Safety Recall NHTSA · 85V172000 Reported December 26, 1985

Steering:column locking:anti-theft device

Ford Motor Company · Steering · 4,500 vehicles potentially affected

NHTSA ID
85V172000
Manufacturer Campaign
NR (Not Reported)
Manufacturer
Component
Steering
Vehicles Affected
4,500
Recall Type
Vehicle
Report Received
December 26, 1985

Safety Consequence

If the car is left unattended with the key removed and the ignition switch not in lock position, the car can be easily stolen. studies have shown that stolen cars are frequently involved in accidents.

Corrective Action

Ignition lock switch cylinder will be replaced.

What you should do

  1. Look up your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to confirm this recall applies to your vehicle.
  2. Contact an authorized Ford Motor Company dealer and reference recall ID 85V172000 or campaign NR (Not Reported).
  3. Schedule the free repair. By federal law, the manufacturer must remedy the defect at no cost.
View Official NHTSA Notice →
Related

Similar Recalls

Other recalls from Ford Motor Company or involving Steering.

FAQ: Recall 85V172000

Your rights, the repair process, and what each field on this page means.

What is recall 85V172000?

NHTSA recall 85V172000 was issued by Ford Motor Company on December 26, 1985. It addresses: Steering:column locking:anti-theft device. The recall affects approximately 4,500 vehicles, with the defect involving the Steering component.

How do I get this recall repaired?

Contact any authorized Ford Motor Company dealer and reference NHTSA recall ID 85V172000 or the manufacturer campaign number NR (Not Reported). Under federal law, the repair is completely free regardless of vehicle age or owner history.

Is my vehicle included in this recall?

The only way to confirm is to look up your 17-character VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. NHTSA's tool will tell you if VIN-by-VIN this exact recall applies.

How long do I have to get a recall repair done?

There is no expiration on most federal safety recalls. Even if your vehicle is years old and you bought it used, the manufacturer is required to perform the repair at no cost.

Where does the data on this page come from?

All information on this page is sourced directly from the U.S. Department of Transportation public dataset for NHTSA recalls. Last refreshed: 2026-05-22. For the most current official notice, visit nhtsa.gov/recalls.