Recall 25V309 covers 9,181 2025 Ford F-150 trucks for lower intermediate shaft fasteners that detach. Repair is free at any franchised Ford dealer.
Ford is recalling 9,181 2025 F-150 trucks because lower intermediate shaft fasteners on the steering gear can be improperly attached, which lets the shaft come loose or detach. If that shaft detaches, the driver can lose steering control and the risk of a crash rises; Ford dealers will complete the recall repair free of charge.
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What's wrong?
The lower intermediate shaft on the 2025 Ford F-150 is the steering link between the steering column and the steering gear. When you turn the wheel, this shaft transfers that motion down to the gear that moves the front wheels. It depends on a properly tightened fastener at the steering gear connection.
On affected trucks, that fastener was not tightened to the required specification during assembly. Ford traced the issue to a plant error-proofing setup that was out of alignment with the tool used to torque the fastener. The system recorded a secured joint even when the fastener was not secured correctly, leaving the shaft able to loosen or detach.
If the lower shaft fastener is loose or missing, you can hear a rattle from the steering system while driving. You can also feel excessive steering play before the shaft separates.
Who's affected?
| 2025 Ford F-150 | steering system |
|---|---|
| Units affected | 9,181 |
| Field incidents | NHTSA has logged no field incidents to date. |
A matching year and model does not guarantee inclusion. Check your VIN to confirm whether this recall applies to your specific pickup truck.
What's the safety risk?
A detached lower intermediate shaft can cause loss of steering control and increase the risk of a crash. Listen for a rattle from the steering system or excess play in the wheel while driving. If either appears, pull over safely and call a Ford dealer. Repair is free at any franchised Ford dealer.
What should I do?
- Check your VIN to confirm your 2025 Ford F-150 is included in this recall.
- Contact a franchised Ford dealer to schedule the free lower intermediate shaft fastener inspection and replacement that secures the steering shaft to the steering gear.
- Bring the recall notice if you have it, or reference recall number 25V309 when you call.
- Drive cautiously until the repair is complete, and stop in a safe place if the steering feels loose or abnormal.
- Call Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332 with questions about recall number 25V309.
What happens at the repair
At the dealer, a Ford technician inspects the lower intermediate shaft fasteners at the steering gear and replaces any fasteners that are not properly attached. The recall repair is free, with parts and labor covered by Ford. If you already paid out of pocket for this shaft fastener repair before the recall notice, Ford's standard reimbursement plan covers eligible documented expenses. Bring receipts or repair records to the Ford service desk.
| Reimbursement | Reimbursement available |
|---|
Timeline
| May 9, 2025 | NHTSA published the recall |
|---|---|
| May 14, 2025 | Dealer notification began |
| May 14, 2025 | Dealer notification ended |
| May 26, 2025 | VIN-searchable in NHTSA's database — Check your VIN to see whether this recall applies to your specific vehicle. |
| May 26, 2025 | Interim owner notification (was planned for this date) |
| May 29, 2025 | Owner notification mailed |
Frequently asked questions
What is recall 25V309?
Recall 25V309 covers 9,181 2025 Ford F-150 trucks with lower intermediate shaft fasteners that were improperly attached to the steering gear. If the shaft comes loose or detaches, steering control can be lost and crash risk increases. Ford dealers will inspect and replace the fasteners as needed for free.
What should I do if my 2025 Ford F-150 is on this recall?
Check your VIN to confirm your specific 2025 Ford F-150 is included in recall 25V309. If it is, contact a franchised Ford dealer to schedule the steering fastener inspection. Reference Ford recall number 25S46 or NHTSA campaign 25V309 when you call. The repair is free.
Is the recall repair free?
Yes. Federal recall law requires manufacturers to repair safety defects at no cost, and Ford will inspect and replace the lower intermediate shaft fasteners as needed for free at any franchised Ford dealer.
What is the safety risk?
The safety risk is loss of steering control if the lower intermediate shaft detaches from the steering gear. That loss of control increases crash risk. If your VIN is included, arrange the free Ford dealer inspection and fastener replacement.
When did Ford notify owners about recall 25V309?
Ford mailed owner notification letters on May 30, 2025. Used-truck buyers and owners who moved after purchase still need to check the VIN, because the recall follows the truck, not the first owner or the mailing address on file.
More information
| NHTSA campaign page | nhtsa.gov/vehicle-recalls/25V309000 |
|---|---|
| Ford customer service | 1-866-436-7332 |
| NHTSA recall # | 25V309 |
| NHTSA recall # (full) | 25V309000 |
Source documents
-
Download Quarterly Report (PDF)
-
Download Owner Notification Letter (PDF)
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Download Owner Notice (PDF)
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Download Recall Acknowledgement (PDF)
-
Download Recall Report (PDF)
This article is generated from NHTSA's primary recall filings and reviewed against the source on May 19, 2026. RecallNotify does not paraphrase NHTSA's consequence language; that text is reproduced as written above. Editorial standards →