Ford Recalls 223,000+ F-150s Over Fuel Tanks That Could Detach and Become a “Road Hazard”MotorBiscuitSaajan JogiaTue, September 15, 2026 at 10:30 AM UTCAdd us on GoogleFord has recalled 223,472 F-150 pickup trucks from the 2023–2027 model years because their fuel tanks could detach while the vehicles are being driven, creating a significant "road hazard" for other motorists.According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recall report, Ford determined the number of potentially affected vehicles by reviewing its production records. The recall covers F-150s built between January 4, 2023, and August 27, 2026, during a period when camera-based systems used to confirm proper fuel tank strap installation were not consistently operational at the company's assembly plants.The affected population includes vehicles that remained unsold or had been in service for less than three months as of August 27, 2026. Ford based this determination on its understanding of the issue and incidents observed in the field, which suggest that any improperly assembled fuel tank straps are likely to cause problems very early in the vehicle's service life.AdvertisementAdvertisementSpecifying the root cause of the issue, the report stated that "in some instances, front fuel tank strap T-slots were not properly inserted into the vehicle's frame rail at the time of vehicle assembly."Ford F-150An unsecured fuel tank may also cause leaks, thereby increasing the risk of a fire or engine stall from fuel loss. Unfortunately, there are no early warning symptoms to suggest that the fuel tank is not secured properly.Ford began investigating the issue in July 2026 after concerns over potentially unsecured fuel tanks were brought before its Critical Concern Review Group (CCRG). A review of global warranty data as of August identified 16 claims linked to the condition, involving F-150s built during periods when systems designed to verify proper fuel tank strap assembly were not continuously in use.Ford's Field Review Committee approved a recall on September 1, 2026. The automaker said it is not aware of any accidents or injuries related to the issue. Ford will notify affected owners by mail and ask them to visit a Ford or Lincoln dealership, where technicians will inspect the fuel tank straps and replace them if needed.AdvertisementAdvertisementThe repair will be performed free of charge. Although the replacement straps are the same type as the recalled components, dealers will ensure they are properly secured to the vehicle's frame rail.Ford planned to notify dealers about the recall on September 14, 2026, with owner notification letters scheduled to be mailed between September 21 and September 28. The affected VINs are also expected to become searchable starting September 14.