2013 F-150 models have recalls over transmissions shifting into the wrong gear, and a brake system leak that leads to brake failure. Additionally, complaints outline an array of electrical issues.
Key Points
- Although the 2013 Ford F-150 only has three active recalls, they all are for severe issues that can be life-threatening.
- Two of the recalls affecting a total of over 1.2 million F-150s outlines a software issue that causes the transmission to downshift into first at any speed unexpectedly.
- Another recall states that a faulty brake master cylinder seal can fail, leading to a substantial leak resulting in brake failure.
- Outside of recalls, many owners filed official National Highway Traffic Safety Administration complaints outlining unintended rapid acceleration, sudden deceleration, and melted wires from shorts.
Most Prominent 2013 F-150 Recall Outlines Transmission Issue that Sometimes Causes Downshifts into First Gear Regardless of Speed
The Ford F-series is the number-one selling truck in America. But they are certainly not without issues.
The 2013 Ford F-150 particularly has a set of dangerous recalls. It also has over 2,000 National Highway Traffic Safety Administration complaints.
There is plenty for shoppers to keep an eye out for, from transmissions going rogue and downshifting into first on a whim, to brake leaks leading to total brake failure.
Ford issued a 2013 F-150 recall over faulty programming of the powertrain control unit. It can cause the transmission to shift from any gear at any speed into first gear.
The problem can damage the transmission or engine. It can also lead to loss of vehicle control.
The recall affected over 1.2 million F-150s, and Ford’s solution was to reprogram the powertrain control unit with updated software. However, this recall did not entirely cover the issue.
Ford issued a second recall in In June 2019 for the same issue, reporting that some F-150 models equipped with the 5.0L or 6.2L V8 did not receive the proper PCU reprogram and would need to be reprogramming.
This recall affects over 100,000 vehicles. So, the first recall largely solved the problem.
Faulty Brake Master Cylinder Recall Can Cause Fluid to Leak, Resulting in Brake Failure and a Recall
The recall over the brake master cylinder is the most concerning. It may prevent drivers from stopping the vehicle.
In 2016, Ford recalled some 2013 and 2014 Ford F-150 pickup trucks equipped with the 3.5L V6 engine, over a brake master cylinder that may fail.
Once a brake system’s reservoir is empty, it can cause the brakes to become less effective or to fail entirely.
However, given the age of the recall, it’s safe to assume most of the affected vehicles have had the recall performed.
Outside of Recalls, Many 2013 F-150 Owners Report a Wide Range of Electrical Issues
While most of the official NHTSA complaints are regarding the recalls mentioned above, there is a category with no recall but a healthy amount of complaints, over the vehicle’s electrical system.
One recurring issue is a problematic start-up of the vehicle, despite the engine cranking.
Many complaints report that mechanics mentioned overheating wiring and blown fuses as the cause.
A multitude of other complaints about the electrical system range from faulty rear window defrosters and failing electric power steering, to trucks sporadically dropping into limp mode.
Some drivers report it happening at highway speeds and abruptly being slowed from highway speeds to between five and 20 miles per hour.
A Used 2013 F-150 May Not Stand Up to its Competition, and it Likely Has More Reported Problems
Though these recalls did not affect every 2013 F-150 made, it seems that some still have slipped through the cracks, according to the complaints that still report issues pertinent to them.So, an extended test drive and proper pre-purchase inspection are highly recommended when shopping for a 2013 F-150.
Furthermore, these recalls branch out into surrounding model year F-150s, as well.
So, shoppers who decide to look toward competitors’ trucks are making a perfectly acceptable decision.
These problems and recalls are very serious and not worth risking your life over.
Photos: Ford
