2018-2022 Ford Safety Recall Issued Over Brake Light and Transmission Defect Affecting Over a Quarter Million Vehicles
DETROIT (CNN) — Ford Motor Company has issued a major safety recall affecting approximately 272,000 model year 2018 to 2022 vehicles. The recall, announced Tuesday, addresses a critical defect that could cause brake lights to fail to illuminate during braking, simultaneously preventing the transmission from shifting out of park.
According to documents filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the issue stems from a faulty component in the brake pedal position switch. When this switch malfunctions, the brake lights may not activate when the driver presses the pedal, significantly increasing the risk of a rear-end collision. Furthermore, the defect can prevent the driver from shifting the vehicle out of park, creating a potential hazard if a quick departure is needed.
Affected models include certain Ford Edge, Ford Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, and Lincoln Nautilus vehicles produced between August 27, 2018, and August 31, 2022.
Ford stated it is aware of several minor accidents related to the defect but reported no injuries. Dealers will replace the brake pedal position switch free of charge, with owner notification letters expected to be mailed starting March 31, 2025. Owners are urged to contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332 or visit the NHTSA website for further information.