What is the Ford door latch safety recall?
A Ford door latch safety recall is a manufacturer-initiated program to inspect and repair door latch assemblies that may not latch securely, potentially allowing a door to open unexpectedly while a vehicle is in motion. In practical terms, owners with affected vehicles can receive a free repair from a Ford dealer if their VIN is included in an active recall.
Recall campaigns vary by vehicle model, year, and VIN, and new notices can be added over time as Ford and safety regulators review incident reports. Below is a structured guide to understanding the recall landscape, how to check if a specific vehicle is affected, and what to do if it is.
What the recall covers
The core safety issue involves door latch assemblies that may fail to latch properly or may unlatch unintentionally, increasing the risk of doors opening while the vehicle is moving. Ford has issued recalls across multiple models and years to address this defect, with remedies typically provided at no cost to owners. Details are issued in official recall notices and can include part replacements, latch or striker adjustments, or related wiring repairs.
Common reasons doors may not latch and why it matters
To help readers understand the scope, here are typical factors cited in recall notices. This list explains why a recall might be issued and what it aims to fix.
- Manufacturing or assembly variances in the latch mechanism that affect engagement
- Corrosion or wear on latch components leading to improper latching
- Misalignment of door striker or latch mounting
- Wiring or sensor issues in electronic latching systems
- In rare cases, damage from prior repairs or impacts that alter door closure geometry
The overarching concern is that a door that does not stay securely closed can pose a risk to occupants and other road users. Ford and regulators emphasize inspections and repairs to restore proper latching performance.
How to check if your Ford is affected
To determine whether your specific vehicle is part of an active recall, you should verify your VIN against official recall databases and contact a Ford dealership for an inspection. The process is designed to be quick and free of charge if the vehicle is included in a recall.
What to know before you start checking
- VIN-based checks are the most reliable way to confirm recall status for a particular vehicle.
- Recall information is dynamic; new notices can be added after initial campaigns.
- Always use official channels to verify recalls and to schedule repairs.
For the latest information, you can use the following resources and steps to confirm your vehicle's status.
Steps to verify recalls on your Ford
Follow these steps to determine whether your vehicle is affected and to initiate a repair if needed.
- Locate your vehicle identification number (VIN). It is found on the driver’s side dashboard, near the windshield, or on your vehicle title and insurance documents.
- Visit the NHTSA recall database or Ford’s official recall lookup page and enter your VIN to search for open recalls.
- If a recall shows up for your VIN, contact a Ford dealership or Ford Owner Support to schedule a free inspection and repair.
- Bring all relevant vehicle information and, if possible, documents showing the recall notification you received.
In practice, most recalls are resolved quickly at authorized dealers, with parts supplied at no cost to the owner and repairs performed while you wait or by appointment.
What to do if your vehicle is recalled
If your Ford is listed in an active door latch recall, follow these guidelines to stay safe while arranging service and until the repair is completed.
- Do not drive the vehicle if you notice doors not latching properly or doors opening while parked or in motion.
- Contact Ford or your nearest dealer promptly to schedule a free inspection and repair.
- Keep doors properly closed and use alternate doors if you must drive while awaiting service, following the dealer’s guidance.
- Keep an eye on any recall notices for additional instructions or updated remedies relevant to your VIN.
Dealership repairs typically involve replacing or reconditioning the latch assemblies, adjusting the striker, or addressing related wiring or components. All approved repairs are performed at no cost to the vehicle owner.
Where to get reliable information
Rely on official sources to confirm recall status and obtain repair details. If you share your VIN with those sources, you can receive precise information about what applies to your vehicle.
- NHTSA recall database (nhtsa.gov/recalls) for nationwide recall status by VIN
- Ford Owner Portal or Ford Customer Service for model-specific guidance and scheduling
- Official Ford press releases and dealer notifications for the latest campaign details
Remember, the safest and most accurate path is to verify your VIN with these channels and book service through an authorized Ford dealer.
Summary
The Ford door latch safety recall is Ford’s corrective program to fix latch-related defects that could allow doors to open unexpectedly. If your vehicle is affected, Ford will perform the necessary repairs at no cost. To determine if your specific vehicle is included, check the VIN against official recall databases such as NHTSA, and contact a Ford dealer to schedule a free inspection. Staying informed through official sources is the best way to ensure your vehicle remains safe on the road.
Are Ford recalls Mustang Mach E vehicles due to faulty door latches that may trap passengers?
Ford Motor Co. is recalling nearly 200,000 electric Mustangs because the door latches could falter, potentially trapping passengers in the back seat. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said Dearborn, Michigan-based Ford is recalling 197,432 Mustang Mach E midsize SUVs, model years 2021-2025.
What is the latest recall from Ford?
The most recent major Ford recall involves over 229,000 2025-2026 Bronco and Bronco Sport models because their instrument panel displays may not show critical information, increasing the risk of a crash. Other recent recalls include a potential issue with the rearview camera in over 1.4 million vehicles and a recall of 2021-2023 Expedition and Navigator SUVs and F-150, F-250, F-350, and F-450 trucks due to the moonroof wind deflector potentially detaching.
Latest recalls:
- 2025-2026 Ford Bronco and Bronco Sport: Over 229,000 vehicles are being recalled because the instrument panel display may not show critical information like warning lights or speed, which increases the risk of a crash.
- 1.4 million Ford/Lincoln vehicles (2025 rearview camera recall): A recall was issued in October 2025 for over 1.4 million vehicles, including certain Escapes, Explorers, Flexes, and Lincoln models, due to a potential issue with the rearview camera.
- 2021-2023 Ford Expedition, Lincoln Navigator, F-150, F-250, F-350, and F-450: Over 174,000 SUVs and trucks are being recalled because the moonroof wind deflector could detach and become a road hazard.
How to check for recalls on your vehicle
You can check for any active recalls on your Ford by using the FordPass app or visiting the Ford Owner Support website.
What is the door latch recall on the 2013 Ford Fiesta?
Ford Motor Company is issuing a safety recall for approximately 390,000 2012-2014 Ford Fiesta and 2013-2014 Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ vehicles for a door latch issue. The door latch in these vehicles may experience a broken pawl spring tab, which typically results in a condition where the door will not latch.
What is the door latch recall on Ford Explorer?
Dealers will replace all four door latches. In March, Ford recalled 213,000 2011-2013 Ford Explorer SUVs and Ford Police Interceptor Utility vehicles in North America because the spring that controls the interior door handles may prevent the door from latching completely.
