October 7, 2016 — Federal auto-safety regulators are investigating dozens of reports of complete brake failure on Ford F-150 pickup trucks from 2015 and 2016 model-years with 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engines.
There have been 25 complaints of “sudden and complete brake loss,” some specifically reporting a brake master cylinder failure and low brake fluid level.
According to documents (PDF) posted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
“Complaints allege symptoms of brake pedal going to the floor with sudden and complete loss of brake effectiveness.”
One difference is that the 2015 vehicles lit up the brake warning light, while 2016 models did not. The investigation covers about 282,000 vehicles. If a recall is issued, it would double the number of F-150s that have been recalled for sudden brake failures this year.
In May 2016, Ford recalled about 225,000 of the 2013 and 2014 model-year F-150 pickup trucks with 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engines due to sudden brake failure. Ford blamed the problem on an internal brake fluid leak from the master cylinder.
No major injuries were reported, but a loss of brake power will increase the stopping distance for the 2.5-ton vehicle and the risk of a serious accident. Nine accidents were reported and 120 owners complained about the problem, according to the New York Times
Ford F-150 pickup trucks from the 2011 and 2012 model-years with 3.5L EcoBoost V6 engines have also been linked to brake problems. Last year, the NHTSA investigated power brake assist failures and found 432 complaints, 7 crashes, one injury, and 6,476 warranty claims related to electric brake vacuum pumps. No recall was issued.
Do I have a Ford F-150 Brake Failure Lawsuit?
The Schmidt Firm, PLLC is currently accepting Ford F-150 induced injury cases in all 50 states. If you or somebody you know has been injured by sudden brake failure, you should contact our lawyers immediately for a free case consultation. Please use the form below to contact our Automotive & Crashworthiness Litigation Group or call toll free 24 hours a day at (866) 920-0753.
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