Vehicle recalls make headlines yearly, and overlooking them could entail a significant financial burden.
Safety recalls are caused by nonconformance to quality standards due to health and safety risks. When an auto manufacturer deems a certain model or make has a safety-related defect, it notifies you about the problem and often offers free repairs to remedy the issue.
The issues that can spark a safety recall can range from seemingly minor glitches, like a faulty infotainment system, to more intricate problems, such as a malfunctioning driveshaft or an airbag that might disengage unexpectedly.
Ford Motor Company, an American multinational automobile manufacturer, is no stranger to these situations.
In fact, during the first half of 2023, data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) revealed that Ford tops all auto manufacturers, including Toyota, Hyundai, Honda, and Tesla, in recall numbers.
If you own a Ford vehicle, particularly the Maverick pickup, you might be wondering about the steps to take if your recently purchased compact pickup truck is part of a safety recall.
This article sheds light on these topics and provides valuable information about potential issues of the coveted AWD (all-wheel drive) vehicle. It will also answer frequently asked questions about how the whole recall process works.
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Ford Recalls and Customer Satisfaction Programs
Recalls are significant to keeping you, the people around you, and the vehicles sharing the road with you safe. According to the NHTSA, a safety recall can include installed vehicle components, such as tires, airbags, or even the car seat.
If there are recalls, vehicle manufacturers are obligated to file a report that contains the following:
- Details of the affected vehicle or components
- Description of the vehicle defect or the noncompliance issue
- Factors that led to the recall decision
- Explanation of the suggested remedy
- Schedule of the recall
Safety recalls do not cover daily wear and tear issues. Typically, only defects that lead to a safety concern are factors for establishing a recall. Some common problems that can trigger recalls are the following:
- Airbags that deploy inadvertently
- A leak in the fuel system
- Wiring issues and other fire risks
- Malfunctioning accelerators and steering equipment
- Jacks that may collapse
If you want to know if your Ford vehicle is part of a previously announced safety recall, the best way is to check with your local dealership or visit Ford’s website.
Ford offers a recall checker that lets you see if your vehicle requires servicing as a recall remedy. Simply input your VIN (vehicle identification number) in the space provided, and the recall checker will show if your vehicle is part of a recall.
The time required to fix a safety recall is usually based on the repairs needed to be performed.
A simple task like a software update sometimes takes less than an hour, but more complicated repairs that involve mechanical work may take longer.
It’s always best to ask your local dealership when you schedule a repair appointment.
Here are some factors that might affect how long a recall-related repair might take to finish:
- The number of vehicles affected by the safety recall
- The complexity of the problem
- The number of parts involved in the repair procedure
- The availability of the repair parts
- The dealership technicians’ training and ability to conduct the specific repair
- The number of recalled vehicles the dealership can repair each day (while also considering their daily service business)
Ford Recalls Maverick Over Fire Risk Again Because the First Recall Didn’t Work
According to a campaign published by the NHTSA, Ford recalled over 125,000 crossovers and pickup trucks that could catch fire during operation.
This recall expands the similar campaign issued on July 22, which covered approximately 100,000 Ford Maverick, Ford Escape, and Lincoln Corsair vehicles from 2020 to 2023. The affected vehicles are equipped with Ford’s 2.5L hybrid powertrain system.
According to the recall, in the event of an engine malfunction, the engine oil and fuel vapor can enter the compartment and accumulate near ignition sources, such as the exhaust, potentially starting a fire.
Ford Motor Company also said that it is aware of three instances where these particular models caught fire after ongoing the remedy procedure for the previous 2022 recall, suggesting that the original fix could not address the problem.
Ford advised drivers of affected vehicles to park and shut off their engines immediately if they hear unexpected noises, see smoke emanating, or notice a sudden reduction in driving power.
If you think your Ford vehicle is affected by this safety recall, you can visit the NHTSA website and use the search engine to check.
NHTSA Safety Recall Results
Per the NHTSA, some of the Ford vehicles named in a safety recall in the past years are the Ford F-150, Edge, Explorer, Fusion, Escape, and Mustang.
Since the Ford F-series pickups have had a significant market share for decades, their chances of being recalled are relatively high.
About 2 million Ford F-150 Regular and SuperCrew pickups were recalled due to their seatbelt pre-tensioners that can create a risk of fire.
Moreover, Ford Motor Company recalled about 350,000 F-150, Expedition, and F-750 vehicles due to an unseated gear shift cable clip that may not have correctly secured the gear shift.
A similar issue caused the safety recall of about 550,000 Ford Fusion and Escape models, where a bushing problem may cause the vehicle to move even though the transmission shows it is in park mode.
In 2016, specific Ford trucks were also recalled because of a faulty diesel fuel system. The protective shield on the fuel module can dislodge and cause a leak.
Specific 2016 to 2017 models of Ford Edge vehicles were recalled due to their airbags not working as intended. As of 2018, this recall’s completion rate was 81.4%.
As for the Ford Maverick, there are currently three active recalls per the NHTSA (as of December 2023). These recalls will be discussed in the subsequent sections.
Ford Maverick Recall: Trailer Lights Do Not Operate Properly
Ford Motor Company recalled over 2,700 Ford Maverick vehicles due to a taillight problem.
The attached trailer’s taillights may not work properly when using the electrical connector, preventing other drivers from knowing if the vehicle is currently braking.
Such an issue may compromise overall visibility, increasing the potential for a crash. A missing circuit is the probable cause for the taillight malfunction.
As a recourse, Ford dealers supplied an additional electrical circuit to the wiring harness of the vehicle’s engine bay.
The reference number for this specific recall is 23C04. Notification letters were mailed on June 9, 2023. If you want to inquire about this recall, contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332.
Ford Maverick and Hybrids Recalled for Engine Failure
Recently, Ford recalled over 125,000 Ford Maverick and Ford Escape Hybrids over the possibility of engine malfunction that can cause engine fires. This recall expands a previous recall from July 2022 and now includes the 2023 model year variants.
The expanded recall now affects the following vehicles:
- 2020 to 2023 Ford Escape (available either as a hybrid or a plug-in hybrid)
- 2022 to 2023 Ford Maverick (available as a hybrid variant without a plug)
- 2021 to 2023 Lincoln Corsair Grand Touring (plug-in hybrid)
The table below discusses the specifics of the safety recall.
| Issue | Remedy |
| • The engines of the affected vehicle models could fail and cause fuel vapor and engine oil to accumulate near hot components and trigger a fire. • The hybrid system may cause the vehicles to remain drivable even with an engine failure, allowing oil or vapor to build up without the driver noticing it. | • Ford advised the public to watch out for loud and unusual noises, such as metal clanking coming from the engine. • You may notice smoke or sudden engine torque loss during operation. If you are in such a situation, you should park safely and shut off the engine immediately. |
According to the details of the original recall in 2022, the affected vehicles were taken to the dealers, where technicians would drill extra holes in the engine shield and grille shutters.
Although Ford used OTA (over-the-air) methods for some of its previous recalls, particularly with the Mach-E EV (electric vehicle), the fix for this issue will involve physical repairs and parts replacement.
Ford Motor Company estimated that only 1% of the recalled models experienced this engine malfunction. However, Ford did acknowledge three cases of underhood smoke or fire in addition to the 23 previously reported cases.
Ford Recalls Over 180,000 Vehicles, Including Maverick, Due to Turn Signals that Do Not Flash Fast During a Bulb Malfunction
Ford Motor Company recalled more than 180,000 Ford Maverick vehicles due to faulty exterior turn signals.
The following table highlights the details of this safety recall.
| Issue | Remedy | Reference Number |
| • When a rear signal bulb is faulty, the turn signal should react by flashing faster to help notify other drivers of a problem with the bulb. In the affected models, the turn signal fails to flash fast when a bulb malfunctions. • A faulty turning light will not notify other drivers on the road that the car is turning, increasing the risk of a crash or injury. | • Ford dealers updated the BCM (body control module) software. | • 23C41 |
Commitment to Safety and Transparency During Vehicle Recall
Ford Motor Company promises safety, integrity, and coherence with its recall system. Although recent issues with the supply chain make it challenging to get repairs done swiftly, Ford maintains an optimistic approach to its services.
If you want to know if your Ford Maverick is part of a previously announced recall, the best way is to check directly with your local dealership or visit Ford’s website.
Ford’s comprehensive recall checker lets you see if your vehicle requires servicing as a recall remedy.
Running a Ford recall check is like giving your vehicle its routine health checkup. It’s all about ensuring your car is in its best possible shape.
Recalls are often performed if a potential issue is found with certain car components. These issues might range from something simple like a mislabeled tire to more drastic problems like performance glitches or a leaking valve.
By performing recall checks, you stay informed about your car’s status, ensuring any possible hiccups are resolved promptly – often at no cost.
Upon receiving a recall notice, you should verify if it is legitimate. Unfortunately, some people will try to scam customers into bringing their cars for unnecessary repair services.
The ideal way to confirm that the notice is authentic is by looking up the recall status of a vehicle on NHTSA’s website.
Once you have confirmed the authenticity of the notice, you should then take your car for recall service. Choose a dealer that is registered with your vehicle’s manufacturer.
Remember that some recall-related repairs may take time since spare parts, especially the rarer ones, may not be available immediately.
Stay Safe and Happy
Now that we’ve explored the various issues that caused the Ford Maverick recalls, let’s look at some of the model’s highlights.
The Ford Maverick pickup is available in two powertrain variants. As of December 2023, the standard powertrain variant is powered by the turbocharged 2L, four-cylinder EcoBoost engine that generates 250HP and 277 pound-feet of torque.
With the front-wheel drive, the standard powertrain gets 23 miles per gallon (mpg) city, 30mpg highway, and 26mpg combined. Meanwhile, with all-wheel drive, the vehicle is rated at 22/29/25mpg.
The hybrid powertrain variant has a 2.5L, four-cylinder electric motor that transmits 191HP via an electronic variable. While the hybrid variant lacks power compared to the standard model, it makes up for its stellar fuel efficiency, rated at 42/33/37 mpg.
As for its size and comfort, the Maverick is easy to drive, whether cruising scenic highways, navigating downtown traffic, or exploring rural gravel paths.
The Maverick is small for a compact pickup — a step below the Ford Ranger and the Ford Bronco. However, despite its small stature, the Maverick uses its available space efficiently.
The door panels feature plenty of cutouts to accommodate bottles. The storage bin below the rear bench is also a great place to store your tools.
While small for a pickup truck, the Maverick’s bed is still large enough to accommodate a closed shipping pallet or full sheets of plywood in a leveled position.
Cubbies on the side of the Ford Maverick’s bed also provide more storage, and a false floor can be detached to fit in more items.
Finally, the Maverick has two 12-volt outlets for wiring your accessories. Such outlets let you plug in your compatible tools or appliances.
Regarding speed and performance, the hybrid variant’s instantaneous torque is ample enough to help it carry speed in an uphill setting.
If towing is on the menu, the Maverick is also a great option, given its maximum towing capacity of 4,000lbs. Moreover, the Maverick’s eight-speed automatic transmission is a plus for today’s car buyers.
The Ford Maverick also does not compromise on its safety and driver assistance features.
In addition to its restraints, standard airbags, rear-view camera, and emergency braking system, the Maverick offers the optional Ford Co-Pilot360 package (standard inclusion in the Lariat trim), which adds a blind-spot warning, driver inattention warning, and lane-keeping assist system.
The Lariat trim model of the Maverick gets the Ford Co-Pilot360 Assist package with rear parking sensors, lane-centering steering assist, and adaptive cruise control.
According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), the 2023 Ford Maverick received the following ratings:
- Second-best rating for the moderate overlap front crash test
- Best rating for side impact test
- Best rating for vehicle-to-vehicle front crash prevention
- Second-best rating for daytime vehicle-to-pedestrian prevention
Moreover, the NHTSA gave the 2024 Ford Maverick a four out of five-star overall safety rating.
Ford’s priority is to keep its drivers and other vehicle occupants safe. As such, Ford is committed to letting you know that recall repairs can be made without any hassle.
Suppose you found out that your vehicle is part of a safety recall. In that case, you may contact your local Ford dealership and schedule an appointment as soon as possible.
You can also book a recall service using the FordPass smart app. The application will send alerts about recall details and update you about future recalls and other important announcements.
Moreover, your Ford dealer is ready to assist you with securing a comparable loaner vehicle should you require one. If it’s more convenient for you, Ford can pick up, repair, and return your vehicle via Ford Pickup and Delivery, free of charge.
FAQs
Is the 2023 Maverick Hybrid Recalled?
Ford recalled specific 2020-2023 Maverick, 2022-2023 Escape, and Corsair vehicles with 2.5L HEV (hybrid electric vehicle) or PHEV (plug-in hybrid electric vehicle) engines due to a potential engine failure issue.
Engine failures in these vehicles may lead to fuel vapor and oil being released into the engine compartment, posing a fire hazard if they come into contact with ignition components.
To help lessen the risks, Ford advises to park and stop the engine immediately upon observing smoke, power loss, or unexpected engine noises.
How many recalls has Ford had in 2023?
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in the first half of 2023, Ford topped all auto manufacturers in recall counts, issuing 31 recalls that affected more than 4 million of its vehicles in the market.
Where can I find more info regarding the Takata airbag recall?
Ford has a website that addresses questions about Takata airbag inflator recalls. You can also enter your VIN on the website to find out if your specific vehicle has been recalled.
Ford Motor Company is one of the 19 major auto manufacturers affected by the Takata airbag issue.
As of 2023, the Takata airbag issue caused the largest automotive recall in U.S. (United States) history, involving more than 10 million vehicles.
The issue stemmed from the airbags’ prolonged exposure to humidity and heat, potentially causing them to explode when deployed.
Here are the Ford vehicles that are affected by the Takata airbag recall:
- 2005 to 2006 Ford GT
- 2007 to 2010 Ford Edge
- 2006 to 2012 Ford Fusion
- 2007 to 2011 Ford Ranger
- 2009 to 2013 Ford Mustang
Are recall repairs free?
Spare parts and repair services for safety recalls are free through a local Ford dealership.
Your vehicle’s recall-related repairs do not necessarily have to be performed at a dealership.
However, suppose you wish to get the free services and include your vehicle in the recall campaign. In that case, the recall-related repair must be done at a dealership registered with your car’s manufacturer.
Is my Ford vehicle being recalled?
Ford’s website offers a free Ford recall checker to see if your vehicle requires recall-related services.
A typical Ford recall announcement must contain the following information:
- NHTSA campaign number – is a unique identifier for specific recall cases
- Summary – contains important recall details, such as the affected models, the issues or vehicle parts that may pose a safety concern, vehicle registration, and the manufacturing plants where the recalled vehicles are from
- Consequences – refers to how the recall may negatively affect vehicle safety and operability
- Remedy – refers to the proposed solution of the automaker to the problem
Am I entitled to a refund for a repair call?
You may be eligible for a refund if you paid to resolve an issue later tied to a safety recall. Talk with your dealer to find out more.
Do recalls expire?
Emission, compliance, and safety recalls don’t have an expiry date. However, other customer satisfaction programs have mileage limitations and expiry dates.
Do you provide a rental car for recalls?
Ford will do its best to offer a comparable loaner vehicle as necessary. Check with your local dealer for more details and availability status.
How will I get recall information and updates?
Ford provides updates through its smart device app (FordPass), physical mail, and email. The Ford website is also continually updated.
Moreover, you can subscribe to email alerts from the NHTSA. On the subscription page, enter your registered email address and select the make, model, and year of the vehicle for which you want to receive alerts.
Where do I get recall repairs done?
You can take your Ford vehicle to your local dealership for repairs. Additionally, some dealers offer the Ford Mobile Service and can perform repairs at your home, work, or any nearby location.
A local dealer can hold your vehicle for up to 30 days. If recall-related repairs take more than 30 calendar days to accomplish, your car may be deemed a lemon.
Under state law, if your car is a lemon, you would be entitled to either a replacement car, compensation, or a refund.
Who can I call with additional questions?
Contact Ford at 1-866-436-7332 and speak with a Ford Service team member regarding your queries and concerns.
What if I receive recall notices for a vehicle I no longer own?
Visit the Ford support webpage to forward recall information to the right owner.
References
- Ford Recalls
https://www.ford.com/support/recalls/ - NHTSA safety recall results
https://www.cars.com/research/ford/recalls/ - NHTSA
https://www.nhtsa.gov/ - Ford website
https://www.ford.com/ - Ford Maverick
https://www.ford.com/trucks/maverick/ - How to make sure you get recall notices for your used car
https://www.consumerreports.org/car-recalls-defects/how-to-get-recall-notices-for-a-used-car/#:~:text=Subscribe%20to%20Email,and%20model%20year
Images sourced from Ford Media Center.