What year are the Ford recalls?
Ford recalls aren’t confined to a single year. Recalls can cover multiple model years and production ranges, issued over many years as issues are identified and addressed by Ford and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. This article explains how recall years are determined, how to check which year(s) apply to your vehicle, and how to interpret recall notices.
What counts as a recall year
Recall year typically refers to the model year or production date window affected by a campaign. Ford’s official notices specify one or more model-year ranges and corresponding VIN ranges. A single recall can apply to several model years, and within those years only certain vehicles may be affected based on their VIN and production dates. In short, “the recall year” is not a single year for all Ford vehicles; it depends on the specific campaign.
How to check recalls by year
To identify recalls that may apply to your Ford based on year and VIN, follow these steps:
- Find your vehicle’s VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) on the dashboard near the windshield or the driver’s door jamb.
- Visit the NHTSA SaferCar recall search website or Ford’s official owner portal to look up recalls by VIN or by model year.
- Review the recall notices to see the affected model-year ranges and VIN ranges for each campaign.
- Contact a Ford dealer to confirm eligibility for the recall remedy and to schedule a free repair if your vehicle is affected.
Using these steps helps you determine which year(s) your Ford may be affected and what actions are required.
Interpreting recall notices and year designations
Recall notices use model-year ranges and VIN windows to define who is affected. Here are key points to keep in mind when reading these notices:
- Model year ranges indicate the span of years that may be affected (for example, “Model year 2017-2019”).
- VIN ranges identify the specific vehicles within those years that are eligible for the recall.
- The notice will include when the recall began and when the remedy is available, which can vary by dealer supply and parts availability.
Understanding these details helps you determine precisely whether your specific vehicle is covered and what year the recall concerns.
Practical guidance for owners
Stay proactive: recall information can change as campaigns are updated or expanded. Regularly check official sources, especially if you own an older Ford or have recently acquired a used vehicle. Respond promptly to recall notices to ensure safety and compliance.
Summary
Ford recalls span many model years rather than a single year. To determine whether your vehicle is affected, consult the NHTSA recall database and Ford’s official recall resources using your VIN and model year. Address recalls promptly to ensure safety and proper repair.
