, tailgate latches, and daytime running lamps. While no owner complaints or federal investigations have been reported, these recalls are crucial for owner awareness.
The 2018 Ford F-150, a popular light-duty pickup truck, has been involved in a notable number of safety recalls since its release. Owners and prospective buyers should be aware of these issues, particularly a significant 2018 Ford F-150 brake recall that impacts braking performance. This comprehensive profile details all known safety-related problems, including recalls, owner complaints, federal investigations, and manufacturer service bulletins, to provide a clear picture of the vehicle's reliability.
At a Glance
For the 2018 model year, the Ford F-150 has been associated with seven safety recalls. These recalls address various components, with the braking system and tailgate latches being among the most frequently cited. Fortunately, there have been no owner complaints or federal investigations reported for this specific model year, suggesting that while recalls are present, widespread owner-reported issues beyond these campaigns are not currently documented.
Recalls
The 2018 Ford F-150 has been subject to seven distinct safety recalls, each addressing a potential risk to vehicle occupants or other road users. It's crucial for owners to ensure all applicable recall repairs have been completed.
Braking System Recalls
Two significant recalls have been issued concerning the braking system, specifically the master cylinder. The first, NHTSA ID: 22V150000, affects certain 2016-2018 F-150s equipped with 3.5L Ecoboost engines. In these vehicles, the brake master cylinder may leak fluid, which can lead to reduced front braking function and increased stopping distances. This is a critical safety concern, directly impacting the vehicle's ability to stop effectively.
A second, related 2018 Ford F-150 brake recall, NHTSA ID: 25V236000, also addresses a brake master cylinder leak in certain 2017-2018 F-150 models. This leak can similarly reduce braking effectiveness and heighten the risk of a crash. Dealers are instructed to replace the master cylinder and, if necessary, other brake components to rectify this issue.
Tailgate Latch Recall
Ford issued a recall for certain 2018 F-150 vehicles due to a problem with the tailgate latches, NHTSA ID: 21V983000. The concern is that the tailgate may unexpectedly unlatch while the vehicle is in motion. This could result in unrestrained cargo falling out, posing a hazard to other drivers. The prescribed remedy involves replacing both tailgate latches at no cost to the owner.
Suspension Component Recall
A recall, NHTSA ID: 21E027000, was issued by Tenneco Automotive (DRiV) for certain MOOG K500359 ball joints installed on 2015-2018 Ford F-150 trucks. These ball joints may have a misaligned dust boot or be missing an alignment hole or warning tag. Such defects could lead to improper installation, potentially compromising the front suspension's integrity.
Exterior Lighting Recall
Certain 2018-2019 F-150 trucks equipped with high series LED headlamps are subject to a Daytime Running Lamp (DRL) recall, NHTSA ID: 20V097000. The issue is that the DRLs may remain fully activated instead of dimming when the headlights are on. This can reduce visibility for oncoming drivers and increase the risk of a crash.
Airbag Label Recall
Ford Motor Company issued a broad recall, NHTSA ID: 24V852000, affecting various 2018-2025 Ford and Lincoln models, including the F-150. This recall addresses missing airbag warning labels on the dashboard. The absence of these labels could increase the risk of injury in the event of a crash, as occupants might not be properly warned about airbag safety precautions.
Tire Recall
A recall, NHTSA ID: 21V155000, was issued for select 2018 F-150 vehicles equipped with Continental tires. The concern is that overcured tires may fail, leading to sudden air loss or tread separation. This condition significantly increases the risk of a crash. Dealers are tasked with inspecting and replacing any affected tires free of charge.
Owner Complaints
As of the latest data, there have been no owner complaints specifically reported to NHTSA for the 2018 Ford F-150. This indicates that while the vehicle has had several recalls, owners have not filed formal complaints about widespread, unaddressed issues.
Federal Investigations
No federal investigations have been opened against the 2018 Ford F-150.
Service Bulletins
There are no manufacturer service bulletins reported for the 2018 Ford F-150.
Should You Be Worried?
The presence of seven safety recalls for the 2018 Ford F-150, particularly the recurring 2018 Ford F-150 brake recall, indicates that certain components required manufacturer intervention to ensure safety. While concerning, the fact that these are recalls means Ford has identified and provided remedies for these issues. The absence of owner complaints, federal investigations, or service bulletins suggests that once these recalls are addressed, the vehicle's reliability record is generally positive.
What 2018 Ford F-150 Owners Should Do
If you own a 2018 Ford F-150, taking proactive steps is essential to ensure your safety and the longevity of your vehicle. First, use your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to check for any open recalls on the NHTSA website or Ford's official recall lookup tool. If any recalls are outstanding, contact your authorized Ford dealer immediately to schedule the necessary repairs, which will be performed free of charge. Pay close attention to any changes in braking performance, tailgate operation, or lighting functionality, and report them to your dealer. Staying informed about these potential issues can help you maintain your truck's safety and reliability.
Sources
- 2016-2018 Ford F-150, Expedition, Navigator Brake Recall — NHTSA ID: 22V150000
- 2017-2018 Ford F-150 / Expedition Brake Master Cylinder Recall — NHTSA ID: 25V236000
- 2018 Ford F-150 Tailgate Latch Recall 21V983000 — NHTSA ID: 21V983000
- 2015-2018 Ford F-150 Ball Joint Recall 21E027000 — NHTSA ID: 21E027000
- 2018-2019 Ford F-150 DRL Recall 20V097000 — NHTSA ID: 20V097000
- 2018-2025 Ford & Lincoln Missing Airbag Label Recall — NHTSA ID: 24V852000
- 2018-2019 Ford F-150, Escape Tire Recall 21V155000 — NHTSA ID: 21V155000
What Ford F-150 owners report
Counted from the records in our database across 46 model years.
- 39,812
- Owner complaints
- 226
- Recalls
- 2,759
- Service bulletins
- 1,679
- Crashes reported
- 2,104
- Fires reported
- 1,496
- Injuries reported
The 2018 model year
2,327 complaints, the 3rd most of 46 model years on file. Owners reported 64 crashes, 33 fires and 52 injuries for this year, which also has 19 recalls on file.
Complaints by model year
| 1997 | 2,758 | |
|---|---|---|
| 2004 | 2,029 | |
| 2011 | 2,194 | |
| 2012 | 1,784 | |
| 2013 | 2,994 | |
| 2014 | 1,539 | |
| 2015 | 1,746 | |
| 2016 | 2,093 | |
| 2017 | 1,465 | |
| 2018 | 2,327 |
Most-reported systems
- Power Train — 9,483
- Engine — 4,618
- Electrical System — 4,362
- Service Brakes — 3,838
- Vehicle Speed Control — 2,924
Latest recalls for the 2018 model year
- 26V373000 — Exterior Lighting (Jun 2026)
- 26V375000 — Power Train (Jun 2026)
- 25V236000 — Service Brakes, Hydraulic (Apr 2025)
Recent owner reports
The transmission has been replaced once covered under Fords extended warranty at 90,700 miles by the previous owner in 2022. Today the transmission has 82,000 miles on it and requires to be replace again.
Read owner complaints →3 separate things recently happened. First the cam phasers went out, $4600. Second, only months later, the transmission went out, $7100. Third, it is throwing a p0420 and p0421 codes and the catalytic converts need replaced, at least $2000.
Complaints are owner reports filed with NHTSA. They are unverified, and counts depend on how many vehicles were sold, so they are not a failure rate.