In early 2024, a significant Ford recall involved approximately 77,574 Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator models due to a critical issue with the seat belt retractor pretensioner.
Ford's Significant 2024 Recall
Ford initiated a recall in February 2024 addressing a specific safety concern in some of its popular SUV models. This recall focused on a malfunction that could unexpectedly affect vehicle occupants, highlighting the manufacturer's commitment to addressing potential safety risks.
Details of the February 2024 Recall
The core of this recall centers on an issue where the seat belt retractor pretensioner could deploy without warning. Under normal circumstances, pretensioners activate during a crash to quickly tighten the seat belt, securing the occupant. However, in the affected vehicles, some owners reported instances where the pretensioner deployed spontaneously, causing the seat belt to tighten and lock even when there was no crash or impact.
Here's a summary of the key details:
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Recall Date | February 2024 |
| Affected Models | Ford Expedition (certain models) and Lincoln Navigator (certain models) |
| Number of Units | Approximately 77,574 vehicles |
| Issue | Malfunctioning seat belt retractor pretensioner |
| Consequence | Unexpected deployment of the pretensioner, causing the seat belt to tighten and lock without a crash or impact. This could lead to a sudden and unexpected restriction of movement for the occupant. |
Understanding the Impact and Safety Concerns
An unexpected seat belt pretensioner deployment, even without an accident, poses several safety concerns:
- Driver Distraction: A sudden tightening and locking of the seat belt can startle or distract the driver, potentially leading to a loss of vehicle control.
- Occupant Discomfort/Injury: While not a crash, the force of an unexpected deployment could cause discomfort or minor injury, particularly if the occupant is not braced.
- Loss of Freedom of Movement: The seat belt locking up suddenly could restrict a driver's ability to operate the vehicle controls effectively.
What Should Owners Do?
If you own a 2024 Ford Expedition or Lincoln Navigator, or a model from a previous year that falls within the affected range, it's crucial to take the following steps:
- Check Your VIN: Use your vehicle identification number (VIN) to check for open recalls. You can typically do this on official manufacturer websites or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website.
- Visit Ford's Official Recall Site
- Visit NHTSA Recall Search
- Contact Your Dealer: If your vehicle is affected, schedule an appointment with an authorized Ford or Lincoln dealership. They will perform the necessary inspection and repair, which is typically done at no cost to the owner.
- Do Not Delay Repairs: Addressing recall issues promptly is vital for your safety and the safety of your passengers.
Staying Informed About Future Recalls
Vehicle recalls are part of ongoing safety efforts by manufacturers and regulatory bodies. To stay informed:
- Register Your Vehicle: Ensure your vehicle is registered with the manufacturer so you receive direct notifications about any future recalls.
- Regularly Check Online Databases: Periodically use the VIN lookup tools on manufacturer or NHTSA websites.
- Subscribe to Safety Alerts: Some organizations offer email alerts for new recalls affecting specific vehicle models.
