Recall Alert: 135,000 2005-06 Ford F-150s

Ford is recalling 135,000 2005-06 F-150 pickup trucks over an issue with the driver-side airbag system, which can deploy without warning, according to PickupTrucks.com.

A National Highway Traffic Safety Administration investigation says the airbag on the affected trucks can inadvertently deploy when a sharp edge on the airbag’s horn mounting plate chafes the airbag wire, which can lead to an electrical short.

NHTSA took the unusual step of sending a formal letter requesting the recall after Ford refused to do so. Typically, automakers voluntary recall their vehicles. The automaker argues that even with the defect there’s “a relatively low risk of inadvertent airbag deployments,” Ford safety spokesman Wes Sherwood told the Detroit News. Ford resisted the recall, but after 238 complaints and 77 injuries – including chipped and broken teeth, cuts, lacerations and minor burns — the company caved into demands for a formal recall.

NHTSA is still investigating whether more Ford F-150s should be included in the recall. Ford redesigned the airbag module/wiring in the 2007 model year to correct any potential deployment issues. We’ll keep you posted as to a start date for the recall and what repairs will be made. For more info, owners can call Ford at 866-436-7332 or NHTSA’s hot line at 888-327-4236.

Ford to Recall 2005-2006 F-150 Pickup Trucks to Fix Airbag Problem (PickupTrucks.com)