The problem
Ford is recalling certain model year 2011 f-53 and f-59 stripped chassis vehicles manufactured from February 1, 2010 through July 1, 2011 and certain model year 2012 f-53 and f-59 stripped chassis vehicles manufactured from May 10, 2011 through October 25, 2011. The 'PRNDL' cable May break at the attachment to the transmission control selector arm assembly mounted on the steering column. If the cable breaks, the transmission gear indicator in the 'PRNDL' display in the instrument panel will remain in the first gear position regardless of the gear selected.
The risk
An incorrect gear indication in the instrument panel May prevent the driver from knowing if they are in park or reverse, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
Ford will notify owners and dealers will replace the transmission selector arm assembly and the 'PRNDL' cable assembly, free of charge. The safety recall began on March 2, 2012. Owners May contact Ford motor company customer relationship center at 1-866-436-7332.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 12V-035 (12V035000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | 12S27 |
| Manufacturer | Ford Motor Company |
| Component | Power train › Automatic transmission › Gear position indication (PRNDL) |
| Report date | February 2, 2012 |
| Owners notified | March 2, 2012 |
| Vehicles affected | 13,239 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Plus 1 other model/year combinations not covered on this site.
Owner complaints about the transmission & drivetrain
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 12V-035 repair free?
Yes. Ford dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Ford will notify owners and dealers will replace the transmission selector arm assembly and the 'PRNDL' cable assembly, free of charge. The safety recall began on March 2, 2012.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 13,239 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.