Ford Motor Company has announced a recall of 295,449 trucks in the U.S., including models from the Super Duty F-250 to the Medium Duty F-750. The recall affects trucks equipped with the 6.7-liter Power Stroke V8 turbo diesel engine, also known as the Scorpion.
The company reported that the high-pressure fuel pumps in these trucks may fail due to the presence of aged biodiesel. Many of these trucks were left idle during the COVID-19 pandemic shutdowns, which contributed to the issue. Ford identified the suspect pumps as the Bosch CP4 RP7 model.
These CP4 pumps are also used in Ram’s Cummins I6 turbo diesel-powered trucks, starting with the 2500 series. Ford’s RP7 version was introduced in the 2020 model year for Super Duty trucks and the 2021 model year for Medium Duty trucks. In August 2021, the RP8 replaced the RP7. The RP8 features design improvements, including better cooling in the tappet area, achieved by increasing roller shoe and tappet body clearances.
Ford became aware of potential risks in December 2021 after the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) informed them that competitors had issued recalls related to the same CP4 pumps. Initially, Ford downplayed the issue, stating there was no unreasonable risk to motor safety. However, reports of sudden power loss raised safety concerns, as it could increase the risk of accidents. Ford has received over 3,000 warranty records, 498 field reports, and 58 customer service reports from October 2019 to November 2024.
Instead of replacing the faulty pumps, Ford will instruct dealers to reflash the powertrain control module to improve cooling and prevent the buildup of aged biodiesel deposits. Ford plans to send owner notification letters by January 17, 2025.
The affected high-pressure fuel pump, part number LC3Q-9B395-AA, costs over $1,000 when purchased new. The Power Stroke engine, known for being the most powerful and torquey heavy-duty diesel engine in production, delivers 500 horsepower and 1,200 pound-feet of torque.
For comparison, Ram’s I6 engine produces up to 1,075 pound-feet of torque, while General Motors’ Duramax engine delivers a maximum of 975 pound-feet. Thanks to its powerful Power Stroke engine, Ford’s Super Duty trucks are leaders in towing capacity. The F-450 XL Regular Cab 4×2 with dual rear wheels can tow up to 40,000 pounds with its high-output Power Stroke.
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