2023 Ford F-150 Lightning
Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of common issues and complaints reported for the 2023 Ford F-150 Lightning, categorized by major component.
The 2023 Ford F-150 Lightning is an all-electric full-size pickup truck. It’s known for its rapid acceleration, quiet operation, and innovative features like the Pro Power Onboard generator. The Lightning boasts impressive horsepower and torque figures, particularly in its extended-range battery configuration where it delivers 580 horsepower and 775 lb-ft of torque. Owners often praise its utility, technology, and environmental friendliness. However, some common dislikes include range limitations (especially when towing), charging infrastructure challenges, and the higher price point compared to traditional gas-powered F-150 models.
Electric Motor
Dual Electric Motor (Standard and Extended Range Batteries)
- Battery Degradation/Range Loss
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners report a noticeable decrease in battery range over time, especially in hot or cold climates. This can manifest as a reduction in the displayed estimated range or requiring more frequent charging for the same driving patterns.
- Solution: Ford has issued software updates aimed at optimizing battery management and improving range estimations. In cases of significant degradation beyond expected levels, battery replacement under warranty might be necessary.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Warranty coverage (typically 8 years/100,000 miles for the battery) should cover most repairs.
- Recalls: None Found
- Charging Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Difficulties with charging at home or at public charging stations. This can manifest as the charger not connecting, slow charging speeds, or the vehicle not recognizing the charger. Issues can stem from the vehicle’s charging port, the charging equipment itself, or software glitches.
- Solution: Troubleshooting steps include trying different charging stations, ensuring the charging equipment is functioning correctly, and checking for software updates from Ford. In some cases, a replacement of the charging port or onboard charger may be required.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ depending on the specific component and repair.
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Ride Quality
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have noted that the rear suspension can feel stiff or bouncy, especially when the bed is unloaded. This can lead to a less comfortable ride, particularly on rough roads.
- Solution: Aftermarket suspension upgrades, such as replacing the rear shocks or adding air springs, may improve ride quality.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $1500+ depending on the upgrade.
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Software Glitches
- Description/Symptoms: The Lightning’s complex software can be prone to glitches, leading to issues with the infotainment system, driver-assist features, or other electronic components. Symptoms can include the infotainment screen freezing, features not working as expected, or error messages.
- Solution: Ford frequently releases over-the-air (OTA) software updates to address bugs and improve performance. Performing a system reset or visiting a dealership for diagnostics and software updates can resolve these issues.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Usually covered under warranty or via software updates.
- Recalls: 23V-033 - Affected vehicles were previously remedied under recall 22V-835. The high voltage battery junction box (HVBJB) may have been manufactured with an insufficient weld, which can cause arcing, overheating, and a fire. Remedy is to install a new HVBJB. (This recall also covers other Ford vehicles)
- Recalls: 22V-835 - On affected vehicles, the high voltage battery junction box (HVBJB) may have been manufactured with an insufficient weld, which can cause arcing, overheating, and a fire. Remedy is to perform an inspection, and if arcing is observed, replace the HVBJB.
- Pro Power Onboard Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have experienced issues with the Pro Power Onboard system, such as the outlets not working or the system shutting down unexpectedly. This can be due to software glitches, wiring issues, or component failures.
- Solution: Checking the system settings, resetting the system, or visiting a dealership for diagnostics and repairs may resolve these issues.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $500+, depending on the issue.
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Tailgate Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Some owners have reported problems with the power tailgate, such as it not opening or closing properly or making unusual noises.
- Solution: This can be due to a faulty latch, motor, or wiring issue. Replacing the affected component typically resolves the problem.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+, depending on the component.
- Recalls: None Found
- Bed Cover Issues
- Description/Symptoms: Issues with the power tonneau cover are a common concern. This can include difficulty opening or closing the cover, uneven movement, or the cover getting stuck.
- Solution: This often involves lubricating the tracks, adjusting the alignment, or replacing the motor or sensors.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $600+, depending on the complexity of the repair.
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Infotainment System Problems
- Description/Symptoms: The Sync 4 infotainment system can experience various problems, including slow response times, freezing, connectivity issues, and unexpected restarts.
- Solution: Software updates from Ford usually address these issues. A system reset or a visit to the dealership may be necessary if updates don’t resolve the problem.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: Usually covered under warranty or via software updates.
- Recalls: None Found
- Seat Motor Malfunctions
- Description/Symptoms: Electric seat adjustment motors failing or making unusual noises. The seat may get stuck in one position or not move at all.
- Solution: Replacing the faulty motor or switch.
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $600+
- Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 2023 Ford F-150 Lightning, while innovative and well-received, has faced its share of issues. The most prevalent concerns revolve around electrical components, particularly software glitches, charging issues, and potential problems with the Pro Power Onboard system. Battery degradation is a long-term concern for some owners. Suspension and interior components also have occasional reports of problems. The severity of these issues varies, but software updates and warranty coverage often mitigate the cost.