
Written By: Jessica Anvar Stotz
Legally Reviewed By: Jessica Anvar Stotz

Ford is recalling for nearly 12,000 F-150 Lightning trucks due to a potential suspension issue that could compromise vehicle safety.
The problem centers around an inadequately tightened ball joint nut on the front upper control arm, which could cause the control arm to separate from the knuckle assembly.
This defect, believed to stem from a misalignment of the factory tool used during assembly, poses a serious safety risk by leading to a loss of steering control while driving.
The recall affects 2023 and 2024 model year F-150 Lightning trucks. If the ball-joint nut is loose or improperly secured, it can allow the upper control arm to detach, resulting in a loss of directional control and increasing the likelihood of a crash.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) also reported that drivers might notice vibrations or hear clunking or rattling sounds during suspension movement, indicating that the control arm is loosening.
Why Is There a Ford Lightning Suspension Recall?
The Ford F-150 Lightning has been recalled due to a serious issue involving the vehicle’s front suspension, specifically involving an improperly torqued nut on the upper control arm ball joint.
This nut secures the front upper control arm to the knuckle assembly, and when not correctly tightened, it can cause the control arm to detach from the knuckle.
This detachment leads to a dangerous loss of steering control, significantly increasing the risk of a crash.
At least one crash has been attributed to this issue, where the vehicle unintentionally steered into a highway barrier.
Ford has reported that it is aware of this incident, along with two additional field reports and a warranty claim related to the same problem.
The company believes the issue arose due to a misalignment or improper tool adjustment during assembly, which prevented the ball joint nut from being properly secured.
How Do I Know if My Ford Lightning Is Affected?
Owners of affected Ford Lightning trucks may notice unusual vibrations or hear a clunking or rattling noise when driving over bumps.
The Ford Lightning Suspension Recall involves Ford F-150 Lightning trucks manufactured between November 6, 2023, and February 12, 2024.
A total of 11,922 electric pickups are impacted by this issue. It’s important to note that this recall does not apply to the 2022 model year, which marked the first production year for the Ford F-150 Lightning.
To determine if your vehicle is part of the recall, you can enter your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on Ford’s official website or reach out to your local Ford dealership for assistance.

Is There a Ford Lightning Suspension Fix?
Yes, Ford has issued a possible solution for the suspension issue affecting certain Ford F-150 Lightning trucks.
The company is addressing the problem by inspecting the upper control arm ball joint nut on the affected vehicles.
If needed, Ford will replace the nut and/or the knuckle assembly to ensure proper security and function. This repair will be provided at no cost to owners.
Ford will begin notifying affected owners about the recall and necessary repairs on February 3, 2025.
If you own a Ford F-150 Lightning, make sure to contact your local dealership to schedule an inspection and arrange for any required repairs.
Steps for Affected Ford Lightning Owners
If your Ford F-150 Lightning is in the affected model year range, follow these steps:
- Check Your VIN: Find your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the driver’s side dashboard or inside the driver’s side door frame. It can also be located on your vehicle registration or insurance documents.
- Visit the NHTSA Website: Head to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall website and enter your VIN to check if your vehicle is part of the recall.
- Contact Your Dealer: Reach out to your local Ford dealership. They can confirm whether your vehicle is affected and help you schedule an inspection and any necessary repairs.
- Check for Notifications: Ford will send recall notices to affected vehicle owners. Keep an eye on your mail and email for any communication from Ford regarding the recall.
- Schedule an Inspection: If your vehicle is affected, make an appointment with your Ford dealership. They will inspect the upper control arm ball joint nut and, if needed, replace the nut and/or the knuckle assembly to ensure everything is secure.
- Get the Repair Done: The repair will be provided free of charge. Make sure to have it completed as soon as possible for your safety.
Work with Experts in the Lemon Law!
This marks the sixth recall for the 2023 Ford F-150 Lightning, and the 63rd recall for Ford in 2024, making the automaker the second most recalled brand, just behind Stellantis, according to NHTSA data. Ford had led the industry in recalls for the previous three years.
Ford has acknowledged receiving two field reports related to the issue with the loose ball joint nut, which could lead to a serious safety hazard if not addressed.
Owners of affected vehicles will be notified by mail, with letters expected to arrive as early as February 3, 2025.
They will be instructed to take their trucks to an authorized Ford or Lincoln service center for an inspection.
If the ball joint nut’s torque is found to be insufficient, it will be replaced to prevent further complications.
If you are experiencing ongoing issues with your Ford Lightning or have concerns about the recall and its impact on your vehicle’s safety, a skilled Lemon Law attorney can assist you in assessing whether a Lemon Law claim is appropriate, whether to seek a replacement vehicle, a refund, or other forms of compensation for the defect.
At the Lemon Law Experts, we specialize in handling cases involving automotive defects and have been dedicated to helping consumers resolve their vehicle issues since 2009.
Our team is experienced in navigating state and federal Lemon Laws, ensuring you get the support you need for a favorable resolution.
If you’re dealing with persistent issues related to your Ford Lightning, contact us today to discuss your case.
Citations
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. “RCL Report 24V949: Ford F-150 Lightning Suspension Recall.” NHTSA, 2024, https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2024/RCLRPT-24V949-7212.PDF.
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. “RCAK 24V949: Ford F-150 Lightning Suspension Recall.” NHTSA, 2024, https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2024/RCAK-24V949-7404.pdf.
Green Car Reports. “Ford F-150 Lightning Recalled Due to Detaching Suspension.” Green Car Reports, 2024, https://www.greencarreports.com/news/1145399_ford-f-150-lightning-recalled-due-to-detaching-suspension.
The Car Connection. “Ford F-150 Lightning Recalled for Loss of Steering Control.” The Car Connection, 2024, https://www.thecarconnection.com/news/1145401_ford-f-150-lightning-recalled-for-loss-of-steering-control.