Ford Recalls More Than 741,000 U.S. Vehicles Over Park System Safety Issue

Ford Motor Company is recalling more than 741,000 vehicles across the United States after federal safety regulators identified a transmission-related defect that could damage the vehicles’ park system, potentially allowing them to roll away unexpectedly and increasing the risk of crashes and injuries. The recall was announced on Tuesday by the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

According to the NHTSA, the recall affects 741,195 vehicles from the 2018 to 2021 model years. The impacted models include the Ford Expedition, Lincoln Navigator, Ford Explorer, Lincoln Aviator, and certain 2021 Ford F-150 pickup trucks. Regulators said a transmission defect may temporarily engage the parking mechanism while the vehicle is still moving, damaging components that allow the transmission to hold the vehicle securely in the “Park” position.

If the park system becomes damaged, a vehicle may fail to remain stationary after being shifted into park unless the parking brake is applied. This could result in the vehicle rolling away unexpectedly, creating a significant risk for drivers, passengers and pedestrians. Safety officials are urging owners of affected vehicles to always engage the parking brake until the recall repairs have been completed.

Ford said dealerships will update the affected vehicles’ Powertrain Control Module software and inspect the transmission for any signs of park system damage. If damaged components are found, they will be repaired or replaced free of charge. Owners of affected vehicles will receive recall notifications by mail with instructions on how to schedule repairs at authorized Ford or Lincoln dealerships.

The recall follows reports received by Ford linking the defect to 24 incidents of property damage and nine reported injuries, including two claims involving emotional distress. While no fatalities have been reported, the company and federal regulators determined that the potential safety risk warranted immediate action.

In a separate recall announced the same day, Ford is also recalling 36,046 Bronco SUVs because improperly secured fender flares could detach while driving, creating a road hazard and increasing the likelihood of a crash. Dealers will inspect and repair or replace the affected parts at no cost to customers.

The latest action adds to a series of major recalls issued by Ford in recent years as the automaker continues to address safety-related defects across several vehicle lines. The NHTSA has encouraged all affected owners to respond promptly once they receive notification, emphasizing that recall repairs are performed free of charge and are intended to reduce the risk of accidents.

Vehicle owners who are unsure whether their vehicle is included in the recall can check their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) through Ford’s recall portal or the NHTSA’s recall database.