March 26, 2026
Ford is recalling over 4.3 million vehicles due to a software glitch that affects trailer lighting and braking systems. The recall impacts popular models like the F-150 and Lincoln Navigator, with fixes available through software updates.
Ford Motor Company has announced a significant recall affecting approximately 4.3 million vehicles due to a software defect that could compromise safety. The issue centers around the vehicle’s integrated trailer module, potentially leading to malfunctions in brake lights, turn signals, and even the braking system itself.
The Core Problem
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the affected vehicles may experience a loss of communication between the trailer module and the vehicle. This can result in the trailer’s brake lights and turn signals failing to operate correctly, or a complete loss of brake function on the trailer USA Today. Such malfunctions increase the risk of an accident by reducing the trailer’s visibility and potentially causing loss of control.
Which Vehicles Are Affected?
The recall encompasses a wide range of Ford and Lincoln models, including:
- 2026 Ford E-Transit
- 2022-2026 Ford Expedition
- 2021-2026 Ford F-150
- 2022-2026 Ford F-250 SD
- 2022-2026 Ford Maverick
- 2024-2026 Ford Ranger
- 2022-2026 Lincoln Navigator
The total number of vehicles included in the recall is approximately 4,380,609 USA Today. These vehicles were manufactured between 2021 and 2026, making this a substantial recall impacting a large number of drivers.
How Will Ford Address the Issue?
Ford is offering a fix for the problem through a software update. Vehicle owners can have the software updated at a Ford dealership free of charge. Ford is deploying an over-the-air software update to affected vehicles, allowing owners to resolve the issue remotely via the FordPass app USA Today.
Owners of impacted vehicles are expected to receive notification letters beginning on March 17, 2026, according to the NHTSA notice.
Recent Ford Recalls
This recall follows another recent Ford recall affecting over 410,000 SUVs due to a faulty suspension, which could lead to a loss of steering control. That recall covered 2017-2019 Ford Explorers USA Today. As of February 20, 2026, Ford was aware of two accidents potentially related to the suspension issue, but reported no injuries.
Ford has recalled 4.3 million vehicles due to a software glitch that could cause brake light and turn signal failure, as well as recalls for rearview camera issues and detached control arms on 2024-2025 F-150 Lightnings Montgomery County Police Reporter and MSN.
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