Ford Recall Includes 1.2M Explorers

DEARBORN, Mich. — Ford Motor Co. is issuing three safety recalls in North America and one for Canada only. The recalls affect a total of seven Ford and Lincoln models built between 2009 and 2017.

The first is for a rear suspension toe link fracture issue affecting 1.2 million 2011–’17 Ford Explorers. Vehicles that are exposed to frequent full rear suspension articulation — commonly known as “jounce” and “rebound” — may experience a fractured rear suspension toe link. A fracture of a rear toe link significantly diminishes steering control, increasing the risk of a crash.

One customer reported hitting a curb when the toe link broke. Ford executives said they were not aware of any reports of injury.

The factory also issued a recall for select 2013 Ford F-150 pickups with six-speed automatic transmission for a transmission calibration issue; specifically, those equipped with 5.0-liter and 6.2-liter gasoline engines that had the powertrain control module software reprogrammed as part of recall 19S07. Affected units require the installation of updates to ensure illumination of the malfunction indicator light in the event of an intermittent transmission output speed sensor signal.

Ford is also issuing a recall for select 2009–’16 Ford Econoline vans equipped with a 5R110W transmission, 5.4-liter engine, and a school bus or ambulance prep package. Affected vehicles contain a capacitive discharge weld within a coast clutch component in the transmission. A substandard weld may fatigue and fail, causing an elevated rate of reports of the loss of the ability to move in the subject vehicle applications. This action affects approximately 4,300 vehicles in North America.

Finally, Ford will recall select 2010–’17 Ford Taurus, 2009–’17 Ford Flex, 2009–’15 Lincoln MKS and 2010–’17 Lincoln MKT vehicles for a rear suspension toe link fracture issue. This action affects approximately 12,000 vehicles, all sold in Canada.

Executives said they were aware of one report of a crash with minor injuries related to the service action affecting Canada-sold Taurus, Flex, MKS, and MKT models.

To read the announcement in full, click here.