If you’re a Ford owner, you might want to check your vehicle — five brand new fire hazard recalls have just been announced, and they affect a wide range of models. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) published the alerts, and the risks are serious. Fires can start even when the vehicle is switched off in some cases.
Let me walk you through what’s going on, which vehicles are impacted, and what you should do next.
What’s the issue?
Ford is recalling over 500,000 vehicles due to various fire risks that can injure drivers, passengers, and property nearby. These issues range from faulty battery sensors to components that overheat. The NHTSA warns that in some cases, fires can occur even when the vehicle is parked and turned off.
The 5 Ford recalls impact these models
Following is a summary of each recall and the vehicles impacted:
1. Ford Escape and Ford Maverick (2020–2023 models)
- Issue: The Battery monitoring sensor can short-circuit and cause a fire.
- Remedy: Ford will install a thermal insulation cover.
- Units impacted: Around 110,000.
2. Ford F-150 Lightning (2022–2023 models)
- Problem: Battery cell manufacturing defects can lead to internal short circuits and fire.
- Remedy: Replacement of battery packs.
- Units affected: About 18,000.
3. Ford Bronco Sport and Ford Escape (2022–2023 models)
- Problem: Fuel injectors may crack and leak fuel onto hot engine components.
- Remedy: Software update and fuel drain tube installation.
- Units affected: Over 343,000.
4. Ford Super Duty trucks (2023 F-250, F-350, F-450)
- Problem: The Battery cable may chafe on the A/C compressor, resulting in a short circuit.
- Remedy: Ford will inspect and move the cable.
- Units affected: Over 42,000.
5. Ford Transit Connect vans (2019–2023 models)
- Problem: The Rear axle bolt may break, causing the loosening of the axle and a risk of fire.
- Remedy: Replacement and strengthening of the axle bolt.
- Units affected: 17,000+.
What you should do right now
Check Your VIN: Visit [nhtsa.gov/recalls](https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls) and input your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to see whether your vehicle is affected.
- Don’t wait: Call your dealer immediately to schedule a free repair if your vehicle is on the recall list.
- Park safely: Don’t park in garages or near buildings until your vehicle is repaired — especially if your model is among those that can ignite even when shut off.
Repairs are free
Dealers will make all recall repairs at no cost to you. If you’ve already paid for repairs on this, you may be eligible for reimbursement.
Bottom line: If you or someone in your life owns one of these Ford vehicles, you mustn’t delay. Fire hazards aren’t something to be taken lightly — even if your car seems to be operating normally.
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