Ford Recalls More Than 741,000 Vehicles in the US Over Transmission Park System Risk

Ford Recalls More Than 741,000 Vehicles in the US Over Transmission Park System Risk

Ford Motor Company has announced a major safety recall affecting more than 741,000 vehicles across the United States after identifying a transmission-related issue that could compromise the parking system and increase the likelihood of unintended vehicle movement.

The recall, published by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), affects several popular Ford and Lincoln SUVs and pickup trucks produced between the 2018 and 2021 model years.

Owners of the affected vehicles are being urged to respond promptly once recall notifications are issued.

What Caused the Recall?

According to federal safety regulators, certain vehicles may experience an unexpected engagement involving the transmission parking mechanism while the vehicle is still moving under specific operating conditions.

Although the issue may occur only in limited circumstances, repeated incidents can damage components within the transmission’s park system.

If that damage occurs, the transmission may no longer be able to securely hold the vehicle when it is shifted into Park, particularly if the parking brake is not applied.

Safety officials warn that this could allow a parked vehicle to roll unexpectedly, creating an increased risk of collisions, property damage, or personal injury.

Models Included in the Recall

The recall applies to selected Ford and Lincoln models manufactured between 2018 and 2021, including:

• Ford F-150
• Ford Explorer
• Ford Expedition
• Lincoln Aviator
• Lincoln Navigator

Not every vehicle from these model years is affected. Owners can verify whether their vehicle is included by checking its Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) through Ford or the NHTSA recall database.

Reported Incidents

Ford has informed regulators that it has received reports connected to the transmission issue, including property damage claims and several alleged injuries.

While investigations continue, the company initiated the recall as a precautionary measure to reduce potential safety risks before additional incidents occur.

Automakers frequently issue voluntary recalls when defects capable of affecting vehicle safety are identified, even before widespread failures develop.

Free Repairs for Vehicle Owners

To resolve the problem, Ford dealers will perform repairs at no cost to customers.

The repair process includes:

• Updating the vehicle’s Powertrain Control Module (PCM) software.
• Inspecting the transmission for any damage related to the park system.
• Replacing damaged transmission components if necessary.

Ford will notify eligible vehicle owners by mail with instructions for scheduling repairs at authorized dealerships.

Why Drivers Should Not Ignore the Recall

Although some recalled vehicles may never experience the defect, automotive safety experts recommend completing recall repairs as soon as possible.

Parking system failures can occur unexpectedly and may not always produce warning signs before a vehicle begins to move after being parked.

Until repairs are completed, drivers are encouraged to apply the parking brake every time they park their vehicle, even on level ground, as an additional safety precaution.

How to Check Your Vehicle

Owners who believe their vehicle may be included in the recall can:

• Check their VIN using Ford’s official recall lookup tool.
• Visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s recall website.
• Contact a local Ford or Lincoln dealership.
• Call Ford customer service for additional assistance.

Completing recall repairs promptly helps maintain vehicle safety and ensures affected components meet manufacturer specifications.

Ford Continues Safety Campaign

The latest recall is among several large safety campaigns announced by major automakers in recent years as manufacturers continue increasing software updates and preventive inspections to address potential mechanical risks before they result in serious accidents.

Ford stated that customer safety remains its priority and encouraged affected owners to arrange repairs once official notifications are received.

Source

• U.S. News & World Report (via Associated Press). Ford recalling more than 741,000 vehicles because of park system issue. Published June 30, 2026. https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/michigan/articles/2026-06-30/ford-recalling-more-than-741-00-vehicles-because-of-park-system-issue