Ford has issued two major safety recalls affecting hundreds of thousands of vehicles, including nearly 420,000 SUVs with potentially faulty seat belts and more than 4,600 vehicles that owners have been warned not to drive due to a suspension defect.
The recalls were announced by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and affect several popular Ford and Lincoln models.
Ford Recalls Nearly 420,000 Vehicles Over Seat Belt Defect
Ford Motor Company is recalling approximately 420,000 vehicles due to a seat belt issue that could increase the risk of injury during a crash.
According to the NHTSA, certain seat belts may unexpectedly lock, preventing them from retracting or extending properly. If a seat belt cannot function as intended, it may fail to properly restrain passengers during an accident.
The defect affects specific Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator vehicles from model years 2018 through 2022.
Safety officials warned that malfunctioning seat belts can significantly increase the risk of injury during a collision.
One Injury Reported
Ford informed federal safety regulators that it is aware of at least one injury potentially linked to the seat belt defect.
While no widespread injury reports have been announced, the company is moving forward with the recall to address the issue before additional incidents occur.
Vehicle owners are encouraged to respond promptly once they receive notification from the manufacturer.
Dealers Will Inspect and Repair Vehicles Free of Charge
Ford plans to begin notifying affected owners by mail starting June 8.
Authorized Ford and Lincoln dealerships will inspect the affected vehicles and replace faulty seat belt retractors if necessary.
All repairs related to the recall will be performed at no cost to vehicle owners.
The recall has been assigned reference number 26S34.
Separate “Do Not Drive” Warning Issued
In addition to the seat belt recall, Ford has issued a serious “Do Not Drive” warning affecting 4,653 vehicles.
The warning applies to certain Ford Maverick and Ford Bronco Sport models due to concerns involving the front suspension system.
According to Ford, front lower control arm ball joints may have been improperly installed or repaired during vehicle assembly.
If the defect is present, the control arm could separate from the front wheel knuckle while driving, potentially leading to a loss of vehicle control.
Maverick and Bronco Sport Models Affected
The suspension-related recall impacts certain:
- Ford Bronco Sport vehicles
- Ford Maverick vehicles
Ford is urging owners of affected vehicles not to drive them until repairs have been completed.
The company considers the defect serious enough to require immediate attention.
Free Repairs Available
Dealers will inspect the affected suspension components and perform necessary repairs free of charge.
Owners should contact their local dealership as soon as possible to determine whether their vehicle is included in the recall.
The suspension recall has been assigned Ford reference number 26S36.
How Owners Can Check Their Vehicle
Ford owners who believe their vehicle may be affected should review any recall notices received by mail and contact their local dealership.
Additional information is available through Ford Customer Service at 1-866-436-7332.
Owners can also use their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to check for open recalls through official manufacturer and government recall databases.
Prompt action is recommended to ensure vehicle safety.
