The problem
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017-2019 Super Duty F-250, F-350, and F-450 trucks equipped with an electric tailgate latch release switch mounted in the tailgate handle. Water may enter the electrical wiring system and cause a short circuit, activating the switch and releasing the tailgate latches.
The risk
Unintended tailgate opening may allow unrestrained cargo to fall out of the truck bed and become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash.
The fix
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will modify the tailgate/frame wiring harnesses by adding jumper pigtails to isolate the tailgate release control circuits and will install a new tailgate handle release switch, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin January 20, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 19S48.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 19V-864 (19V864000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | 19S48 |
| Manufacturer | Ford Motor Company |
| Component | Latches/locks/linkages › Tailgate › Latch |
| Report date | December 4, 2019 |
| Owners notified | January 22, 2020 |
| Vehicles affected | 231,664 |
| Initiated by | NHTSA investigation |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the locks & latches
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 19V-864 repair free?
Yes. Ford dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will modify the tailgate/frame wiring harnesses by adding jumper pigtails to isolate the tailgate release control circuits and will install a new tailgate handle release switch, free of charge.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 231,664 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.