Ford Recall 18V-167: Steering – steering wheel/handle bar

Affected: 2014–2018 Ford Fusion, 2014–2018 Lincoln MKZ. Filed with NHTSA on March 12, 2018, covering about 1,301,986 vehicles.

The problem

Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2014-2018 Lincoln MKZ and Ford Fusion vehicles. The steering wheel retaining bolt may loosen allowing the steering wheel to detach while driving.

The risk

A steering wheel detachment can cause a loss of steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.

The fix

Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the steering wheel bolt with a longer bolt, free of charge. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 18S08.

Recall details

NHTSA campaign18V-167 (18V167000)
Manufacturer number18S08
ManufacturerFord Motor Company
ComponentSteering › Steering wheel/handle bar
Report dateMarch 12, 2018
Owners notifiedApril 30, 2018
Vehicles affected1,301,986
Initiated byNHTSA investigation

Vehicles covered

Owner complaints about the steering

Frequently asked questions

Is the recall 18V-167 repair free?

Yes. Ford dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the steering wheel bolt with a longer bolt, free of charge. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 18S08.

How do I know if my car is included?

Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 1,301,986 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.