Ford Motor has issued a recall for approximately 238,000 Explorers due to a defect that could result in the SUVs rolling away if the parking brake is not engaged. The affected models, manufactured between 2020 and 2022, have been discontinued. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) stated that a fracture in the rear axle horizontal mounting bolt could cause the drive shaft to disconnect, potentially leading to a loss of drive power or a vehicle rollaway. The NHTSA emphasized that both scenarios increase the risk of a crash. Ford previously addressed the risk of rollaway with a software update, but the latest recall requires the inspection of all affected vehicles.
In a previous recall, Ford had knowledge of 396 instances of rear axle bolt failures, with less than 5% resulting in a roll-in-park or loss of power situation. However, in the latest recall, Ford is required to inspect all vehicles affected by the defect, whereas previously, inspections were only conducted if there was a failure, and the faulty parts were replaced for free. Letters notifying owners of the recall are set to be mailed on November 6, and drivers can also check if their vehicle is included in the recall by entering their Vehicle Identification Number or the year and model on Ford’s website. Ford has reported no accidents or injuries related to the defect, according to NHTSA documents.
The frequency of vehicle recalls in the United States has been increasing in recent years. A report by McKinsey & Company revealed that in 2016, the U.S. auto industry exceeded 1,000 vehicle recalls for the first time, and in 2017, approximately three vehicles were recalled for every vehicle sold. In 2022, Ford recalled 2.9 million vehicles, including 1.7 million Ford Escape SUVs, due to a potential defect that could cause them to move despite being in the park position. There has also been a significant recall of 52 million airbag inflaters, susceptible to rupture, used by multiple carmakers. While airbag-related recalls dominated in the past, the increasing complexity of vehicle features has led to more recalls related to software and electronic problems.
