NHTSA & EPA data · updated November 2, 2026

2020 Ford F-450 recalls, problems & safety ratings

Quick answer

NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2020 Ford F-450 and 25 owner complaints. The most-reported problem areas are fuel system (9), diesel (8), power train (5).

The 2020 has the most owner complaints of any F-450 model year from 2012 to 2026. It has 1 recall vs. an average of 7.8 per model year.

Free. Shows whether a recall applies, plus specs, problems and ratings for your exact vehicle.

Recalls 1

Every recall NHTSA lists for the 2020 Ford F-450. Not every recall applies to every vehicle, so check your VIN. Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer.

Seats · front assembly · reclinerNHTSA #19V633000 · 08/28/2019

Problem: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2018-2020 F-150 and 2019-2020 F-250, F-350, F-450, and F-550 Super Duty pickup trucks, and 2018-2019 Ford Explorer, 2019-2020 Expedition, and 2020 Escape vehicles equipped with driver and/or passenger's manual front seat back recliner mechanisms. Also included are certain 2020 Ford Explorer and Lincoln Aviator vehicles equipped with rear outboard seats and manual seat back recliner mechanisms. The recliner mechanisms may be missing the third pawl required for seat back strength, resulting in a loose seat back. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) numbers 202, "Head Restraints" and 207, "Seating Systems."

Risk: A seat back with an improperly assembled recliner mechanism may have reduced strength and may not adequately restrain an occupant in a crash, increasing the risk of injury.

Fix: Ford will notify owners, and Ford and Lincoln dealers will inspect the seat structure and replace them, as necessary, free of charge. The recall began October 21, 2019. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 19C07.

Common problems

From complaints owners filed with NHTSA. Complaints aren't verified, but patterns across hundreds of owners point to known weak spots.

Most-reported problem areas

Fuel system9
Diesel8
Power train5
Unknown or other4
Electrical system3
Engine2
Vehicle speed control2
Steering1

By the numbers

25owner complaints filed
2involved a crash
2involved a fire
1injuries reported

Recent owner reports

10/26/2026 · Fuel system, diesel

The contact owns a 2020 Ford F-450. While the contact's son was driving 25 MPH, the check engine warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, and it was determined that there was failure with the #3 fuel injector. The contact stated that the fuel injectors were replaced; however, the failure reoccurred three days after the repair. The vehicle went into LIMP M…

03/06/2026 · Fuel system, diesel

The contact owns a 2020 Ford F-450. The contact received notification of NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V957000 (FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL); however, the part to do the recall repair was not yet available. The contact stated that the manufacturer had exceeded a reasonable amount of time for the recall repair. The manufacturer was made aware of the issue. The contact had not experienced a f…

10/14/2025 · Steering

The contact owned a 2020 Ford F-450. The contact stated that while driving at 60 MPH, the steering wheel failed to steer in the intended direction. No warning lights were illuminated. The contact stated that the vehicle had driven independently sideways and then into a deep ditch before coming to a stop. In addition, the contact stated that the vehicle was uncontrollable. The…

Safety ratings

NHTSA hasn't published 5-star crash ratings for the 2020 Ford F-450.

Fuel economy

The EPA doesn't publish fuel economy ratings for heavy-duty pickups like the Ford F-450.

Other model years

Compare every Ford F-450 year

Questions

How many recalls does the 2020 Ford F-450 have?

NHTSA lists 1 recall for the 2020 Ford F-450, most recently for seats · front assembly · recliner (08/28/2019). Recall repairs are free at a franchised dealer. Enter your VIN to check whether a recall applies to your vehicle.

What are the most common problems with the 2020 Ford F-450?

Based on 25 owner complaints filed with NHTSA, the most-reported areas are fuel system (9), diesel (8), power train (5).

Is the 2020 Ford F-450 safe?

NHTSA hasn't published an overall 5-star rating for the 2020 Ford F-450.

Is the 2020 a good year for the Ford F-450?

The 2020 has the most owner complaints of any F-450 model year from 2012 to 2026. It has 1 recall vs. an average of 7.8 per model year.

Own a 2020 Ford F-450 in South Carolina?

Our mobile mechanics diagnose and fix the problems above at your home, office or fleet lot in Lexington, Columbia and the Midlands, with dealer-grade scan tools.

Related vehicles

Sources: NHTSA recalls, complaints and 5-Star Safety Ratings APIs; EPA fueleconomy.gov. Data retrieved November 2, 2026. NHTSA model names used: F-450.

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