A recent product recall from Ford Motor Company concerns their well-regarded F-150 Lightning vehicles, due to a risk associated with battery fires. This situation, already linked with several incidents, is a major safety hazard for consumers in California and beyond. This article will delve into the specifics of the recall, the implications for owners of the affected vehicles, and how this ties in with California’s lemon law for those encountering persistent issues. If you are an owner of a Ford F-150 Lightning and you’re impacted by this recall, understanding your legal rights and options is paramount.

Insight into the Ford F-150 Lightning Battery Fire Recall

Based on the recall report provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Ford is implementing a recall of 1,906 F-150 Lightning electric vehicles. This is due to a potential flaw within the high-voltage battery system. The problem is rooted in heat shields that were incorrectly installed, resulting in the battery coming into contact with the vehicle’s underbody. This contact could provoke an electrical short that, in certain cases, could ignite a fire.

The vehicles involved were produced between November 22, 2021, and February 3, 2023. Ford has already documented two instances of battery fires connected to this issue, one of which happened while the vehicle was being charged at a home. In response to the issue, Ford dealerships will conduct an inspection of the high-voltage battery heat shield and fix the installation if necessary, at no cost to consumers.

California Lemon Law in Relation to the Ford F-150 Recall

California consumers affected by the Ford F-150 Lightning recall must be aware of their protections under state lemon law. The California Lemon Law, or the Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act as it is also known, is designed to protect consumers who buy or lease new or used vehicles with a manufacturer’s warranty. If a vehicle has a significant defect that the manufacturer is unable to repair within a reasonable number of attempts, the consumer might be eligible for either a refund or a replacement vehicle.

For those affected by the Ford F-150 Lightning recall, if you notice continuous issues with your vehicle’s battery system even after the recall repairs have been executed, you might have a legitimate lemon law claim. In such circumstances, an experienced lemon law attorney in California, like Michael Humphries, can guide you through the legal processes and help determine the most suitable action for your particular case.

Steps to Take if Impacted by the Recall

As an owner of a Ford F-150 Lightning vehicle affected by this recall, it is crucial to act in the following ways to protect your safety and legal rights:

    Book a recall repair appointment: Contact your nearest Ford dealer to arrange for the required recall repairs. These repairs will be undertaken at no cost to you.

    Retain documents: Hold onto all documents relating to the recall, any ensuing repairs, or any further issues you encounter with your vehicle. This paperwork will be important if you need to pursue a lemon law claim.

    Be vigilant of your vehicle’s performance: Keep a close eye on your vehicle’s functioning after the recall repairs, and record any ongoing issues with the battery system or associated components.

    Get in touch with a lemon law attorney: If you notice continuing issues with your Ford F-150 Lightning after the recall repairs, consult an experienced lemon law attorney like Michael Humphries to discuss your case and explore your legal avenues.