Lincoln – California Lemon Law blog

If you own certain Ford or Lincoln vehicles, a newly announced recall raises serious concerns about the reliability of key safety systems. A defect in the vehicle’s can cause critical features—including the rearview camera and driver-assistance systems to suddenly stop working.

What’s the Problem?

The issue affects the Image Processing Module A (IPMA), which is responsible for powering several important safety features.

Due to a software-related problem, the module may:

Unexpectedly reset
Lose functionality temporarily or permanently
Fail repeatedly over multiple drive cycles

When this happens, drivers may experience:

Loss of rearview camera image
Failure of pre-collision assist
Disabled lane-keeping assist
Malfunctioning blind-spot monitoring

In some cases, repeated resets can lead to a persistent loss of these features altogether.

Why This Is Dangerous

The most immediate safety concern is the loss of the rearview camera, which is required for safe backing. Without a working rearview camera, the risk of a crash during reversing increases significantly. Even more concerning is the loss of multiple Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) at the same time—features that drivers rely on to prevent collisions and stay in their lane. This is not a minor glitch—it’s a system-wide safety failure.

What’s Causing the Issue?

Ford has identified the root cause as a computational overload in the IPMA system.

When the vehicle is in dense traffic environments
With many moving objects (cars, pedestrians, etc.)
The system becomes overwhelmed

This overload can trigger a reset of the module, and repeated resets can eventually cause the system to stop functioning altogether.

Warning Signs Drivers May See

If your vehicle is affected, you may notice warning messages such as:

“Front Camera Fault”
“Pre-Collision Assist Not Available”
“Lane-Keeping System Off”

Additionally:

Blind-spot indicator lights may illuminate unexpectedly

These warnings are a strong indication that the system is not functioning properly.

How the Problem Was Discovered

The issue first surfaced through an increase in warranty claims, particularly involving fleet vehicles like the Lincoln Aviator used in livery services.

Ford’s Critical Concern Review Group (CCRG) launched a detailed investigation, including:

Simulation testing
Real-world driving evaluations
Analysis of warranty and connected vehicle data

Although the issue was initially difficult to reproduce, patterns began to emerge:

Higher occurrence in urban environments
Greater impact on livery and fleet vehicles
Strong link to vehicles with specific sensor configurations (5 radar sensors)

After further review and discussions with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Ford reopened the investigation in March 2026 and ultimately approved a recall.

Affected Vehicles

This issue may affect certain:

2022–2025 Lincoln Navigator
2024–2025 Lincoln Nautilus
2025 Lincoln Aviator
2025 Ford Explore

Recall Details

Ford Recall Number: 26S21
NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V-165
Fix: Software update to the IPMA system
- Performed at a dealer or via over-the-air (OTA) update
Owner Notification: Expected March 30, 2026

Ford has stated that it is not aware of any accidents or injuries related to this issue—but that does not reduce the seriousness of the defect.

Is This a California Lemon Law Case?

This type of defect may qualify under the California Lemon Law, especially if:

The issue affects vehicle safety systems
Repairs fail to permanently fix the problem
The vehicle requires multiple dealer visits
The defect substantially impairs the use, value, or safety of the vehicle

What Should You Do?

If you own one of these vehicles:

Watch for warning messages
Document every issue and repair visit
Schedule service as soon as possible
Follow up if the issue persists after repair

If the problem continues, it may be time to explore your legal options.

Final Thoughts

Modern vehicles depend heavily on advanced electronics to keep drivers safe. But when those systems fail – especially unpredictably – it creates a serious risk. A vehicle that cannot reliably detect hazards or even show you what is behind you is not functioning as intended. If your Ford or Lincoln is experiencing these issues, do not ignore the warning signs. This is exactly the type of defect California lemon law was designed to address.

If your vehicle’s backup camera suddenly flips, goes black, or fails when you shift into reverse, you are not alone. Ford Motor Company have identified two major safety defects affecting more than 1.7 million vehicles due to rearview camera failures that increase the risk of accidents.

Recall #1 — Rearview Image Flips or Inverts

NHTSA Campaign: 26V123000
Vehicles Affected: 889,950

Affected Models

2020–2022 Ford Escape
2020–2022 Lincoln Corsair
2020–2024 Lincoln Aviator
2020–2024 Ford Explorer

What’s the Problem?

The image displayed on the center screen may flip or invert when the vehicle is placed in reverse. Drivers may see a distorted or incorrect rear view, making it difficult to judge distance or detect obstacles. This defect violates federal rear visibility requirements and significantly increases the risk of a crash when backing up.

Safety Standard Involved

The vehicles fail to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 111 (Rear Visibility), which requires a clear and accurate rear camera image while reversing.

Recall Status

Fix: Still under development
Owner notification letters: Begin April 17, 2026
Final repair notice: Expected Q2 2026
Ford Recall Number: 26C11

Recall #2 — Rearview Camera May Shut Down Completely

NHTSA Campaign: 26V124000
Vehicles Affected: 849,310

Affected Models

2021–2026 Ford Bronco
2021–2024 Ford Edge

What’s the Problem?

The vehicle’s Accessory Protocol Interface Module (APIM) may overheat and shut down. When this happens, the rearview camera image may not appear at all.

A blank camera screen when reversing can prevent drivers from seeing pedestrians, vehicles, or objects behind them.

Recall Status

Fix: Software update
Repair method:
- Dealer service
- Over-the-air (OTA) update
Owner notification letters: Begin March 30, 2026
Ford Recall Number: 26S09

Why These Recalls Matter

Rearview cameras are not just convenience features — they are federally mandated safety systems designed to prevent:

Backover pedestrian accidents
Collisions with objects or vehicles
Injuries in parking lots and driveways

When these systems malfunction, drivers lose a critical safety tool.

Both recalls involve failures of the same safety function:

Drivers cannot reliably see what is behind the vehicle while reversing.

California Lemon Law — When a Recall Becomes a Legal Case

A recall alone does not automatically qualify a vehicle as a lemon. However, you may have a California Lemon Law claim if:

✔ The camera problem continues after multiple repair attempts
✔ The defect substantially impairs vehicle safety
✔ The manufacturer cannot fix the issue within a reasonable time
✔ Your vehicle is still under warranty

Backup camera failures are often considered serious safety defects, especially when they affect visibility and accident risk.

Free Legal Help for California Drivers

If your recalled Ford continues to have rearview camera problems, you do not have to fight the manufacturer alone.

California Lemon Law attorneys can:

Review your repair history
Determine eligibility
Handle the claim process
Negotiate directly with Ford

Most claims are handled at no cost to the vehicle owner.

Get a Free Case Review Today

Rearview camera defects can put you and your family at risk. If your Ford vehicle has ongoing camera issues related to these recalls, you may qualify for compensation under California law.

Contact us today for a free Lemon Law case evaluation.

Ford Motor Company has expanded a significant safety recall affecting certain plug-in hybrid vehicles after discovering that additional high-voltage battery cells may be susceptible to failure. The recall impacts thousands of Ford Escape and Lincoln Corsair plug-in hybrid vehicles and raises concerns about sudden loss of power and potential fire risk.

The expanded recall is listed under NHTSA Campaign Number 26V-091 and covers approximately 24,690 vehicles nationwide.

What Vehicles Are Affected?

The recall applies to:

2023–2025 Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid (PHEV)
2023–2026 Lincoln Corsair Plug-In Hybrid

These vehicles may contain high-voltage battery cells manufactured before updated supplier quality controls were implemented in October 2024. This action expands earlier recalls addressing the same underlying battery defect.

What Is the Battery Problem?

According to Ford and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), certain high-voltage battery cells may develop an internal short circuit due to manufacturing variability.

Investigators determined that inconsistencies during battery production may create microscopic defects inside the battery cell. These defects can damage the separator layer between the cathode and anode — a critical safety component designed to prevent internal electrical contact. If the separator becomes compromised, the battery cell may fail.

Safety Risks Associated With the Defect

A battery internal short circuit can lead to serious safety issues, including:

Sudden shutdown of the vehicle’s propulsion system
Display of a “Stop Safely Now” warning message
Loss of motive power while driving
Battery thermal venting
Increased risk of vehicle fire

Ford states that steering, braking, and lighting systems remain functional during a propulsion shutdown, but loss of power while driving significantly increases the risk of a crash or injury.

Why the Recall Was Expanded

Ford previously issued recalls (24V-954 and 25SC4/25V-789) covering vehicles with battery cells manufactured before April 1, 2023.

However, continued investigation revealed that the issue extended beyond the originally identified production window.

After reviewing field reports and conducting battery tear-downs and manufacturing analysis, Ford determined that battery cells produced until additional supplier quality controls were implemented on October 10, 2024 may also be vulnerable.

As of February 10, 2026:

Two battery venting incidents were reported in Europe outside the original recall population.
Ford reports no known U.S. incidents, accidents, or injuries related to the expanded population.

Warning Signs Drivers May Experience

Drivers experiencing a battery failure may notice:

A red “Stop Safely Now” message displayed on the instrument cluster
Sudden loss of propulsion power
Warning alerts related to the hybrid system

If this message appears, drivers should safely pull over as soon as possible.

What Owners Should Do Right Now

Because a permanent repair is still being developed, Ford has issued interim safety instructions.

Owners are advised to:

Use “Auto EV” mode only
Limit battery charging to 80% capacity
Follow instructions provided in owner notification letters

Ford expects interim notification letters to be mailed beginning March 6, 2026, with additional letters sent once a final repair becomes available.

Recall Information

Manufacturer Recall Number: 25SC4
NHTSA Campaign Number: 26V-091000
Expanded Recalls: 24V-954 and 25V-489
Vehicles Affected: Approximately 24,690

This recall expands on an earlier battery defect investigation affecting Ford plug-in hybrid vehicles. You can read our previous analysis here:

Battery Cell Problems In Ford Escape & Lincoln Corsair Plug-In Hybrids

If you drive a 2025-2026 Ford Escape or Lincoln Corsair, it is time to check your mailbox and your rear seats. Ford has issued a safety recall affecting these popular SUVs due to a critical issue with the rear seat belt retractors. While safety technology has evolved rapidly, the seat belt remains your primary line of defense in an accident. Here is everything you need to know about the problem and the warning signs.

The Problem: Loose Retractors

The core of the issue lies in the left and right rear passenger seat belt retractors. According to the defect report, the bolts securing these retractors may not have been properly tightened during assembly. If the retractor isn’t securely fastened to the vehicle’s body (specifically the D-Pillar), it cannot do its job properly. In the event of a crash, a loose retractor may fail to adequately restrain the passenger, significantly increasing the risk of injury.

How Did This Happen?

Ford’s investigation traced the issue back to the Louisville Assembly Plant. It wasn’t a failure of the main assembly line, but rather an error that occurred at off-line repair stations. Vehicles that were pulled aside for unrelated repairs may not have had their retractor bolts properly secured upon completion. This procedural lapse resulted in the potential for loose hardware in the final customer vehicles.

Warning Signs: What to Listen For

Unlike some mechanical issues that remain silent until they fail, this defect often gives an auditory warning. Owners should look out for:

Rattling Noises: You may hear a metallic rattle coming from the rear pillar area while driving.
Seat Belt Binding: The seat belt may feel like it is “sticking,” making it difficult to pull out or retract smoothly.

The Timeline

Nov 6, 2025: Team members at the assembly plant noticed 5 warranty claims related to noisy or binding rear seat belts on vehicles with low mileage.
Nov 12, 2025: Ford’s Critical Concern Review Group (CCRG) opened a formal investigation.
Dec 5, 2025: A field action (recall) was approved.

As of December 8, 2025, Ford is not aware of any accidents or injuries related to this condition. The recall is proactive to ensure it stays that way.

What Should Owners Do?

If you receive a notice for your 2025-2026 Lincoln Corsair or Ford Escape, do not ignore this recall.

The Fix:
Dealers will inspect the seat belt retractor bolts. If they are loose, they will be properly secured. If the bolts or assembly are damaged, the dealer will replace the seat belt retractor entirely.

Important Details:

Owner Notification Date: Ford expects to mail letters to affected owners starting December 19, 2025.
Ford Recall Number: 25C68
NHTSA Campaign Number: 25V-862

Ford has decided that a safety defect exists involving the high-voltage battery packs inside certain plug-in hybrid vehicles—specifically the 2020–2024 Ford Escape PHEV and 2021–2024 Lincoln Corsair PHEV. At the center of the issue is a manufacturing defect inside one or more battery cells, which can lead to an internal short circuit and, in the worst cases, battery thermal venting or vehicle shutdown.

This problem originally surfaced years ago, was addressed by a previous recall, and now—based on new field data—Ford has determined that the prior fix may not have been enough.

What’s Causing the Problem?

Inside the high-voltage battery pack, each cell has a separator layer that keeps the cathode and anode apart. If this thin separator layer becomes damaged, the cell can short internally. Ford, its engineering teams, and the battery cell supplier have all pointed to variability in the supplier’s production process as the likely cause. This inconsistency may lead to small imperfections or weaknesses in the separator layer.

When the separator is compromised, the result can be:

Internal short circuits
Loss of propulsion power
Battery overheating
Thermal venting
Potential vehicle fire

Ford has not yet identified the complete root cause. Tear down investigations are still ongoing.

Safety Risks: What Can Happen

If a battery cell shorts internally:

1. Loss of Motive Power While Driving

The vehicle may suddenly shut down its propulsion system.
A red “Stop Safely Now” warning appears on the instrument cluster.

Although steering, braking, and lights still work, a sudden loss of acceleration dramatically increases crash and injury risk.

2. Battery Thermal Venting / Fire Risk

A shorted cell can overheat and vent hot gas, which can ignite surrounding components.
This is a significant safety hazard, particularly if venting occurs during or after charging.

To date, Ford reports no injuries or accidents connected to this defect.

A Look Back: The 24V-954 / 24S79 Recall

Ford already attempted to fix this issue once.

In December 2024, Ford approved recall 24V-954 (Ford) / 24S79 (Lincoln), which rolled out the following remedy:

Updated Battery Energy Control Module (BECM) software
Added enhanced detection of battery cell anomalies
Stopped battery charging automatically if anomalies were detected
Alerted owners through messages in the instrument cluster

This fix was intended to catch separator-layer damage before it caused a short circuit. However, new field reports show this strategy was not always effective.

The Turning Point: New Thermal Venting Cases in 2025

July–August 2025

Three European Ford Kuga PHEV vehicles (the Kuga is the European variant of the Escape PHEV) experienced battery thermal venting even AFTER receiving the recall software update.

September 2025

Two more cases surfaced.

August–October 2025 Investigation

Ford’s Critical Concern Review Group (CCRG) opened a formal investigation on August 27, 2025.
Recovered battery packs and control modules showed:

No detectable anomalies before venting
Significant thermal damage making root-cause confirmation difficult
The updated software did NOT trigger any warnings prior to failure

Meanwhile, tear down analysis from other replaced battery packs (those that were flagged by the software and did not vent) has not yet identified a definitive cause.

As of November 5, 2025

Ford reports:

7 total venting incidents, all from European Kuga PHEV vehicles
All had already received the 24V-954 software update
No injuries or accidents

November 7, 2025

Ford approved a new field action—leading to today’s recall.

The New Recall: 25SC4 (Ford) / 25V-789 (NHTSA)

Because of the new cases, Ford has issued a new recall to replace the old one.

Affected Vehicles:

2020–2024 Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrid
2021–2024 Lincoln Corsair Plug-In Hybrid
(These vehicles were previously included in recall 24V-954.)

Ford’s New Instructions to Owners

Until the final fix is ready, Ford advises:

Only use Auto EV mode
Limit the maximum charge of the high-voltage battery
Wait for mailed instructions and further updates

Interim owner letters are scheduled to go out December 1, 2025, detailing the safety risks and how to limit battery charging. A second letter will follow once a permanent remedy is available.

The Final Remedy Is Still Under Development

Ford has not yet determined what the permanent fix will look like—likely because the underlying defect is still not fully understood.

Conclusion

Ford’s latest recall highlights an unresolved and potentially serious defect in the high-voltage battery cells used in its Escape and Corsair plug-in hybrid models. The original software-based solution from 2024 was not enough to catch every instance of cell separator damage, and new thermal-venting cases have forced Ford to develop a more comprehensive fix. Until that final remedy is completed, owners must limit charging, follow Ford’s interim instructions, and watch for important recall notices.

Ford Motor Company has announced a safety defect affecting several 2025 Ford and Lincoln models due to a potential braking issue. Certain vehicles may experience a loss of power brake assist, which could extend stopping distances and increase the risk of a crash—particularly when Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) features are in use.

Which Ford And Lincoln Vehicles Are Affected?

The recall involves specific 2025 models, including:

Ford F-150
Ford Expedition
Ford Bronco
Ford Ranger
Lincoln Navigator

Ford’s investigation found that the Electronic Brake Booster (EBB) module may malfunction while driving or when ADAS features are active.

What’s the Problem?

The issue was first detected on May 14, 2025, when the Expedition/Navigator Rapid Response Team identified a Ford Management Lease Vehicle with a loss of brake boost. The malfunction triggered a Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC), prompting Ford to review connected vehicle data, driver reports, and incident logs.

Customers reported a sudden loss of brake boost, along with extended brake pedal travel and longer stopping distances. While Ford confirmed that affected vehicles still meet Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS 135, 105, and 126), the unexpected nature of the issue poses a safety risk.

Incident Reports

Between March 13 and June 26, 2025, Ford received 37 warranty claims related to this problem.
As of July 14, 2025, there has been one alleged low-speed crash potentially linked to the defect.
No injuries or fires have been reported.

The Recall Process

On July 18, 2025, Ford’s Field Review Committee approved a field action.

The fix involves an Electronic Brake Booster software update, which can be delivered over-the-air (OTA) or performed at a dealership.
Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed on August 25, 2025.
Ford recall number: 25S77
NHTSA campaign number: 25V-488

What Owners Should Do If Their Ford Or Lincoln Is Affected

If you own one of the affected vehicles:

Schedule a dealer visit or wait for the OTA update if applicable.
Monitor your braking performance, especially when using ADAS features such as adaptive cruise control or automatic emergency braking. If you experience unusual brake feel or extended stopping distances, seek service immediately.

Safety Reminder

Even with this issue, Ford states the braking systems remain functional, but stopping distances may be longer without power brake assist. Extra caution is advised until the repair is complete.

A widespread Ford recall could impact your ability to safely back up your vehicle — and it might also qualify you for relief under California’s Lemon Law.

What’s going on?

Ford is recalling over 1 million vehicles due to a software glitch that affects the rearview camera. The image might freeze, lag, or not show up at all when you’re in reverse. That’s more than just an inconvenience — it’s a real safety issue, especially in tight parking lots or near pedestrians.

Which models are included?

Ford: 2021–2025 Bronco, Escape, Edge, Expedition, F-Series, Mustang, Mach-E, Ranger, Transit
Lincoln: Nautilus, Corsair, Navigator (2021–2025)

Ford plans to notify owners starting June 16, 2025, and repairs will be done either at the dealership or possibly via an over-the-air software update — depending on your vehicle.

Why California Lemon Law applies

If your rearview camera has failed repeatedly, or if the issue has made your vehicle unsafe to drive, California law may consider your car a “lemon.” Even if it’s just one issue, if it affects safety and the dealership can’t fix it in a reasonable amount of time, you might qualify for:

A replacement vehicle
A refund
Payment for out-of-pocket expenses

The law applies whether your car was new or used, as long as it’s still under the manufacturer’s warranty.

What to do if this affects you:

Check your records — has your camera failed before?
If so, document everything and keep copies of repair orders.
Don’t wait for the dealership to tell you what your options are. A Lemon Law attorney can evaluate your case for free, and most clients never pay out of pocket.

You deserve a vehicle that works the way it’s supposed to — especially when safety is involved.

If you’re concerned about your Ford or Lincoln defects or have questions about your rights under the California Lemon Law, Call Now for a FREE Case Review – 888-395-3666 or fill in the contact form at the top of the page. Our experienced team is here to help you navigate the process and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Don’t wait – take action today to protect your rights as a California consumer!

According to Ford’s records, certain 2020-2021 Aviator vehicles were recorded as having the repair successfully completed, but may still be at risk due to the incorrect software installation. If the correct software update remedy is not installed on the vehicle, the manufacturing defect can cause a lower capacity cell to develop an internal short circuit, leading to a battery power off and potentially resulting in a vehicle fire.

The issue was first brought to Ford’s attention in November 2024, when an audit revealed insufficient data to confirm correct software application across all field service actions (FSAs) using the FDRS service tool. A team was formed to investigate further and created templates to track software lineage part numbers. In December 2024, Ford informed the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) of the concern and discussed a plan to address the mismatched vehicles. After conducting an audit, it was found that 99.3% of the repairs conducted under recall 23S53 had the correct software installed. However, they identified specific vehicles that were recorded as receiving the remedy but still had software that did not address the safety risk.

To rectify the situation, Ford has approved a field action and will update the Battery Energy Control Module software for the affected vehicles. The company is not aware of any reports of accidents or injuries related to this condition. Dealers will correct the problem by updating the software with the correct version.

The recall number for this issue is 25S58, and the NHTSA campaign number is 25V-349. If you own a 2020-2021 Lincoln Aviator vehicle equipped with a 3.0L PHEV engine, and you receive a recall notice, contact your dealer for repairs to ensure your safety on the road.