Who makes airbags for Ford?
Ford relies on multiple global suppliers for its airbags, with Autoliv and Joyson Safety Systems among the primary providers. The exact mix varies by model, region, and production year, and other partners have played roles in certain markets or platforms.
Primary airbag suppliers for Ford
The following companies have been identified in public records and industry reporting as major airbag suppliers to Ford across various regions and model lines.
- Autoliv
- Joyson Safety Systems
- ZF TRW (now ZF) — historically involved in airbag modules and inflators
In practice, the exact supplier for a given Ford vehicle depends on the model and assembly location, and Ford sources from more than one supplier to maintain redundancy and supply security.
Regional and model variation
Ford's contractual arrangements with airbag suppliers are region- and model-specific. While Autoliv and Joyson Safety Systems are widely used, some markets and platforms have employed different configurations; details are not always published by Ford.
- Regional and platform differences mean multiple suppliers may be used for different airbag types (front, side, curtain) within the same model lineup.
- Public disclosures and regulatory filings often highlight Autoliv and Joyson as primary inflator/module suppliers for Ford, with overlaps by other partners depending on region.
- Legacy programs historically included TRW (ZF) components on certain vehicles, though supplier rosters evolve over time.
Overall, Ford maintains a diversified supplier base for airbags to support safety standards and supply continuity. For model-specific information, owners can consult their vehicle’s documentation or contact Ford directly.
Why this matters for safety and recalls
The airbag system's performance hinges on the collaboration between the vehicle manufacturer and its suppliers. A diversified supplier base can help mitigate supply chain risks and recalls, but safety campaigns often involve multiple models and inflator types across different brands and suppliers. Keeping up with official Ford recall notices remains essential for vehicle owners.
Summary
Ford sources airbags from several global suppliers, with Autoliv and Joyson Safety Systems as the leading partners and historical involvement by ZF TRW. The exact supplier mix varies by model, region, and production period, reflecting a strategy to diversify risk and ensure supply. For the most accurate, model-specific information, refer to Ford’s official documentation or customer support.
