Sunita Somvanshi
Ford is recalling 115,539 Super Duty trucks because their steering columns could fail while driving. The recall affects 2020-2021 model year F-250, F-350, and F-450 trucks built between February 2019 and September 2020 at Ford’s Kentucky Truck Plant.
The problem involves the steering column’s upper shaft, which could separate from the steering column. If this happens, drivers would lose steering control completely, increasing the risk of a crash. Making matters worse, there are no warning signs on the dashboard or steering wheel before the fault occurs.
Ford discovered this issue in June 2025 when it was brought to their Critical Concern Review Group. Between July and August, engineers reviewed the steering column design history and found the problem. From the start of the 2020 model year through February 2021, these trucks used only a single “staking” process to prevent the shaft from pulling apart. Ford later added a second staking to improve the design.
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The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates only about 1% of the recalled vehicles will actually have the defect. So far, there have been seven warranty claims related to this issue. Fortunately, Ford reports no crashes or injuries from steering failures.
The fix is straightforward. Dealers will inspect the steering column’s upper shaft for any signs of extension or wear. Parts that pass inspection will be reinforced to prevent future problems, while parts that fail inspection will be replaced entirely. All repairs will be free of charge.
Ford will start sending interim notification letters to owners on October 6, 2025. These letters will explain the problem and what to watch for. However, the final remedy won’t be available until December 2025, when Ford will send another round of letters.
Vehicle owners don’t need to park their trucks while waiting for repairs. Unlike some serious recalls, there is no “do-not-drive” order with this one. Owners can continue using their trucks but should pay close attention to any changes in steering feel.
Concerned Super Duty owners can check if their truck is affected by entering their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the NHTSA website. The search tool became available on September 23, 2025. Owners can also contact Ford’s customer service at 1-866-436-7332 and reference recall number 25S94.
This steering column recall adds to Ford’s growing list of quality issues in 2025. The company has issued over 100 recalls this year alone, including a recent recall of over a million vehicles for a rearview camera defect.
