2015 Ford F 250 Recalls, Issues & Maintenance

The 2015 Ford F 250 carries 5 open NHTSA recalls — most recently covering equipment and camera. Owners report 6 recurring issue clusters, led by “Rearview camera blackout under recall repair.” Ford uses the Intelligent Oil-Life Monitor (IOLM) to determine when oil changes are due based on actual driving load — not just mileage. Ford's published cap is 10,000 miles or 1 year, whichever comes first. The schedule below reflects Ford's Normal service intervals; F-Series trucks and Super Duty have additional towing-specific items.

5 Open Recalls

Source: NHTSA

EQUIPMENT

Campaign #19V401000 · May 29, 2019

Issue: VCI Emergency Vehicle Specialists (VCI) is recalling certain 2017-2018 Ford F-550, 2014 E-350 and E-450, 2015 F-250 and F-450, 2016 E-450, 2017 E-350, F-450 and E-450, 2018 F-350, 2010 E-450, 2005-2006 E-450, 2009 E-450 and Chevrolet C4500-based Type I and Type III ambulances equipped with ASA Electronics Voyager monitors used to display the back-up camera image. The monitors may unexpectedly revert back to the factory default settings which may cause the camera image to be reversed.

Risk: The driver may inadvertently turn the wrong direction to avoid an object behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: VCI Emergency Vehicle Specialists will work with ASA to notify the owners, and remedy the displays, free of charge. The recall began May 9, 2019. Owners may contact ASA Electronics at 1-800-384-4400.

BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA

Campaign #25V270000 · Apr 23, 2025

Issue: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015 F-250, F-350, F-450, Expedition, Lincoln Navigator, and MKC vehicles. The rearview camera printed circuit board terminal header connector may be loose or damaged, which can result in a blank or distorted image.

Risk: A blank or distorted rearview camera image can reduce the driver's view of what is behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: Dealers will replace the rearview camera, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed October 16, 2025. Owners may contact Ford Customer Service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S42. This recall expands previous recall number 22V-082.

POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)

Campaign #14V204000 · Apr 17, 2014

Issue: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain model year 2015 F-250, F-350, F-450, and F-550 Super Duty trucks manufactured September 13, 2013, through March 28, 2014, and equipped with 6.2L gasoline or 6.7L diesel engines and 6R140 transmissions. An error with the transmission control software may be such that while shifting from "Park" to "Drive" the vehicle may display "Drive" but possibly engage "Reverse" for 1.5 seconds before engaging "Drive." Therefore, the vehicles do not conform to Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 102, "Transmission Shift Lever Sequence, Starter Interlock, and Transmission Braking Effect."

Risk: If the vehicle is in "Reverse" while the while the gear selection shows "Drive," unexpected movement could occur, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will update the transmission software, free of charge. The recall began on May 6, 2014. Owners may contact Fords customer service at 1-800-392-3673. Ford's number for this recall is 14C04.

STEERING

Campaign #20E090000 · Oct 12, 2020

Issue: Icon Vehicle Dynamics, LLC (Icon) is recalling all 05-UP FSD 2.5 Centerline Stabilizer Kits with part number 65050. The kits were sold as an accessory for certain 2005-2021 Ford F-250 4X4 and F-350 4X4 pickup trucks. The foam ring inside the stabilizer "through shaft" may block the piston ports, possibly causing the steering to lock up.

Risk: If the steering locks, it can increase the risk of a crash.

Fix: Icon will notify owners, and dealers will install a new shock assembly with a revised foam ring and steel support disc, free of charge. The recall began December 21, 2020. Owners may contact Icon customer service at 1-951-689-4266.

BACK OVER PREVENTION: SENSING SYSTEM: CAMERA

Campaign #25V572000 · Apr 9, 2025

Issue: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2015-2019 Lincoln MKC, Mustang, F-350 SD, F-250 SD, F-450 SD, 2015-2017 Lincoln Navigator, Expedition, 2015-2018 Edge, Transit Connect, 2016-2019 F-550 SD, Transit, 2017-2019 Econoline, and 2019 Ranger vehicles. The rearview camera may display a distorted, inverted, or blank image when the vehicle is in reverse.

Risk: A rearview camera that displays an inverted, distorted, or blank image can reduce the driver’s view behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.

Fix: Dealers will inspect and replace the rearview camera as necessary, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed January 13, 2026. Ford owners will receive letters in phases, beginning January 2026 and June 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 25S89. This recall expands previous NHTSA recall number 25V270. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning September 8, 2025.

Recall data refreshed Sep 6, 2026.

Known issues for this vehicle

What drivers and federal regulators have officially reported about the 2015 Ford F 250.

Reported to NHTSA

Rearview camera blackout under recall repair

BACK OVER PREVENTION

11 NHTSA complaints · 2023-02 → 2026-06

Backup camera is only displaying blue screen when in reverse. Symptoms consistent with other 2015 F250s currently under recall, yet my vin is not included for some reason. Issue was reported to Ford, but they refused to checkout the problem or fix it.
Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11663400
The contact owns a 2015 Ford F-250. The contact stated that the vehicle was repaired under NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V270000 (Back Over Prevention); however, the failure occurred. The contact stated that the rearview camera displayed a black screen while the vehicle was in…
Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11706806

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Reductant heater and NOx sensor fault codes

ENGINE

12 NHTSA complaints · 2020-01 → 2024-03

Engine code P20BA indicating a reductant heater issue with the DEF system. This issue is NHTSA ID number 10137151. This issue covers certain 2011 - 2015 models but not all 2011 - 2015 models using the same defective equipment.
Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11452109
The contact owns a 2015 Ford F-250. The contact stated that upon coming to a complete stop in a parking area, the vehicle continued to idle, and the vehicle lost motive power. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer, who diagnosed a failure with…
Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11561484

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Sudden transmission downshift at highway speed

POWER TRAIN

3 NHTSA complaints · 2021-10 → 2025-03

The investigation into the F-150 sudden transmission Downshifts into a lower gear at highway speeds needs to be expanded and also include F-250 6.7 L diesel. It has happened in my F-250 twice while traveling on the interstate at highway speeds, down shifts from gear 6 to gear…
Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11650629
Truck has started dropping into 1st gear and losing speed with no warning. Has happened at low and high speeds.
Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11596607

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Front-end death wobble at highway speed

STEERING, SUSPENSION

122 NHTSA complaints · 2019-12 → 2026-07

Steering wheel shakes violently when going between 55 to 75 mph after hitting bump in road. Commonly known as the “death wobble”. Total loss of control.
Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11660067
I experienced what I now have come to understand is called the death wobble. It was terrifying and I was going about 60 mph on an interstate that was under construction. I hit minor bumps and the whole truck began to wobble back-and-forth violently. it would not stop until I…
Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11599834

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Diesel fuel pump and filter housing failure

FUEL SYSTEM, DIESEL

15 NHTSA complaints · 2021-07 → 2025-06

Known Faulty Bosch CP4 fuel pump placed on vehicles with Fords knowledge of the issue. This fuel pump is known to fail and cause thousands of dollars in damage and repair cost. As a good business practice Ford should issue a recall on all vehicles that this faulty fuel pump was…
Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11492802
The contact owns a 2015 Ford F-250 SD. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact noticed an odor of burning fuel inside the vehicle. The contact stopped and parked the vehicle at a relative's residence. The contact noticed smoke coming from under the…
Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11626255

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Engine fire while starting vehicle

ENGINE

3 NHTSA complaints · 2020-11 → 2025-07

The contact owned a 2015 Ford F-150. The contact stated that when the vehicle was started, the contact noticed fire coming from the front hood of the vehicle. No warning lights were illuminated. The contact noticed that the fire started before the engine completely started. The…
Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11674559
The contact owned a 2015 Ford F-250. The contact stated while starting the vehicle in his garage, the RPM raised to 500 before the vehicle turned off. The contact stated on the third attempt to turn on the vehicle the engine exploded and caught fire. The contact stated no…
Owner report, NHTSA ODI #11531553

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Note: NHTSA also opened 1 defect investigation(s) on this vehicle that closed without action.

Source: NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation (ODI). Complaint data refreshed Sep 11, 2026. Investigation data refreshed Sep 11, 2026.

We display NHTSA's record with attribution; we don't editorialize on what these complaints mean for any specific vehicle.

Essential maintenance

Critical for safety and preventing major damage

Engine Oil & Filter

Every 7,500 mi

Replace synthetic-blend or full-synthetic Motorcraft oil per the IOLM, or every 7,500-10,000 miles. EcoBoost engines require full synthetic; Coyote 5.0L V8 specifies SAE 5W-30.

Estimated cost — typical U.S. ranges

Dealer

~$120–$160

Shop

~$85–$115

DIY

~$25–$55

Full synthetic costs more than conventional. 5-quart 0W-20 + filter is the typical bill.

Tire Rotation

Every 10,000 mi

Rotate tires every 10,000 miles, or with every other oil change. F-150 4x4 owners should rotate every 5,000-7,500 miles to even out drivetrain bias wear.

Estimated cost — typical U.S. ranges

Dealer

~$85

Shop

~$60

DIY

Free

Often free at the shop where you bought the tires — worth asking before paying.

Brake Inspection

Every 10,000 mi

Inspect brake pads, rotors, and brake fluid level every 10,000 miles. Front pads on F-150 and Explorer typically last 40,000-60,000 miles.

Estimated cost — typical U.S. ranges

Dealer

~$85

Shop

~$60

DIY

Free

Most shops do this free as a courtesy with any service. Don't pay separately if you can avoid it.

Brake Fluid

Every 45,000 mi

Ford specifies brake fluid replacement on an inspection basis, but moisture testing every 3 years is recommended. Replace if reading exceeds 3% water content.

Estimated cost — typical U.S. ranges

Dealer

~$180–$200

Shop

~$125–$140

DIY

~$10–$25

DOT 3 or 4 — match the cap. Vacuum bleeders make this a one-person DIY.

Important maintenance

Keeps your vehicle running smoothly and efficiently

Engine Air Filter

Every 30,000 mi

Replace the engine air filter every 30,000 miles. EcoBoost turbocharged engines are sensitive to airflow restriction — don't extend.

Estimated cost — typical U.S. ranges

Dealer

~$60–$95

Shop

~$45–$70

DIY

~$15–$40

5-minute job on most cars; the airbox lid usually has clips, no tools needed.

Automatic Transmission Fluid

Every 150,000 mi

Ford 6R80, 10R80, and 8F transmissions use Mercon LV fluid rated 150,000 miles under normal service. Severe service (towing, plowing) drops this to 60,000 miles.

Estimated cost — typical U.S. ranges

Dealer

~$330–$500

Shop

~$235–$355

DIY

~$60–$180

Some sealed transmissions have no dipstick — fill is precise and best left to a shop. Many drivers can still DIY drain-and-fill.

Transfer Case Fluid (4WD models)

Every 60,000 mi

F-150 4x4 and Bronco 4x4: replace transfer case fluid every 60,000 miles. Use Motorcraft XL-12 — do not substitute generic transfer case fluid.

Estimated cost — typical U.S. ranges

Dealer

~$105–$140

Shop

~$75–$100

DIY

~$15–$40

AWD/4WD vehicles only. Easy drain-and-fill on most platforms.

Rear Differential Fluid

Every 100,000 mi

F-Series and Expedition: replace rear axle fluid every 100,000 miles, or 50,000 miles if towing. Limited-slip rear ends require friction-modifier additive.

Estimated cost — typical U.S. ranges

Dealer

~$150–$195

Shop

~$105–$135

DIY

~$20–$50

Drain plug + fill plug — straightforward DIY. AWD vehicles have two; budget for both.

Spark Plugs

Every 100,000 mi

Iridium spark plugs on Coyote 5.0L, EcoBoost 2.7L/3.5L, and 2.3L are rated 100,000 miles. EcoBoost engines: never exceed the interval — gap erosion causes coil failure.

Estimated cost — typical U.S. ranges

Dealer

~$285–$390

Shop

~$200–$275

DIY

~$25–$100

Iridium plugs cost more but last 100k+ miles. V6/V8 access varies wildly — some are tough.

Engine Coolant

Every 50,000 mi

Motorcraft Orange (Dex-Cool compatible) coolant: first change at 100,000 miles, then every 50,000. Older trucks with Yellow Motorcraft coolant: 50,000 miles throughout.

Estimated cost — typical U.S. ranges

Dealer

~$285–$330

Shop

~$200–$235

DIY

~$25–$60

Use the manufacturer-specified coolant — wrong color/chemistry can damage the cooling system.

Recommended maintenance

Extends the life of your vehicle and improves comfort

Cabin Air Filter

Every 20,000 mi

Replace the cabin air filter every 20,000 miles. On F-150, located behind the glove box; on Escape and Explorer, accessed from the passenger footwell.

Estimated cost — typical U.S. ranges

Dealer

~$60–$95

Shop

~$45–$70

DIY

~$15–$40

Usually behind the glovebox. Shops charge labor for a 10-minute job — easy DIY win.

Fatal crash history & reported problems

Occupant deaths in fatal crashes (FARS)

296 crashes 2010–2024

FARS counts every occupant death in a fatal crash, whatever the cause — it does not mean the vehicle was at fault or defective. Counts are not adjusted for how many of each vehicle are on the road. How to read this number

Owner-reported problem signals

Separate from the federal fatality data above: complaints owners filed with NHTSA about this year and model. These are reports of problems, unverified, and are counted here only as signals.

8

complaints mentioning a crash

6

complaints mentioning a fire

Reviewed known issues for this vehicle·Open recalls for this vehicle

Typical U.S. ranges. Actual quotes vary by shop, parts choice, and vehicle condition.

How we estimate: Dealer = OEM parts × 1.4 + labor × $165/hr. Shop = parts + labor × $115/hr. DIY = parts only.

This maintenance schedule for the 2015 Ford F 250 reflects Ford's published service intervals and the Intelligent Oil-Life Monitor system. Your actual service needs may vary based on driving conditions, climate, and vehicle usage. Always consult your owner's manual for model-specific recommendations.