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Ford E-450 Recall 20V099: Low Rear Axle Fluid Can Cause Driveshaft Separation

NHTSA campaign 20V099, reported February 21, 2020, 319 vehicles potentially affected.

What this recall means for you

Rear axle differential fluid in these vehicles may fall below the minimum level. Over time this can lead to failure of the rear axle assembly and separation of the driveshaft. If the driveshaft separates, the vehicle can lose drive power, which increases the risk of a crash. A separated driveshaft can also cause unintended vehicle movement if the parking brake is not applied, raising the risk of injury or a crash.

Ford will notify owners by mail. Authorized dealers will inspect the rear axle differential fluid level and adjust it, or replace the rear axle if needed. The repair is free of charge. Owners can contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332 and reference recall number 20S09. You can also check your vehicle identification number (VIN) for open recalls on the NHTSA website.

Check whether this recall is open on your vehicle

The repair is normally free at an authorized dealer.

Official recall notice

Safety recall 20V099Ford Motor Company
Component
POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DIFFERENTIAL UNIT; POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:DRIVESHAFT
Problem
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020 F-550 and 2021 E-350 and E-450 vehicles. The rear axle differential fluid may be below the minimum level, possibly resulting in a failure of the rear axle assembly and driveshaft separation.
Risk
If the driveshaft separates, there may be a loss of drive, increasing the risk of crash. Additionally, if the parking brake is not applied, unintended vehicle movement can occur and increase the risk of injury or crash.
Remedy
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the rear axle differential fluid level and adjust it, or replace the rear axle as necessary, free of charge. The recall began March 19, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S09.
Notes
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.

Affected vehicles

Ford E-3502021
Ford E-4502021
Ford F-5502020