Major car brand recalls 4.3 million vehicles over issues that could 'increase risk of accident'

Ford has announced that it will be recalling 4.3 million vehicles amid fears that a software error could lead to a serious accident.

The manufacturer filed a recall notice with the United States National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) regarding the issue.

It stated that 4.38 million vehicles, including some of its most popular models, would be recalled over electrical system and exterior lighting issues.

Ford warned that when towing a trailer, the integrated trailer module could lose communication with the vehicle.

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If this were to take place, it could potentially cause a loss of brake and turn signal lights, or prompt the loss of brake function.

The NHTSA warned that this could decrease the visibility of the trailer to other road users, increasing the risk of an accident.

It also means that the vehicles would fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 108 (Lamps, Reflective Devices, and Associated Equipment).

In total, seven models are included in the recall, featuring six popular Ford models and one from its sister brand, Lincoln.

Impacted vehicles included in the Ford recall

Ford F-150 (2021-2026)

Ford F-250 (2022-2026)

Ford Maverick (2022-2026)

Ford Expedition (2022-2026)

Lincoln Navigator (2022-2026)

Ford Ranger (2024-2026)

Ford E-Transit (2026)

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Owners of vehicles which potentially contain the fault could see a message appear on the instrument panel cluster, as well as flashing lights on the dashboard.

Recall documents state that drivers will see a "trailer brake module fault" message appear. A "Blind Spot Assist System fault" indicator could also be present.

Ford said it was not aware of any accidents, injuries or fires relating to the issue, which was first identified in October 2025.

Drivers who are impacted by the recall will have the integrated module software updated by a dealer or through an over-the-air software update.

As part of the remedy process, Ford has included details on how drivers can complete a software update from the Ford Pass app, as well as the in-car infotainment system.

According to data from the NHTSA, Ford Motor Company has been responsible for the largest number of recalls this year, with 24.

While most of these are for smaller issues that only affect a handful of vehicles, it is significantly more than any other manufacturer operating in the United States.

General Motors places in second with nine recalls, followed by Toyota (seven), Forest River (six), Hyundai (six), Grand Design RV (five) and BMW (five).

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