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Ford Motor Co. has announced a recall of approximately 4.4 million vehicles, including its popular F-Series pickup trucks and SUVs, due to a software glitch that could increase the risk of collisions. The recall, one of the largest by a single manufacturer in recent years, affects vehicles from the 2021 to 2026 model years, including the F-150, Expedition, Ranger, Maverick, E-Transit, and Lincoln Navigator.
The issue involves a software error in the trailer control module, which may cause taillights and turn signals on trailers to malfunction. This can lead to a loss of communication with the vehicle, potentially affecting the trailer's braking function and making it less visible to other drivers. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), this creates a noncompliance with federal safety standards and could increase the risk of a crash.
Ford was first alerted to the problem in October 2025 and has since received over 400 warranty claims related to the defect. Although no accidents or injuries have been reported, the company is taking proactive measures to address the issue. Ford plans to release an over-the-air software update starting March 17, with full deployment expected by May. Vehicle owners can also visit Ford or Lincoln dealerships for a free repair.
Ford, which issued 153 recalls in 2025 involving 12.9 million vehicles, continues to lead in the number of recalls among automakers. The company encourages owners to check if their vehicle is affected by entering their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) at nhtsa.gov/recalls or through the FordPass app.