By: Robert Harris
The Ford F-150 is one of the best selling trucks on the road today. The F series has been the best selling vehicle in the US for three decades. Regulators are now reporting that they are investigating 2.7 million F-150's, built from 1997 through 2001, for a potential gas tank design flaw.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported that the steel straps holding up the truck's gas tank can rust and break, possibly causing a fuel spill and fire. So far, there have been no injuries reported due to the defect.
If you own a 1997-2oo1 Ford F-150, you may be receiving a notice in the mail from Ford regarding a recall of your vehicle. If you have any questions or concerned about the safety of your vehicle, you may want to contact your local Ford dealer to see if they can perform an inspection of the potentially defective parts.
If you're not the original owner, keep your eyes open in the paper for any reported recalls. Even if you're not the original owner, if the vehicle is recalled, you will be able to get it fixed at no cost.
Well this is another controversy for Ford. You might remember the Ford-Firestone controversy that lead to numerous wrongful death lawsuits against the parties involved. It's good that Ford has taken action and did a recall before any one could be injured or killed because of these faulty tanks. This kind of problem must not be ignored, as it presents a potential safety hazard.
Posted by: Amparo Curtis | July 07, 2011 at 10:34 AM
Good thing they recalled the F-150s, otherwise more accidents could happen due to gas tank explosion. As long as they do the repairs for free, that's ok. I hope this would be the last time. Otherwise, I'd change my car into a Toyota or Nissan.
Posted by: Carl Patten | September 09, 2011 at 06:47 AM
If the straps are not holding the tank in place. Like it did on my friends truck, both should be replaced at no expense. Talking about a 199 Ford F150. I own a truck myself.
Posted by: German Santana | September 11, 2011 at 11:28 AM
i just replaced my tank and straps because of rust, i sure hope they do something about it, a reimbursement would be greatly appreciated!
Posted by: nm | September 28, 2011 at 09:29 AM
I have a 1997 f 150 recalled for gas tank straps that are broke took to imlay city ford on 10/14/2011 and guess what nothing repaired. This is why Ill never buy or recomend a FORD they are JUNK. I hope my tank falls off so I can sue FORD MOTOR COMPANY.
Posted by: Kevin Bolduc | October 14, 2011 at 04:20 PM