Ford recalls 2026–2027 F-150, F-350 Sd, F-250 Sd and 1 more: Tailgate Cable May Fail

What is wrong

Ford Motor Company is recalling certain 2026-2027 F-150, 2026 F-250 SD, F-350 SD, and F-450 SD vehicles. The left-side tailgate cable may fail under certain heavy load conditions.

Why it matters

Tailgate cable failure may allow the tailgate to drop onto the rear bumper, increasing the risk of injury.

The fix

Dealers will replace the left-side tailgate cable, free of charge. Interim letters, notifying owners of the safety risk, are expected to be mailed December 14, 2026. Additional letters will be sent once the remedy is available, anticipated in January 2027. Ford's number for this recall is 26S78. Vehicle Identification Numbers involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning December 7, 2026.

Recall repairs are free at the brand's dealers, no matter who owns the car now.

What to do now

1. Enter your 17-character VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls – it shows whether this recall is open on your exact car. Your VIN is on the driver-side dashboard (look through the windshield) and on your registration.
2. If it is open, call a Ford dealer to book the free repair. Ask how long parts will take if the remedy is not ready yet.
3. A mobile mechanic cannot do recall work – only the brand's dealers can. A mobile mechanic can still check other problems on the car where it is parked.