Ford Motor Company continues to have significant problems with their inaugural EV truck, the electric full-size light duty Ford F-150. The model was unveiled by Ford in May of 2021 with the first production beginning in May of 2022.

The first wave of the F-150 Lightning included multiple glitches, engineering errors, design errors and poor preparation to replace parts. Consumers are experiencing long delays fixing these vehicles and Ford has ended up repurchasing thousands of defective F-150's nationwide.

More recently, the F-150 Lightning continues to be subject to repairs for a multitude of defects.

Description of Some Problems

1. Acceleration hesitation

2. Engine issues including:

  a. Rough running

  b. Engine may shut off while idling

  c. Check engine light

  d. Head gasket leaks

3. Faulty spark plugs

4. Grinding noises

5. Battery or charging defects

6. BlueCruise won't engage

7. Fit and finish defects 

“BlueCruise” is the hands-free driving feature that allows drivers to operate the truck without using their hands on the steering wheel. Some consumers have reported this feature was accidentally removed by Ford from some of the trucks. 

Ford has also recalled the F-150 Lightning multiple times for potential issues such as battery fires, inoperative lights, tire pressure monitoring system issues, and loose or missing nut in the high-voltage battery junction box bus bars. 

Drivers are also having fits with the "dynamic bending headlight" function, high voltage battery warning lights, as well as powertrain malfunction/reduced power warnings.

Consumers have also reported that the truck does not charge properly or does not charge at all. This issue has been reported with both home and public charging stations. Numerous consumers are reporting premature battery drain, even when the vehicle is not in use. This issue occurs randomly and can leave the truck without power.

There have also been specific complaints about electrical system failure. This issue can cause the truck to lose power and stop running while in transit. Many users from the F-150 Lightning forums have expressed concerns about the EV's powertrain system. Some owners have reported that their vehicle stopped sending power to the electric motors while driving. This resulted in the vehicle being unable to drive and needing to be towed to a dealership.

Ford's technicians have struggled to consistently repair these problems. As a result, F-150 Lightning trucks are spending extended periods of time in the shop. Owners are left without truck they purchased and instead driving a loaner vehicle or in some cases nothing at all.

Navigation System/Software Defects

Many F-150 Lightning trucks have clunky navigation errors and software problems that can also be dangerous. The electronic stability control (ESC) has been the source of frustration for consumers. Ford has offered software updates for these problems, but again, they have been hit or miss. 

Ford has issued a recall for over 5,000 2022-2023 F-150 Lightning vehicles for this same ESC issue. For some owners, the SYNC software that turns on the (ESC) doesn't work when the ignition cycle starts. As a result, the truck drives without the designed electronic stability.

Multiple Warning Lights and Recalls

The F-150 Lightning has been subject to a seemingly endless number of recalls, many involving the issues noted above. Owners have experienced multiple warning lights, including:

  4WD warning and a shift fault.

Fit and Finish Defects

I currently have two clients who have reported misaligned doors, the frunk not opening properly, and wide gaps in various panels, doors, tailgate and frunk. These manufacturing defects have caused excessive wind noise and call in to question the longevity and reliability of the vehicles.

Is Your Ford F-150 Lightning a Lemon?

If you are experiencing problems with your Ford F-150 Lightning EV, the Michigan Lemon Law may allow you to be compensated for these defects. Michigan's Lemon Law requires manufacturers to repurchase your defective vehicle if it is in the dealer service department at least 30 days within the first year from delivery, or at least 3 times for the same problem. Even if the dealership is waiting for parts for your vehicle, the30-day rule still applies.

If you would like a free, confidential consultation with legal advice on how to proceed, contact Adam Alexander at (248) 246-6353, or visit www.myfaircreditsite.com