NHTSA Looking at 253,000 Ford F-150s for Brake Boost Failure
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) is expanding their probe of F-150s to cover some 253,000 vehicles that might have a braking related issue. A recall hasn’t been announced yet, but it’s possible one could happen in the future.
Basically, on 3.5L EcoBoost-equipped F-150s, the electric brake backup vacuum assist pump can fail. This would change how the brake pedal would feel, and although the brakes still work, an accident could result in the driver not adapting to the new pedal feel.
Ford has replaced 4,600 parts already, and has responded to an additional 1,851 warranty claims related to a harder brake pedal feel. Even though NHTSA is looking deeper into the issue, Ford doesn’t believe a recall is necessary as the change to the pedal feel is “limited and temporary.”
According to crash data turned over to NHTSA by Ford, a disabled pump would require 2 to 3 times the amount of braking force applied to the pedal to bring the vehicle to a stop at 50 miles per hour. A complete failure would require even more force.
This engineering probe is necessary in order for NHTSA to require a recall. NHTSA hasn’t made their decision yet on if it’s necessary.
If you are driving a vehicle and the brake assist fails, it will require more pedal effort to stop. However, the vehicle will still stop.
NHTSA is aware of one injury as a result of an accident related to the failed part.
What do you think? Let us know over in the forums!
via [The Detroit News]
