NHTSA Complaint #11559347 — 2016 FORD F-150

On 2/18/2019 took the F-150 to Mathews Ford Marion Ohio service to address several issues. First, the tailgate had unexpectedly opened striking a trailer jack and damaging the tailgate. Tailgate opening while driving with cargo could result in cargo falling onto roadway. Damaged tailgate remains on the truck and is available for further inspection. Second, the owner heard rubbing/grinding noises when switching in and out of 4 wheel drive. The service technician could not replicate either issue. On 11/29/2023 took the F-150 to Leroy's Service Center in Delaware Ohio as the dashboard indicated several messages including required oil change (although odometer showed an oil change was not needed for another 3,000 miles compared to oil change sticker on windshield), a large yellow wrench adjacent to required oil change message, a small yellow wrench below required oil change message, and a yellow check engine light. Twice there was sensation of slipping (applying gas but no movement). Once parked in Leroy's lot the truck could not be started. Service technicians suspected LEAD frame failure. Service technician replaced the original LEAD frame with Ford Part numbers 2592734 and aL3z-7g276-d 1x (off replacement part box). I retained malfunctioning part for inspection if desired. Numbers off the malfunctioning part include aL3p-7g276-ak a9-21416-0998 c108p; Ford b556d; 3264 487 321 09 330743; Continental 3a8214160008 a2c53308751. Malfunctioning transmission while driving could cause unexpected vehicle slowing or stoppage. In summary, experienced unexpected tailgate opening, History of transmission issues (unexpected sounds when switching into or out of 4 wheel drive), and failure of the LEAD frame with slipping and inability to start vehicle after it was parked.