I've had plenty of Ford in the bay over the years, and the brake complaints on these don't surprise me. 8,940 on the NHTSA record across 212 model-year entries (2005–2025) is not a fluke. The complaints are spread across the lineup — no single model is doing all the work. That tells you it's an engineering or supplier pattern, not a one-off bad year. 2 fatality reports on file with NHTSA tied to this category on Ford vehicles. That elevates this from nuisance to safety-critical. Repair cost runs around $450 on average — relatively low for an aggregated category. Across the 5,826 complaints reporting odometer mileage, the median failure lands at about 76,106 miles. Pulsing, grinding, soft pedal — none of those should sit more than a week. Brake problems compound fast on a vehicle already on the list.
Ford brakes problems
8,940 owner complaints filed with NHTSA against Ford vehicles for brakes issues. 31 active recall campaigns. See brakes across all makes →
Worst-affected Ford model-years for brakes Top 25 by complaint volume
Active recalls — Ford brakes 12 on file
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025 Transit vehicles
A loss of brake function increases the risk of a crash.
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025 Lincoln Navigator, F-150, Expedition, Bronco, and Ranger vehicles
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.
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2020 Escape vehicles
Reduced brake function can require the driver to apply more brake pedal force, and the distance required to stop the vehicle may be extended, increasing the risk of a crash.
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2016-2018 Lincoln MKX and 2015-2018 Edge vehicles
A brake fluid leak can extend the distance required to stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025 Lincoln Navigator, F-150, Expedition, Bronco, and Ranger vehicles
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.
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2025 Explorer vehicles
Loss of brake function and wheel damage can increase the risk of a crash.
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2022-2024 Navigator and Expedition vehicles
A loss of brake function increases the risk of a crash.
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2017-2018 F-150, Expedition, and Lincoln Navigator vehicles
A brake fluid leak can cause reduced brake function and extend the distance required to stop, increasing the risk of a crash.
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2022 Maverick vehicles previously repaired incorrectly under recall number 24V-730
Unintended illumination of the brake lights may confuse other drivers, increasing the risk of a crash.
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2024 Mustang vehicles
An undetected low brake fluid condition can lead to a loss of braking function, increasing the risk of a crash.
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2024 Mustang vehicles
A loose brake pedal can result in a loss of braking function, increasing the risk of a crash.
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2013-2018 Fusion and Lincoln MKZ vehicles
A brake fluid leak will increase brake pedal travel and extend the distance needed to stop the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Common questions
How many Ford brakes complaints are on file with NHTSA?
8,940 complaints across 212 model-year entries from 2005 to 2025. 31 active recall campaigns cover brakes issues across the Ford lineup.
Which Ford model has the most brakes complaints?
The 2013 Ford Edge leads with 577 complaints in this category. Next: 2008 Fusion (517) and 2009 Fusion (494).
What does it cost to fix Ford brakes problems?
Independent shops average $450 for brakes repairs across the Ford lineup. Dealer pricing tends to run twenty to forty percent higher. Specific cost depends on the failure mode and parts availability.
Are there Ford brakes recalls?
Yes — 12 active recall campaigns cover brakes on Ford vehicles. Recall fixes are free regardless of mileage or warranty status. The list below shows current campaigns with their NHTSA numbers.