Are There Any Recalls on 2016 Ford F150

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Are There Any Recalls on 2016 Ford F150?

If you own or are considering buying a 2016 Ford F150, you’ve probably asked yourself: *Are there any recalls on 2016 Ford F150 trucks?* The short answer is yes—several have been issued over the years. But don’t panic. Most recalls are proactive safety measures, and Ford offers free repairs to fix the issues. Understanding what’s been recalled, why it matters, and how to get it fixed can save you time, money, and stress down the road.

The 2016 Ford F150 is one of the best-selling trucks in America, praised for its fuel efficiency, towing capacity, and modern design. But like any complex vehicle, it’s not immune to manufacturing flaws or design oversights. Over the past decade, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Ford Motor Company have identified and addressed multiple safety concerns through official recalls. These aren’t just minor inconveniences—some involve critical systems like brakes, airbags, and door mechanisms that could affect your safety on the road.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through every major recall related to the 2016 Ford F150, explain what each one means for you as a driver, and show you how to check whether your truck is affected. Whether you’re a current owner, a used car shopper, or just curious about vehicle safety, this article will give you the full picture—no technical jargon, just clear, actionable information.

Understanding Vehicle Recalls: What You Need to Know

Before diving into the specifics of the 2016 Ford F150 recalls, it helps to understand what a vehicle recall actually is. A recall is an official notice issued by a manufacturer—or mandated by a government agency like the NHTSA—when a vehicle or one of its components poses a safety risk. This could be due to a design flaw, manufacturing defect, or failure to meet federal safety standards.

Recalls aren’t punishments—they’re corrections. When a problem is discovered, automakers are required to notify owners and offer free repairs. In most cases, the fix is simple and takes less than an hour at a dealership. The key is staying informed. Many drivers don’t realize their vehicle has been recalled because they never received the notice, moved without updating their address, or bought the truck used without transfer of recall information.

For the 2016 Ford F150, recalls have spanned several years and involved different systems. Some were discovered during routine testing, while others came to light after consumer complaints or accident investigations. The good news? Ford has been responsive, issuing timely updates and covering all repair costs. The bad news? If you ignore a recall, you could be driving with a hidden danger—like a door that might fly open at highway speeds or an airbag that won’t deploy in a crash.

So how do you stay on top of it? Start by checking your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Every Ford F150 has a unique 17-character code that identifies its model year, engine type, and production details. By entering this number into Ford’s official recall lookup tool or the NHTSA database, you can instantly see if your truck is subject to any open recalls. It’s quick, free, and could literally save your life.

Major Recalls on the 2016 Ford F150

Now let’s get into the details. The 2016 Ford F150 has been involved in several significant recalls. While not every truck is affected, the potential risks are serious enough that all owners should verify their status. Below are the most notable recalls, broken down by system and impact.

Door Latch Malfunction (NHTSA Campaign Number: 16V-600)

One of the most widespread recalls for the 2016 F150 involves the door latches. Ford discovered that the latches in the front and rear doors could fail to fully secure, especially in cold weather or after repeated use. This means a door might appear closed but could pop open while driving—particularly at high speeds or during sudden maneuvers.

The root cause was traced to a faulty latch mechanism made by a third-party supplier. In some cases, the latch would bind or not engage properly, leading to partial closure. Ford issued a recall in September 2016, affecting over 1.2 million vehicles across multiple model years, including the 2016 F150.

The fix involves replacing the defective latch assemblies with updated parts designed to function reliably under all conditions. The repair typically takes about 30 minutes per door and is performed at no cost to the owner. If you’ve ever heard a door “click” but still felt loose, this could be the culprit.

Transmission Control Module Issues (NHTSA Campaign Number: 17V-311)

Another major recall targeted the transmission control module (TCM) in certain 2016 F150s equipped with the 6R80 automatic transmission. The problem? The TCM could misinterpret sensor data, causing the truck to unexpectedly downshift or lose power while driving.

Imagine you’re cruising on the highway, and suddenly your truck jerks into a lower gear, causing a loss of acceleration. This not only disrupts your drive but can also create a dangerous situation if traffic is behind you. In some cases, the issue was linked to faulty wiring or software glitches in the TCM.

Ford addressed this by updating the transmission software and, in some cases, replacing the TCM entirely. The recall affected approximately 150,000 vehicles and was issued in May 2017. Owners reported improvements after the update, with smoother shifting and no more unexpected downshifts.

Brake System Wiring Harness Defect (NHTSA Campaign Number: 18V-138)

A less common but potentially dangerous recall involved the brake system wiring harness. In certain 2016 F150s, the wiring near the brake pedal could chafe against metal components over time, leading to short circuits or complete brake failure.

This issue was particularly concerning because it could result in a total loss of braking power without warning. Ford identified the problem after several field reports and issued a recall in March 2018. The fix involved rerouting and securing the wiring harness to prevent contact with sharp edges.

While this recall affected a smaller number of vehicles—around 25,000—it underscores the importance of regular maintenance and recall checks. A simple wiring issue could have catastrophic consequences if left unaddressed.

Airbag Occupant Classification System (NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V-094)

Airbag safety is critical, and Ford issued a recall in February 2019 to address a flaw in the Occupant Classification System (OCS) in the front passenger seat. The OCS is designed to detect whether a passenger is present and adjust airbag deployment accordingly. However, a software glitch could cause the system to misread the seat’s weight sensor, potentially disabling the airbag when it should deploy.

This means that in the event of a crash, the passenger airbag might not activate—even if someone is sitting there. Ford resolved the issue with a software update that improved sensor accuracy and reliability. The recall impacted about 300,000 vehicles, including many 2016 F150s.

Headlight and Taillight Electrical Issues (NHTSA Campaign Number: 20V-112)

In 2020, Ford recalled certain 2016 F150s due to a defect in the headlight and taillight control modules. The problem stemmed from moisture intrusion in the electrical connectors, which could cause the lights to flicker, dim, or fail entirely.

Poor visibility at night or in bad weather increases the risk of accidents. Ford addressed this by replacing the faulty modules with water-resistant versions and applying protective sealants to prevent future moisture damage. The repair is straightforward and takes about an hour.

How to Check If Your 2016 Ford F150 Is Affected

Now that you know the major recalls, the next step is finding out if your truck is one of them. Fortunately, it’s easier than ever to check—no need to dig through old paperwork or call the dealership blind.

Use Ford’s Official Recall Lookup Tool

The fastest way is to visit Ford’s official website and use their free recall lookup tool. Simply go to [ford.com](https://www.ford.com), navigate to the “Support” section, and click on “Recalls & Service Actions.” Enter your 17-digit VIN, and the system will instantly tell you if any recalls apply to your vehicle.

Your VIN is usually found on the driver’s side dashboard (visible through the windshield), on the door jamb sticker, or in your owner’s manual. Make sure you enter it exactly as it appears—no spaces or dashes.

Check the NHTSA Website

Another reliable option is the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website. Go to [nhtsa.gov/recalls](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls) and enter your VIN. The NHTSA database includes all federal recalls and provides detailed descriptions of each issue, including safety risks and repair instructions.

This site is especially useful if you’re buying a used 2016 F150. Ask the seller for the VIN and run it through the NHTSA checker before finalizing the purchase. It’s a small step that could prevent big problems later.

Contact a Ford Dealership

If you prefer speaking to a person, call your local Ford dealership’s service department. Provide your VIN, and they can look up any open recalls and schedule a repair appointment. Most dealerships will even send you a reminder if a new recall is issued after your initial check.

Sign Up for Recall Alerts

To stay proactive, consider signing up for recall alerts from Ford or the NHTSA. These email or text notifications will let you know immediately if a new recall affects your vehicle. It’s a simple way to stay safe without having to remember to check manually.

What to Do If Your Truck Is Recalled

Finding out your 2016 Ford F150 is under recall can feel unsettling, but remember: recalls are designed to protect you. Here’s what to do next.

Schedule a Free Repair

The first step is to contact a Ford-authorized service center and schedule a repair. All recall-related fixes are free of charge, including parts and labor. You don’t need to pay a deductible or file an insurance claim.

Most repairs take less than a day, and many can be done while you wait. If your truck has multiple recalls, the dealership can often address them all in one visit.

Keep Records

After the repair, ask for a service receipt that confirms the work was completed. This is important for your records and may be useful if you sell the truck in the future. A clean recall history can increase resale value and reassure buyers.

Don’t Delay

Even if the issue seems minor, don’t put off the repair. A faulty door latch or brake wiring might not cause immediate problems, but it could fail at the worst possible moment. Safety recalls exist for a reason—treat them with urgency.

Report Problems

If you experience issues that aren’t covered by a recall, report them to the NHTSA. Your feedback helps identify emerging problems and can lead to new recalls. Visit [nhtsa.gov/report](https://www.nhtsa.gov/report) to file a complaint.

Tips for 2016 Ford F150 Owners

Beyond recalls, there are steps you can take to keep your 2016 F150 running safely and smoothly.

Perform Regular Maintenance

Follow Ford’s recommended maintenance schedule, including oil changes, brake inspections, and tire rotations. Well-maintained vehicles are less likely to develop serious issues.

Inspect Door Latches and Seals

Even if your truck isn’t under recall, check the door latches periodically. Listen for unusual clicks or resistance when closing doors. Also, inspect weather stripping for cracks or wear.

Monitor Transmission Behavior

Pay attention to how your truck shifts. Jerky movements, hesitation, or unexpected downshifts could indicate a transmission problem—even if it’s not part of a recall.

Test Lights and Electrical Systems

Turn on your headlights, brake lights, and turn signals regularly to ensure they’re working. Replace bulbs promptly and report flickering or dimming to a technician.

Stay Informed

Subscribe to Ford’s owner newsletter or follow automotive safety blogs to stay updated on new recalls and service bulletins.

Conclusion

So, are there any recalls on 2016 Ford F150 trucks? Absolutely—but that doesn’t mean you should avoid this popular pickup. With proper awareness and timely repairs, you can drive your F150 with confidence.

The 2016 Ford F150 has faced several recalls over the years, covering everything from door latches and transmissions to airbags and electrical systems. While these issues sound alarming, Ford has addressed them with free, effective solutions. The key is staying informed and taking action when needed.

By checking your VIN regularly, scheduling repairs promptly, and performing routine maintenance, you can keep your truck safe and reliable for years to come. Don’t let a recall scare you away from one of America’s favorite trucks—just use it as a reminder to stay proactive about vehicle safety.

Remember: a recall isn’t a red flag—it’s a repair notice. And with Ford covering the cost, there’s no reason to delay. Your safety, and the safety of your passengers, is worth the few minutes it takes to check.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many recalls does the 2016 Ford F150 have?

The 2016 Ford F150 has been involved in at least five major safety recalls issued by the NHTSA, covering issues like door latches, transmission control, brake wiring, airbag sensors, and lighting systems.

Are recall repairs really free?

Yes, all recall-related repairs are completely free of charge. Ford covers the cost of parts and labor at authorized dealerships, so you don’t pay anything out of pocket.

Can I drive my 2016 F150 if it’s under recall?

You can drive it, but it’s not recommended—especially for recalls involving critical systems like brakes or airbags. Schedule a repair as soon as possible to avoid safety risks.

How do I find my VIN?

Your VIN is a 17-character code found on the driver’s side dashboard (visible through the windshield), on the door jamb sticker, or in your owner’s manual.

What if I bought my truck used and never got a recall notice?

You’re still eligible for free repairs. Use your VIN to check for recalls online or contact a Ford dealership—they can look it up and schedule the fix.

Will a recall affect my truck’s resale value?

Not if it’s been repaired. In fact, a documented recall repair can increase buyer confidence. Always provide service records when selling.

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