NHTSA Complaint #11697129 — 2013 FORD F-150

Vehicle: 2013 Ford F-150 SuperCrew Cab Component: Rear Defroster / Rear Window Assembly Summary of Issue: Rear window glass shattered while driving when rear defroster was in use. Detail of Incident: On November 2, 2025, at approximately 5:00 AM, I was driving my 2013 Ford F-150 SuperCrew Cab at approximately 65 mph on the highway near Mogadore, Ohio. The vehicle had been operating for around 45 minutes without issue. The outside temperature was about 43°F. I had the rear window defroster and side mirror defrosters activated. Without any impact, warning lights, prior cracks, or outside interference, the rear glass pane directly behind the driver’s seat shattered suddenly and completely while I was driving. There were no vehicles near me, and I inspected the glass immediately afterward and found no evidence of anything striking the vehicle. The failure occurred instantaneously and with a loud sound, which created a risk of driver distraction and could have resulted in loss of control or injury from breaking glass. After researching, I found that this issue is widely reported by other owners of Ford F-150 models online, particularly involving the rear defroster causing excessive localized heating and thermal stress, which leads to spontaneous glass failure. Many owners report similar conditions: cold ambient temperature + rear defroster activated. The glass was replaced at my own expense, approximately $800. Receipts and photographs are available upon request. The issue was not covered by recall, warranty, or insurance. The problem has not been addressed by Ford despite multiple consumer reports. Safety Concern: This defect presents a serious safety hazard because the sudden shattering is loud, distracting, and may send glass fragments into the cabin. It could easily lead to loss of vehicle control or injury to occupants. The failure occurred under normal and intended use of the rear defroster system. Request: I am submitting this report to request that NHTS