A 2018 Ford F-150 pickup truck was completely destroyed by fire on September 6, 2025, at Pokukrom in the Ahafo Region, raising renewed concerns over longstanding safety defects associated with the popular vehicle model.
The vehicle, bearing registration number GW 3011-25 and Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) 1FTFW1E19JFD45025, was owned by Mr. Edward Kufuor-Barnes, an employee of Newmont Africa in the Ahafo Region. Mr. Barnes was traveling from Kumasi to Sunyani after a business meeting when the incident occurred.
According to Mr. Barnes, he noticed the vehicle’s temperature gauge suddenly rise sharply from normal to critical levels while driving. He immediately pulled over to prevent further damage.
However, he alleges that the vehicle’s engine seized, while the door locks and seatbelt mechanisms failed, trapping him inside the rapidly overheating cabin.
In a desperate attempt to escape, Mr. Barnes said he used a metal crucifix inside the vehicle to force the door open, narrowly escaping moments before smoke and flames erupted from beneath the truck.
The fire quickly spread, engulfing the entire vehicle.
Investigators who examined the scene indicated that the fire is believed to have originated from the gearbox chamber, before spreading to the engine compartment and ultimately consuming the vehicle.
No injuries were reported, but the vehicle was burnt beyond recognition.
Mr. Barnes estimates his total loss at nearly US$90,000, including the value of the vehicle and approximately US$8,000 worth of personal property destroyed in the fire.
He had owned the vehicle for less than a year.
Recall History and Safety Concerns
The 2018 Ford F-150 model has been subject to multiple safety recalls internationally. Over the years, Ford Motor Company has acknowledged defects involving:
• Gear shift cable clips that can detach, leading to unintended vehicle movement
• Tailgate latch failures
• Brake fluid leaks
• Cam phaser wear affecting engine timing
• Loose positive battery
terminal fasteners, which can cause stalling or fire.
In addition, engine-related issues have been widely reported, including problems linked to overheating, oil consumption, and premature engine wear.
In August 2025, a class action lawsuit was filed in a U.S. federal court in Michigan against Ford Motor Company, alleging that the automaker failed to disclose an oil consumption defect affecting certain 2018–2020 Ford F-150 trucks.
The lawsuit claims the defect prevents engines from maintaining proper oil levels, leading to excessive wear, stalling, overheating, and potential engine failure.
The plaintiffs, led by Daniel Bryan and 11 others, allege violations of state and federal consumer protection laws, asserting that Ford was aware of the defect but failed to adequately inform consumers.
Questions Over Recall Coverage for Exported Vehicles
Mr. Barnes’ case also highlights a broader issue facing owners of vehicles imported into Ghana.
Although recalls may be issued in countries where vehicles are originally sold, such remedies are often not extended to vehicles exported to other markets, leaving owners without access to free repairs or safety updates.
Industry experts note that this gap in recall enforcement can expose drivers to serious safety risks, particularly where defects involve engine failure, overheating, or fire hazards.
Calls for Accountability
The incident has sparked calls for greater transparency and accountability from global vehicle manufacturers, especially where known defects pose life-threatening risks.
Consumer advocates argue that safety recalls should follow vehicles regardless of where they are driven, particularly when defects are linked to fires or catastrophic engine failure.
As of the time of publication, Ford Motor Company had not issued a public statement regarding the Ghana incident.
Mr. Barnes says he is grateful to be alive but hopes his experience will prompt authorities and manufacturers to take stronger action to protect motorists.
“I could have died that afternoon,” he said. “No one should lose their life because of a defect that was already known.”
He prays Ford Motor Company would take responsibility and assist him with this unimaginable loss as this has put significant financial strain on him.
