SSM 2021–2026 F150 Front Engine Cover Removed and Reinstalled — 55228

[F150 Tremor Forum]

Special Service Message · SSM 55228

This is a Special Service Message, not a recall. SSMs are informational notes Ford sends dealers about a known condition or a change in procedure. They are not repair orders, and they don't by themselves change what is covered.

Published: Oct 8, 2026
Applies to: F-150 (2021–2026 model years)

Restrictions stated in the source:

• Equipment: equipped with a 2

Also listed in the source (outside this forum's coverage): Bronco 2021–2026, Explorer 2020–2026, F-150 2020, Ranger 2024–2026

Summary (official text)​

Some 2020-2026 Aviator/Explorer/F-150/Bronco/Ranger vehicles equipped with a 2.7L or 3.0L (non-diesel) engine may need the front engine cover removed and reinstalled for various reasons. The Workshop Manual (WSM), Section 303-01 Engine > Removal and Installation > Engine Front Cover service procedure has been updated to include a new essential special service tool (ESST) guide pin alignment tool (303-1790) that is used to align the engine front cover to the engine block, preventing the O-ring seal on the engine oil galley feed tube from getting damaged during installation.

Sources​

• SSM 55228 (PDF, NHTSA document 11038440) — Oct 8, 2026

Details from NHTSA as of Oct 14, 2026. If NHTSA or Ford revises this notice, this post is updated and significant changes are noted in a reply. The linked documents are the authority, and a dealer can confirm whether it applies to your VIN.

Have you experienced this issue with your truck? Let us know your model year and engine, plus any diagnosis or repair details.

 

[Escape Hatch]

Special Service Message · SSM 552282.7 and 3.0

This is a Special Service Message, not a recall. SSMs are informational notes Ford sends dealers about a known condition or a change in procedure. They are not repair orders, and they don't by themselves change what is covered.

Published: Oct 8, 2026
Applies to: F-150 (2021–2026 model years)

Restrictions stated in the source:

• Equipment: equipped with a 2

Also listed in the source (outside this forum's coverage): Bronco 2021–2026, Explorer 2020–2026, F-150 2020, Ranger 2024–2026

Summary (official text)​

Sources​

• SSM 55228 (PDF, NHTSA document 11038440) — Oct 8, 2026

Details from NHTSA as of Oct 14, 2026. If NHTSA or Ford revises this notice, this post is updated and significant changes are noted in a reply. The linked documents are the authority, and a dealer can confirm whether it applies to your VIN.

Have you experienced this issue with your truck? Let us know your model year and engine, plus any diagnosis or repair details.

2.7 and 3.0, not relevant to us.

 

[modified]

2.7 and 3.0, not relevant to us.

Thanks for the heads up. These notices for the 2.7l and 3.0l engines should be excluded in the future.