Ford Recalls 230,000+ Super Duty Trucks for Tailgate
Ford is recalling certain 2017 to 2019 F-250, F-350, and F-450 trucks equipped with an electric tailgate latch release switch mounted in the tailgate handle.
An 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.
Photo: Ford
Ford Motor Co. is recalling certain 2017 to 2019 model-year 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.
Approximately 231,664 Super Duty trucks are impacted by the recall.
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 Jan. 20, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at (866) 436-7332.
Ford's number for this recall is 19S48.
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at (888) 327-4236.
Editor's Note: This story was updated 12/26 with a photo of a 2019 Ford F-350, an example of the type of vehicle that is affected by this recall.
More Safety & Compliance
GeoFencing Adds to Your Truck Security Arsenal
Geofencing is a familiar fleet tool today, but its early adoption marked a major shift in vehicle tracking, route monitoring, and the debate over employee privacy.
Read More →
Recalls You Need to Know About in October 2026
In October 2026, what recalls might impact your fleet? Work Truck has the answers in this comprehensive overview of recent NHTSA recalls.
Read More →
Construction Fleets Show Telematics Adoption Alone May Not Reduce Driving Risk
SambaSafety found construction fleets monitor roughly 92% of their vehicles but recorded the highest severe speeding rate among industries studied.
Read More →From Our Partners
Lytx Launches 360 Hub Kit for Expanded Fleet Camera Visibility
Lytx’s new AI-ready gateway and HD auxiliary camera ecosystem, the Lytx 360 Hub Kit, extends visibility across side, rear, cargo, and blind-zone views to help fleets see more and respond faster.
Read More →
Mack Defense Achieves Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification Level 2
After an assessment conducted by an authorized Certified Third-Party Assessment Organization (C3PAO), Mack Defense has achieved Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) Level 2.
Read More →
When Work Trucks Under 26,001 Pounds Need IRP Registration
Think trucks under 26,001 pounds are automatically in the clear when it comes to IRP? Not always. Learn where lighter vehicles can still run into trip permit, apportioned registration, and IFTA compliance requirements when crossing state or provincial lines.
Read More →
Smith System Wants Work Truck Fleets to Look Beyond the Driver Alert
Smith System’s new Driver Risk Management program is built to help mixed work truck fleets turn telematics alerts and observations into specific behaviors, coaching actions, and measurable follow-up.
Read More →
Volvo Trucks Releases New Safety Recommendations for Traveling with Pets
One of the most important recommendations for professional drivers traveling with pets is to ensure pets are properly restrained while the truck is moving. Other tips are available in the new guide from Volvo Trucks North America and Center for Pet Safety.
Read More →
Are Work Truck Drivers Warming Up to Dash Cams and GPS Tracking?
A new survey finds field-service drivers may be more comfortable with dash cams and GPS tracking than fleet managers think, especially when the technology helps protect them after a crash.
Read More →
Recalls You Need to Know About in September 2026
If you have Altec, Chrysler, Ford, Heil, General Motors, International, Mack Trucks, Paccar, Rivian, Royal Truck, Toyota, US Truck Body, or Volvo Trucks vehicles in your fleet, you should check these important recalls issued by the National Highway Safety Administration.
Read More →