The Ford Motor Co. announced the recall of 419,967 vehicles in the Estados Unidos. The reason is a defect that could prevent the front seat belts from functioning correctly. The measure covers specific Expedition and Lincoln Navigator models manufactured between 2018 and 2022.
The problem involves the belt retractors that can lock inadvertently. Isso prevents the belt from retracting or extending normally. In the event of an accident, the failure increases the risk of injury to the occupants. The US regulatory agency has confirmed one case of injury related to the defect so far.
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) published the alert on Tuesday. Ford was already aware of two warranty complaints and two field reports on the matter. The current recall expands and replaces two previous actions of the same nature.
Detalhes due to defect in retractors
Driver and front passenger seat belt retractors are the focus of the campaign. In some cases, the internal propellant may degrade over time, especially after exposure to high temperatures. Isso causes the engine to crash unexpectedly.
- Affected vehicles include Expedition manufactured between May 15, 2017 and October 25, 2022
- Lincoln Navigator has production affected in the same interval, from May 15, 2017 to October 26, 2022
- Apenas front retractors are involved in correction
- Não there are reports of fatal accidents directly linked to this specific fault
Ford reported that the defect can manifest itself while the engine is running. Motoristas noted difficulties adjusting the belt or loosening it after use. In collision situations, the lack of adequate restraint increases the danger.
Histórico from similar Ford recalls
Esta is not the first time the Ford has faced issues with belt retractors on these large models. Previous Campanhas, identified as 24V099 and 25V197 by NHTSA, had already addressed similar issues in smaller batches. The current recall consolidates and expands the scope to cover more units.
The automaker has been monitoring the issue since 2024. Técnicos identified that the aging of chemical components within the pretensioner contributes to locking. Excessive heat in the passenger compartment accelerates the degradation process.
Proprietários of older units must check the vehicle’s VIN. The official NHTSA website or the Ford portal allows quick consultation. The company will send letters by mail starting June 8th. Complete Instruções arrives in August.
Como will be repair at dealers
Owners must take the vehicle to an authorized Ford or Lincoln dealer. The action includes inspection of the two frontal retractors. Defective components will be replaced free of charge. The service has no cost to the consumer.
Técnicos will test the complete functioning of the mechanism. In many cases, just replacing the retractor solves the problem. Estimated service time varies from 30 minutes to one hour, depending on the queue at the workshop.
Ford recommends that owners continue to use their seat belts as normal until corrected. Não there is guidance to stop driving the vehicles, unlike another recent brand recall involving driving.
Impacto on Expedition and Navigator owners
The Ford and Lincoln full-size SUVs are popular with families and users who need space and towing capacity. The recall affects a significant volume of these models sold between 2018 and 2022. Muitos are still within the warranty period.
Donos report concerns about daily security. A belt that does not fit correctly can cause discomfort and reduce protection during sudden braking or collisions. NHTSA reinforces the importance of resolving the matter as soon as possible.
The company maintains direct contact with registered customers. Ford’s customer service phone number is 1-866-436-7332. NHTSA offers its own hotline at 1-888-327-4236 for questions about recalls.
Medidas additional recommended security features
Enquanto awaiting repair, drivers should visually inspect the belt. Qualquer difficulty pulling or retracting the equipment deserves immediate attention. If in doubt, the ideal is to schedule a visit to the dealership.
The NHTSA advises that all occupants always wear their seat belts. Sistemas add-ons such as airbags work best when combined with correct belt retention. Crianças must travel in approved and properly installed devices.
Ford reported that there is no similar recall in other markets outside of Estados Unidos at this time. International Proprietários should consult their local brand representative to see if the issue affects their units.