Ford recalls nearly 420,000 vehicles over faulty seat belts
Ford Motor is issuing a recall for nearly 420,000 vehicles due to a seat belt issue that poses a safety risk to passengers. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has highlighted that certain Expedition and Lincoln vehicles from model years 2018 to 2022 may have seat belts that can inadvertently lock, preventing proper retraction or extension. This malfunction can increase the risk of injury in the event of a crash, as the seat belts may fail to restrain occupants as intended.
According to Ford’s report to the safety agency, there has been one injury linked to the faulty seat belts. In response to the issue, Ford will be contacting affected vehicle owners via mail starting on June 8. Ford and Lincoln dealers will inspect the vehicles and replace the seat belt retractors free of charge. The recall number associated with this issue is 26S34.
In addition to the seat belt recall, Ford has also issued a “Do Not Drive” warning for 4,653 Ford Maverick and Bronco Sport vehicles. This warning is a result of improper assembly of the suspension systems in these vehicles. The notice states that the front lower control arm ball joints may have been incorrectly installed or repaired at the vehicle assembly plant, potentially leading to the control arm disconnecting from the front wheel knuckle.
The affected vehicles include certain 2021-2026 Bronco Sport and 2022-2026 Maverick models. Ford has advised owners not to drive these vehicles until the necessary repairs are completed. Dealers will inspect and repair the defective parts at no cost to the vehicle owners. For more information on this recall, customers can contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. The recall number for this issue is 26S36.
It is crucial for vehicle owners to take these recalls seriously and act promptly to address any safety concerns. By following the instructions provided by Ford and the NHTSA, drivers can ensure the safety of themselves and their passengers on the road. Stay informed and proactive when it comes to vehicle recalls to prevent any potential risks or accidents.
