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Ford F-150 abs comes on

510 of the 38,391 owner complaints about the Ford F-150 describe aBS light or ABS activating, most of them for the 1995 model year.

owner complaints
510
worst model year
1995
typical repair cost reported
$1,200
typical mileage
59,000
Is there a fix? There are 12 recalls for this area of the car. See below

By model year

Often reported together

Brake failure 77Adaptive cruise 23Check engine light 22Fire or smoke 21Grinding brakes 16No deployment 15Pulling 13Power steering loss 12

Trouble codes mentioned

C1963 3U0415 2U0401 2U0121 2C1278 2B1596 2U300A 1U3001 1U211B 1U102F 1

What owners say

Filed Nov 8, 2026 · Brakes, Driver assistance · NV

The involved vehicle sustained prior front bumper structural damage that directly compromised and interfered with the anti-lock braking system (ABS) sensors, wiring, and front-end integrity, severely degrading stopping capability and collision avoidance response. Furthermore, critical physical evidence has been subject to spoliation, as the vehicle and its compromised front-end collision/braking systems were disposed of or altered before a complete independent forensic and mechanical engineering evaluation could be performed to document the system failure.

Filed Sep 11, 2026 · Brakes · GA

ABS Control module and brake booster assembly failed. Vehicle would not crank or start. Disconnected battery negative pole for one minute to reset PCM. Vehicle started. Drove immediately to independent service center without difficulty. Service center confirmed vehicle no start the next morning. Found several DTC codes including U3001 (Control Module Improper Shutdown) U300A (Ignition switch) U0121 (Lost communication with ABS) U0554 (Invalid Data recieved from Accessory Protocol Interface) and U0415 (Invalid Data Received from ABS) Flowchart determined ABS module is bad. Anti Lock Brake System control module failed which rendered the system inoperative. Warning on dash that Anti Lock Brake System failed was prominent among other warnings. (Traction Control, Service Needed, Door Ajar (was closed), Hood ajar (was closed) Assembly was replaced and ABS module reprogrammed by independent service center. They retained the bad assembly.

Filed Sep 4, 2026 · Airbags, Electrical · CA

This is a supplemental complaint to my earlier report regarding the federal safety agency Campaign 26V237 / Ford Safety Recall 26S28. The recall remedy (PCM software update) was performed at W.C. Sanderson Ford in Healdsburg, CA on XXX. The original downshift defect recurred within weeks, including a near-miss where I nearly lost control of the vehicle with my [XXX] son inside. Since then, I have had the vehicle independently scanned twice, including a full all-systems diagnostic scan. The scan shows a communication fault (U0401, "Invalid Data Received From PCM") present across five separate control modules: ABS, Airbag/Occupant Classification System, Power Steering Control Module, Tire Pressure Monitoring/Body Control, and the engine module. The scan's own assessment recommends repairing CAN-BUS wiring and connections. I believe this network-wide wiring fault may be the actual underlying cause of the condition recall 26S28 was intended to fix — the recall's software update assumes a signal-loss problem can be resolved in software, but if the root cause is physical wiring, the remedy would not correct it. This would explain why the defect recurred so soon after the software update was installed. A second code, P2112 (Throttle Actuator Stuck Closed), also appeared spontaneously while the vehicle was parked. This code is documented in Ford's own Technical Service Bulletin 16-0139 (issued 2018), indicating Ford had prior knowledge of related fault patterns on this vehicle range. Of particular concern, the Airbag/Occupant Classification System is affected by the same communication fault. This system governs airbag deployment behavior based on occupant detection, and my son rides in this vehicle regularly. The vehicle is currently not safe to drive. I am requesting the federal safety agency evaluate whether the 26S28 remedy adequately addresses the underlying defect, given evidence that a wiring-level fault — not solely a software issue — may be the true root cause. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)

Filed Aug 27, 2026 · Brakes · IA

I was driving and went to press the brakes and the pedal went to the floor. The truck would not stop right away and then the rear tires locked up. Light came on the dash ABS, service traction control and brake system failure, this was a similar issue with the 2021 and 2025 model having issues with the EBB/ECU that was on recall.

Filed Aug 20, 2026 · Brakes, Engine · 62,513 miles · CO

The contact owns a 2018 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving 55 MPH on the highway, the vehicle lost motive power, and the brakes became inoperable. The drivetrain and wrench symbol were displayed. The ABS warning light was illuminated and DTC: U100 (Failure of Communication for Engine and Transmission) was displayed. The codes were cleared after restarting the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer, where it was diagnosed with a communication error with the engine and transmission computer. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure reoccurred. The transmission upshifted from first gear to seventh. After a while, the vehicle resumed normal operations, but then the vehicle drove abnormally. The RPM increased to high, and the temperature gauge was at HOT. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer and was diagnosed with complete transmission failure. The vehicle had not been repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 62,513.

Filed Aug 3, 2026 · Brakes · TN

Right front brake continuously freezes up making impossible to drive safely. ABS does not show any default or warnings. Truck shakes all over. Had rotors, calibers, and brake pads replied, but right side brake continues to freeze up. Brake lines checked and show no signs of collapse.

Filed Jul 9, 2026 · Brakes, Driver assistance · NY

driving approximately 20 miles an hour, gently applying the brake as I was approaching a stoplight when the brake suddenly engaged forcefully causing the car to jerk to a stop unexpectedly. There was a warning across the dash that said " forward collision is not available" and that disappeared. A local dealership said this was an ABS issue and reprogrammed it.

Filed Jul 6, 2026 · Brakes · NC

the federal safety agency / Center for Auto Safety Formal Complaint Vehicle Information: * Year / Make / Model: 2014 Ford F-150 * Component Category: Service Brakes, Hydraulic / Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS) * Affected Part: ABS Hydraulic Control Unit (HCU) / Valve Assembly (Part # DL3Z-2C215-A / DL3Z-2C215-C) Incident / Issue Summary: I am reporting a critical safety concern involving a failure of the Anti-Lock Brake System Hydraulic Control Unit (HCU) on my 2014 Ford F-150, combined with an indefinite manufacturer supply chain failure that renders the vehicle unable to be repaired to safe operating standards. The electronic ABS control module on my vehicle was inspected and rebuilt to functional specification; however, diagnostic testing confirmed that the internal mechanical/solenoid valves within the Hydraulic Control Unit (HCU) assembly are stuck/failing. This internal valve failure disables key safety features, including Anti-Lock Braking (ABS), Electronic Stability Control (AdvanceTrac), and Traction Control. Upon attempting to purchase an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) replacement HCU assembly through Ford Motor Company and authorized dealerships, I was informed that the critical safety part is on an indefinite nationwide backorder with no estimated delivery date (ETA). Safety Risk & Regulatory Impact: 1. Loss of Safety Features: Without a functional HCU assembly, the vehicle operates without active ABS or AdvanceTrac traction/stability control, significantly increasing the risk of wheel lockup, vehicle skidding, and loss of directional control during emergency stopping or adverse weather conditions. 2. Unavailability of Safe Parts: Due to high failure rates across 2009–2014 F-150 models, the replacement supply chain is completely exhausted. Independent repair facilities refuse to install unverified, used, or salvaged junkyard units due to severe liability and safety risks. 3. Indefinite Stranding / Unsafe Driving: Owners are forced to either leave their primary vehicle

Filed Jun 25, 2026 · Brakes, Steering · IL

Truck suddenly reported ABS issue while driving. Traction assist light came on. Parking brake light came on.steering assist failure message appeared. Now the power steering is not functioning. I know of 2 other people with near exact issues on a ford and a Lincoln. There is also a pending master cylinder recall that ford said the didn’t have parts for and still haven’t heard back from them on that. Please investigate this dangerous situation.

Filed May 1, 2026 · Brakes, Electrical · TX

I am submitting a formal complaint regarding a safety-related issue with my 2025 Ford F-150, 5.0, that began immediately following recent recall service on the brake booster system. Since the recall work was completed, the ABS system has been producing a loud electrical rattling or grinding noise during vehicle takeoff. This noise is consistent and occurs at low speeds when accelerating from a stop. Prior to the recall service, this issue was not present. Given that this problem appears to be directly related to the anti-lock braking system, I am concerned about the safety and reliability of my vehicle. The ABS system is critical for maintaining control and braking performance, and any malfunction or abnormal behavior raises serious concerns about potential failure or degraded performance. Please treat this matter with urgency, as it involves a critical safety system. I expect prompt resolution and clear communication regarding the findings and corrective actions.

Related recalls

Service brakes, hydraulic: power assist: electric: control moduleReported December 1, 2025 · 679 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025 Lincoln Navigator, F-150, Expedition, Bronco, and Ranger vehicles. The Electronic Brake Booster (EBB) module may malfunction while driving or when the driver is utilizing an Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) feature, resulting in a loss of power brake assist.
Risk
An unexpected loss of power brake assist while driving can extend stopping distance and increase the risk of a crash. Additionally, a loss of power brake assist while ADAS features are engaged can result in the vehicle not braking as expected, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the electronic brake booster, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 26, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1‑866‑436‑7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25SD4. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall became searchable on on December 3, 2025.

Recall number 25V823000 · Recall details

Service brakes, hydraulic: power assist: electric: control module: softwareReported July 25, 2025 · 312,120 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025 Lincoln Navigator, F-150, Expedition, Bronco, and Ranger vehicles. The Electronic Brake Booster (EBB) module may malfunction while driving or when the driver is utilizing an Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) feature, resulting in a loss of power brake assist.
Risk
An unexpected loss of power brake assist while driving can extend stopping distance and increase the risk of a crash. Additionally, a loss of power brake assist while ADAS features are engaged can result in the vehicle not braking as expected, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
The EBB module software will be updated over-the-air (OTA) or by a dealer, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on August 22, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1‑866‑436‑7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S77.

Recall number 25V488000 · Recall details

Service brakes, hydraulic: foundation components: master cylinderReported April 11, 2025 · 123,611 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017-2018 F-150, Expedition, and Lincoln Navigator vehicles. The brake master cylinder may allow brake fluid to leak from the front wheel circuit into the brake booster.
Risk
A brake fluid leak can cause reduced brake function and extend the distance required to stop, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the brake master cylinder. If the master cylinder is leaking, the brake booster will also be replaced. Repairs will be performed free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed September 25, 2025. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1‑866‑436‑7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S37. This recall is an expansion of the federal safety agency recall number 22V‑150.

Recall number 25V236000 · Recall details

Parking brake: electricalReported July 21, 2023 · 870,701 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2023 F-150 vehicles equipped with a single exhaust system. Contact with the rear axle housing may damage the wiring harness, causing the electric parking brake to activate unexpectedly.
Risk
Unexpected activation of the electric parking brake while driving increases the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will install a protective tie strap, tape wrap, and replace the harness as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed February 12, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1‑866‑436‑7332. Ford's number for this recall is 23S35.

Recall number 23V509000 · Recall details

Service brakes, hydraulic: foundation components: master cylinderReported March 11, 2022 · 195,864 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2017 Ford Expedition, Lincoln Navigator, and 2016-2018 F-150 vehicles equipped with 3.5L Ecoboost engines. The brake master cylinder may allow brake fluid to leak from the front wheel circuit into the brake booster.
Risk
A loss of brake fluid may result in a change in brake pedal travel, increased pedal effort and reduced front brake function, requiring greater effort and distance to stop the vehicle. These conditions can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the brake master cylinder. If the master cylinder is leaking, the brake booster will also be replaced. Repairs will be performed free of charge. An interim owner notification letter notifying customers of the safety defect were mailed on April 29, 2022. Owner notification letters were mailed April 29, 2022. This recall is an expansion of the federal safety agency recall number 20V‑332. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1‑866‑436‑7332. Ford's number for this recall is 22S11.

Recall number 22V150000 · Recall details

Service brakes, hydraulicReported July 15, 2021 · 56 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 F-150 vehicles. The electronic brake booster may leak brake fluid into the electronic control unit, which could result in reduced braking performance.
Risk
Reduced braking performance can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the electronic brake booster assembly, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on July 28, 2021. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1‑866‑436‑7332. Ford's number for this recall is 21S33.

Recall number 21V533000 · Recall details

Service brakes, hydraulic: foundation components: master cylinderReported June 8, 2020 · 292,311 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2014-2017 F-150 pickup trucks equipped with 3.5L Ecoboost engines. The brake master cylinder may leak brake fluid into the brake booster.
Risk
A loss of brake fluid may result in a change in brake pedal travel and feel, increased pedal effort and reduced front brake function, possibly requiring greater effort and distance to stop the vehicle. These conditions can increase the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the brake master cylinder and inspect the brake booster, replacing it as necessary, free of charge. Ford issued owners an interim notification on June 30, 2020. The recall began on October 28, 2020. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1‑866‑436‑7332. Ford's number for this recall is 20S31.

Recall number 20V332000 · Recall details

Service brakes, hydraulic: fluidReported May 24, 2016 · 225,012 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2013-2014 F-150 vehicles manufactured August 1, 2013, to August 31, 2014 equipped with 3.5L engines. The master cylinder rear cup seal may roll, resulting in brake fluid leakage from the primary reservoir into the brake booster.
Risk
Loss of brake fluid from the primary reservoir results in a complete loss of front brake function, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the brake master cylinder and, if necessary, the brake booster, free of charge. The recall began on October 28, 2016. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1‑866‑436‑7332. Ford's number for this recall is 16S24.

Recall number 16V345000 · Recall details

Service brakes, hydraulic: power assist: vacuum: hoses, lines/piping, and fittingsReported May 7, 2008 · 605,684 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Ford is recalling 605,684 my 2005-2006 f-150 and lincoln mark lt vehicles equipped with 5.4l 3-valve engines. The brake booster vacuum supply hose attached to the intake manifold fitting may swell over time and lose retention force. This condition could allow the hose to become detached from the fitting during an intake manifold backfire. Should the hose detach from the intake manifold, several brake applications with power assist will be available before the vacuum reserve is depleted.
Risk
Once the brake booster vacuum reserve is depleted, the driver will have foundation brake function, but with increased brake pedal effort. Reduced vehicle braking could lead to a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace a rubber hose on the brake booster vacuum supply tube assembly. The recall began on june 27, 2008. Owners may contact ford at 1‑800‑392‑3673.

Recall number 08V208000 · Recall details

Service brakes, hydraulic: foundation components: hoses, lines/piping, and fittingsReported March 23, 2001 · 670 vehicles affected
What is wrong
Vehicle description: light duty pickup trucks. The left front brake hose was damaged during final assembly.
Risk
If the hose is damaged, brake fluid could leak and stopping distances may be increased.
Remedy
Dealers will install a new left front brake hose assembly. Owner notification began march 20, 2001. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact ford at 1‑800‑248‑0186 or 1‑800‑392‑3673.

Recall number 01V095000 · Recall details

Questions about the Ford F-150 abs

Why does the abs come on in the Ford F-150?

Owners who report it most often also describe brake failure, adaptive cruise control problems and check engine light, and the codes they mention most are C1963, U0415 and U0401.

Which Ford F-150 years have aBS light or ABS activating problems?

The model years with the most reports are 1995 (67 complaints), 1997 (53 complaints) and 1994 (40 complaints).

How much does it cost to fix ABS light or ABS activating on the Ford F-150?

Owners who mentioned a price put the repair at about $1,200 (median of 26 complaints that include a dollar amount). Costs vary with mileage, warranty and where the work is done.

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