Ford Recalls 741,000 Vehicles Over Park System Defect

Ford is recalling more than 741,000 vehicles in the United States. The company identified a transmission issue that could damage the park system. That damage could increase the risk of a crash or injury. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration confirmed the recall covers certain Ford F-150, Lincoln Aviator, Ford Explorer, Lincoln Navigator and Ford Expedition models. The affected models span the 2018 through 2021 model years.

How the transmission flaw could put drivers at risk

According to the NHTSA report, affected vehicles may temporarily engage the transmission parking pawl while still in motion. This can happen when certain shifts trigger the transmission unexpectedly. The issue can potentially damage components within the park system.

If that damage occurs, the transmission may lose its ability to hold the vehicle securely in park. This risk grows particularly high if the driver has not applied the parking brake. Unintended movement while a vehicle is supposedly parked significantly raises the risk of a crash or injury, the report states.

Dozens of incidents already reported

The NHTSA said Ford currently knows of 24 allegations of property damage connected to the issue. Drivers have also reported 9 alleged injuries. Two of those allegations involve emotional injuries. The number of confirmed incidents remains relatively limited. Still, the safety implications of a vehicle unexpectedly moving while in park justify the large-scale recall.

What affected owners need to do

Ford will notify owners of impacted vehicles by mail. The notice will instruct owners to bring their vehicle to a Ford or Lincoln dealership. Technicians will then update the vehicle’s Powertrain Control Module to the latest software version. Dealers will also inspect the transmission for existing park system damage. They will replace damaged components as needed. Owners will not pay anything for these repairs.

Owners with questions can contact Ford customer service directly at 1-866-436-7332. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline also offers additional information at 1-888-327-4236.

Source: The Associated Press