Ford Motor Company is addressing two distinct safety concerns impacting hundreds of thousands of vehicles across the United States, prompting significant recall efforts. These recalls, detailed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), highlight ongoing challenges in automotive manufacturing and the critical role of regulatory oversight in ensuring consumer safety.
The first recall involves approximately 332,778 Mustang vehicles, model years 2015-2017. The issue stems from potential corrosion of the front seat belt anchor pretensioner cables, exacerbated by exposure to water and road salt. This corrosion can lead to cable breakage, compromising the seat belt’s ability to properly restrain occupants during a collision, thereby increasing the risk of injury.
Concurrently, a separate recall affects 291,901 F-250, F-350, and F-450 Super Duty trucks from model years 2020-2022. These vehicles are subject to a defect within the 360-degree view camera system. In certain lighting conditions, the rearview image display may not function correctly, a malfunction that NHTSA warns could elevate the likelihood of a crash.
Ford is implementing distinct remedies for each recall. For the seatbelt issue, dealers will conduct inspections and replace the front seat belt anchor pretensioner assemblies as needed. This will involve modifying the vehicle’s carpet and underlayment to prevent future contact with the cables. Repairs for this defect will be provided at no cost to vehicle owners. Interim notification letters are expected to be distributed this month, with a final remedy anticipated by January 2026.
In the case of the rearview camera defect, the remedy involves a software update to the image processing module, also to be performed by authorized dealers at no charge. Owners will receive notification letters commencing October 20, with the final software solution expected around March 2026.
A Ford spokesperson emphasized the company’s commitment to vehicle quality and customer safety, stating that the proactive recall strategy aims to swiftly identify and resolve hardware and software issues. The company highlighted its increased investment in safety and technical expertise, suggesting a dedication to addressing even latent issues across earlier model years.
These recent recalls are part of a broader pattern of safety actions taken by Ford. Earlier in the year, the automaker initiated recalls for over 694,000 Bronco Sport and Escape vehicles due to a potential fire risk from a faulty fuel component, and separately recalled over 850,000 Ford and Lincoln vehicles for another issue. These actions underscore the complex and continuous efforts required to maintain safety standards in a large-scale automotive manufacturing environment.
Jonathan Reed received his MA in Journalism from Columbia University and has reported on corporate governance and leadership for major business magazines. His coverage focuses on executive decision-making, startup innovation, and the evolving role of technology in driving business growth.