Legally reviewed by: Jessica Anvar Stotz, JD, MBA
The automotive industry has seen its fair share of recalls over the years, emphasizing the importance of keeping an eye on vehicle updates beyond routine maintenance. Recently, Ford Motor Company has faced a significant recall concerning its popular F-250 and F-350 trucks.
The Ford F-250 and F-350 are true icons in the realm of American workhorses. These heavy-duty trucks have been a staple for both personal and commercial use, renowned for their robust build, towing capacity, and reliability.
However, even these rugged machines are not immune to potential issues, and in 2023, Ford issued a recall that was rather surprising to F-Series enthusiasts.
What is wrong with the Ford F-250 and F-350 Axle Shaft?
It is critical to comprehend the role that axle shafts play in any vehicle to fully grasp the seriousness of the issue at hand. Axle shafts are responsible for transferring power from the differential to the wheels, enabling the vehicle to move. They are integral components of the drivetrain, ensuring that power generated by the engine is efficiently transmitted to the wheels.
Ford has revealed that more than 41,000 F-250 and F-350 trucks sold in the United States have problems with the left rear axle shaft that is prone to breaking.
Specifically, the auto maker says that the 2023 model year F-250 and 2023 model year F-350 may have been manufactured without properly completing an electromagnetic induction heat treatment process. This means that it is possible for the rear axle shaft of affected Ford F trucks to break. This is a substantial safety defect because if the rear axle shaft breaks, the trucks may lose power and the driver’s inability to hold the vehicle in park if the parking brake is not engaged.
Is my Ford F250 or F350 included in the recall?
In total, 41,555 Ford trucks are included in the recall which consist of the following:
| Ford Model and Year | Number of Vehicles Recalled | Manufacturing Dates |
| 2023 Ford F-250 | 36,333 Trucks | March 20, 2023 – August 21, 2023 |
| 2023 Ford F-350 | 5,222 Trucks | March 20, 2023 – August 21, 2023 |
Ford dealerships were informed of the recall in August 2023 and owners were notified in October 2023. To date, Ford has not reported any accidents or injuries related to the super duty rear axle issues.
What should I do if I am experiencing issues with my Ford F-250 or F-350 rear axle?
Recalls can have various consequences for vehicle owners and passengers as well as others on the road. For owners of affected Ford F-250 and F-350 trucks, the recall means a trip to the local dealerships to have the rear axle shafts inspected and, if required, replaced free of charge. This process could result in downtime and inconvenience, especially for those who rely on these trucks for work or transportation.
However, the potential consequences of not addressing the axle shaft issue could be more severe. If the rear axle shafts fractures, it could result in a loss of control of the vehicle, leading to accidents and injuries.
If you own or lease a 2023 Ford F-250 or F-350 from the affected models, it’s imperative to check for any recall notices and take the necessary steps to address the rear axle issue.
What are the key takeaways from the Ford axle shaft recall?
- Components Affected: Left rear axle shaft
- Affected Vehicles: Select 2023 Ford Super Duty F-250 and F-350 trucks manufactured between March 20, 2023, and August 21, 2023, containing single rear wheels and a 10.5-inch rear axle shaft.
- Concerns: A broken rear axle shaft can result in loss of drive power or the vehicle rolling away when the trucks are in park
- The Fix: Inspection of the left rear axle shaft and replacement of the axle shaft, if necessary, free of charge
- Ford Customer Service: 866-436-7332
- Ford Motor Company Recall Number: 23S49
- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA): 888-327-4236
- NHTSA Website: nhtsa.gov
Suspect your Ford Super Duty is a lemon? Call the Lemon Law Experts today!
If you have encountered repeat repairs with your Ford axle shaft, it might be a lemon and the Lemon Law Experts may be able to assist you. If your truck is a lemon, you are entitled to a refund or replacement truck under the California Lemon Law.
Since 2009, our team of Lemon Law attorneys have successfully helped thousands of consumers with their automotive lemon law claims recover millions of dollars in refunds and cash compensation. Our team offers individualized support to ensure your consumer rights are enforced and protected.
If you suspect your Ford F-250 or F-350 is a lemon, give our team a call today to learn how we can help you.
