Category Archives: Ford

News about Ford automobile manufacturer. News about Ford recalls, technical service bulletins (TSB), and problems regarding Ford vehicles.

2024 Ford Mustang Low Voltage Problem

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The 2024 Ford Mustang has recently come under scrutiny due to a low voltage problem affecting the Remote Cluster Box (RCB). This issue can result in significant communication disruptions and software initialization problems that prevent the Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) from functioning as intended. Here’s a breakdown of the problem and the potential risks.

The low voltage events impacting the 2024 Mustang can lead to the IPC failing to illuminate during vehicle startup or a drive cycle. When this occurs, the IPC goes completely dark, leaving the driver without crucial information, such as telltales and gauges. These elements are essential for the safe operation of the vehicle and are regulated under Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS), including:

  • FMVSS 101: Controls and displays
  • FMVSS 102: Transmission shift lever sequence, starter interlock, and transmission braking effect
  • FMVSS 108, 126, 135, 138, and 208: Additional standards related to lighting, electronic stability control, braking, tire pressure, and occupant protection

The malfunctioning IPC means safety-related telltales and gauges, like those for speed, fuel level, or warning indicators, become unreadable. This significantly raises the risk of a crash, as the driver cannot access critical safety information.

Problem Chronology

The timeline of events provides insight into how Ford discovered and began addressing the issue:

  1. August 20, 2024: The Flat Rock Assembly Plant’s Plant Vehicle Team (PVT) identified the IPC illumination problem during an analysis of warranty claims. The issue was escalated to Ford’s Critical Concern Review Group (CCRG) for a thorough review.
  2. August to October 2024: The CCRG conducted an extensive warranty claims analysis, examining whether similar problems affected other Ford vehicle lines using the same type of IPC. Fortunately, no other models showed the same failure.
  3. June 11 to October 7, 2024: Ford identified 58 warranty claims related to this issue in Mustang vehicles. Notably, there were no Vehicle Owner Questionnaires (VOQs) reported for this condition.
  4. October 18, 2024: The concern was presented to Ford’s Field Review Committee, which approved a field action to address the defect.

Although Ford is not aware of any accidents or injuries linked to the low voltage problem, the malfunction poses a significant safety risk. A non-illuminated IPC can make it impossible for drivers to monitor vital vehicle functions, potentially leading to hazardous situations on the road. The inability to see essential gauges or receive visual warnings compromises the driver’s ability to respond appropriately to changing vehicle conditions.

Ford dealers will update the IPC software to ensure the cluster functions correctly, eliminating the risk of low voltage events causing display failures.

  • Owner Notifications: Ford plans to mail notification letters to affected Mustang owners starting November 11, 2024.
  • Recall Information: The recall is identified by Ford as 24C35 and registered with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) under campaign number 24V-802.

If you own a 2024 Ford Mustang, it is crucial to stay informed about this recall and ensure your vehicle receives the necessary software update. This simple fix will help keep your Mustang safe and compliant with federal safety regulations.

Electrical Issues Affecting 2024 Ford Explorer and Bronco Sport Models

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battery problemsFord Motor Company has announced two significant recalls affecting its 2024 Explorer and Bronco Sport vehicles. Both recalls involve electrical issues that could potentially lead to serious problems for vehicle owners. Here’s what you need to know about each recall:

2024 Ford Explorer Recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V-685)

Ford is recalling certain 2024 Explorer models equipped with 3.3L Hybrid engines. The issue stems from the 12-volt battery cable, which may chafe against the Belt-integrated Starter Generator (BiSG). If this occurs, it could lead to a short circuit.

This kind of electrical short can cause the vehicle to lose power, increasing the risk of a crash. In some cases, the short circuit could also result in a fire hazard. Ford is taking action to notify owners and replace or repair affected parts to ensure safety.

Key Concerns:

  • Affected Vehicles: 2024 Ford Explorers with 3.3L Hybrid engines
  • Problem: 12-volt battery cable could chafe against the BiSG, leading to a short circuit
  • Risks: Potential loss of power and fire hazard

2024 Ford Bronco Sport Recall (NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V-683)

The second recall involves certain 2024 Ford Bronco Sport vehicles. In these models, the body and powertrain control modules may fail to detect changes in the state of charge of the 12-volt battery. This issue can lead to incorrect readings and could affect the vehicle’s performance.

If the control modules fail to detect the battery’s actual charge, the vehicle may stall unexpectedly, which could increase the risk of an accident. Ford plans to update the control module software to fix the issue.

Key Concerns:

  • Affected Vehicles: 2024 Ford Bronco Sport
  • Problem: Control modules may not detect changes in the battery’s state of charge
  • Risks: Vehicle stalling unexpectedly, raising the likelihood of accidents

Ford will notify owners of the affected vehicles and instruct them to take their cars to authorized dealers for inspection and repair. The repairs, include replacing cables or updating control module software.

If you own a 2024 Ford Explorer Hybrid or Bronco Sport, it’s important to stay alert for communication from Ford about these recalls. In the meantime, you can also contact Ford’s customer service or visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website to check if your vehicle is part of the recall. By addressing these issues promptly, Ford aims to prevent potential accidents and ensure the continued safety of their customers.

Ford And Lincoln Engine Intake Valves May Break

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Ford Motor Company (Ford) have discovered a defect affecting certain 2021-2022 Bronco, F-150, Edge, Explorer, Lincoln Nautilus, and Lincoln Aviator vehicles equipped with either a 2.7L or 3.0L Nano EcoBoost engine. The engine intake valves may break while driving, which can result in engine failure and a loss of drive power.

The following vehicle models are affected by this recall:

2021-2022 Ford Bronco
2021-2022 Ford Edge
2021-2022 Ford Explorer
2021-2022 Ford F-150
2021-2022 Lincoln Aviator
2021-2022 Ford Bronco

In January 2022, an investigation was opened into certain 2021 Lincoln Aviator and Nautilus vehicles equipped with 2.7L and 3.0L Nano EcoBoost engines after 22 instances of engine failure were reported within three months of service. The issue involved left-hand engine intake valve fractures, which led to catastrophic engine damage and Loss of Motive Power (LOMP). A tear down analysis confirmed intake valve fractures in 251 engines from warranty repairs.

Ford traced the problem to intake valves exceeding the hardness specification due to faulty grinding processes by the supplier. The intake valve material was changed for vehicles produced after October 31, 2021, to improve robustness.

On May 5, 2022, Ford opened an internal investigation into early intake valve fractures, and on May 27, 2022, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) began its own investigation after receiving reports from Ford Bronco owners. NHTSA expanded the scope of the investigation in July 2022.

On September 29, 2023, NHTSA expanded their investigation to include all 2021 and 2022 Ford/Lincoln models with 2.7L and 3.0L engines. As of August 9, 2024, Ford reported 811 global warranty claims and 267 field reports related to fractured intake valves. On August 16, 2024, Ford’s Field Review Committee approved a field action to address the issue.

Dealers will perform an engine cycle test and replace the engine as necessary. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed October 7, 2024. Ford’s number for this recall is 24S55 and the NHTSA campaign number is 24V-635.

Steering Wheel Could Unexpectedly Turn

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The secondary steering torque sensor may not be properly calibrated on certain 2018-2023 Ford Mustang, 2018-2020 Ford F-150, 2018-2021 Ford Expedition, and 2018-2021 Lincoln Navigator vehicles. These vehicles are equipped with electronic power assist steering (EPAS) gears, which were installed as replacement service parts and are now found to have potential calibration issues.

This issue came to light when Ford’s Critical Concern Review Group (CCRG) was alerted by the supplier about an assembly problem affecting certain steering gears. To thoroughly understand the extent of this problem, Ford’s CCRG conducted a detailed review that included examining supplier maintenance records, warranty reports, and vehicle testing data. The findings prompted Ford’s Field Review Committee to decide on issuing a recall to address the defect.

The defect report indicates that the electronic Power Assist Steering (EPAS) gears, which were sold as service parts, may have an incorrectly calibrated secondary digital torque sensor in the steering gear. Specifically, the polarity of this sensor may be inverted. If the primary steering torque sensor fails or develops a fault, and the secondary digital torque sensor’s polarity is inverted, the steering wheel could start oscillating without warning. This means the steering wheel might alternate between clockwise and counterclockwise movements when the driver attempts to steer, leading to unintended steering assist from the electronic power steering gear.

This oscillation poses a significant safety risk as it can make steering unpredictable and difficult to control, potentially leading to accidents. Recognizing the severity of this issue, Ford has taken measures to address it.

Ford dealers will update the Power Steering Control Module (PSCM) software in the affected vehicles to correct the calibration issue. This update is intended to ensure the proper functioning of the secondary torque sensor, thereby preventing the unintended steering oscillation.

Owner notification letters were mailed on August 5, 2024, to inform vehicle owners about the recall and the necessary steps to have their vehicles repaired. Ford has assigned this recall the number 24S45, and it is also registered under the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) campaign number 24E-055.

Improperly Secured Clutch Pressure Line

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Ford Issues Recall for Certain 2024 Mustang Models Due to Under Hood Fire Risk

Ford Motor Company (Ford) have identified a problem that could potentially lead to under hood fires in certain 2024 Mustang vehicles. Owners of the affected vehicles will receive notification letters with detailed instructions on how to get the necessary repairs. These letters are expected to be mailed by June 17th, 2024.

Discovery of the Problem

Ford became aware of the issue in April 2024 after receiving two reports of under hood fire allegations in 2024 Mustang models equipped with manual transmissions. Upon receiving these reports, Ford’s Critical Concern Review Group (CCRG) promptly conducted inspections of both vehicles to determine the root cause of the fires. Following their investigation, the company decided to issue a recall to address the identified defect.

Details of the Defect

The defect report indicates that the vehicle’s clutch pressure line may not be properly secured to the vehicle’s firewall stud. An improperly retained clutch pressure line can come into contact with hot exhaust components and potentially melt, leading to brake fluid leakage. Although this leakage does not affect the brake system’s fluid volume or functionality, it can significantly impact the clutch system. Specifically, the defect can result in an inability to change gears, and in certain situations, the engine may stall when the throttle is released. Moreover, if the leaked brake fluid accumulates near a hot surface, there is a risk of smoke and an under hood fire, posing a serious safety hazard.

Recall Details and Repair Process

To address this issue, Ford dealers will inspect the clutch pressure line and perform necessary repairs to ensure it is properly retained. The recall has been assigned Ford’s internal number 24S36, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) campaign number is 24V-394.

What Should Owners Do?

If you own a 2024 Mustang, especially one with a manual transmission, it is crucial to stay informed about this recall. Keep an eye out for the notification letter from Ford, which will provide specific instructions on how to proceed with the necessary repairs. In the meantime, if you experience any issues with your vehicle’s clutch or observe any unusual smoke from under the hood , contact your local Ford dealer for repairs, immediately.

Could Your Vehicle Be A Lemon?

The Lemon Law is a consumer protection statute designed to provide relief to car buyers who purchase vehicles that fail to meet quality and performance standards. It ensures that consumers can seek recourse if their new car has serious defects that the manufacturer cannot fix within a reasonable number of attempts. An essential aspect of leveraging the Lemon Law is maintaining accurate and detailed paperwork whenever your vehicle undergoes repairs. This documentation includes repair orders, work performed, dates, and technician notes. Accurate records are crucial because they serve as evidence of the recurring issues and the attempts made to resolve them, which can substantiate a Lemon Law claim. Without proper documentation, proving that your vehicle qualifies as a “lemon” can be challenging, potentially hindering your ability to receive a replacement, refund, or compensation.

Ford Hybrid – Unexpected Neutral Shifting

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Ford Escape GearshiftFord has discovered a problem affecting specific hybrid vehicles, including the 2022-2024 Maverick, 2020-2022 Escape, and 2021-2022 Lincoln Corsair models. These vehicles may contain software that could cause the vehicle to shift into neutral unexpectedly.

Investigation and Findings

In March 2024, Ford’s Critical Concern Review Group (CCRG) initiated an investigation following field reports indicating that some vehicles were shifting to neutral after receiving a Hybrid Powertrain Control Module (HPCM) software update at dealerships. The powertrain controls and calibration team discovered that the new Hybrid Transmission Internal Park Module (HTIPM) software, which had been released for service in January 2024, was incorrectly detecting noise in the Park Motor Position Sensor. This led to the generation of erroneous Park Motor Position Sensor Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs) U1010 and U1011.

Field Action Approval

On May 3, 2024, Ford’s Field Review Committee examined the issue and approved a field action to address the problem. According to the defect report, the affected vehicles received HPCM software that could force the vehicle into a neutral state while driving. As the vehicle coasts to a stop, the transmission will automatically shift to “Park”. Despite this issue, drivers retain functionality for power braking and power steering. Once the driver shifts back to drive, the vehicle enters a limp home mode, which provides limited torque at low speeds up to 30 mph.

Reported Incidents and Warranty Claims

Ford has reported 315 warranty claims in North America and 125 Vehicle Owner Questionnaires (VOQs) that may be related to this software issue. These incidents highlight the importance of addressing the defect to ensure driver safety and vehicle reliability.

Recall Details and Owner Notification

To rectify the problem, dealers will update the HPCM software free of charge. Ford plans to mail owner notification letters starting on May 23, 2024. For reference, Ford’s recall number for this issue is 24S33, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) campaign number is 24V-330.

Owners of the affected vehicles are encouraged to contact their dealers promptly to schedule the necessary software update. Ensuring that your vehicle receives this update is crucial for maintaining optimal performance and safety.

Summary

  • Affected Vehicles: 2022-2024 Ford Maverick, 2020-2022 Ford Escape, and 2021-2022 Lincoln Corsair hybrid models.
  • Issue: Software may cause unexpected shifts into neutral.
  • Investigation Start: March 2024 by Ford’s CCRG.
  • Findings: Noise in Park Motor Position Sensor detected by HTIPM software, causing erroneous DTCs U1010 and U1011.
  • Action Approved: May 3, 2024, by Ford’s Field Review Committee.
  • Incidents Reported: 315 warranty claims and 125 VOQs in North America.
  • Solution: HPCM software update by dealers.
  • Owner Notification: Letters to be mailed starting May 23, 2024.
  • Recall Numbers: Ford 24S33, NHTSA 24V-330.

Ford Bronco & Maverick Undetected Low Battery

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In recent years, advancements in automotive technology have led to increasingly sophisticated control systems within vehicles, aimed at enhancing performance, efficiency, and safety. However, with these advancements come the potential for unforeseen challenges and issues to arise.

One such challenge has been identified in certain models of Ford vehicles, specifically the 2021-2024 Ford Bronco Sport and the 2022-2023 Ford Maverick. The concern centers around the failure of the body control module (BCM) and powertrain control module (PCM) to accurately detect changes in the state of charge of the 12-volt battery. This oversight has significant implications, as it could result in a loss of drive power, thereby increasing the risk of accidents and compromising the safety of both drivers and passengers.

The issue first came to light in October 2023, when the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Office of Defects Investigation (NHTSA ODI) initiated an inquiry following reports of loss of motive power (LOMP) and subsequent loss of 12-volt accessories in 2021 model year Bronco Sport vehicles. Upon receiving 29 potentially relevant Vehicle Owner Questionnaires (VOQs) from NHTSA, Ford’s Critical Concern Review Group (CCRG) promptly launched an investigation to delve deeper into the matter.

Subsequent testing and analysis revealed a fundamental flaw in the BCM and PCM calibrations, rendering them incapable of accurately detecting battery failure in the affected vehicles. This deficiency becomes particularly pronounced during instances where the alternator struggles to meet the electrical load demand or during Auto Stop-Start events. As a result, drivers may experience unexpected loss of drive power, posing a serious safety hazard.

In response to these findings, Ford’s Field Review Committee took decisive action and authorized a vehicle recall to address the underlying issue. Under the recall, authorized dealerships will undertake corrective measures by re-calibrating the BCM and PCM to ensure accurate monitoring of the 12-volt battery state of charge. The recall process is expected to commence soon, with owner notification letters slated to be mailed out on May 13, 2024.

However, the implications of this issue extend beyond the immediate safety concerns. Ford acknowledges a significant number of warranty reports, field reports, and customer complaints related to this issue, totalling 917, 11, and 54 respectively. Moreover, there have been alarming reports of three unverified incidents of fire and two property damage claims allegedly linked to this concern. These statistics underscore the urgency of addressing the issue promptly and comprehensively.

In light of these developments, Ford has assigned a unique recall number, 24S24, and the corresponding NHTSA campaign number is 24V-267.

The Steering Knuckle And Strut May Be Loose In Certain 2023 Ford Explorer Vehicles

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In a recent announcement, Ford has highlighted a critical concern affecting a specific subset of its 2023 Ford Explorer vehicles. The issue revolves around the right-front lower fastener connecting the steering knuckle and strut, which may either be loose or missing altogether. This problem can have significant repercussions on the vehicle’s performance and safety.

A loose or missing connection between the knuckle and strut can lead to improper tire alignment, potentially causing steering pulls or requiring increased steering effort. Moreover, the proximity of the brake hose to the tire in this compromised setup poses an additional risk. If the hose comes into contact with the tire, it may sustain damage resulting in a brake fluid leak, ultimately leading to a loss of braking ability. These circumstances significantly elevate the likelihood of a crash, underscoring the severity of the situation.

Upon receiving a report of a missing fastener,Ford’s Critical Concern Review Group (CCRG) initiated an investigation at the beginning of January 2024. The Plant Vehicle Team (PVT) at the Assembly Plant promptly identified the issue during a routine warranty claim review. Further analysis revealed that the primary double spindle fixture tool responsible for securing the right front knuckle-to-strut fasteners was offline for repairs during a specific period. This temporary setback affected a limited number of vehicles, with Ford confirming that out of 121 Explorer rotations, only one vehicle was found to have a missing fastener. Nonetheless, the company is taking proactive steps to address the concern.

While Ford has not identified any vehicle owner questionnaires (VOQs) related to this condition, it’s crucial for affected vehicle owners to remain vigilant. Signs of potential issues include a visually detectable tire leaning inward at the top or changes in steering effort or pull. Additionally, if there are any indications of tire contact with the strut or spring seat, such as abrasion damage or a burning smell, prompt action is necessary.

In response to this concern, Ford has announced a field action to have the affected vehicles inspected. Dealers will thoroughly examine the fasteners and take appropriate measures, such as tightening or installing them as needed, to rectify the issue. Affected vehicle owners can reference Ford’s recall number 24S04 and the corresponding NHTSA campaign number 24V-091 for further information and to schedule inspections.

Importance of Keeping Records for Lemon Vehicles:

Maintaining detailed records of repairs and maintenance for your vehicle is essential, especially if you suspect that your vehicle might be a lemon. Lemon laws vary by jurisdiction, but generally, they provide recourse for consumers who have purchased a defective vehicle that the manufacturer has failed to repair adequately within a reasonable number of attempts.

Keeping comprehensive records serves several purposes. Firstly, it provides documentation of the issues you’ve experienced and the attempts made to address them, which can be crucial evidence if you need to pursue legal action under lemon laws. Additionally, it helps establish a pattern of recurring problems, strengthening your case for a vehicle replacement or refund.

Furthermore, detailed records can expedite the repair process by providing technicians with essential information about past issues and repairs. This can help diagnose and resolve problems more efficiently, minimizing inconvenience for you as the owner.

In summary, maintaining thorough records of repairs and maintenance is not only good practice for vehicle ownership but can also be invaluable if you find yourself grappling with a lemon. By documenting issues and repairs diligently, you empower yourself to assert your rights as a consumer and seek appropriate recourse if necessary.