The Ford Motor Company, more commonly known as Ford, is an American multinational automobile manufacturer established in 1903 by industrialist and business magnate Henry Ford and 11 associate investors.
Ford markets a wide range of automotive products, including trucks, SUVs (sport utility vehicles), passenger cars, vehicle servicing, and vehicle financing. In terms of revenue, the majority of it comes from the company’s automotive sales.
However, despite its long tenure in the industry, Ford has had its fair share of problems. If you own a Ford, there’s a good chance you’ve heard of the terms “recall” and “lemon.”
Put simply, a recall is issued if the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) or the car manufacturer deems that a specific vehicle or its installed equipment does not meet the criteria for motor vehicle safety.
On the other hand, a lemon refers to a car with significant defects that make it unsafe to operate.
With these in mind, you might ask what to do if your newly bought Ford automobile is a lemon. Should you worry if your particular Ford model is being recalled?
This write-up will discuss these topics in detail. It will also provide information regarding lemon laws and how an attorney can help you seek compensation as part of a lemon law claim.
Don’t let a lemon car sour your driving experience. Visit LemonLawLawyers.org to get comprehensive guidance and legal assistance for your case.
Recalls
Vehicle and equipment recalls are crucial to keeping you, the people around you, and the vehicles sharing the road with you safe. The NHTSA states that aside from the car, a safety recall can include installed vehicle components, such as tires, airbags, or even the car seat.
Regarding recalls, vehicle manufacturers are legally obligated to file a report with the following information:
- Details of the affected vehicle or equipment
- Description of the vehicle defect or the noncompliance issue
- Factors that led to the recall decision
- Explanation of the suggested remedial process
- Schedule of the safety recall
Regular wear and tear issues are not covered under safety recalls. Generally, only defects that pose a safety concern are determining factors for establishing a recall. Some common faults that can trigger recalls are the following:
- A leak in the fuel system
- Airbags that deploy inadvertently
- Wiring issues and other fire hazards
- Jacks that may collapse
- Malfunctioning accelerators and steering equipment
Which Ford Models Are Recalled?
When a manufacturer determines a specific make and model has a safety-related malfunction, they notify the owners about the safety issue. The manufacturer usually offers free repair services to maintain customer satisfaction.
Moreover, car owners can use NHTSA’s search tool to learn if a specific vehicle has not undergone repairs during a safety recall in the past 15 calendar years.
Easy to use, the search tool requires the input of a unique VIN (vehicle identification number) to know if a particular model is part of a recall.
Ford Recalls Over 238,00 Explorer SUVs (2020-2022 Models) for Rollaway Risk
According to an October 2023 report by the NHTSA, Ford recalled more than 238,000 of its Explorer SUVs due to a safety concern that can cause the drive power to stop or the vehicle to roll away. This issue stems from a rear axle horizontal bolt that may fracture and disconnect the driveshaft.
To rectify this problem, Ford repaired the cars free of charge. The company also replaced the subframe bushing and rear axle bolt and inspected the rear axle cover for damage.
Ford’s safety recall for its Explorer SUVs was instigated after NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened an inquiry regarding two repair complaints that didn’t work in previous recalls.
Ford Mustang Mach-E Recall
Per an October 2023 report by the NHTSA, Ford recalled more than 34,000 of its 2021-2022 models of the Mustang Mach-E SUV because of battery issues.
The high-voltage transmission of the battery may cause the main contractors to overheat, potentially leading to a loss of drive power.
Dealers replaced the battery junction box for free in line with this recall. Ford’s internal reference number for their Mustang Mach-E Recall is 23S56.
Ford Lightning Pickup Recall
NHTSA reported in October 2023 that Ford recalled 931 units of its F-150 Lightning Pickup truck 2023 models. This recall was instigated by a potentially missing solder joint on the truck’s cabin coolant heater module.
The intermittence or absence of cabin heat can lead to a malfunction in the windshield defogging and defrosting system.
Ford dealers replaced the electronic cabin coolant heater for free as a remedy. The reference number for this recall is 23C32.
Ford Explorer Recall to Fix Rear View Camera Issue
As of October 2023, Ford recalled more than 2,800 of its 2023 Explorer SUVs. The recall was due to an error in the wire harness, causing the rearview camera to display a blue image on the vehicle’s SYNC screen (Ford’s touch-operated connectivity system).
Dealers repaired any loose splices found in the rearview camera for free. Owner notification letters were sent out starting November 6, 2023. The recall number for this is 23C31.
Ford Engine Failure Probe Expands to 700K+ Vehicles
In September 2023, the NHTSA stated that it had broadened its probe into Ford engine failures to include more than 700,000 vehicles. NHTSA also said it reformed the investigation to an engineering analysis.
According to a report, the engineering analysis now covers the model years 2021-2022 and includes the following Ford models:
- F-150 pickup
- Bronco
- Explorer
- Edge
- Aviator
- Lincoln Nautilus
Ford acknowledged that a potential faulty valve in the EcoBoost engines may lead to a catastrophic engine malfunction. Also, Ford confirmed that there had been 487 warranty claims, 809 engine exchanges, and 328 customer complaints regarding the faulty valve issue.
Ford Fire Risk Recall
Ford recalled more than 125,000 vehicles because of a fire risk following an engine failure. The affected Ford models are the following:
- Ford Escape (2020-2023)
- Ford Maverick (2022-2023)
- Lincoln Corsair (2021-2023)
Owners of these vehicle models are advised to park and turn off the engine if they notice smoke, odor, unusual engine noises, or power loss.
The recall was primarily caused by a possible premature malfunction of the HEV/PHEV (hybrid electric vehicle/plug-in hybrid electric vehicle) engines, which could translate to under-hood fires, engine oil accumulation, and fuel vapor.
Vehicle owners can check the recall status on the NHTSA website or contact the Vehicle Safety Hotline for more information.
2022-2023 Ford Bronco Recall
Ford recalled some Bronco models with a five-door body style due to an issue with their seatbelts. The first-row seatbelts can be challenging to access due to their latch plates, which do not adhere to safety standards.
To remedy this issue, dealers installed a clip latch stop on the driver and passenger seatbelts for free. For more information, the reference number for this recall is 23C16.
2023 Ford Bronco Sport Recall
Some Bronco Sport models were recalled in 2023 due to a possible issue in their fuel injectors. The fuel injector is at risk of cracking, which may lead to fuel leakage, particularly in the engine compartment.
To address the issue, Ford dealers installed a drain tube and updated the engine control software to detect leaks in the fuel injector for free. For further information, refer to the recall number 22S73.
2023 Ford Expedition Recall
Ford Motor Company recalled specific units of their 2023 F-150, Navigator, and Expedition models due to a potential fracture caused by the front axle pinion.
As a remedy, Ford dealers replaced the gear set. If a faulty front axle pinion was found, the entire axle assembly was replaced at no cost to the owners. Notifications for this recall were sent to owners on April 21, 2023.
2022 and 2023 Ford F150 Lightning Recall
Ford previously announced a recall for some of their 2022-2023 F-150 BEV vehicles due to a rear lightbar issue. The lightbar’s outer lens may have tiny cracks that can translate to moisture accumulation. This creates a safety risk as other drivers may not be alerted when the vehicle is in reverse.
As a remedy, dealers replaced the rear lightbar for free. Notifications for this recall were sent out on June 26, 2023.
2023 Ford F150 Regular Cab and 2023 Ford Mustang Recall
Ford issued a safety recall for some 2022-2023 F-150 Mustang, Bronco, Explorer, and 2023 Lincoln Aviator vehicles equipped with automatic transmissions.
The recall stemmed from the possibility of a loose bolt on the transmissions, which may hinder the engagement of the “park” gear.
As a recourse, Ford dealers conducted inspections and performed the necessary transmission replacements free of charge.
If you own one of these recalled vehicles, the reference number for the recall is 23S06.
2023 Ford F150 Super Cab Recall
In April 2023, Ford sent notification letters regarding a recall for specific Lincoln Navigator, Expedition, and F-150 vehicles due to a possible issue with their front axle pinions.
The safety recall involved replacing the gear set. If a faulty front axle pinion was found, the whole axle assembly was replaced for free. If you want to inquire about this recall, the reference number is 23S07.
2023 Ford F150 Supercrew Cab Recall
Recently, Ford has recalled specific 2023 F-150 vehicles due to an issue with the instrument panel cover. The cover potentially compromises the airbag’s deployment, thereby not meeting the safety requirements for occupant crash protection.
Ford dealers replaced the passenger-side instrument panel cover for free to address the issue. Contact Ford’s customer service and mention the reference number 23C01 for more information about this recall.
2023 Ford Ranger Supercab Recall
Ford recalled specific F-Super Duty F-250, F-350, and F-450 vehicles due to a possible driveshaft malfunction. The safety recall was caused by a radial damper that may shift out of position, which can potentially cause a fracture. To address the issue, dealers replaced the driveshaft free of charge.
2023 Ford Ranger Supercrew Recall
Recently, Ford Motor Company recalled specific 2023 Ranger and Bronco vehicles. This recall stemmed from a potential issue with the vehicle’s lug nuts.
Owners of these vehicles are advised to opt out of driving their units until the remedy is completed. To address the issue, dealers inspected and repaired or retightened (if necessary) the lug nuts for free.
2020-2023 Ford Escape Recall
Due to a potential engine failure issue, Ford recalled specific 2020-2023 Maverick, 2022-2023 Escape, and Corsair vehicles with 2.5L HEV or PHEV engines.
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, owners of these vehicles are advised to park and stop the engine immediately upon observing smoke, power loss, or unexpected engine noises.
2022 Ford Bronco Sport And 2022 Ford Escape Plug-in Hybrid Recall
In 2022, Ford recalled specific Escape and Bronco Sport vehicles with 1.5L engines. The safety recall was prompted by a potentially faulty engine oil separator housing.
To address the issue, Ford dealers checked the oil separator for leaks and damages. They also performed the necessary repairs and replacements for free.
The recall can be identified using the reference number 22S21.
2022 Ford Edge Recall
In 2022, Ford Motor Company issued a recall for specific Edge vehicles due to a software problem. The software error compromises the functionality of the rear camera, posing a safety risk for the driver and the other vehicles on the road.
The remedy for this recall involved updating the software, which was done by a dealer or via an OTA (over-the-air) update for free. Notification letters were sent out in April 2022. The reference number for this recall is 22S14.
2022 Ford Expedition Recall
Ford has issued a recall for specific 2022 Maverick, Lincoln Navigator, Expedition, F-250, F-350, F-450, F-550, and 2021-2022 F-150 vehicles.
The safety recall concerns a software problem in the trailer brake control module. The error may result in the malfunction of the trailer’s braking system.
Ford dealers updated the software at no cost to the owners to resolve the issue. This safety recall can be identified using the reference number 22S17.
2022 Ford Explorer Recall
Ford Motor Company issued a recall for 2020-2022 Explorer 2.3L RWD, 3.0L PHEV, 3.3L FHEV, 3.0L ST GAS, 2020-2021 Explorer Police FHEV, and Explorer Police 3.3L vehicles. A potential problem with the rear axle mounting bolt caused this safety recall.
Depending on the vehicle model, Ford dealers either updated the parking brake software or replaced the bushing and axle cover as a remedy. These repairs were conducted at no extra cost to the owners.
For further information, owners can reference the recall number 22S27 or contact Ford’s customer service.
2022 Ford F150 Regular Cab Recall
Ford announced a recall for specific F-150 Regular Cab vehicles. A potential problem with the heat and noise insulators caused the recall. When loosened, the insulators may come into contact with the driveshaft and cause fracturing.
To address the issue, dealers inspected and repaired the vehicle’s driveshaft as necessary, ensuring proper installation of the underbody insulators. These repairs were free of charge.
Notification letters for this recall were sent out in February 2022. The recall can be identified using the reference number 21S56.
2022 Ford F150 Super Cab Recall
In June 2022, Ford sent out owner notification letters recalling specific F-150 BEV vehicles equipped with 20″ or 22″ all-season tires. The safety recall stemmed from a problem with TPMS (tire pressure monitoring system).
As a remedy, dealers updated the BCM (body control module) software at no extra cost to the owners. For those who didn’t want to go to their dealers, an OTA (over-the-air) update was also free.
2022 Ford F150 Supercrew Cab Recall
Ford recalled specific 2022 F-150 SuperCrew Cabs because of a possible issue with the wiring of the telescoping steering column connector. Due to its short length, the wiring can be disconnected or damaged if the steering column is extended to a specific position.
Ford dealers offered free inspection and repairs for the wiring harness to address the issue. For more information regarding this recall, you may reference the number 22S24.
2022 F250 Super Duty Crew Cab Recall
Ford has previously recalled specific F-250 Super Duty Crew Cab and F-350 Super Duty vehicles with aluminum driveshafts and gasoline engines.
The safety recall was related to a potential issue with the underbody noise and heat insulators, which may loosen and make contact with the driveshaft.
As a recourse, Ford dealers inspected and repaired the aluminum driveshaft if necessary. These repairs were done at no extra cost to the owners. This safety recall can be identified using the reference number 22S09.
2022 F250 Super Duty Regular Cab Recall
In late 2021, Ford Motor Company recalled specific Expedition, Lincoln Navigator, Super Duty F-250, F-350, and F-150 vehicles. A problem with the vehicle pressure sensor module caused this recall. The faulty side impact pressure sensors can cause the airbags to deploy incorrectly during a crash.
Ford dealers replaced the side impact sensors for free to address the issue. Ford gave owner notification letters on November 3, 2021. The recall can be identified using the reference number 21C26.
2022 F250 Super Duty Super Cab Recall
In April 2022, Ford initiated a safety recall for specific vehicles, including the 2020-2021 Lincoln Navigator, 2020-2021 F-150, Expedition, 2020-2022 Super Duty F-250, F-350, F-450, and F-550 models. A problem with the windshield wiper arms caused the recall.
To rectify the problem, dealers replaced both front windshield wipers free of charge for affected owners. Owner notification letters for this recall were dispatched in October 2022.
2022 F450 Super Duty Crew Cab Recall
Recently, Ford Motor Company initiated a recall affecting multiple vehicles in their lineup, including 2018-2023 Lincoln Navigator and Expedition models with third-row seating, SuperCabs, and regular cabs with a three-passenger front bench seat.
The recall was due to the lack of instructions in the owner’s manual regarding how to adjust and remove specific head restraints.
Ford sent addendums to the owner’s manual to rectify this error. Owner notification letters for this safety recall were dispatched on July 2023. The recall can be identified using the reference number 23C20.
What Is the Current Ford Truck Recall?
You can visit the Ford website and use their search engine to see which Ford vehicle currently has a recall. You can search by VIN (vehicle identification number), year, or car model.
The VIN can be found on your vehicle registration document or on the lower left-hand side of your car’s dashboard.
Find Out if You Have a Claim
When it comes to vehicle-related problems, LemonLawLawyers.org is your trusted online resource.
By working with an experienced lemon law attorney, you can navigate the complexities of the legal process confidently. Don’t let the frustration of a faulty car go unresolved. Visit our website for expert advice and legal assistance.
FAQs
1. Where can I find more information about the Takata airbag recall?
Ford has a specific website that addresses questions about Takata airbag inflator recalls. Alternatively, you can enter your VIN on the website to determine if a vehicle has been recalled.
2. Are recall repairs free?
Spare parts and repair services for safety recalls are free through your local Ford dealer.
3. Am I entitled to a refund for a repair recall?
You may be eligible for a refund if you paid to resolve an issue tied to a safety recall. Talk with your dealer to find out more.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. How will I receive updates and recall information?
Ford sends updates through its application (FordPass), physical mail, and email. The Ford website is also continually updated.
7. 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.
8. How do I find out if Ford is going to issue a recall? 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.
9. 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.
10. 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.
References
- Ford Recalls
https://www.ford.com/support/recalls/ - NHTSA safety recall results
https://www.cars.com/research/ford/recalls/ - NHTSA
https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/inv/2023/INOA-EA23002-10790.pdf - Ford website
https://www.ford.com/ - Investopedia
https://www.investopedia.com/articles/markets/082115/how-ford-makes-money.asp#:~:text=the%20U.S.-,Ford%27s%20Financials,Q%20for%20the%20Quarter%20Ending%20March%2031%2C%202023%2C%22%20Page%202
Images sourced from Ford Media Center.