Ford is recalling nearly 200,000 vehicles across North America due to two separate safety issues: a potential loss of power steering assist and a risk of unintended door opening while driving. The recalls affect a range of Ford and Lincoln models, prompting owners to check if their vehicles are included.
Ford Motor Co. announced the first recall, impacting approximately 196,000 Explorer SUVs from the 2016-2019 model years. The issue stems from a potentially faulty power steering system. According to the automaker, a “wiring harness may chafe against the steering gear motor housing, potentially causing a short circuit and loss of power steering assist.” This loss of power steering, especially at lower speeds, could increase the risk of a crash.
The second recall involves around 2,200 Ford Transit Connect vehicles from the 2022-2023 model years. In these vehicles, the rear door latch may not have been properly manufactured, potentially allowing the door to open unexpectedly while the vehicle is in motion. This poses a significant safety risk to both the occupants and other drivers on the road.
Power Steering Assist Recall: 2016-2019 Ford Explorer
The larger of the two recalls focuses on the 2016-2019 Ford Explorer. Ford has indicated that the problem lies within the wiring harness that connects to the steering gear motor. Over time, the harness can rub against the motor housing, resulting in abrasion. This chafing can eventually wear through the insulation of the wires, leading to a short circuit.
A short circuit in the power steering system can cause a sudden loss of power steering assist. While the vehicle can still be steered manually, it requires significantly more effort, particularly at low speeds such as when parking or maneuvering in tight spaces. This increased effort could lead to delayed reactions or miscalculations by the driver, increasing the likelihood of an accident.
Ford states that affected Explorer owners may experience a warning message or increased steering effort as initial indicators of the problem. However, in some cases, the loss of power steering assist could occur without any prior warning.
To remedy the issue, Ford dealers will inspect the steering gear motor housing and wiring harness. If chafing or damage is detected, the harness will be rerouted and secured away from the motor housing. In cases where the wiring harness is severely damaged, it will be replaced entirely. A protective covering will also be installed to prevent future chafing. These repairs will be performed free of charge to the vehicle owner.
Ford emphasized that this power steering issue is not related to a previous, more extensive recall involving the Explorer’s rear suspension. The earlier recall, which affected over a million vehicles, concerned a potential fracture in the rear suspension toe link, which could also lead to a loss of vehicle control.
Rear Door Latch Recall: 2022-2023 Ford Transit Connect
The second recall involves a smaller number of vehicles, but the potential consequences are equally serious. In approximately 2,200 Ford Transit Connect vans manufactured during the 2022 and 2023 model years, the rear door latch mechanism may have been improperly assembled or manufactured.
This defect could prevent the rear door latch from fully engaging, meaning the door may not be securely closed even when it appears to be. As a result, the rear door could unexpectedly open while the vehicle is in motion. This poses a significant risk, especially if items are being transported in the cargo area, as they could fall out onto the road. Furthermore, an unexpected door opening could startle the driver or other motorists, potentially leading to an accident.
Ford has stated that they are unaware of any accidents or injuries related to this particular issue. However, the potential for harm is significant, and the company is urging owners of affected Transit Connect vans to take their vehicles to a dealership for inspection and repair as soon as possible.
The repair procedure involves inspecting the rear door latch mechanism to ensure it is functioning correctly. If a defect is found, the entire latch assembly will be replaced with a new, properly functioning unit. This repair will also be performed free of charge to the vehicle owner.
Notification and Next Steps for Owners
Ford will begin notifying owners of affected vehicles by mail in the coming weeks. The notification will include instructions on how to schedule an appointment with a local Ford or Lincoln dealership for the necessary repairs.
In the meantime, owners can check if their vehicle is affected by either of these recalls by visiting the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website (www.nhtsa.gov/recalls) and entering their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). The VIN is a unique 17-character code that can be found on the vehicle’s dashboard (visible through the windshield), on the driver’s side doorjamb, and on the vehicle’s registration and insurance documents.
Ford encourages all owners to take these recalls seriously and to schedule the necessary repairs as soon as possible to ensure their safety and the safety of others on the road. Owners can also contact Ford customer service directly at 1-866-436-7332 with any questions or concerns.
The Broader Context of Automotive Recalls
Automotive recalls are a common occurrence in the industry. Modern vehicles are incredibly complex machines with thousands of individual components, and even with rigorous testing and quality control measures, defects can sometimes slip through. Recalls are initiated when a manufacturer discovers a safety-related defect or a noncompliance with federal safety standards.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) plays a crucial role in overseeing the recall process. NHTSA investigates potential safety defects, monitors recall campaigns, and provides information to the public about recalls. If a manufacturer fails to initiate a recall when a safety defect is identified, NHTSA can order them to do so.
While recalls can be inconvenient for vehicle owners, they are an essential part of ensuring vehicle safety. By addressing potential defects proactively, manufacturers can prevent accidents, injuries, and even fatalities. It is important for vehicle owners to stay informed about recalls affecting their vehicles and to take the necessary steps to have the repairs performed.
The frequency and scope of recalls can vary depending on the manufacturer, the type of vehicle, and the complexity of the systems involved. Some recalls affect only a small number of vehicles, while others can involve millions of vehicles across multiple model years. Similarly, some recalls address relatively minor issues, while others address potentially life-threatening defects.
In recent years, there has been a growing trend toward larger and more complex recalls, driven in part by the increasing sophistication of vehicle technology. Modern vehicles are equipped with advanced electronic systems, software, and sensors, all of which are potential sources of defects. As vehicles become more connected and autonomous, the potential for cybersecurity-related recalls is also increasing.
Ford’s Recent Recall History
Ford has been involved in several high-profile recalls in recent years. In addition to the Explorer rear suspension recall mentioned earlier, the company has also recalled vehicles for issues related to airbags, brakes, fuel systems, and other critical components.
Some of these recalls have been particularly costly for Ford, both in terms of direct repair costs and in terms of damage to the company’s reputation. As a result, Ford has been working to improve its quality control processes and to identify and address potential defects earlier in the development process.
The company has also invested in new technologies and processes to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of its recall campaigns. This includes using data analytics to identify affected vehicles more quickly and using digital communication tools to keep owners informed about recall updates.
Expert Commentary on the Recalls
Automotive safety experts emphasize the importance of prompt action when a recall is announced. “Ignoring a recall notice is like ignoring a ticking time bomb,” says David Friedman, Vice President of Advocacy at Consumer Reports and former Acting Administrator of NHTSA. “The longer you wait, the greater the risk of an accident or injury.”
Friedman advises owners to check the NHTSA website regularly for recalls affecting their vehicles, even if they haven’t received a notification from the manufacturer. He also recommends that owners keep their contact information up to date with the manufacturer so that they can be notified promptly of any recalls.
“Recalls are a necessary part of ensuring vehicle safety, but they are only effective if owners take them seriously,” says Sean Kane, president of Safety Research & Strategies, a firm that investigates automotive defects. “Owners need to understand the potential risks associated with the defect and take the necessary steps to have the repairs performed as soon as possible.”
Kane also cautions owners to be wary of aftermarket parts or modifications that could compromise the safety of their vehicles. “Modifying your vehicle in any way could void the warranty and potentially introduce new safety risks,” he says. “It’s always best to stick with original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts and to have any repairs or modifications performed by a qualified technician.”
FAQ: Ford Explorer and Transit Connect Recalls
Here are five frequently asked questions related to the recent Ford Explorer and Transit Connect recalls:
1. How do I know if my Ford Explorer is affected by the power steering recall?
- Answer: The recall affects 2016-2019 Ford Explorer models. The easiest way to determine if your specific vehicle is impacted is to visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website (www.nhtsa.gov/recalls) and enter your vehicle’s 17-character Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). You can find your VIN on the dashboard (visible through the windshield), on the driver’s side doorjamb, and on your vehicle’s registration and insurance documents. You can also contact your local Ford dealer or Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332.
2. What are the symptoms of the power steering issue in the affected Ford Explorers?
- Answer: Affected Explorer owners may experience several warning signs, including a warning message on the dashboard or increased steering effort, particularly at lower speeds. In some cases, the loss of power steering assist may occur without any prior warning. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s crucial to schedule an inspection with a Ford dealer as soon as possible.
3. What is Ford doing to fix the power steering problem in the recalled Explorers?
- Answer: Ford dealers will inspect the steering gear motor housing and wiring harness. If chafing or damage is detected, the harness will be rerouted and secured away from the motor housing. If the wiring harness is severely damaged, it will be replaced. A protective covering will also be installed to prevent future chafing. All repairs will be performed free of charge.
4. How do I know if my Ford Transit Connect is affected by the rear door latch recall?
- Answer: This recall affects 2022-2023 Ford Transit Connect models. As with the Explorer recall, the most reliable way to check if your vehicle is affected is to enter your VIN on the NHTSA website (www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). You can also contact your local Ford dealer or Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332 for assistance.
5. What is Ford doing to fix the rear door latch problem in the recalled Transit Connects?
- Answer: Ford dealers will inspect the rear door latch mechanism to ensure it is functioning correctly. If a defect is found, the entire latch assembly will be replaced with a new, properly functioning unit. This repair will be performed free of charge.
The Financial Implications of Recalls for Ford
Recalls have significant financial implications for automakers like Ford. The direct costs associated with a recall can include the cost of parts, labor, and administrative expenses. In addition, recalls can also lead to indirect costs, such as decreased sales, reputational damage, and potential legal liabilities.
The cost of a recall can vary widely depending on the size and scope of the recall, the complexity of the repair, and the number of vehicles affected. Some recalls can cost automakers millions of dollars, while others can cost hundreds of millions or even billions of dollars.
In addition to the direct and indirect costs, recalls can also have a negative impact on an automaker’s stock price. Investors may become concerned about the potential financial impact of the recall, as well as the damage to the company’s reputation.
Ford has been working to mitigate the financial impact of recalls by improving its quality control processes and by implementing more efficient recall management systems. The company has also been investing in new technologies, such as over-the-air (OTA) software updates, which can be used to fix certain types of defects remotely, without requiring owners to bring their vehicles to a dealership.
The Impact on Consumer Confidence
Recalls can erode consumer confidence in a brand. Repeated recalls, especially those involving serious safety issues, can make consumers question the quality and reliability of a manufacturer’s vehicles. This can lead to decreased sales and a loss of market share.
To maintain consumer confidence, it is essential for automakers to be transparent about recalls and to take swift and effective action to address the underlying defects. Automakers also need to communicate effectively with owners, providing them with clear and concise information about the recall and the steps they need to take to have their vehicles repaired.
Building and maintaining consumer confidence is a long-term process that requires a commitment to quality, safety, and customer service. Automakers that consistently deliver high-quality vehicles and respond quickly and effectively to recalls are more likely to retain the trust and loyalty of their customers.
The Role of Technology in Preventing Recalls
Technology is playing an increasingly important role in preventing and managing automotive recalls. Advanced data analytics can be used to identify potential safety defects earlier in the development process, allowing automakers to address them before vehicles are put into production.
Over-the-air (OTA) software updates can be used to fix certain types of defects remotely, without requiring owners to bring their vehicles to a dealership. This can significantly reduce the cost and inconvenience associated with recalls.
Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are also being used to improve the accuracy and efficiency of recall management systems. AI and ML algorithms can be trained to identify affected vehicles more quickly and to personalize communications with owners.
As vehicle technology continues to evolve, the role of technology in preventing and managing recalls will only become more important. Automakers that embrace these technologies will be better positioned to protect their customers, their brands, and their bottom lines.
Conclusion
The recent Ford recalls affecting nearly 200,000 vehicles underscore the importance of vehicle safety and the need for manufacturers to address potential defects promptly and effectively. Owners of 2016-2019 Ford Explorers and 2022-2023 Ford Transit Connects should check their VINs on the NHTSA website to determine if their vehicles are affected and schedule repairs with their local Ford dealer as soon as possible. While recalls can be inconvenient, they are a crucial part of ensuring the safety of drivers and passengers on the road. The automotive industry’s ongoing efforts to improve quality control, embrace new technologies, and communicate transparently with consumers are essential for maintaining trust and ensuring the safety of all vehicles. The recalls serve as a reminder that vigilance and proactive measures are paramount in safeguarding vehicle safety and preventing potential accidents.
