Hey Scotty,
I just placed an order for a new F150 and then noticed that some are coming in with a rusted rear axel. I noticed some people posting online about them coming in with a rusted rear axel. I'm debating if I will accept the vehicle if it comes in like that. What do you think about this? Should I walk away if it is rusted or is that ok?
Thanks,
Jay
Unfortunately, that’s the reality with the newer Ford trucks. You are not the only one:
https://carkiller.com/scottykilmer/qa/2015-21-ford-f-150-rear-axle-rust/#post-97118
Overall, I am not impressed by Ford quality, so I can’t recommend the newer F-150s.
The trucks were probably sitting on a lot somewhere for months waiting for computer chips.
It depends on how bad the rust is. Around here, that axle would be rusty fairly soon after starting to drive it anyway.
And a bit of surface rust wouldn't necessarily be a show stopper for me. Yes, I would only buy it under the condition that the dealer address the issue. eg. pay to have it stripped and repainted. But it's not like the axle is compromised. They are made of heavy gauge or cast steel, and the axle will be scrapyard food long before it rusts through.
