Ford is initiating a recall for over 600,000 vehicles in Canada and approximately 4.3 million in the United States due to a software malfunction that could lead to trailer brake failure and exterior light malfunctions. The affected models include select iterations of popular Ford vehicles like certain F-150s from 2021 to 2026, Super Duty trucks from 2022 to 2026, Rangers from 2024 to 2026, and Mavericks from 2022 to 2026.
The company plans to roll out an over-the-air software update for the impacted vehicles. Alternatively, customers can opt for mobile service or visit a Ford dealership to receive the update. The software update is expected to be accessible for most Canadian vehicles before March’s end and for all vehicles by the culmination of May.
An issue with the software may disrupt communication between the vehicle and trailer when towing, resulting in non-functional stop lamps and turn signals on the trailer. Additionally, there could be instances where the trailer’s braking system fails to operate. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has highlighted that malfunctioning trailer lights or brakes can impair the driver’s ability to control the trailer, elevating the risk of an accident.
Drivers will receive a “Trailer Brake Module Fault” alert and observe rapid flashing of the turn signal indicator if their vehicle encounters communication loss. Ford disclosed that while they are aware of 407 incidents possibly linked to the recall matter, there have been no reported accidents or injuries associated with it.