Select 2017-2018 Ford F-250, F-350, and F-450 models are being recalled in the United States due to a problem with the driveshaft.
The American car manufacturer has revealed that a radial damper inside the driveshaft may move out of position over time, triggering a driveshaft imbalance and impacting the noise, vibration, and harshness levels of the vehicle. The driveshaft could also fracture if the issue is left unaddressed, increasing the risk of injury or a crash.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) notes that a fractured driveshaft may result in a loss of motive power while driving, unintended vehicle movement while the vehicle is in park without the parking brake, and could also result in secondary damage to surrounding components.
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An investigation into the issue has revealed that rubber over-mold rings on the radial damper can deform under higher driveshaft rotational speed, allowing it to move out of position.
Impacted Ford F-250, F-350, and F-450 models were produced between October 21, 2015 and January 30, 2018 and have 176-inch wheelbases, 4×4 systems, and are equipped with either a 4.1 or 4.3 rear axle ratio. The recall involves 399 F-250s, 14,089 F-350s, and 4,320 F-450s.
Owners of impacted models will be notified between January 9, 2023 and January 13, 2023 and instructed to take their vehicle to a Ford or Lincoln dealer to have the driveshaft replaced with an updated one free of charge. The car manufacturer will reimburse owners who paid to fix the issue prior to notification of a safety recall in May 2021.
