Ford Recalls 314,000 Vehicles Over Airbag, Electronic Defects

Ford Motor Company has announced two new safety recalls affecting over 314,000 vehicles. The campaigns target popular models like the Ford Ranger, Explorer, and Lincoln Aviator. These actions address critical issues with side airbags and faulty electrical components. Owners are advised to contact their local dealers for immediate repairs.

 

This announcement comes on the same day as another significant recall from the automaker. According to Reuters, the company is proactively notifying owners of the affected models.

Ranger Pickups Face Airbag Deployment Risk

The first and more serious recall involves 100,900 Ford Ranger pickup trucks. The models affected are from the 2024, 2025, and 2026 model years. The problem lies with the side curtain airbags.

During deployment, the airbag can contact a sharp metal flange on the vehicle’s B-pillar. This contact can cause the airbag to tear. A torn airbag may not inflate properly during a crash.

This failure significantly increases the risk of injury to occupants. Ford became aware of the issue during internal safety testing. The company is not aware of any field incidents or injuries related to this defect.

Explorer and Aviator SUVs Have Widespread Electrical Problems

The second recall impacts 213,121 Ford Explorer and Lincoln Aviator SUVs. These are all from the 2025 model year. The issue stems from a defective body control module.

The module has printed circuit boards with poorly soldered components. This manufacturing flaw can cause a cascade of electrical failures. The list of potential symptoms is long and concerning for drivers.

It can lead to inoperative power windows, mirror switches, and trailer taillights. Interior lights, the alarm system, and the rear defroster may also fail. In some cases, the air conditioning may only blow warm air.

Repair Procedures and Owner Action

Ford dealerships will install a protective shield on affected Ranger trucks. This shield will separate the airbag from the sharp metal edge. The repair is designed to prevent tearing and ensure proper inflation.

For the Explorer and Aviator SUVs, the fix depends on mileage. Vehicles with less than 9,000 miles will receive a replacement body control module. Those with higher mileage will undergo a diagnostic check first.

Ford will begin notifying owners by mail starting in late September. Owners can also check the NHTSA website or Ford’s recall portal using their VIN. All repairs will be performed free of charge.

These latest recalls underscore ongoing quality control challenges for the automaker. The Ford recall efforts aim to address these safety issues before they lead to injuries. Owners of these models should take immediate action to schedule service.

Info at your fingertips

Which Ford models are being recalled?

The recall includes 2024-2026 Ford Ranger pickups and 2025 Ford Explorer and Lincoln Aviator SUVs. In total, over 314,000 vehicles are affected by these two new campaigns.

What is the danger with the Ford Ranger airbags?

The side curtain airbags may tear upon deployment because they contact a sharp metal bracket. A torn airbag can deflate too quickly, increasing the risk of injury in a side-impact collision.

What problems can the electrical defect cause?

The faulty body control module can cause numerous issues. These include failing power windows, non-working interior lights, malfunctioning air conditioning, and trailer taillights that do not illuminate.

What should I do if I own one of these vehicles?

You should wait for an official recall notice from Ford by mail. You can also proactively check your VIN on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website to confirm if your vehicle is included.

Are the repairs for these recalls free?

Yes, all recall-related repairs are always performed at no cost to the vehicle owner. Authorized Ford and Lincoln dealers will complete the necessary fixes.

Has anyone been injured because of these defects?

Ford has stated it is not aware of any accidents or injuries related to either of these new recall issues. The company is issuing these recalls as a preventative safety measure.