Safety Concerns Surrounding Ford Recalls Intensify
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has launched two new investigations into Ford recalls, further scrutinizing the automaker’s practices. This development comes on the heels of Ford agreeing to a $165 million civil penalty last week, following an NHTSA investigation that revealed the company’s failure to recall vehicles with defective rearview cameras in a timely manner.
Seat Belt Issues Under Investigation
One of the new investigations focuses on potential seat belt problems affecting 112,000 Ford Expedition SUVs. The NHTSA has received three complaints alleging an inadvertent deployment of the seat belt retractor pretensioner, resulting in a loud sound, rapid tightening, and subsequent locking of the seat belt. Although Ford recalled 77,000 Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator SUVs in February for this issue, the NHTSA is now examining whether the recall was sufficient.
Power Loss Concerns Persist
The second investigation centers on Ford’s recall of 456,000 Bronco Sport and Ford Maverick vehicles due to a loss of power caused by sudden degradation of the 12-volt battery. Despite the recall fix, which involves a series of software updates designed to improve detection of the 12-volt battery state of charge, the NHTSA has received 15 reports of continued power loss incidents in Ford Bronco Sport vehicles that received the software update.
Ford’s Commitment to Cooperation
Ford has stated its commitment to working with the NHTSA to support both investigations. As part of the recent settlement with the NHTSA, Ford is required to conduct a thorough review of all recalls filed in the last three years and, if necessary, file new recalls. The company must also ensure accurate and complete reporting, as well as public accessibility of vehicle recall information.
A History of Compliance Issues
The NHTSA’s settlement with Ford highlights the company’s past failures, including providing inaccurate or incomplete information, failing to submit timely quarterly reports, and not fully complying with public availability of vehicle recall information. While Ford disagrees with the NHTSA’s assessment, the company’s actions will be closely monitored to ensure compliance and consumer safety.
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