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Ford Motor Company has announced a recall affecting 295,449 diesel-engine F-Series trucks. The issue involves defective fuel pumps that can lead to power loss, increasing the risk of accidents. This recall highlights the importance of timely defect resolution and the protections offered under Lemon Law for California drivers.
In this blog, we’ll outline the details of the recall, its impact on vehicle owners, and the legal options available if repairs don’t resolve the defect.
The Problem with Defective Fuel Pumps
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) posted the Ford recall that states that biodiesel deposits may form on the drivetrain roller components of high-pressure fuel pumps.
This buildup can lead to pump failure, causing
- Engine Power Loss: Reduced engine performance or stalling.
- Extended Start Times: Difficulty starting the engine.
- Check Engine Light: An illuminated warning on the dashboard.
- Increased Risk of Crashes: Sudden power loss while driving.
Although no accidents or injuries have been reported yet, the potential dangers posed by defective fuel pumps are significant.
Affected Ford F-Series Models
The recall applies to the following diesel-engine models:
- 2020-2022 Ford Super Duty F-250, F-350, F-450, F-550, F-600
- 2021-2022 Ford F-650, F-750
Ford estimates that a large percentage of these vehicles may experience the outlined issues if the fuel pump defect is not addressed.
Ford’s Plan for Repairs
Ford has committed to resolving the issue at no cost to vehicle owners.
Here’s how the repair process will work:
1. Owner Notifications:
Ford reported that it would send recall notices to affected vehicle owners beginning January 13, 2025.
2. Repair Process:
Ford dealerships will update the powertrain control module software to improve pump function and replace defective components as needed.
3. Customer Support:
Owners can contact Ford’s customer service hotline at 1-866-436-7332 for more details.
For additional assistance, drivers can also contact the NHTSA’s safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 or visit nhtsa.gov.
How These Issues Affect Ford Owners
The defective fuel pump recall raises critical concerns for Ford F-Series owners.
Let’s examine two hypothetical scenarios to highlight the potential impact:
Scenario 1: Frequent Downtime Due to Repairs
A driver of a 2020 Ford F-350 Super Duty may experience recurring fuel pump failures despite recall repairs. Frequent trips to the dealership could lead to significant downtime, making the truck unreliable for daily use or business operations.
Scenario 2: Loss of Confidence in Vehicle Reliability
A 2021 Ford F-250 owner may notice performance issues like stalling or power loss during highway driving. Such incidents can diminish trust in the vehicle’s safety and impact long-term satisfaction.
In both cases, unresolved defects could qualify the vehicle for Lemon Law protections.
Lemon Law Protections for California Drivers
California’s Lemon Law, officially known as the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act, offers robust protections for consumers dealing with defective vehicles. Most of the significant changes to this law—the first major updates since 1970—went into effect on January 1, 2025.
These changes emphasize:
- Timely Claims: New deadlines for filing Lemon Law claims.
- Increased Accountability: Manufacturers are held responsible for recurring defects.
Under California Lemon Law, you may be entitled to:
- Replacement Vehicle: Receive a comparable model free from defects.
- Full Refund: Reimbursement for purchase costs, including taxes and registration.
- Additional Compensation: Recover expenses like towing, rental cars, and missed workdays.
- Attorney Fees Covered: Manufacturers must pay your legal fees if your claim is successful.
Steps to Take If You’re Affected
If your Ford F-Series truck is part of the recall, follow these steps to protect your rights and ensure your vehicle’s safety:
- Check Your VIN: Use Ford’s recall lookup tool or contact your dealership to confirm if your truck is affected.
- Schedule Repairs Promptly: Book an appointment with an authorized Ford dealer as soon as you receive your recall notice.
- Document Issues: Keep detailed records of all repair attempts, service visits, and communications with Ford.
- Consult a Lemon Law Attorney: If the defect persists despite repairs, seek legal advice to explore your options.
Why These Recalls Matter
Ford’s recent recall of nearly 300,000 F-Series trucks is part of a larger trend highlighting the importance of consumer safety. In 2024, the NHTSA fined Ford $165 million for delays in addressing previous recalls, including faulty rear-view cameras.
The updated California Lemon Law ensures stricter oversight, encouraging manufacturers to address defects more effectively and avoid prolonged legal disputes. These measures aim to protect consumers while promoting accountability among automakers.
How Gayle Law Group PC Can Help
At Gayle Law Group PC, we specialize in Lemon Law cases and have extensive experience helping California drivers navigate vehicle defect claims.
Our team provides
- Case Evaluation: We’ll review your vehicle’s history to determine if it qualifies under Lemon Law.
- Evidence Collection: Our experts gather repair records and warranty details to strengthen your case.
- Aggressive Representation: Whether negotiating with Ford or pursuing litigation, we’ll fight for the compensation you deserve.
Act Now to Protect Your Rights
If your Ford F-Series truck continues to experience issues after recall repairs or if it was in for repair of these issues repeatedly before the recall,, don’t wait to take action. The revised California Lemon Law places tighter deadlines on claims, making early intervention critical.
The Ford F-Series recall underscores the importance of addressing vehicle defects promptly. By staying informed and taking advantage of Lemon Law protections, you can hold manufacturers accountable and ensure your rights are upheld.
Contact Gayle Law Group PC today for a free consultation. Let us help you secure a resolution and restore your confidence in your vehicle. With our expertise, you can manage the Lemon Law process with ease and get back on the road safely.