NHTSA Complaint #11637874 — 2017 FORD F-350 SD

2017 Ford F-350 with door latches that freeze. There are multiple symptoms which occur whenever the temperature drops below 32 degrees: (1) The door will not open when door handle pulled, (2) the door opens but latch sticks in the "open" position which does not allow door to latch closed, or (3) the door opens while driving due to not being fully latched. I have only had #3 happen once. Primarily, #2 is the scenario that happens most often. I am able to open the driver's door, but cannot drive the vehicle until I am able to exercise or warm up the latching mechanism enough to safely latch the door. This is accomplished by pressing the door lock/unlock switch repeatedly or slamming and holding the door, then pressing the lock button. I am told by the dealership that my VIN does not qualify for Recall 17S33. It did qualify for Customer Service Program 18N03, which was performed in 2022. However, the "fix" did not last beyond a month or so and Ford clearly states that 18N03 is a "One Time Only" repair. It seems to me that Ford knew back in 2017 (or before) they had problems with freezing door latches as this also occurs on the F150 and there have been MULTIPLE recalls that still have not fixed the issue. At best, this is annoying that a $75,000 vehicle cannot be driven until the door has been slammed, exercised, or manipulated enough times to allow the door to latch. This, of course, assume the door opens to begin with. At worst, this vehicle is a rolling deathtrap as the occupants wait for the door to suddenly open while moving. My dealer is no help. They lean on the "One Time Only" clause in 18N03. They have charged parts to my extended warranty without knowing if the part is bad or the cause of the problem, then smile as they tell me there is "no charge" to me.