Ford Recall Struggles

Recall Update

It looks like Ford is at it again with yet another round of vehicle recalls, piling onto what seems like a never-ending saga. This year, they’ve hit a whopping 59 recalls. Meanwhile, automakers like Volkswagen aren’t even close, standing at just 15 recalls. If that doesn’t speak volumes, I’m not sure what does. This latest batch involves 6,733 vehicles and targets issues that were supposedly fixed in previous recalls. In this case, a do-over is in order.

Lincoln Aviator & Corsair

The Lincoln Aviator and Corsair models from 2020 to 2023 are seeing yet another callback—3,227 units, to be precise. The focus is on their Revel audio systems, which failed to receive the right software updates the first time around. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) flagged that the seat belt warning system might fall short, offering just under four seconds of sound if unused. Federal standards require more than that, turning this into a regulatory compliance issue rather than a significant safety concern.

The silver lining? A whopping 94.2% of these vehicles did eventually get the correct software—but there are a few stragglers out there that still need fixing. So, anyone driving one of these models will need to make another pit stop at the local dealership for an updated audio control module installation.

Ford Transit

On the other hand, those Ford Transit vans from 2022 and 2023 aren’t out of the woods either. A similar software headache affects 3,506 of these vehicles. The problem lies in the 4.2-inch display on the dashboard that isn’t lighting up as it should or showing those crucial warning lights. Much like the Aviators and Corsairs, these Transits were marked as repaired but didn’t actually get the essential software update.

The root cause? An oversight where a software tool didn’t upload the right patch. Once again, a trip to the dealership is in the cards. The updated software for that cluster display should get everything back on track.

Driving Experience

Now, circling back to the whole driving experience with these vehicles—once sorted, both the Lincoln models and the Ford Transits offer a rich experience. The Aviator excels with its plush interior and smooth ride, cruising comfortably along highways. Compared to other luxury SUVs, it holds its own with refined handling and robust powertrains. Meanwhile, the Ford Transit remains a workhorse. Capable and versatile, it meets the needs of those who require both people-moving and cargo-hauling capabilities. Its capability puts it in the same category as vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, giving users that utilitarian utility without scrimping on comfort.

So, despite the back-and-forth trouble with recalls, Ford’s on the case. Once those software kinks are ironed out, these vehicles should deliver the quality ride expected from their badges.