Federal safety regulators are scrutinizing Ford’s 7.3-liter Godzilla V8 after allegations that it can suffer serious internal engine damage. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has opened a defect petition review concerning possible camshaft and lifter failures.
The review was prompted by a petition submitted on June 13, 2026, claiming that the engine may not receive sufficient lubrication at low idle speeds. According to the petitioner, the resulting wear could eventually cause the engine to fail without warning. NHTSA’s filing lists just one reported incident, with no associated crashes or injuries.
The issue is potentially serious because a sudden engine failure could leave a truck or van without power while traveling at highway speeds. However, regulators have not yet determined whether the defect exists.
The review covers an estimated 54,787 Ford vehicles in the United States, including certain E-Series models and medium-duty trucks. At the time of writing, there is no safety recall associated with the investigation.
What Could Be Wrong With The Godzilla V8?
The petition alleges that inadequate lubrication at low idle speeds can damage the engine’s lifter rollers and camshaft lobes. As these components wear, the damage could become severe enough to cause complete engine failure.
It also claims Ford was aware of the problem and developed a software calibration that increases idle speed to approximately 1,000 rpm to improve lubrication. The petitioner says that Ford did not notify affected owners or issue a recall.
These are still mere allegations, and NHTSA’s review will help determine whether further investigation is warranted. The existence of a software calibration does not, by itself, establish that a safety defect has been confirmed.
More Than 54,000 Ford Vehicles Under Review
According to NHTSA, the review concerns the 2021–2022 Ford E-350, 2021 F-59 chassis, and 2021 F-750 equipped with the 7.3-liter V8. Other Ford vehicles also use the Godzilla engine, but they are not included in the stated scope.
Introduced for the 2020 model year, the naturally aspirated pushrod V8 became a gasoline alternative to Ford’s heavy-duty diesel engines. Its relatively straightforward design and strong torque output made it appealing for commercial vehicles and heavy-duty pickups.
The engine has also appeared in Super Duty pickups, motorhome chassis, and other commercial applications. However, the current review should not be interpreted as evidence that every Godzilla-powered vehicle is affected.
A Recall Has Not Been Announced
NHTSA is evaluating the petition rather than announcing a confirmed defect or mandatory repair. The agency could decide to pursue a more extensive investigation, but it could also close the case if the available evidence does not justify further action.
Currently, owners of the vehicles under review have no recall notice or mandatory repair to act on. Whether that changes will depend on what NHTSA uncovers about the reported camshaft and lifter failures.