Ford Recall: 4.3 Million F-150/F-250 Due to Trailer Module Failure

Ford recalled over 4.3 million pickups (2021-2026 F-150, F-250, F-350, Ranger, Maverick) for software fault in trailer module. Trailer lights and brakes may fail. Free over-the-air fix.

What's up, truckers 🚨

If you drive a Ford F-150, F-250, F-350, Ranger, or Maverick from 2021 to 2026, pay close attention — your pickup could be part of Ford's largest recall in years.

The NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration) announced that Ford is recalling over 4.3 million pickups and SUVs in the United States for a software fault in the integrated trailer module.

What's the Problem?

The defect can cause loss of communication with the trailer, which means:

• Trailer turn signal lights may fail — other drivers won't know you're turning
• Trailer brake lights may fail — the driver behind won't know you're braking
• Trailer brakes may stop working — increasing stopping distance and crash risk

This is especially dangerous if you haul heavy loads on highways or routes with dense traffic.

Affected Vehicles

The recall includes the following models manufactured between 2021 and 2026:

• 2021-2026 Ford F-150
• 2022-2026 Ford F-250, F-350, F-450, F-550 Super Duty
• 2023-2026 Ford F-600 Super Duty
• 2024-2026 Ford Ranger
• 2022-2026 Ford Maverick

If you have one of these models, check if your VIN is on Ford's official list by going to: owner.ford.com/recalls

What Is Ford Doing?

The good news is that the fix is free and you can do it from your phone — you don't need to go to the dealer.

Ford will release an over-the-air (OTA) software update that fixes the problem. If your pickup has connectivity, you'll receive an automatic notification to install the update.

Owner notification letters will begin mailing on March 23, 2026.

Other Ford Recalls in March 2026

In addition to this one, Ford issued two other significant recalls:

🚨 Ford F-250 SD / F-350 SD (2025-2026) — Rear Driveshaft Separation

Approximately 11,431 units of F-250 and F-350 Super Duty 2025-2026 models are at risk of rear driveshaft separation due to friction weld failure. This can cause:

• Sudden loss of power
• Increased crash risk

Interim notification letters will begin mailing on March 16, 2026.

🚨 604,533 Ford Vehicles (2021-2026) — Windshield Wiper Motor Failure

Over 600,000 trucks and SUVs are at risk of windshield wiper motor failure, reducing visibility and increasing crash risk in rain or snow.

Ram Also Has a Major Recall

It's not just Ford — FCA US (Ram) also recalled over 450,000 Ram pickups and Jeep Cherokees (2025-2026 models) for an improperly designed trailer tow module that can cause:

• Trailer lights to fail
• Trailer brakes to become inoperable

Ram owner notification letters will begin mailing on March 24, 2026.

What to Do If Your Pickup Is in the Recall?

1. Check your VIN at owner.ford.com/recalls (Ford) or mopar.com/recalls (Ram)
2. Wait for the official notification from Ford/Ram by mail or email
3. Install the OTA update if available, or schedule a dealer appointment if physical repair is required
4. Don't ignore the recall — a trailer without brakes can kill you or someone else

🔧 Meanwhile, Check Your Towing System

While you wait for the fix, make sure your trailer system is in good condition:

• Check trailer lights before each trip — turn signals, brake, reverse
• Test trailer electric brakes in a safe area
• Check the electrical connector — make sure it's not corroded or loose
• Carry basic tools — fuses, spare cables, electrical tester

At The Truck Savers™ we do:

• Free road simulator inspection — our diagnostic simulator checks 100+ points on your truck and trailer, completely free
• Electrical diagnostics — we check your pickup and trailer's entire electrical system
• Brake system installation — hydraulic and electric brakes for trailers
• Certified parts at our online store

A recall doesn't mean your pickup is bad — it means the manufacturer recognized a problem and will fix it for free. Take advantage of it. 💪