That's normal.

Certain parts get surface corrosion that prevents any additional corrosion from penetrating the part.

This type of corrosion is typical of suspension and frame components like control arms, frame bits, differentials, tie rods, and steering knuckles (what you're looking at).

 

Thanks!

 

THats a front wheel drive, I wonder how popular the AWD will be or if they getting away from that.

Like mentioned, thats normal, thats a cast piece which will start rusting immediately after its made. It will probably last 100 years though lol. They could have coated or painted it, but they obviously didnt think it was important.
You can paint them, but that involves a fair bit of work if you want to do a good job, the easiest thing is to remove it and paint it, but you can still try to do it with a can of spray paint and try not to spray over anything important like an ABS sensor or something.
You could also touch up any other small rust spot while you are under there, looks like a couple small spots are already starting. Do it now before they get out of hand.
I wonder if they come in aluminum, that would have solved the issue but would have cost Ford a bit more.

 

THats a front wheel drive, I wonder how popular the AWD will be or if they getting away from that.

I went with FWD and the smaller engine (1.5L) to maximize mileage. Still in the break in period so don't have good numbers yet, but hoping it pans out.

 

I wonder if they come in aluminum, that would have solved the issue but would have cost Ford a bit more.

I don't think you want the knuckles made out of aluminum. The cost has nothing to do with it. An aluminum component can be as strong or stronger than steel or cast iron. But what sets aluminum apart is how it fails. Most aluminum suspension components are extruded or forged, and in some cases, will be heat-treated. If a component has undergone extreme stress, such as a curb strike, the part will most likely crack and break instead of bend.

 

Theres quite a few aluminum parts out there for many different vehicles.

 

Theres quite a few aluminum parts out there for many different vehicles.

Yes there are. Many of those are vehicles that want the weight reduction, like high end sports cars. But the gains aren't that great for normal everyday cars. But it's worth it in big vehicles like the f150.