Ford is set to recall over 600,000 vehicles in Canada and around 4.3 million in the U.S. due to a software problem that could lead to trailer brakes malfunctioning and exterior lights failing.
The recall impacts specific models of Ford’s popular vehicles, including certain F-150s from 2021 to 2026, Super Duty trucks from 2022 to 2026, Rangers from 2024 to 2026, and Mavericks from 2022 to 2026.
Ford plans to provide an over-the-air software update for the affected vehicles. Customers can also opt for mobile service or visit a Ford dealer to receive the update. The update is expected to be available for most Canadian vehicles before the end of March and for all vehicles by the end of May.
The software glitch can disrupt communication between the vehicle and a trailer, resulting in the trailer’s stop lamps and turn signals failing to illuminate. In some instances, the trailer’s braking capability could also be compromised. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration warns that non-functioning trailer lights or brakes can hinder the driver’s control over the trailer, potentially increasing the risk of an accident.
If a vehicle experiences communication loss, drivers will receive a “Trailer Brake Module Fault” notification and notice the turn signal indicator flashing rapidly. Ford has reported 407 incidents possibly linked to the recall issue but confirmed no accidents or injuries associated with it.