Ford recalls more than 870,000 F-150 pickups for unexpected parking brake activation

WASHINGTON — Ford Motor Co. is recalling more than 870,000 F-150 pickups in the U.S. for an issue that might cause the electric parking brake to unexpectedly activate while driving.

The recall covers F-150 pickups from the 2021-23 model years that are equipped with a single exhaust system.

Affected vehicles might experience the parking brake activation if the wiring is damaged.

"In certain circumstances, the rear axle wiring harness bundle may contact the rear axle housing. Over time, contact with the rear axle housing can cause the abrasion resistant tape and circuit insulation of the wiring harness assembly to wear, exposing the wiring," according to a recall report submitted last week to NHTSA.

If the issue occurs, drivers might see a parking brake warning light and message on the instrument panel cluster.

Ford told NHTSA it was aware of 918 warranty claims and three field reports for the wire chafing issue in North America from August 2021 through July 11, 2023. Of those reports, 299 indicated the parking brake unexpectedly activated — 19 instances allegedly occurred while the pickup was being driven.

Ford said it was not aware of any reports of accidents or injuries related to the issue.

Dealers will inspect the rear axle wiring harness and abrasion tape for signs of wear-through and replace it, as necessary. If the abrasion tape does not show signs of wear-through, they will install a protective tie strap and tie wrap.

Dealers are expected to be notified Sept. 11. Vehicle owners are expected to be notified by Sept. 15.

So far this year, Ford has issued 35 recalls — the most of any automaker — affecting nearly 4.4 million vehicles, according to NHTSA data.