Ford has recently announced a major recall impacting nearly 300,000 of its vehicles. This action is being taken to address a critical issue with the transmission system that could prevent cars from properly engaging 'park,' potentially leading to unintended movement. Affected models include various F-150 Lightnings, Maverick Hybrids, and Mustang Mach-E vehicles manufactured between 2022 and 2026. The automaker plans to resolve this safety concern through a software update, which can be installed over-the-air or at dealerships.
Ford Initiates Recall for Transmission-Related Rollaway Risk
In a recent development concerning vehicle safety, Ford Motor Company has initiated a recall for approximately 272,645 vehicles. This extensive recall encompasses specific models and production years, including 2022 to 2026 F-150 Lightning electric trucks, 2025 to 2026 Maverick Hybrid pickups, and 2024 to 2026 Mustang Mach-E electric SUVs. The underlying issue, as detailed in documents submitted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), is a potential flaw within the integrated park module (IPM).
This malfunction could hinder the transmission from fully engaging the 'park' position, creating a risk of the vehicle rolling away if the electronic parking brake is not activated. Ford explains that the problem arises when the IPM's pawl encounters resistance from the IPM's slider mechanism, preventing a complete lock into park. Drivers might notice this issue through an unlit gear selection indicator and a warning message, such as a 'wrench light,' displayed on the gauge cluster, indicating a fault within the shift system.
While the emergency brake is designed to engage automatically when the vehicle is placed in park, a system fault or manual disengagement by the driver could exacerbate the danger. Fortunately, Ford has confirmed that it is not aware of any accidents or injuries directly resulting from this defect. The company is proactively addressing the situation with an upcoming over-the-air (OTA) software update designed to rectify the IPM issue. Vehicle owners will also have the option to visit a local Ford or Lincoln dealership to have the software update performed at no cost. Dealers are expected to receive notification by January 26, 2026, with owner notifications slated for distribution by mail by May 12, 2026.
This recall highlights the increasing complexity of modern vehicle systems and the crucial role of software in ensuring safety. While recalls can be concerning for vehicle owners, Ford's swift response and the provision of both OTA updates and dealership service demonstrate a commitment to resolving potential hazards. It serves as a reminder for all drivers to pay attention to vehicle warning indicators and to ensure parking brakes are engaged, especially in light of such electronic system vulnerabilities. The incident underscores the continuous need for rigorous testing and responsive maintenance protocols in the automotive industry to uphold public safety.
