Component
STEERING: STEERING WHEEL/HANDLE BAR
Manufacturer
FORD MOTOR COMPANY
What Happened
The part that connects your steering wheel to the column is called the steering wheel retention nut. In some of your SUVs, this nut might be upside down or damaged, which can weaken the steering column.
Risk if Unfixed
If the steering wheel nut is loose or damaged, your steering wheel could come off while driving, making it impossible to control the vehicle and increasing the risk of a serious accident.
Free Fix
Your dealer will inspect and replace the steering wheel retention nut and steering column if needed, at no cost to you. Schedule an appointment as soon as you get the recall notice.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES. THESE VEHICLES MAY HAVE A MIS-ASSEMBLED OR INCORRECTLY MANUFACTURED NUT THAT ATTACHES THE STEERING WHEEL ASSEMBLY TO THE STEERING COLUMN. THE NUT COULD BE UPSIDE DOWN IN THE STEERING WHEEL ASSEMBLY, WHICH COULD OVERSTRESS THE STEERING COLUMN SHAFT WHEN THE NUT IS TIGHTENED. IN ADDITION, SOME OF THE NUTS MAY HAVE BEEN CRACKED DURING MANUFACTURE RESULTING IN THE NUT FRACTURING WHEN IT IS TIGHTENED DURING VEHICLE ASSEMBLY.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
EITHER OF THESE CONDITIONS CAN LEAD TO THE STEERING WHEEL BECOMING LOOSE OR SEPARATING FROM THE STEERING COLUMN, RESULTING IN LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL.
Original — Remedy
DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND REPLACE THE STEERING WHEEL RETENTION ARMATURE AND, IF NECESSARY, THE STEERING COLUMN TO CORRECT THIS CONDITION.
View full recall details →
Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →