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
