2009 Ford F-150
Problems, recalls and owner-reported issues
Vehicle speed control is the leading concern among 324 owner complaints filed for this model year. This is the 10th highest complaint count among 26 F-150 model years with reports.
Of the 2009 reports, 28 involved a crash and 8 involved a fire. 21 people were injured.
What owners report most often
Recalls and investigations
Structure, body, doorFeb 1, 2011
FORD IS RECALLING CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 2009 AND 2010 F-150 VEHICLES MANUFACTURED FROM JANUARY 18, 2008, THROUGH NOVEMBER 30, 2009. THE INTERIOR DOOR HANDLE HOUSING EMBOSSMENT RETAINING THE INTERIOR DOOR HANDLE SPRING MAY FRACTURE DURING NORMAL USAGE RESULTING IN INSUFFICIENT SPRING FORCE TO RETURN THE HANDLE TO THE FULLY STOWED POSITION.
IN THE EVENT OF A SIDE IMPACT CRASH, THE DOOR HANDLE SPRING CAN FAIL CAUSING THE DOOR LATCH TO OPEN.
OWNERS WILL BE INITIALLY NOTIFIED AND INSTRUCTED TO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO A FORD OR LINCOLN/MERCURY DEALER IF ANY INTERIOR DOOR HANDLE IS LOOSE OR FAILS TO RETURN TO THE STOWED POSITION AFTER ACTIVATION FOR REPLACEMENT OF THE AFFECT MODULE. ONCE PARTS BECOME AVAILABLE, OWNERS WILL BE RENOTIFIED AND INSTRUCTED TO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO A FORD OR LINCOLN/MERCURY DEALER FOR INSPECTION OF EACH INTERIOR DOOR HANDLE. DEPENDING ON THE RESULTS OF THE INSPECTION, THE DEALER WILL EITHER ADD A SPRING EMBOSSMENT REINFORCEMENT OR REPLACE THE INTERIOR DOOR HANDLE MODULE FREE OF CHARGE. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON FEBRUARY 10, 2011. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD AT 1-866-436-7332.
Campaign 11V049000 on NHTSA.gov
Exterior lighting, brake lights, switchMay 5, 2009
FORD IS RECALLING 8,735 MY 2009 F-150 TRUCKS FOR FAILING TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THE BRAKE STOP LAMP SWITCH MAY BE IMPROPERLY ADJUSTED. THIS MAY RESULT IN A DELAY IN BRAKE STOP LAMP ILLUMINATION WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL IS DEPRESSED. IN SITUATIONS OF VERY MILD BRAKE APPLICATION, THE BRAKE STOP LAMPS MAY NOT ILLUMINATE.
DELAY OR LOSS OF BRAKE STOP LAMP FUNCTION MAY INCREASE THE RISK OF AN ACCIDENT.
DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND HAVE THE BRAKE STOP LAMP SWITCH REMOVED AND REINSTALLED WHICH WILL PROVIDE PROPER ADJUSTMENT. THE REMEDY WILL BE PERFORMED FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 13, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD MOTOR COMPANY CUSTOMER RELATIONSHIP CENTER AT 1-866-436-7332 OR THROUGH THE INTERNET AT WWW.OWNERCONNECTION.COM.
Campaign 09V150000 on NHTSA.gov
Representative owner complaints
324 reports, newest first.
Electrical system, Structure, Engine, Jul 8, 2026
This vehicle has been a lemon ever since we purchased it new. To start the 3rd brake light would always leak during rain and ruined the headliner took it back to andy mohr ford were we purchased approx 25 times for this issue. Then we have had oil leaks about a year after purchase and it still leaks. Third the fender wells are rusting. And also all the lights on the dash are lit because the computer board failed. To date the truck only has 147k miles. This truck has been a lemon the whole time we have owned it and i am tired of sinking money in this junker. Ford needs to be held responsible for every vehicle off there assembly line.
Engine, Jan 6, 2026, fire
The contact's son owned a 2009 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while approximately 10 MPH, he observed smoke emanating from the glove box and the check engine warning light illuminated. The contact steered the vehicle to the side of the road, and he observed a small fire by the accelerator pedal. The contact exited the vehicle and opened the hood. The contact stated that flames erupted from the engine compartment when the hood was opened, and he called 911. The fire department arrived and extinguished the fire. A police report was taken, but the info was not available at this time. The vehicle was towed to a tow lot where it was deemed totaled. There were no injuries. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 201,000.
Service brakes, Hydraulic, Tires, Dec 5, 2025
The contact owns a 2009 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the brake pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle failed to stop as intended. Additionally, the ABS and TPMS warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle slowed down; however, the brake pedal needed to be depressed to the floorboard to stop the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to Auto Zone and O’Reilly’s where it was diagnosed with a failed ABS module. The contact was informed that the ABS module needed to be replaced; however, the vehicle was not repaired. The contact stated that it was a known failure for similar vehicles. In addition, the contact referenced an unknown recall; however, the VIN was not included in a recall related to the failure. The contact stated that it was difficult to locate the part needed to repair the vehicle. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 129,000.
Service brakes, Hydraulic, Jun 20, 2025
The contact owns a 2009 Ford F-150. The contact stated while 45 MPH and depressing the accelerator pedal, the vehicle failed to respond as intended. The contact pulled over to the side of the road and waited for towing assistance to tow the vehicle to the residence. An independent mechanic was contacted. The vehicle was taken to the independent mechanic and was diagnosed with an ABS module failure. The contact was informed that the ABS module needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact related the failure to the Customer Satisfaction Program: 09C07 (Brake Stop lamp Switch Adjustment); however, the VIN was not included in the Customer Satisfaction Program. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but offered no assistance. The contact stated that the failure persisted since November 2022. The contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was 183,000.
Service brakes, Engine, Jun 6, 2025
My pickup truck at only 23 thousand miles in the engine, it's module went bad and brake and ABS lights came on on the dashboard. I took the car to the dealer and they said that I have to replace it and they are charging me 5,400 dollars. They said that some 2009 F150 module were bad from factory, but there's not recalls for it to be fixed by them.
Service brakes, Hydraulic, Engine, Jun 3, 2025
The contact owns a 2009 Ford F-150. The contact stated that the engine warning light was intermittently illuminated. The contact stated while driving at undisclosed speeds and making sharp turns, the vehicle stalled. The contact was able to pull over to the side of the road and depressed the brake pedal until the vehicle responded as needed. The contact stated that the failure had been recurring while making sharp turns and while coming to a stop at traffic lights. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, and the contact was informed that the failure could not be duplicated. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 60,000.
Air bags, May 23, 2025
My airbag warning light came on. The dealer found 2 codes and replaced the parts. When they were done another code came up for weight sensor which is the seat frame. I was told that the part has been discontinued. I have searched for an aftermarket part with no luck. I purchased a used seat but it was not compatible I have a16 year old truck. The service life is as I understand it is 14-20 years. I don’t understand how the manufacturer can stop making safety parts while the vehicle is still in its service life
Engine, Apr 26, 2024
The contact owns a 2009 Ford F-150. The contact stated while starting the vehicle, the engine rattled. No warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, but the dealer was unable to duplicate the failure. The failure recurred. The vehicle was then taken to an independent mechanic, who diagnosed that the cam phasers needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and a case was opened. The contact was advised to file a complaint with the NHTSA Hotline. The failure mileage was approximately 115,000.
Steering, Nov 8, 2023
The contact owns a 2009 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while his son was driving at approximately 25 MPH, the steering wheel detached. The driver was able to reattach the steering wheel and safely pull over. There were no warning lights illuminated. The contact called the local dealer, who referred him to an independent mechanic for assistance. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic, who replaced the standard clockspring in the steering wheel, part number CSP200. The manufacturer was contacted, and the contact was informed that the vehicle was too old, and no assistance was provided. The failure mileage was approximately 128,000.
Electrical system, Other or unspecified, Jul 18, 2023
AC electric wiring becomes hot and only blows at 1 speed, also with time has become corroded diplaying a live open wire under passanger area, seems it is the following Block Heater Cable Splice Connector May Corrode Prolonged corrosion of the connector may cause a resistive short, overheating or melting the wiring and increasing the risk of a fire. safety recall 19V048 below Also I can not find an open recall for the following issue my vehicle still has now that I researched it, it is a recall and my ford has not been fixed inregards to the following, Block Heater Cable Splice Connector May Corrode THE INTERIOR DOOR HANDLE HOUSING EMBOSSMENT RETAINING THE INTERIOR DOOR HANDLE SPRING MAY FRACTURE DURING NORMAL USAGE RESULTING IN INSUFFICIENT SPRING FORCE TO RETURN THE HANDLE TO THE FULLY STOWED POSITION.
Electrical system, Service brakes, Fuel/propulsion system, Jun 17, 2023
There's been recalls on the 2009 Ford f150 and my car is having hydraulic pump issues and a couple other issues that were recalled and I was just trying to get some assistance?
Power train, Jun 2, 2023
Random downshift to first gear while traveling down the highway at 70mph resulting in wheel lock-up and engine redline.
Structure, Apr 9, 2023
Frame of the body is completely rusted through to the point that it is almost unsafe to drive. It was identified when attempting to replace the rocker panel on the passenger side and the list put a hole in the frame. The vehicle has been well maintained but the amount of rust seems unusual for the age of the vehicle. I know the previous owner and he took painstakingly good care of the vehicle and it has been driven very little since I purchased it a couple of years back. The fix is to repair the frame at the cost of $3k plus or let it rust away completely. The amount of rust does not add up and I see similar issues with thousands of comments online.
Engine and engine cooling, Engine, Oct 3, 2022
The contact owns a 2009 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while starting the vehicle, there was an abnormal rattling noise detected. The check engine warning light was flashing on and off. The vehicle failed to start. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer where it was diagnosed that the failure was due to a faulty cam phaser. Additionally, the contact was informed that the timing chain and engine needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred him to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The approximate failure mileage was 185,000.
Engine, Aug 11, 2022
The contact owns a 2009 Ford F-150. The contact stated while attempting to start the vehicle, it would not start. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact had the vehicle towed to an independent mechanic who diagnosed that the vehicle fuel pump had failed and determined that it needed to be replaced. The repair was made, however, the failure persisted. The independent mechanic checked the vehicle fuses and replaced a 20 AMP fuse and the vehicle was repaired. The contact stated that the failure re-occurred and he drove the vehicle to a dealer. The contact had researched that the failure was related to Manufacturer TSB Number: TSB-15-0137 and NHTSA Campaign Number: 10074713 (Engine). The manufacturer had been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 218,000.
Structure, Other or unspecified, Jun 1, 2022
Door Striker Plate, latching Hook on Rocker Plate, lower side of driver side door frame, between front and rear doors is rusted. This does not allow the doors, front or rear driver side, to close securely. Attempted to contact Ford dealerships with no response. Took to independent Body Shop who said it is definitely a safety issue.
Fuel system, Gasoline, Apr 7, 2022
Exhaust gas is leaking into cab from manifold, because several studs broke
Power train, Mar 1, 2022
My vehicle occasionally gets stuck in a low gear. It has also stalled in a busy intersection. I have taken it to be diagnosed at an independent service center that specializes in transmissions and was told that the problem was the lead frame which has been recalled on later models of my vehicle.
Electrical system, Jan 25, 2022
Same old fuse issue, with only 56,000 miles. Ford is aware, they have a kit to by pass the problem, how ever they will not pay for repair (no recall). Cost almost $500.00 to fix their poor design issue. Buyers beware.
Electrical system, Sep 21, 2021
Fuel pump fuse failed. Known issue under TSB-15-0137. Failure of the fuel pump at speed can result in a dangerous situation. I feel this should be covered under recall as the attached picture clearly shows an electrical overload condition.
Vehicle speed control, Sep 13, 2021, crash, fire
The gas pedal got stuck while I was driving. I couldn't stop it and lost control. It caused a horrific car accident. 10 people were involved and I'm currently fighting the case in court to prove I was not reckless. It has been inspected by my insurance but unfortunately it was only for damages and not for mechanical issues regarding the gas pedal.
Vehicle speed control, Engine, Apr 24, 2021, crash
WHILE IN DRIVE AT IDLE SPEED THE TRUCKS RPM JUMPED TO APPROXIMATELY 4000 RPM INSTANTLY . I HAD TO PUSH MY FOOT BRAKE AS HARD AS I COULD AND PUT SHIFTER IN NEUTRAL THEN IT WAS OK FOR A WHILE THEN THIS HAPPENED AGAIN SEVERAL WEEKS LATER TOOK TO DEALER NO CHECK ENGINE LIGHT COULD NOT FIND A PROBLEM VERY DANGEROUS SITUATION.
Seats, Feb 17, 2021, crash
TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2009 FORD F-150. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE AT A STANDSTILL, THE CONTACT WAS REAR ENDED BY ANOTHER VEHICLE AT MODERATE SPEEDS. THE SEAT BELT DID NOT HAVE A LOW SENSING MECHANISM CAUSING HIM TO JOLT FORWARD AND THE SEAT BELT TIGHTENED TOO TIGHTLY ON HIM RESULTING IN MICRO TEARS OF HIS INTESTINES. THE CONTACT REQUIRED MEDICAL ATTENTION THAT LEAD TO SURGERY AND THE REMOVAL OF PORTIONS OF HIS INTESTINES. THE VEHICLE WAS DRIVEN BACK TO THE RESIDENCE OF THE CONTACT WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED WITH A FRAME CRACK WHICH RESULTED IN THE VEHICLE DEEMED A TOTAL LOSS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT INFORMED OF FAILURE. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 152,000.
Steering, Power train, Jan 22, 2021
HARD TO STEER
Air bags, Dec 3, 2020, crash
AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY UPON SIDE IMPACT FROM DRIVER GOING 40-50MPH AND AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY FOR FRONT IMPACT INTO POLE. I WAS CROSSING INTERSECTION HAS THE LIGHT TURN GREEN AND WAS HIT BY A DRIVER WHO RAN RED LIGHT. THE CAR PUSH THE TRUCK INTO A LIGHT POLE AND THE ENGINE BAY WRAP AROUND IT.