2018-2022 Ford Safety Recall Expands: Millions of Vehicles Now Under Investigation for Phantom Brake Hazard
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has officially expanded the 2018-2022 Ford safety recall to include over 2.1 million additional vehicles after a surge in complaints about "phantom braking." Drivers report their Ford Explorers, F-150s, and Mustang Mach-Es suddenly slamming on the brakes at highway speeds without any obstacle in sight. Ford initially blamed software glitches but new evidence suggests faulty sensor modules may be to blame. Viral dashcam footage shows a 2021 Ford Bronco coming to a dead stop in the middle of a clear interstate, causing a multi-car pileup. **Real or fake?** Real—Ford has confirmed 487 injury reports linked to the issue and is offering free software patches starting next month. However, fake rumors circulating on Facebook claim Ford will offer $5,000 cash payments to affected owners—that is false. The company will only cover repair costs.