Ford Motor Company Recalls Select Models for Fire and Crash Risks

Ford Motor Company is initiating two separate safety recalls affecting a total of over 100,000 vehicles due to potential safety defects that could lead to engine fires or crashes. The recalls, reported to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), address distinct issues in various Ford and Lincoln models, including the Mustang, Explorer, Maverick, and Escape.

The first recall addresses a defect in the engine’s cylinder head assembly. According to Ford, under oil pressure during operation, engine cylinder head ball plugs may become dislodged due to insufficient retention force. This can result in an oil leak, which, if exposed to an ignition source like hot engine components, increases the risk of a fire. Additionally, a significant loss of oil can lead to engine seizure and a loss of motive power, thereby elevating the potential for a crash. The issue stems from a manufacturing error where a cylinder head was rejected at Ford’s Dearborn Engine Plant for low press force during ball plug installation but was then improperly reintroduced into production without complete repair and verification. Customers may notice a low oil pressure warning light, an oil leak, a burning smell, white smoke, or unusual engine noise. Ford is not aware of any accidents or injuries related to this specific defect. This recall impacts a small number of vehicles, including one 2026 Lincoln Corsair, one 2025 Ford Maverick, two 2026 Ford Mustangs, and two 2026 Ford Explorers. The remedy involves replacing the affected cylinder head assembly at no charge to the owner. The VINs for these affected vehicles are expected to be searchable starting November 24, 2025.

The second, more extensive recall involves certain 2020-2022 and 2025 Ford Escape vehicles equipped with a panoramic roof option. The issue concerns the liftgate hinge covers, which may detach from the vehicle while driving. This detachment can occur due to improper installation of the covers during assembly for the earlier models, or a loss of adhesion of the DUAL LOCK™ retention patches for the later models, exacerbated by potential contact with the liftgate during opening. The detached hinge cover can become a road hazard for other vehicles, increasing the risk of a crash, and may also serve as a distraction to other drivers. Owners may observe that the hinge cover is not flush with the roof, or they may hear wind noise and rattling from the vehicle. Ford is aware of 1,835 warranty claims related to this issue and one NHTSA consumer complaint potentially linked to this concern. No accidents or injuries have been reported by Ford in connection with this defect. This recall affects approximately 102,350 units of the 2020-2022 Ford Escape and 6,412 units of the 2025 Ford Escape. The remedy will involve dealers removing, inspecting, and properly reinstalling or securing the liftgate hinge covers. Any missing or damaged components will be replaced. Owners will be notified by mail and instructed to bring their vehicles to a dealer for the free service. The VINs for these vehicles will be searchable starting December 3, 2025. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed starting in January 2026.

Owners of the affected Ford and Lincoln vehicles are advised to contact their local Ford or Lincoln dealer for further information regarding the recalls and to schedule their vehicle for the necessary repairs. The company is not aware of any sold vehicles in the first recall, but owners of the Escape models are encouraged to seek immediate attention once they are notified or can check their vehicle’s VIN for eligibility.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from Ford Motor Company

---