Ford's Latest Recall: What the Speedometer Issue Means for Your F-Series

Wouter Smit · 2026-10-21

Ford just announced a recall affecting over 102,000 F-Series pickups, and it's all because of a speedometer glitch. Now, before you panic, let's break down what's happening, why it matters, and how you can make sure your truck isn't part of the problem. ### What's the Issue with the Speedometer? The problem is pretty straightforward: the speedometer might not display the correct speed. That means you could be driving faster or slower than you think, which is a safety risk. Ford says the issue stems from a software glitch in the instrument cluster. Affected models include certain 2023 F-150 and Super Duty trucks. The fix? A simple software update that dealers will perform for free. ### Why This Recall Matters Speedometer errors might not sound as dramatic as brake failures, but they're still serious. If your speedometer reads 5 mph slower than your actual speed, you could easily get a speeding ticket or, worse, be involved in an accident. Plus, inaccurate speed readings can mess with your truck's odometer, affecting maintenance schedules and resale value. So yeah, it's worth getting checked. ### How to Check if Your Truck Is Affected Ford will notify owners directly, but you don't have to wait for a letter. Here's how to check: - Visit the NHTSA recall website and enter your VIN. It's free and takes two minutes. - Call your local Ford dealer and ask about recall 23S45 (the internal code for this one). - Use Ford's recall portal on their official site. ### What to Do If Your Truck Is on the List Don't ignore it. Even if your speedometer seems fine, the glitch might be intermittent. Contact your dealer to schedule the software update. The repair should take less than an hour, and it won't cost you a dime. While you're there, ask if there are any other open recalls on your vehicle—it's a good habit to check. ### The Bigger Picture: Why Recalls Are a Good Thing Recalls often get a bad rap, but they're actually a sign that the system works. Ford caught the issue, reported it, and is fixing it for free. That's way better than the alternative. So if you own an F-Series, take five minutes to check your VIN. It's a small effort that could save you a headache down the road. ### Final Thoughts Speedometer glitches are rare, but they happen. The key is to stay informed and act quickly. Ford's handling this one properly, and with a quick check, you can make sure your truck stays safe and reliable. Drive safe out there.