Ford Motor Company files recall of 4,381,878 US vehicles: NHTSA

Ford Motor Company files recall of 4,381,878 US vehicles: NHTSA

Ford Motor Company Files Recall of 4.38 Million U.S. Vehicles: NHTSA

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has confirmed that Ford Motor Company is recalling 4,381,878 vehicles in the United States to address safety-related defects. The recall, which affects multiple models produced between 2014 and 2024, includes the 2021–2024 Ford Bronco Sport, 2020–2022 Ford Escape, 2021–2022 Ford Bronco, Edge, Explorer, and F-150, as well as the 2022–2023 Ford Mustang. The primary issue involves airbag systems supplied by Takata, a manufacturer linked to widespread recalls due to defective inflators that could rupture, posing a risk of injury or death.

Under federal regulations, Ford is required to notify registered vehicle owners via first-class mail within 60 days of the recall's announcement. The automaker will provide free repairs, typically involving replacement of the defective components. NHTSA oversees the recall process to ensure compliance with safety standards and monitors the effectiveness of corrective actions. Most recalls are initiated voluntarily by manufacturers before NHTSA intervention, as is the case here.

Financially, large-scale recalls can impact automakers through costs associated with parts, labor, and potential reputational risks. While Ford has not disclosed specific financial figures for this recall, similar campaigns in recent years have averaged hundreds of millions of dollars in expenses. However, proactive recall management can mitigate long-term costs by avoiding regulatory penalties and preserving consumer trust.

Vehicle owners can check recall status using their 17-character Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) via NHTSA's online tool or Ford's dedicated recall portal. The NHTSA SaferCar app also provides real-time alerts for safety recalls.

This recall underscores the importance of ongoing safety oversight in the automotive industry. With over 70 million vehicles under Takata-related recalls nationwide, manufacturers and regulators continue to prioritize defect resolution to reduce risks for consumers.

NHTSA Recall Process and Consumer Guidance
Ford Recall Details and Affected Models