Ford Recalls Details: Over 1 Million Vehicles Affected

Ford Motor has recently announced a recall impacting nearly 1.1 million vehicles in the United States. This decision follows concerns that the rearview cameras may not display images due to a significant software issue, thereby increasing the risk of crashes. The recall specifically includes models from the 2021 through 2024 years, including popular lines like the Bronco, F-150, and the 2023-2024 Escape.

According to filings with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the affected models also comprise the 2022-2024 Expedition, 2022-2025 Transit, and the 2021-2023 Mach-E, among others. The firm confirmed that the issue might lead to rearview camera images delaying, freezing, or failing to display altogether.

Specific Models Included in the Recall

2021-2024 Ford Bronco
2021-2024 Ford F-150
2021-2024 Ford Edge
2023-2024 Ford Escape
2022-2024 Ford Expedition
2022-2025 Ford Transit
2021-2023 Ford Mach-E
2024 Ford Ranger
2022-2024 Lincoln Nautilus
2022-2024 Navigator

Investigation and Response

The recall comes after the NHTSA reached out to Ford regarding allegations of numerous rearview camera complaints concerning the 2021-2023 Ford F-150. In April, engineers managed to replicate the failure mode within a vehicle and associated the issue with specific software versions.

Ford stated that it is aware of one report of a minor crash linked to the software failure. The company plans to address this issue by updating vehicle software via an over-the-air update. The software in question affects the car’s dashboard operating system and is essential for operating the infotainment system, displaying maps, and running apps.

Notifications and Further Steps

Owners of the affected vehicles will receive letters notifying them of the potential safety risks by June 16. A follow-up letter detailing remedial actions will be sent once the necessary updates become available later this year.

This is not Ford’s first issue related to rearview cameras. In April, the automaker issued two additional recalls for rearview camera problems, totaling about 289,000 vehicles. In these cases, the company aimed to replace malfunctioning rearview cameras.

Financial Impacts and Previous Issues

In November, Ford agreed to a substantial civil penalty of $165 million following NHTSA findings which indicated the automaker had failed to recall vehicles with defective rearview cameras in a timely manner. This investigation stemmed from previous concerns, as NHTSA had opened a probe back in August 2021. This probe examined whether Ford appropriately lodged a 2020 recall involving around 620,000 vehicles.

As the automobile industry grapples with technology-related issues, these recalls shine a light on the critical need for manufacturers to ensure consumer safety through timely responses and effective resolutions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should owners of affected Ford vehicles do?

Owners should closely monitor their mail for notifications from Ford regarding the recall and the actions they need to take.

How does the software issue affect the rearview camera?

The software issue can cause the rearview camera image to either delay, freeze, or not display at all, which increases the potential for accidents.

Are other manufacturers facing similar issues?

Yes, many automotive manufacturers have experienced technology-related recalls due to software malfunctions across various systems in vehicles.

What are the next steps after receiving a recall notice?

Once you receive the recall notice, it’s important to contact your local Ford dealer to schedule the necessary software updates as soon as they are available.