U.S. investigates 420,000 Ford F-150s for brake failure

DETROIT — The U.S. government is investigating complaints that the brakes can fail on Ford's F-150 pickup truck.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration says the probe covers about 420,000 pickups with 3.5-Liter engines from the 2013 and 2014 model years.

The agency says it has 33 complaints about the problem, including some drivers reporting that the pedals can suddenly go to the floor with a complete loss of braking. Four drivers reported that the problem caused crashes, although there were no injuries.

Some of the drivers reported that mechanics told them brake fluid had leaked from the master cylinder to the brake booster, causing the problem.

The agency will check into how often the problem happens and whether a recall is necessary. Messages were left Friday seeking comment from Ford.