Ford Recall Transmission Defect
Ford is recalling more than 741,000 vehicles across the United States after identifying a transmission defect that could allow parked vehicles to roll away, creating a significant safety hazard. The recall, announced in coordination with federal safety regulators, affects several of the automaker’s most popular trucks and SUVs, including the Ford F-150, Explorer, Expedition, and Lincoln Navigator and Aviator.
Transmission Issue Can Prevent Vehicles From Staying in Park
According to the recall, a defect within the transmission may damage the parking pawl, a mechanical component designed to lock the transmission when a vehicle is shifted into the park position. If the part becomes damaged, the transmission may fail to hold the vehicle in place even though the gear selector indicates it is in park. If the parking brake is not engaged, an affected vehicle could begin rolling unexpectedly after the driver exits, increasing the risk of crashes, injuries, or property damage.
Hundreds of Thousands of Vehicles Included
The recall covers certain model years of the following vehicles:
• 2018 through 2021 Ford F-150
• 2018 through 2021 Ford Expedition
• 2018 through 2021 Lincoln Navigator
• 2020 through 2021 Ford Explorer
• 2020 through 2021 Lincoln Aviator
Ford estimates that approximately 741,000 vehicles are included in the recall across the United States.
Injuries and Property Damage Reported
The automaker has received reports of incidents linked to the defect, including cases involving property damage and injuries. While no deaths have been connected to the issue, the reports prompted Ford and federal safety officials to move forward with the nationwide recall to reduce the risk of additional incidents.
Repairs Will Be Provided at No Cost
Ford dealerships will inspect affected vehicles and perform repairs free of charge. The repair process includes updating the vehicle’s powertrain control software and inspecting the transmission for damage. If damaged components are found, they will be replaced at no cost to the owner. Owners of affected vehicles will receive notification letters with instructions on scheduling repairs.
What Owners Should Do
Until repairs are completed, Ford recommends drivers always engage the parking brake when parking their vehicles. Using the parking brake provides an extra layer of protection against unintended vehicle movement if the transmission’s parking mechanism has been compromised.
Vehicle owners can also check whether their vehicle is included in the recall by entering their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) into the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s online recall database or by contacting their local Ford or Lincoln dealership. The recall is one of Ford’s largest safety actions of the year and underscores the importance of addressing transmission-related defects before they lead to more serious accidents.
