2018-2022 Ford Safety Recall Expands to Include Nearly 500,000 Vehicles Over Transmission and Brake Defects
WASHINGTON, D.C. — A major 2018-2022 Ford safety recall has been expanded by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, affecting nearly half a million vehicles across multiple models.
What happened? The recall, initially issued for certain transmission issues, now includes a critical brake system defect that could cause a loss of stopping power. The defect involves a faulty sensor in the anti-lock braking system, which may fail to engage during sudden stops, increasing the risk of a collision.
Where is the issue located? The defect has been identified primarily in vehicles manufactured at Ford assembly plants in the United States, specifically those produced between March 2018 and November 2022. The affected models include the Ford Explorer, Ford Edge, and Lincoln Nautilus, though other models are under investigation.
When did the recall occur? The expanded recall was formally announced by Ford Motor Company on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, following months of consumer complaints and federal investigations. The initial recall for transmission problems was first issued in October 2024.
Why is this happening? The cause has been traced to a supplier-manufactured component within the braking module, which was found to degrade over time due to heat exposure. This has led to intermittent electronic failures, prompting NHTSA to demand a broader action to ensure public safety.
Who is affected? Approximately 465,000 vehicle owners are included in the 2018-2022 Ford safety recall. Ford will begin notifying registered owners by mail starting April 1, 2025. Repairs will be performed at authorized dealerships at no cost to consumers.
Ford urges all owners of affected vehicles to schedule immediate service. The company stated that it is cooperating fully with NHTSA and has allocated additional resources to expedite the recall process.