What is the Ford engine recall?

In short, a Ford engine recall is a safety or reliability fix mandated for certain Ford vehicles to repair or replace engine components at no cost to owners. The exact models, years, and remedies vary by campaign and are updated as new issues arise.

Understanding what triggers a Ford engine recall

Engine recalls are typically initiated when regulators or Ford identify defects that could compromise safety, emissions, or long-term reliability. The following issues have prompted Ford engine recalls in various campaigns over the years:

• Engine stalling or misfiring due to faulty timing components or ignition systems


• Oil leaks or oil consumption problems that raise fire risk or engine damage


• Defective fuel delivery parts that could cause engine failure


• Cooling system failures or overheating risks related to engine components


• Emissions-related defects that fail to meet regulatory standards

If your vehicle experiences symptoms such as unexpected stalling, warning lights, smoke, or unusual noises, these can be indicators to check for recalls. The specific recall campaigns and remedies depend on your model, year, and VIN.

How to check if your Ford is affected

To determine whether your Ford is included in an active engine recall, use official sources and verify with your vehicle identification number (VIN). This ensures you get the most accurate, up-to-date information.

• Locate your VIN, typically found on the driver’s side dashboard, inside the door frame, or on your vehicle registration documents.


• Visit the NHTSA recall lookup database or Ford’s official recall page and enter your VIN.


• Contact your nearest Ford dealer with the VIN to confirm recall status and schedule repairs if needed.


• Keep any recall notices or communications from Ford; a recall repair is performed at no cost to the vehicle owner.

Owners should act promptly if a recall is listed for their VIN, as delays can affect safety and performance. Ford and NHTSA provide ongoing updates as campaigns evolve.

What to expect during a recall repair

The remedy for a Ford engine recall varies by campaign, but common processes include replacement of defective parts, reprogramming or updating software, and reworking critical engine components. Most recalls are performed at a Ford dealership and are free of charge to the owner.

• Repair or replacement of defective engine components, such as timing chains, seals, or fuel delivery parts


• Software updates to engine control modules or other on-board systems


• Inspection and testing to ensure the fix resolves the issue, with follow-up checks if needed


• Estimated service times can range from a single visit of a few hours to longer operations if multiple parts or extensive work are required

Because parts supply and campaign scope can vary, some recalls may require scheduling at a later date. Dealers will provide timelines and any options such as loaner vehicles if available.

Important distinctions: recalls vs. service campaigns

Recall versus service campaign clarification

A recall is a legally mandated safety or reliability fix funded by the manufacturer, tied to specific VINs and requiring the vehicle to be serviced at a dealership. A service campaign or technical service bulletin (TSB) may address problems that are not safety-critical or do not meet recall thresholds; these can be recommended repairs or updates and are often covered under certain warranties but are not always mandatory for all affected vehicles. Always verify with Ford and your dealer about coverage and costs.

Summary

Ford engine recalls are official actions to fix defects in engines that could affect safety, emissions, or reliability. Owners should routinely check their VIN against recall databases, contact a Ford dealer for confirmation and scheduling, and ensure any recall repair is completed at no cost. Keeping informed through official sources such as the NHTSA database and Ford’s recall pages helps ensure you know when a campaign affects your vehicle and what remedy is required.

What Ford cars are being recalled by year?

Vehicles affected may include:

• 2017-2021 Ford F-150.
• 2020-2021 Ford Explorer.
• 2018-2021 Ford Expedition.
• 2018-2021 Ford Navigator.
• 2018-2021 Ford Mustang.
• 2019-2021 Ford Ranger.
• 2020-2021 Ford Transit.

Which Ford engines are being recalled?

Engine Intake Valves: Some 2021-2022 Broncos with 2.7L and 3.0L engines were recalled due to intake valve issues. Cracked Fuel Injector: A recall affected some 2021-2024 Bronco Sports with 1.5-liter engines due to fuel injector cracks that could lead to a fuel leak and potential engine fire.

What is the EcoBoost engine recall about?

With the consistent complaints, Ford had no choice but to issue a Ford EcoBoost engine recall. Their main reason for this recall was the coolant leak which led to overheating of the engine, as this posed a threat of greater damages.

What is the latest recall on Ford vehicles?

Recent Ford recalls include a large number of 2025-2026 Broncos and Bronco Sports for instrument panel failure, a recall for 2022-2023 F-150 Lightnings due to potential reverse light issues, and a recall affecting 2023-2025 F-150s with trailer tow packages for potentially failing axle bolts. The instrument panel issue with Broncos and Bronco Sports is due to a software problem that can cause the display to not work at startup, while the F-150 Lightning recall is for potential microcracks in the rear lightbar. The F-150 recall involves potential failure of rear axle bolts, which could lead to a loss of drive power or vehicle rollaway. 
2025-2026 Bronco and Bronco Sport

• Reason: Instrument panel failure where the display may not show at startup.
• Risk: Increased risk of a crash due to lack of critical safety information.
• Action: Owners will be notified by mail to have the software updated at a Ford or Lincoln dealership. 

2022-2023 F-150 Lightning

• Reason: Possible microcracks in the rear lightbar's outer lens.
• Risk: Moisture accumulation could cause reverse lights to become inoperative or flicker, increasing the risk of a crash.
• Action: Ford will provide a remedy for this issue. 

2023-2025 F-150 

• Reason: Potentially damaged or failing rear axle bolts in models with the trailer tow max duty package and a 9.75-inch heavy-duty axle.
• Risk: Bolts may break, leading to a loss of drive power or vehicle rollaway.
• Action: The remedy involves replacing the rear axle assemblies with new parts. 

Other recent recalls

• 2021-2024 Bronco Sport and 2020-2022 Escape: A recall for a cracked fuel injector that could lead to an underhood fire. 
• 2021-2023 Bronco, Explorer, and F-150, F-250, F-350, F-450, and F-550: A recall for a low-pressure fuel pump that could fail and cause the engine to stall. 

How to check for recalls

• You can check if your specific vehicle is affected by using your vehicle identification number (VIN) on the Ford owner support website or other recall lookup sites.