The transportation department in Canada – Transport Canada – recently announced plans to investigate the brake systems of older models of Ford's F-150 vehicle. The department has received more than 100 complaints already about an issue that results in a longer stopping distance for drivers, according to the Brake Report.
"2011 and 2012 Ford F-150s are affected."
The problem has been occurring in vehicles with a failed electric vacuum pump in the power brake system. More specifically, the vehicles affected by the issue include the 2011 and 2012 Ford F-150 equipped with a 3.5L EcoBoost Engine, according to the source. Martin Garneau, the minister of Transport Canada, is confident that there is an issue with the trucks, despite Ford's resistance to acknowledge one.
"Having reviewed the evidence, I've made a preliminary determination that there is a safety defect with the brake vacuum assist system on certain F-150 trucks," Garneau told the India Times. "I am disappointed that Ford disagrees with our assessment, and that is why I'm inviting Canadians who have experienced these issues to provide feedback that will help me make my final decision on ordering a notice of safety defect."
A Different Process North of the Border
Unlike the U.S., the Canadian government does not have the power to issue a recall per se. Instead, the government can issue a notice of defect, which requires the manufacturer (Ford) to notify vehicle owners of a potential problem with their trucks.
While that may be the status quo, individuals in Canada are fighting to alter legislation soon. Transport Canada recently introduced a bill to the Senate that would allow the Minister of Transport Canada to order a recall by vehicle manufacturers, according to CBC/Radio-Canada.