Ford Recalls Nearly 780K Vehicles in Two New Safety Campaigns

Ford is recalling nearly 777K vehicles across the United States in two separate safety campaigns. The larger recall involves a transmission issue that could allow certain vehicles to roll away after being shifted into Park, while the second affects Bronco SUVs with fender flares that may detach.

Transmission Recall Affects More Than 741,000 Vehicles

The larger recall covers 741,195 Ford and Lincoln vehicles, including the 2021 Ford F-150, 2020-2021 Lincoln Aviator, 2020-2021 Ford Explorer, 2018-2021 Lincoln Navigator, and 2018-2021 Ford Expedition.

According to Ford, a condition inside the transmission can temporarily engage the parking pawl while the vehicle is still moving. The issue is linked to the transmission valve body separator plate, which can restrict fluid flow to the Park valve during certain shift events.

If that happens, the transmission's parking components can become damaged and may no longer hold the vehicle in place unless the parking brake is also applied, increasing the risk of an unintended rollaway.

Ford says it is aware of 24 reports of property damage, seven reports of physical injuries, and two reports of emotional injuries that may be related to the issue.

To fix the problem, dealers will install updated powertrain control module (PCM) software that prevents the transmission from making the shift commands that can temporarily engage the parking pawl while the vehicle is moving. Technicians will also inspect the transmission and replace parking components if necessary.

Bronco Fender Flare Recall

A second recall affects 36,046 Ford Bronco SUVs from the 2022-2026 model years.

Ford says a supplier used production tooling that was not properly maintained during the manufacturing process. As a result, some attachment holes were produced with incorrect dimensions, burrs, and loose fibers that could prevent the fender flares from being fully secured during assembly.

Owners may notice uneven gaps, loose or sagging fender flares, or trim that appears out of alignment as the retaining clips lose their holding force. The affected parts may also produce rattling, clicking, or flapping noises while driving.

Ford says it is aware of 370 warranty claims, 36 field reports, and two customer reports related to the problem.

To resolve the issue, dealers will replace the push-pin fasteners with updated parts and install replacement fender flares where needed at no cost to owners.