Ford Recalls 45,000 Vehicles for Tailgate, Hybrid, and Brake Defects

Ford Motor Company has issued three separate recalls affecting approximately 45,000 vehicles across its lineup. The recalls target specific pickup trucks, hybrid SUVs, and older models equipped with particular Anti-Lock Brake System modules. These actions were announced in late October 2026 and involve distinct mechanical and electronic defects that require dealer intervention.

The largest recall involves 30,123 trucks from the 2026 and 2027 model years, including certain F-150, F-250 SD, F-350 SD, and F-450 SD models. The issue stems from a potential failure of the left-side tailgate cable under heavy load conditions. If the cable fails, the tailgate may fall onto the rear bumper. Ford has not reported any injuries or accidents related to this specific defect.

Owners of the affected trucks will not receive electronic warnings or dashboard messages indicating the tailgate cable issue. Dealers will replace the left-side tailgate cable at no cost to the owner. However, the replacement part is not expected to be available until January 2027. Notification letters will begin mailing on December 14, with a second letter sent once the fix is ready.

A second recall affects 11,623 hybrid vehicles, specifically certain 2026 to 2027 Nautilus Hybrid and 2027 Corsair Hybrid models. The defect involves corrosion in the transmission park lock actuator circuit board. This corrosion can cause the vehicle to unexpectedly shift into neutral while being driven, which significantly increases the risk of a crash.

Ford has recorded 15 warranty claims in the United States and 106 worldwide related to the hybrid neutral shift issue. No injuries, crashes, or fires have been reported in connection with this problem. Dealers will correct the issue by replacing the Integrated Park Module at no cost. Owners of these hybrids began receiving notification letters on November 2, and VINs are currently searchable on the NHTSA website.

The third recall targets 3,376 ABS modules with specific part numbers that may be incorrectly programmed. This affects certain 2011 to 2015 Ford Explorers, 2013 to 2015 Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX models, and 2012 to 2017 Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator vehicles. Incorrect programming can prevent the ABS from functioning as intended, leading to increased stopping distances and reduced stability.

Ford is aware of 75 service part warranty claims potentially related to the ABS programming issue but has not identified any injuries or crashes caused by it. Dealers will inspect and replace the ABS module as necessary at no cost. Notification letters for this recall are scheduled to begin mailing on November 30. Owners can contact Ford customer service for more information.

In addition to these new recalls, Ford recently addressed a separate issue involving 223,472 trucks with potentially leaking or detaching fuel tanks. This prior recall, announced in September 2026, involved certain 2023 to 2027 F-150 models. Owners should remain vigilant and check their VINs on the NHTSA website to ensure all safety campaigns are addressed.