Ford Recalls Ranger, Bronco, and F-250 Super Duty Models Over Incorrect Vehicle Capacity Weight Values

Ford has issued a recall for a number of its Ranger, Bronco, and F-250 Super Duty models in the United States due to incorrect vehicle capacity weight values displayed on the tire and loading information label. While this may seem like a minor issue, it could have serious consequences.

According to Ford’s recall notice issued through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the 2023 Ranger and Bronco models affected have a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 6,000 lbs on the safety certification level. Meanwhile, the Ford F-250 Super Duty has a stated GVWR of 10,000 lbs or less.

The carmaker explains that when calculating the payload of these models, it used a nominal base curb weight value that did not adequately account for vehicle-to-vehicle weight variabilities that can occur in the manufacturing process. Additionally, some affected Ranger vehicles had mod-center/dealer-installed option values entered incorrectly into the systems used to calculate VIN-specific values.

Ford is concerned that the incorrect values could lead to a vehicle being loaded beyond its load-carrying capacity, which could increase the risk of a crash. A total of 29,607 vehicles are involved in the recall, including 4,668 Bronco models built between September 3, 2021 and March 31, 2023, 16,009 Ford F-250s manufactured between March 16, 2022 and March 31, 2023, and 8,930 Ranger models made from September 11, 2018 to June 27, 2022.

Owners of these affected vehicles will be notified of the recall from July 5 and will be mailed a new label that they can place over the existing one. Alternatively, they can visit a Ford or Lincoln dealer to have the new label installed.

Implications of Incorrect Vehicle Capacity Weight Values

The incorrect vehicle capacity weight values displayed on the tire and loading information label may seem like a minor issue, but it could have serious consequences. Overloading a vehicle beyond its load-carrying capacity can lead to a number of problems, including:

1. Poor Handling: Overloading a vehicle can cause it to handle poorly, making it difficult to control. This can increase the risk of a crash, particularly in adverse weather conditions.

2. Braking Problems: Overloading a vehicle can also affect its braking performance, making it harder to stop in an emergency.

3. Tire Damage: Overloading a vehicle can cause excessive wear and tear on the tires, leading to premature failure and potentially dangerous blowouts.

4. Suspension Damage: Overloading a vehicle can also cause damage to the suspension system, leading to costly repairs and potentially dangerous handling issues.

By ensuring that the correct vehicle capacity weight values are displayed on the tire and loading information label, Ford is taking an important step towards ensuring the safety of its customers and reducing the risk of accidents on the road.

Recall Process

If you own an affected Ford Ranger, Bronco, or F-250 Super Duty model, you will be notified of the recall from July 5 and will be mailed a new label that you can place over the existing one. Alternatively, you can visit a Ford or Lincoln dealer to have the new label installed.

It is important to note that this recall is free of charge, and owners are advised to take their vehicles to a Ford or Lincoln dealer as soon as possible to have the new label installed. Failure to do so could result in serious consequences, including an increased risk of accidents on the road.

Conclusion

Ford’s recall of its Ranger, Bronco, and F-250 Super Duty models due to incorrect vehicle capacity weight values displayed on the tire and loading information label is an important step towards ensuring the safety of its customers. Overloading a vehicle beyond its load-carrying capacity can lead to a number of problems, including poor handling, braking problems, tire damage, and suspension damage.

If you own an affected vehicle, it is important to take it to a Ford or Lincoln dealer as soon as possible to have the new label installed. This recall is free of charge, and failure to act could result in serious consequences. By taking this important step, Ford is demonstrating its commitment to the safety of its customers and reducing the risk of accidents on the road.