ORLANDO, Fla. – Ford is recalling more than 741,000 vehicles in the U.S. after a transmission defect was found to increase the risk of a crash or injury.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration announced the recall covers certain Ford F-150, Lincoln Aviator, Ford Explorer, Lincoln Navigator, and Ford Expedition vehicles with model years between 2018 and 2021.
What’s the problem?
According to the NHTSA report, affected vehicles may experience temporary engagement of their transmission parking pawl while the vehicle is in motion during certain gear shifts. That engagement can damage park system components.
If the park system is damaged, the transmission’s ability to hold the vehicle in place — without the parking brake applied — may be compromised. Unintended movement while in “park” raises the risk of a crash or injury, the agency said.
Ford is aware of 24 allegations of property damage and nine alleged injuries tied to the issue. Two of those injury allegations involve emotional injuries, according to the NHTSA.
What should owners do?
Ford will notify vehicle owners by mail. Owners will be directed to bring their vehicle to a Ford or Lincoln dealer, where technicians will update the Powertrain Control Module to the latest software. Dealers will also inspect the transmission for park system damage and replace any damaged components as needed.
There is no charge for the service.
Owners can also reach out directly:
- Ford customer service: 1-866-436-7332
- NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline: 1-888-327-4236