Ford Motor Company has announced a major recall affecting more than 170,000 vehicles, including both Ford and Lincoln models, due to safety concerns. The recall impacts a range of model years and specific configurations, prompting owners to check if their cars are included. This latest action underscores the automaker’s ongoing commitment to vehicle safety and regulatory compliance. In this article, we provide details on the affected models, the reasons behind the recall, and the steps owners should take to address the issue.
Ford and Lincoln Recall Targets Critical Safety Flaws in Key Models
Ford Motor Company along with its luxury division, Lincoln, has issued a significant recall affecting over 170,000 vehicles across multiple model years. The recall addresses severe safety concerns involving malfunctioning airbag systems and faulty fuel pump modules that could lead to increased risk of injury or fire. Owners are advised to contact their local dealerships immediately to schedule inspections and necessary repairs at no cost. The recall specifically targets mid-size SUVs and select premium sedans known for their popularity in the US market.
The impacted models include a range of 2020 and 2021 vehicles, all flagged after internal investigations and field reports. Below is a brief overview of the key models involved, highlighting the production years and the number of units recalled:
| Make | Model | Years | Units Recalled |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ford | Explorer | 2020-2021 | 65,000 |
| Ford | Edge | 2021 | 40,000 |
| Lincoln | Aviator | 2020-2021 | 35,000 |
| Lincoln | Navigator | 2021 | 30,000 |
Owners should be particularly vigilant for:
- Warning lights indicating airbag system errors
- Unusual noises near the fuel pump area
- Any recall notifications sent by Ford or Lincoln
Understanding the Impacted Vehicles and Symptoms Car Owners Should Watch For
Thousands of Ford and Lincoln vehicles across various model years have been flagged for a safety recall affecting critical components. Owners of these cars should be vigilant for signs of malfunction that may compromise vehicle performance or safety. Some of the most common affected models include popular SUVs and sedans, known for their robust build but now facing potential defects that require immediate attention.
- Models at Risk: Ford Explorer, Ford Escape, Lincoln Corsair, Lincoln Navigator
- Model Years: 2018 through 2023
- Known Issues: Brake system irregularities, electronic stability control malfunctions, and unexpected airbag deployment warnings
Owners should be alert to symptoms such as unusual dashboard warning lights, inconsistent brake response, or sudden loss of control assistance. These indicators signal potential safety hazards and necessitate immediate inspection by authorized Ford or Lincoln service centers. Early detection can prevent accidents and ensure your vehicle remains safe on the road.
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Recommended Action |
|---|---|---|
| Brake warning light illuminated | Hydraulic system leak | Schedule immediate brake system inspection |
| Loss of electronic stability control | Faulty control module | Update software or replace module |
| Airbag warning light active | Defective sensor | Professional diagnostic required |
Steps Drivers Should Take Now to Ensure Vehicle Safety and Compliance
Immediate action is crucial for owners of the recalled Ford and Lincoln vehicles. Begin by verifying if your model is among those impacted by checking your VIN on the official Ford recall website or through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database. If your car is listed, schedule a service appointment with an authorized dealer without delay to address the safety concern free of charge. While waiting for your appointment, be mindful of any unusual behaviors from your vehicle such as warning lights, unusual noises, or performance issues that could indicate the defect’s impact.
Maintaining compliance and safety means staying informed and proactive. Here are some practical steps to ensure your vehicle remains roadworthy:
- Keep all recall notices and repair records handy for reference and resale value.
- Avoid DIY fixes-only certified technicians should handle recall-related repairs.
- Drive cautiously and limit long trips until the necessary corrections are completed.
- Consult your insurance to understand coverage related to recall defects and associated damages.
| Action | Recommended Timeframe |
|---|---|
| VIN Check | Within 24 hours |
| Dealer Appointment Booking | Within 1 week |
| Professional Repair | As scheduled by dealer |
| Record Keeping | Ongoing |
To Wrap It Up
As the recall affects a significant number of Ford and Lincoln vehicles, owners are urged to check their model’s inclusion and contact their local dealerships promptly. Ford continues to work closely with regulatory agencies to address the safety concerns and ensure all impacted vehicles receive necessary repairs. For the latest updates and detailed information on affected models, consumers are encouraged to visit official Ford and Lincoln websites or consult the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database.
