Exterior Lighting Problems of Ford F-150 - part 1

The contact owns a 2022 Ford F-150. The contact received notifications of NHTSA campaign numbers: 26v104000 (electrical system, exterior lighting) and 25v455000 (fuel system, gasoline); however, parts for the recall repairs were unavailable. The dealer was contacted; and the contact was informed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was contacted, and the contact was informed that the parts were unavailable. The contact had not experienced a failure.

See all problems of the 2022 Ford F-150 🔎.

The driver's side rear light is full of moisture and some water. It is available for inspection. The Ford dealership in beeville texas coastal bend Ford inspected it already and informed me that it would cost $1,400 to replace and that it was only going to get worse. They also informed me that Ford allows a certain percentage of moisture and water to be in there safely. When you see the pictures this is definitely unacceptable and unsafe. This is causing the reverse lights to flicker intermittent. The moisture accumulation inside the lights can result in inoperative or flickering reverse lamp function. Inoperative reverse lamps may reduce the awareness of other motorists or road users of the driver's intention to operate the vehicle in reverse gear increasing the risk of injury or crash. I bought the vehicle from a Ford dealership in austin texas less than 10 days ago. I reported it to them and they stated it wouldn't be covered under warranty. The best assessment in my opinion of cause is going to be microcracks in the outer lens. Because my truck is a 2023 Ford F-150 king ranch, and there is a known recall for the same issue for 2022-2023 lariat and platinum models, so this can't be a coincidence. Refer NHTSA recall number 23v-418.

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Vertical daytime running lamp is out and from doing multiple hours of research it looks as if it was a quality control issue. The led board was not secured internally and it caused an led to touch the tube and burned it. It is very common on 2021-2023 models and the manufacturer changed it for 2024. Please we need to get this as a recall.

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The turn signal stalk on my 2023 Ford F-150 lightning intermittently requires excessive force to manually cancel after turns and lane changes. The stalk self-cancels normally roughly 50% of the time, but when the steering wheel does not rotate far enough to trigger automatic cancellation the driver must manually return the stalk to center. The condition is most reliably reproduced when the cabin has been elevated in temperature for an extended period and subsides once cooled. The issue predominantly affects right-hand turns and lane changes. The affected component is the turn signal stalk switch pack (multifunction switch), available for inspection. Diagnostic scanning confirmed dtc b124c stored in the sccm. Based on my research this code indicates a turn indicator stalk switch pack fault. The safety risk is threefold: first, a stalk that does not self-cancel sends false signals to other drivers. Second, manually forcing the stalk back to center diverts driver attention from vehicle control. Third, when the stalk releases under applied force it does so suddenly and without warning, and if the driver's hand is on the steering wheel this can cause an involuntary steering input, risking unintended lane departure at highway speeds. I am the second owner, having purchased from a dealership at approximately 60,000 miles. The defect was present at purchase and has worsened progressively to approximately 76,000 miles. The vehicle has not been inspected by a dealer as it is outside warranty. No warning lamp is present; however dtc b124c is confirmed via diagnostic scanning. I documented the issue in a video post which received responses from numerous affected owners: [xxx] information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

Daytime led light went out one side.

I am submitting this complaint regarding the premature failure of the led daytime running lights (drls) on my 2022 Ford F-150. The vehicle's led daytime running light on one side has completely failed, while the corresponding light on the opposite side has significantly faded and appears to be nearing failure as well. The vehicle has approximately 60,000 miles, which is well below the expected service life of a modern vehicle and its lighting system. Ford markets the led daytime running lights as an important safety feature because they improve vehicle visibility to other drivers during daylight conditions. However, when these leds fail, Ford does not offer any serviceable replacement for the failed led components. Instead, owners are required to replace the entire headlamp assembly, despite the failure being limited to the integrated led daytime running light. The cost to replace both headlamp assemblies can exceed $3,000, creating a significant financial barrier to restoring a safety feature that Ford itself promotes as enhancing vehicle visibility and safety. There is no replaceable bulb or reasonably priced repair option available. This raises two concerns: a safety-related lighting feature is failing prematurely at relatively low vehicle mileage. The design of the headlamp assembly makes repair unnecessarily expensive because a minor led component failure requires replacement of the entire headlamp assembly. As a result, many owners may choose to continue operating their vehicles with failed daytime running lights rather than incur thousands of dollars in repair costs. This undermines the intended safety benefit of the daytime running light system. I respectfully request that NHTSA investigate whether the premature failure of these integrated led daytime running lights, combined with the inability to repair the failed components without replacing the complete headlamp assembly, constitutes a safety-related defect warranting further review.

My 2021 Ford F-150 has been having trouble with the transmission. Hard shifting, shifting to 10th gear at 40mph and unable to downshift after slowing down. I have also had issues with the daytime running lights not working since around 45k miles. My truck only has 59k miles at the time of me typing this.

My vehicle does not appear on the recall list for repair concerning trailer lighting module fault. Trailer was tested on 5 other vehicles within our neighborhood and worked perfectly. Addressed issue with Ford dealership and was told vehicle was not on recall list, yet the error is there. It appears the vehicle needs the updated software Ford has issued but dealership refused to issue repair. Vehicle is still under warranty.

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The driver-side integrated factory led headlight assembly experienced a sudden, complete failure of the vertical led daytime running light (drl) / parking lamp strip. The vehicle is completely stock, and the electrical system has never been modified or altered. The component failed suddenly with no prior warning lights, dashboard messages, or symptoms. Safety risk: the failure of the led drl significantly reduces the vehicle’s forward visibility and conspicuity to oncoming traffic, pedestrians, and cyclists, particularly during daytime hours, dusk, dawn, and inclement weather. Because only one side is illuminated, oncoming drivers may misjudge the width, position, or presence of the truck, significantly increasing the risk of a front-end or sideswipe collision. Inspection status: the failed component is currently intact and installed on the vehicle, making it available for inspection upon request. At this time, the problem has not yet been inspected or confirmed by a dealer, independent service center, manufacturer, insurance, or law enforcement.

Daytime running lamps, vertical beam on driver side does not function after 4 years. Research shows it's likely melting the headlight assembly components during overheating and burnout.

My 2021 Ford F-150 lariat has a repeated failure of the front led daytime running/perimeter lighting (driver's side). The light was intermittently dim before failing completely. This occurred around 94,000 miles. Because this lighting is part of the truck’s front visibility system, the failure creates a safety concern, especially in daylight, rain, fog, and low-light conditions. Based on owner reports, this may be a widespread defect affecting other 2021+ F-150 trucks. I request NHTSA evaluate this issue for a possible defect investigation and recall.

The problem and or issue on my 2021 Ford f150 is the day running light on the upper passenger side went out and does not work anymore. I reported it to the dealer. I believe it to be a safety issue if all day running lights are not fully operational. This happened with about 66,026 miles on my vehicle.

Tail light on the drivers side was hyper flashing and upon inspection found that it is not working. When I removed the tail light to replace the bulb I noticed that the whole tail light assembly was full of water. The bulb is inside a housing that is inaccessible, so bulb cannot be replaced without replacing the whole tail light assembly. Leaking tail light assembly causing failure of turn signals or brake lights is a serious safety hazard and can cause an accident. Additional safety risk if blis system fails and driver is not aware that it isn’t working.

While driving on a surface road in columbia, MD at approximately 40 mph, the dash display of the 2024 Ford lightning flash went completely blank, leaving no indication of vehicle speed, battery percentage, battery temp, motor temp, cruise control status etc. Zero information was displayed, and the dash was completely cold and dark. This failure, while traveling at speed, represents a gross safety hazard, especially because the same lcd displays automatic emergency braking informaion etc. Immediately, I was able to pull over, and establish an obd-2 connection to the ecm, and pull error logs. I also took screenshots of critical components and voltages. I cleared the codes, re-checked for codes and saved another error log showing a couple of codes. I then cycled power to the truck several times, hoping for a reboot to clear the error. I also performed a manual reset of the Ford sync system. Using the obd-2 virtual dash on my reader, I was able to safely display speed and battery data, and drive immediately to the nearest Ford dealer (koons Ford). On the way, I phoned crossroads Ford (apex, nc) who did a remote error check using the vehicle's modem. The dealer may have saved this data. Upon arrival to koons, service writers and technicians were able to witness and verify inoperability of the dash unit, and cycle the vehicle power, whereafter the problem persisted. They then took it back for service and evaluation. After approximately 4 hours, I was told that the "dash reset itself after a couple hours" and they could not get it to repeat the error after it came back. Before this, there were no warning signs of dash failure, nor since.

See all problems of the 2024 Ford F-150 🔎.

Drl led strips premature failure. The vehicle is only 5 years old and the drl on the fog lights and the headlight assembly are failing. Multiple f150s in this year range are experiencing similar issues. This poses a safety risk due to not being able to properly see and be seen due to poor lighting.

See attached document for complaint.

2024 Ford F-150 lightning complete instrument cluster blackout while driving. Screen goes entirely black intermittently, lasting up to 30 minutes. Occurs while vehicle is in motion. Issue persists even after stopping and restarting vehicle. Loss of speedometer, battery state of charge, warning lights, and all driver information. This creates unsafe driving conditions with no way to monitor speed or critical vehicle systems.

Both of the daytime running lamps (drls) on my 2021 f150 have failed. They cost `$2,000 each to replace. They are leds, and were billed as never needing replacement, and certainly not under 50k miles. A quick search shows that this is a common issue with 2021+ f150s, and looking around on the road, I notice many with the same issue. This failure of safety equipment reduces visibility and could contribute to accidents.

The contact owns a 2023 Ford F-150. The contact received notifications of NHTSA campaign numbers : 25v512000 (power train) and 26v104000 (electrical system, exterior lighting); however, the parts to do the recall repairs were not yet available. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed and determined that the rear axle shaft assemblies had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer confirmed that parts were not yet available for the repairs. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repairs. The failure mileage was unavailable.

I am reporting a significant safety defect regarding the integrated rear light bar on my vehicle. The component initially developed visible stress cracks across the housing. This has now progressed to a total electrical failure of the unit. The light bar serves as a primary housing for the vehicle's brake lights and reverse lights. These lights no longer illuminate. This is a critical safety concern as it leaves the vehicle without functional signaling for stopping or reversing, significantly increasing the risk of a rear-end collision, especially at night or in low-visibility conditions.

The contact owns a 2023 Ford F-150. The contact received notification of NHTSA campaign number: 23v896000 (power train) and 26v104000 (electrical system, exterior lighting); however, the parts to do the recall repairs were not yet available. The dealer was contacted and confirmed that parts were not yet available. The contact was informed that parts needed to be ordered and was later informed that parts were on back order. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue and confirmed that parts were expected to be available in the third quarter of 2026. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The contact had not experienced a failure.

The contact owns a 2024 Ford F-150. The contact received notifications of NHTSA campaign numbers: 25v512000 (power train) and 26v104000 (electrical system, exterior lighting); however, the parts to do the recall repairs were not yet available. The dealer was contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The dealer confirmed that parts were not yet available. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repairs. The contact had not experienced a failure.

The contact owns a 2023 Ford F-150. The contact received notifications of NHTSA campaign numbers: 25v512000 (power train) and 26v104000 (exterior lighting, electrical system); however, the parts for the recall repairs were not yet available. The vehicle was taken to the dealer for an oil change. The contact was informed by the dealer that a hub bolt had detached from the vehicle. The contact was informed by the dealer that the hub bolt had failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact was informed that parts were not available and were on backorder. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repairs. The contact had not experienced a failure.

Submitted the vehicle for recall repairs under recalls 25v315, 25v455, 25v104 and 25v517. Maintenance was scheduled to last less than a day. When I returned for the vehicle, I was informed the update had caused several module components to "brick. " they informed me they had to receive authority from form to order new components and attempts another repair. I called March 17 for an update and was told the new components bricked again and that the issue was elevated to Ford engineering. Called Ford customer service and was given a case number [xxx]. Call Ford customer service March 30 and was told there is no update, fix or estimate of when a repair might be available. Information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

Daytime running light just went out one side.

What component or system failed or malfunctioned? the led driver module and headlamp control module (hcm) software. Specifically, the c-clamp daytime running lamps (drl) / parking lamps have failed to illuminate or are flickering. The vehicle is available for inspection. How was your safety or the safety of others put at risk? the failure of the parking lamps reduces the vehicle’s visibility to other drivers, especially during dusk, dawn, or inclement weather. This creates a "dark car" profile that increases the risk of a crash, as other motorists may not be able to discern the width or position of my truck on the road. This is a direct violation of federal motor vehicle safety standard (fmvss) no. 108. Has the problem been reproduced or confirmed? yes, the malfunction is consistent and has been observed during normal operation. A Ford dealership has been contacted; however, they refused to perform a no-cost repair or diagnostic because my specific VIN has not yet been added to recall 23c36, despite the vehicle exhibiting the exact symptoms described in that safety recall. Has the vehicle or component been inspected by others? no, it has only been inspected by myself and described to a Ford service advisor. (if you took it in and they saw it, change this "the dealer service advisor visually confirmed the failure but declined a warranty repair. ") were there any warning lamps or symptoms prior to failure? no warning lamps or messages appeared on the instrument cluster or Fordpass app. The failure of the led c-clamp was the first and only symptom. This occurred on 03/06/2026 when I bought the truck and did not know the c-clamp drl was not working.

Driving home last night looking in my rear view mirrors I noticed it looked dark at the back of my f150. Once home I noticed I had no rear running lights, no brake lights, no rear turn signals. Not sure related but 2 days earlier I noticed that about 5 indicator lights on my dashboard were activated all relating to driver assist lane changing, backing up assist, hill parking assist, traction control and so on.

Daytime running lights are failing.

The tail lights have a design flaw that results in micro cracks appearing in the lights. This is similar to the issue related to the rear light bar, however it applies to the rear tail lights. (for reference the Ford recall for he light bar is here: recall reference number 23s30. The result in my vehicle is that the left tail light is now filled with moisture, full water droplets. This is both for the red tail light as well as the white backup light. When these lights fail it will cause a safety issue. Additionally, the same light housing includes the backup sensors, so when they fail there will be no backup alert. My left tail light is already filled with water like I mentioned. A perfectly symmetrical crack is forming on the right tail light although there is no visible water in that light yet. This should be fixed under a recall by Ford since I did not cause the cracks in the tail lights.

The contact owns a 2023 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving approximately 50 mph and hauling a trailer, the rear brake lights failed to illuminate. There were several messages displayed related to the trailer connection and brake lights. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the trailer was difficult to control, and the display screen inside the vehicle was flashing off and on. The vehicle was driven back to a storage facility. While reversing and attempting to park the trailer, the message that the trailer was disconnected from the vehicle was displayed. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The local dealer was contacted and informed that the VIN was not included in NHTSA campaign number: 26v104000 (electrical system, exterior lighting). The contact stated that the vehicle had experienced the failure listed in the recall. The manufacturer was not yet contacted. The failure mileage was approximately 30,000.

The contact owns a 2021 Ford F-150. The contact received notification of NHTSA campaign number: 26v104000 (electrical system, exterior lighting); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The local dealer was contacted but the vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was not made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a failure.

? highlight summary: my 2023 Ford F-150 (VIN: [xxx] ) has intermittent rear tail lamps, brake lights, turn signals, and backup lights failure due to water intrusion. The right side has completely failed; the left side is beginning to fail, creating a serious safety hazard at night or in low visibility. Both the dealership and Ford customer assistance have avoided returning calls and are denying responsibility, and this is a common problem nationwide. ? complaint – 2023 Ford F-150 rear lighting failure •vehicle: 2023 Ford F-150, VIN [xxx] , ~73,000 miles •issue: intermittent rear tail lamps, brake lights, turn signals, and backup lights failure due to water intrusion •right side: completely failed; left side: starting to fail •safety risk: creates serious hazard at night/low visibility, increasing risk of rear-end collisions •dealership: d-patrick Ford superstore, evansville, indiana, e. Walnut st. •initially could not duplicate issue •Feb 7, 2026: confirmed problem, quoted ~$3,000 for repair •truck returned “all lights working,” but right side still not functioning •manufacturer & dealership response: Ford customer assistance and dealership are denying responsibility and avoiding calls, leaving the defect unresolved nearly a year •nationwide problem: common issue reported by many F-150 owners, indicating widespread safety defect •request: immediate review and corrective action for this recurring and escalating safety hazard information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

Led daytime running lights burnout. No repair by Ford without replacing whole housing. No covered under warranty.

I'm reporting that my driving/fog lights aren't working and haven't for some time. My truck only has 58,000 miles on it and is only 5 years old, I have been guided to report this issue to the NHTSA. I drive allot in the early morning and am not getting the lighting I should, it's agravating that you pay so much for a vehicle and the lights don't work properly. I have read 100's of post/emails and vlogs, there are thousands and thousands of these trucks with that same issue, what can I do to repair or replace these lights? thank you, [xxx] information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u. S. C. 552(b)(6).

The passenger side day time running light is dimmed drastically and almost not visible anymore on the upright section. After doing research , this seems to be a very common issue and not a cheap repair. Some states day time running lights are mandatory to work to pass inspection. Ford has not acknowledged this issue and/or making profit from changing out the whole headlight assembly to fix. It seems like it is a bad design or low quality product for a supposed safety issue.