Ford is making headlines again, but not for the reasons they’d like. The automaker has announced a significant recall affecting over 335,000 vehicles due to various safety issues, including a particularly alarming brake failure in their F-Series Super Duty pickups. This latest round of recalls adds to an already staggering total of 76 recalls this year alone, surpassing the combined total of major competitors like Mercedes, General Motors, and Toyota. Let’s dive into the details of these recalls and what they mean for Ford owners.
### What’s the Big Deal with the Brake Failure?
The most pressing concern in this recall saga is the brake failure issue affecting 2,345 Super Duty trucks, including the 2025 F-250, F-350, F-450, and F-550 models. The problem stems from a missing pushrod retaining spring in the brake booster, which can lead to a sudden loss of braking function. This is not just a minor inconvenience; it poses a serious safety risk. Ford has issued a “do not drive” order for affected vehicles until the issue is resolved. The company has acknowledged that the problem arose from a training error by a new employee during assembly, highlighting the importance of quality control in manufacturing.
### What About the Mustang Mach-E?
The Mustang Mach-E is also in the spotlight, but for different reasons. A recall affecting 276 units of the 2025 model has been issued due to a faulty park rod that may fail to engage when the vehicle is put into park. This could result in the vehicle rolling away unexpectedly, which is obviously a significant safety concern. Ford is set to notify owners next month, and they will be instructed to bring their vehicles to a dealership for a free replacement of the transmission park rod assembly.
Interestingly, this is not the first recall for the Mach-E this year. Earlier, nearly 197,000 units were recalled due to a battery issue that could prevent doors from unlocking, further complicating the vehicle’s reliability reputation.
### Are the Bronco Doors Too Easy to Open?
Another recall involves the 2025 Ford Bronco, specifically the four-door versions. Approximately 27,768 SUVs are affected by a design flaw that allows the left-hand rear door to be opened from the inside, even when the child safety lock is engaged. This could pose a risk, especially with children in the vehicle. The issue is attributed to “dimensional interference” among the door components, which can distort the child lock mechanism. Ford plans to inspect and replace the rear door latch as necessary.
### What’s Happening with the Explorer and Aviator?
The final recall in this latest wave affects 304,662 Ford Explorers and Lincoln Aviators from the 2020 to 2025 model years. The issue lies with the second-row seats, which may move unexpectedly during driving, especially in the event of a crash. This is due to a potentially incorrectly installed second-row folding seat bezel, which can cause the seat switch to bind or become stuck. Ford has received reports of this issue and is advising customers to have their vehicles inspected at a dealership, where the seat switch bezel will be replaced if necessary.
### Why Are These Recalls Significant?
The sheer volume of recalls this year raises questions about Ford’s quality control processes and manufacturing practices. With 76 recalls already, the company is under scrutiny, and these issues could impact consumer trust. For current Ford owners, these recalls are a reminder of the importance of staying informed about vehicle safety and maintenance.
### What Should Affected Owners Do?
If you own one of the affected vehicles, it’s crucial to stay updated on recall notifications from Ford. The company typically sends out notifications to owners, but it’s wise to check the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website or Ford’s official site for the latest information. If you receive a recall notice, follow the instructions provided and schedule an appointment with your dealership as soon as possible.
The big takeaway? Ford’s recent recalls highlight the importance of vehicle safety and the need for manufacturers to prioritize quality control. If you own an affected vehicle, don’t delay in addressing these issues. Taking proactive steps can help ensure your safety on the road.