Thousands of Ford Vehicles Recalled Over Brake Safety Concerns
Ford Motor Company announced a significant recall affecting 123,611 vehicles, including certain 2017–2018 Ford F-150 pickup trucks, Expedition SUVs, and Lincoln Navigator SUVs. These models, equipped with the 3.5-liter EcoBoost engine and produced between February 1 and June 30, 2017, have been cited by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for a brake master cylinder defect that might leak brake fluid into the brake booster. Such leaks could potentially result in diminished braking performance, significantly increasing stopping distances and escalating the risk of accidents.
The safety recall addresses concerns identified through warranty claims and a review by Ford’s Critical Concern Group. The brake master cylinders from Hitachi Astemo Americas, marked as HL34-2A032-AA for F-150 models and GL14-2A032-AA for Expeditions and Navigators, will be replaced free of charge with an improved model, the HL14-2A032-AD assembly. If leakage has already occurred, dealers will also replace the brake booster at no cost to vehicle owners.
“Affected vehicle owners may experience a spongy brake pedal, longer stopping distances, and warning lights appearing if the issue occurs,” clarified a statement by Ford regarding the recall.
Ford plans to commence notifying impacted vehicle owners from April 28 through May 2, 2025. The issue surfaced initially when the NHTSA received consumer concerns, prompting Ford’s internal investigation, which eventually identified 73 warranty claims specifically for Expedition and Navigator vehicles, alongside 17 claims attributed to the F-150 model.
Separate Recall Issued for 2025 Ford Explorer
Amid the brake recall announcement, Ford disclosed a second, unrelated recall involving 24,655 units of the 2025 Ford Explorer due to a software defect in the powertrain control module (PCM). According to safety officials, a flaw in the PCM’s software might unexpectedly engage transmission parking mechanisms while the vehicle is moving at speeds of 10 mph or faster. This could cause the vehicle to stall abruptly or potentially inflict mechanical damage to the parking system if the parking brake isn’t activated.
To date, Ford reported receiving 366 consumer claims potentially involving issues related to the Explorer’s PCM, though no accidents or injuries linked to this defect have been documented. Dealers will undertake software updates to rectify the faulty PCM free of charge for owners, with official notifications set to begin on May 26, 2025.
“We strongly recommend affected Ford Explorer owners schedule software improvements as soon as they receive the notification,” stated an advisory from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The dual recalls reflect Ford’s ongoing commitment to proactive vehicle safety and regulatory compliance, addressing potential risks promptly to safeguard consumers.
Historical Context and Broader Implications for Automotive Safety
Historically, recalls like those announced by Ford underscore the automotive industry’s persistent challenges in ensuring vehicle reliability and occupant safety. Larger recalls by car manufacturers commonly arise from component defects and can significantly impact public trust and brand reputation. An infamous earlier example involves the extensive recall of Ford Explorer SUVs in the early 2000s due to serious tire failures, a recall that fundamentally influenced industry-wide safety standards and regulatory practices.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, established in 1970, has since played a pivotal role in supervising automotive safety practices, mandating recalls, investigating defects, and promoting safer automotive standards. Through such regulatory oversight, recalls have successfully reduced roadway injuries and fatalities linked to manufacturing defects.
In the context of contemporary automotive industry practices, recalls also represent a critical intersection of consumer advocacy, regulatory oversight, and corporate responsibility, emphasizing the importance of timely manufacturer disclosure and remedial action. Prompt action by Ford and NHTSA illustrates a proactive regulatory and corporate response to potentially dangerous failures, reaffirming industry and consumer expectations for stringent oversight and efficient responses.
“Proactive communication and swift action are essential for maintaining consumer confidence when dealing with safety-related recalls,” emphasizes automotive industry analyst Dr. Jane Ellison.
Ford’s response aligns with broader industry practices aimed at promptly addressing and mitigating potential risks. Both recalls highlight the necessity of vigilance on the part of automotive manufacturers and regulators alike, working in concert to ensure effective safety measures and protect vehicle owners. The dual recalls underscore the complexities and responsibilities inherent in manufacturing sophisticated automotive technologies, particularly regarding critical safety components such as braking and powertrain systems.