RoadVitals

2011 Ford F-150 Brakes Problems

Owner-reported complaints naming the brake system, filed with NHTSA

Data refreshed

Brakes reportsComplaints are reports submitted to NHTSA by owners and drivers. NHTSA does not verify most reports before publishing them, and a complaint does not establish that a defect exists. Volume is influenced by how many of a vehicle were sold, how long it has been on the road, and how much attention an issue has received.
184
Latest Jul 8, 2026
Share of all reportsThis category as a share of every owner report on file for this model year. One report can name more than one component, so the categories overlap.
8%
of 2,184 total
Crash or fire reportedReports in this category whose submitter recorded that a crash or a fire occurred. The reporter's own answer on the NHTSA form, not a verified finding.
18
Injuries or deaths reportedTotals the submitters entered on their own reports in this category. Not verified by NHTSA and not a casualty statistic.
11

What this page shows

Reports naming service brakes, the antilock braking system, brake hoses, master cylinders or the parking brake. Every record below is an owner-reported complaint about the 2011 Ford F-150 submitted to NHTSA — not a confirmed defect, not a recall and not a manufacturer bulletin. 184 reports on file name it.

Complaints are reports submitted by owners and drivers to NHTSA. They are not verified and do not establish that a defect exists.

Owner reports naming brake

The 25 most recent of 184, in the owner's own words

BrakesDriver assistanceEngine
Filed Jul 8, 2026
Crash reported

Made a complete stop and vehicle accelerated at a high rate of speed and could not stop.

NHTSA ID
11748976
Incident
Jul 5, 2026
BrakesSteering
Filed Dec 6, 2025

Steering became stiff and difficult, brakes fell off the vehicle. No breaks. Heard/felt a pop and steering became loose. No steering, steering wheel was not turning the tires. Operated as a toy steering wheel without any temsion/control. I was stopped at a stop sign when the incident happened going 0mph.

NHTSA ID
11703493
Incident
Dec 5, 2025
Brakes
Filed Dec 3, 2025

The contact owns a 2011 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving at various speeds, the vehicle failed to decelerate and come to a complete stop while the brake pedal was depressed. No warning light was illuminated. Additionally, the contact stated that excessive force was needed, or the brake pedal needed to be pumped several times to start operating as needed. The vehicle was taken to a local dealer; however, the cause of the failure was not yet determined. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was taken to a local independent mechanic, where the brake master cylinder was replaced; however, the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was also taken to several other local dealers, where it was diagnosed; however, the cause of the failure was not yet determined. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unavailable.

NHTSA ID
11702705
Incident
Jan 15, 2023
Brakes
Filed Jun 12, 2025

The contact owns a 2011 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while the vehicle was parked on an incline, the contact started the vehicle and depressed the brake pedal; however, the vehicle started to roll backwards. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic, where it was determined that the vacuum booster pump had failed. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was contacted and confirmed that the vacuum booster was previously replaced in 2018. The contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline for assistance. The failure mileage was approximately 85,000.

NHTSA ID
11666484
Incident
Apr 1, 2025
Mileage
85,000 mi
Brakes
Filed Mar 6, 2025

Brake system alarm. When the mechanic put the computer reader on it, it’s saying it’s a vacuum issue. This issue has been recalled on several 2011 FordF150’s, but when I look up my VIN, it says there isn’t a recall on mine

NHTSA ID
11646645
Incident
Mar 6, 2025
Brakes
Filed Feb 19, 2025

The contact owns a 2011 Ford F-150. The contact stated while driving on an access road 30 MPH, the transmission unexpectedly downshifted to first gear, and the “Maintenance Required” warning light was illuminated. The contact immediately stopped the vehicle. The vehicle was restarted and driven to a local independent mechanic where the vehicle was diagnosed, and the contact was informed that the output shaft speed sensor was faulty and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 157,000.

NHTSA ID
11643658
Incident
Feb 18, 2025
Mileage
157,000 mi
BrakesPowertrain (other)
Filed Nov 18, 2024

The contact owns a 2011 Ford F-150. The contact stated while driving at various speeds, the output speed sensor failed to function properly, causing the vehicle not to operate and accelerate as needed. The contact pulled over, turned off, restarted the vehicle, and was able to continue driving. The contact stated that several times after turning off and restarting the vehicle, the vehicle failed to return to normal operation. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic for diagnosis. The contact was informed that the output speed sensor needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The contact linked the failure to NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V075000 (Power Train); however, the VIN was not included in the recall. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 170,000.

NHTSA ID
11625942
Incident
Aug 18, 2024
Mileage
170,000 mi
BrakesPowertrain (other)
Filed Jul 17, 2024

The contact owns a 2011 Ford F-150. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the transmission unexpectedly downshifted, the brake pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle unintendedly accelerated. There was no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was restarted; however, the failure reoccurred. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The mechanic diagnosed the vehicle and determined that the failure was caused by faulty wheel speed sensors. The contact was informed that the wheel speed sensor and the lead frame needed to be replaced. The dealer was also contacted; however, the vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and referred the contact to the NHSTA Hotline for assistance. The approximate failure mileage was 94,000.

NHTSA ID
11603005
Incident
Jul 17, 2024
Mileage
94,000 mi
BrakesPowertrain (other)
Filed Jun 25, 2024

The contact owns a 2011 Ford F-150. The contact stated that on two occasions while driving at approximately 45 MPH, there was a clunking sound, and the vehicle inadvertently downshifted into first gear. The transmission warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the residence where a hand-held diagnostic machine retrieved DTC code: P0722 (Output Shaft Speed Sensor Circuit no Signal). The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 194,285.

NHTSA ID
11596470
Incident
Nov 5, 2023
Mileage
194,285 mi
Brakes
Filed May 14, 2024

The contact owns a 2011 Ford F-150. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed and attempting to slow the vehicle, the contact became aware that the brakes were not functioning properly. The contact stated that upon releasing the brake pedal, the vehicle continued to decelerate. The vehicle returned to normal functionality, but the failure became a regular occurrence. No warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer, who diagnosed failures with the brake calipers and brake lines. The vehicle was repaired, but the failure reoccurred. The manufacturer was notified of the failure but provided no assistance. The failure mileage was 114,000. The VIN was not available.

NHTSA ID
11588752
Incident
Nov 15, 2023
Mileage
114,000 mi
BrakesPowertrain (other)
Filed May 14, 2024

The contact owns a 2011 Ford F-150. The contact stated while driving at 55 MPH, the accelerator pedal was depressed; however, the vehicle did not accelerate as intended. In addition, the check engine warning light was illuminated. The contact turned off, restarted the vehicle and continued to drive. The contact noticed a loud sound coming from the vehicle. The vehicle was taken to the dealer; however, the vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The vehicle was then taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed with a failure of the onboard speed sensor and the onboard speed sensor needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 214,000.

NHTSA ID
11588745
Incident
Dec 14, 2023
Mileage
214,000 mi
Brakes
Filed Mar 14, 2024

mechanical brake booster pump failure. Has been inspected by ford dealerships twice and also with a third party certified mechanic. The vehicle has a tough time stopping upon ignition and brake has to be pumped hard. Ford claims 2021 was the last service date on this but still there a reserve records that show that its not resolved but no recall is out for this. [XXX] parents are traveling in mx right now wanting to drive back but fear for their safety truck is under names of [XXX] and [XXX] INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)

NHTSA ID
11577459
Incident
Mar 14, 2024
BrakesPowertrain (other)
Filed Sep 26, 2023

The contact owns a 2011 Ford F-150. The contact stated while driving approximately 30 MPH, the vehicle unintendedly downshifted to first gear. The contact stated that the vehicle failed to shift out of first gear. There were no warning lights illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic to be diagnosed. The mechanic retrieved a fault code for a failure with the output speed sensor. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was contacted, and the contact was informed that the vehicle was not covered under warranty. The failure mileage was approximately 170,000.

NHTSA ID
11546607
Incident
Sep 23, 2023
Mileage
170,000 mi
BrakesElectricalEngine
Filed Jun 17, 2023

The below was sent to me, It is difficult for me to understand why I was not told the recall expired in 2016 when I made the appointment (6-6-23) and when I handed my property over (6-12-23) to this dealership. Thank you for the diagnostic, it was very helpful, but, I still run the danger of crashing due to my breaks not pressing down when the pump goes out and the option to get FORD to fix it expired in 2016, My VIN is registered and I did not get a notice, I would gladly give this shop the $$ to fix the 2016 recall that expired. Now, that business will go to your competitor. If you were not aware of the expiration, I get that, but, you are a shop specifically designed for my Ford, again, thank you for the diagnostic but the way it was done I can't trust this shop or get other females to come there. Keep Jeff, do not run him off, his soul and manners feel safe and trusting, he treated me very well and I know he did what he was told to do by whoever was in charge. There is no need to contact me moving forward, but, this very email will be submitted to all the proper authorities (NHTSA.GOV, FTC.GOV, FORD.COM) when I hold FORD and others accountable. I work very hard for the life I have grown accustomed to. Respectfully, ************************************************************************** Chris Moore Service Advisor REQUESTED SERVICES (June 6-2023, email) PERFORM OPEN RECALL Wyatt Johnson FordDealership We look forward to seeing you! Wyatt Johnson Ford 646 Thompson Lane Nashville TN 37204 (615) 942-3165 https://www.wyattjohnsonford.com

NHTSA ID
11527482
Incident
Jun 12, 2023
BrakesPowertrain (other)
Filed Jul 20, 2022

The contact owns a 2011 Ford F-150. The contact stated while driving approximately 35 MPH, the vehicle inadvertently downshifted. The contact also experienced failure while attempting to shift into reverse. The check engine warning light was illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the local dealer and diagnosed with a faulty lead frame and wheel speed sensor. The vehicle was not repaired. The VIN was not included in NHTSA Campaign Number: 19V433000 (Power Train). The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 210,000.

NHTSA ID
11474966
Incident
Oct 12, 2021
Mileage
210,000 mi
BrakesDriver assistance
Filed Jun 27, 2022
Crash reported2 injuries reported

The vehicle was being driven with the cruise control set. Upon approaching an intersection on a four lane divided roadway I tapped the brakes to deactivate the cruise control. When pressure was applied to the brake pedal the cruise control did not disengage but the vehicle accelerated instead. I released pressure to the brake pedal and the vehicle continued at the cruise control set speed. I again applied pressure to the brake pedal and the vehicle again accelerated. To avoid striking stopped traffic I moved into the right turn lane with the vehicle continuing to accelerate as I attempted to brake the vehicle. Upon entering the intersection my vehicle struck another pickup truck broadside. I believe speed at the point of impact was 60 plus miles per hour. My vehicle then continued on and struck two utility poles. Both vehicles were damaged beyond repair. There appears to be a problem with the speed control system as it would not disengage but caused the vehicle to accelerate. Googling the same problem with other Ford F-150's I found several reports of the exact problem. I ordered the vehicle new and it was maintained by the Ford dealership. There were no known problems. Mileage is 31,900. At this time the vehicle has not been inspected for a cause but is available for inspection. The vehicle is in the towing company lot. This accident could have very easily resulted in fatalities. This accident should have never happened!!!

NHTSA ID
11471168
Incident
Jun 24, 2022
BrakesDriver assistance
Filed Jun 26, 2022
Crash reported2 injuries reported

I was driving with the cruise control engaged set at 60 mph. Approached an intersection with traffic light with traffic stopped in both westbound lanes. Tapped the brake to deactivate the cruise control. The cruise control did not turn off but instead tapping the brake caused the truck to accelerate. Released the brake pressure and reapplied brake pressure. This action again caused the truck to accelerate. To avoid hitting stopped traffic I moved to the right hand turn lane which was free of traffic. The truck continued to accelerate as I applied brake pressure. As my truck entered the intersection a collision occurred with a northbound vehicle. The collision severely damaged my vehicle and the struck vehicle with injuries to myself and the other driver. Crash speed had to be over 60 mph. This was all captured by a traffic camera. My F-150 had 31,900 on the odometer. It has been dealership maintained since new and has no known defects other than this incident. No lights, no warnings. The truck has not been Inspected since the incident. The truck has heavy damage. This incident could have easily caused the deaths of myself and the other driver. Searches online have turned up the same complaints from other F-150 owners. I have photos on my email but can not get them loaded to this form. You need to see them!

NHTSA ID
11471030
Incident
Jun 24, 2022
Brakes
Filed Jun 13, 2022

The brake booster vacuum pump located behind driver headlight keeps Giving out almost crashed 3 times . It was recalled in Canada so what is the difference here , I have seen many forums with this issue and ford doesn't do anything this item is defective from the company

NHTSA ID
11469083
Incident
May 30, 2022
AirbagsBrakesEngine
Filed Apr 15, 2022

Have had the vacuum pump replaced twice and it’s dead again causing brake failure, the timing chain stretch already cost me one engine and now a year later the chain has stretched again on the new motor not very happy about that and passenger air bag turns on and off randomly with no codes only a warning again for no reason.

NHTSA ID
11460942
Incident
Mar 1, 2022
BrakesFuel system
Filed Mar 15, 2022

I’ve been having problems with my truck since my purchase date June 29 of 2021! I own a 2011 Ford F150 super crew! My truck has been to the ford company at least 5 to 6 times. I have inform the service team that this is a business truck! I have bought a new battery because I was told I was having low voltage but with the new battery I am having the same issues! I have had actually weighed a problem her assembly problems I have had my brakes replaced in the rear I have had converter problems and I was also told that I should get a tuneup but didn’t need it! I have had some bad experience with my Ford F150 2011 super crew and all I ask is for a better experience! I’ve never had an accident in his truck! I never had a accident in this truck!!!! I have had so many problems with the truck!🥺

NHTSA ID
11456857
Incident
Jul 26, 2021
Brakes
Filed Feb 16, 2022

Hello, I have a 2011 ford f150 eco boost. Just staring my brake pedal is very hard to push causing the vehicle to have no brakes. Took to dealer and said the vacuum pump is bad. Good new there a recall so they would fix for free. Mechanic called me back hour later stating the recall has expired so i have to pay for parts and labor. We are very confused why a safety recall that involves no brakes would expire?! This needs to get extended for safety reasons. I'm glad i didnt have my kids driving or they probably would have gotten into a accident! Please have ford look into this known problem.

NHTSA ID
11452244
Incident
Feb 8, 2022
Brakes
Filed Feb 1, 2022

The vehicle's electric vacuum pump was replaced under Ford's Customer Satisfaction Program 15NO5 at 23261 miles on 1/28/2019. Under that program, Ford extended the warranty on this part to 10 years/150k miles. This part produces vacuum to assist braking and to operate the four wheel drive system. When the truck is first started after sitting for some time, the operator has only manual braking and that can easily render the brakes insufficiently boosted for the amount of force an operator can push on the pedal, resulting in unintentional motion, forward or reverse of the vehicle. This pump also supplies vacuum to the parts that operate the four wheel drive, resulting in incorrect or incomplete selection of the driving mode, particularly when the vehicle is cold and during cold weather. This could cause sudden deceleration to a stop. This resulted in a dash warning to "check 4x4". Now, three years and 13k miles later, the part is once again operating unreliably, but the dealer tells me the vehicle has passed the ten year time limit and the program is over. This is a 5 $500 part, plus installation.

NHTSA ID
11449678
Incident
Jan 14, 2022
Brakes
Filed Jan 17, 2022

I was pulling out of my garage and as I applied the brakes to stop before hitting my neighbors garage there was no power brakes. By the grace of God I pushed hard enough on brakes and was able to avert an accident.

NHTSA ID
11447723
Incident
Jan 9, 2022
Brakes
Filed Dec 16, 2021

The contact owns a 2011 Ford F-150. The contact stated that the brake vacuum pump was defective causing the brake pedal to be soft whenever depressed. The contact had initially taken the vehicle to a dealer where they repaired the vacuum assist pump under warranty. A few months later, the contact stated that the failure returned, and the vehicle was taken back to the dealer. The contact was informed that the vehicle was no longer under warranty. The manufacturer was also notified of the failure and referred him to NHTSA for assistance. The vehicle had yet to be repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 100,000.

NHTSA ID
11443988
Incident
Dec 16, 2019
Mileage
100,000 mi
Brakes
Filed Dec 8, 2021

Master brake cylinder out Brake fluid has gone into Booster From booster it has gone into the engine and blown the engine and drive train. Towed to Les Schwab 11/02/2021 By Roadrunner towing

NHTSA ID
11443109
Incident
Oct 10, 2021

Higher-selling and older vehicles accumulate more reports. Counts are not failure rates and are not directly comparable between vehicles that sold in very different numbers.

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Elsewhere on this vehicle

Data sources

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