Ford recalls 420,000 vehicles in 2018-2022 Ford Safety Recall
Ford Motor is recalling nearly 420,000 vehicles in the 2018-2022 Ford Safety Recall after seat belts in certain Expedition and Lincoln models were found to may inadvertently lock. The company said it is aware of one injury, and owners will start getting notice letters by mail on June 8.
The recall carries number 26S34. Ford and Lincoln dealers will inspect the vehicles and replace the seat belt retractors at no cost, giving owners a repair path before the defect can affect passengers in a crash.
NHTSA on seat belt risk
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said the recall covers vehicles from model years 2018 to 2022. It said seat belts that do not retract or extend can fail to restrain an occupant as intended, increasing the risk of injury in a crash.
That language points to the core issue for drivers and passengers: a belt that appears in place may not work as designed when someone needs it most. Ford tied the action to certain Expedition and Lincoln vehicles, but the repair will be handled through dealers rather than through owner action alone.
Ford 26S34 dealer repairs
Ford said owners do not need to pay for the fix. Dealers will inspect the affected vehicles and replace the seat belt retractors at no cost, and the mailing date gives owners the first formal notice that their vehicle falls within the recall population.
For anyone driving one of the affected Expedition or Lincoln models, the immediate step is to watch for the mailed notice and arrange the dealer inspection once it arrives. The recall number 26S34 will be the reference point for service records and questions at the dealership.
Ford 26S36 Do Not Drive warning
Ford also issued a separate Do Not Drive warning for 4,653 Ford Maverick and Bronco Sport vehicles under recall number 26S36. Ford said the front lower control arm ball joints may have been incorrectly installed or incorrectly repaired at the vehicle assembly plant, allowing the control arm to disconnect from the front wheel knuckle.
That warning affects some 2021-2026 Bronco Sport vehicles and 2022-2026 Maverick vehicles. Ford advised owners not to drive those vehicles until the remedy is completed, and dealers will inspect and repair the defective parts free of charge.
