Ford is recalling 4.3 million trucks and SUVs to fix a towing software bug
Ars Technica
by
Jonathan M. Gitlin
February 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Ford has issued a major recall affecting over 4.3 million trucks and SUVs due to a software issue related to towing functionality. This recall underscores Ford's leadership in the recalls landscape, with the automaker already topping the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's list so far this year, having issued 10 recalls. The latest recall impacts several key models, including the Ford Maverick, Ranger, Expedition, E-Transit, F-150, F-250 SD, and Lincoln Navigator across various model years. Notably, the popular Ford F-150 accounts for over two million of the recalled vehicles.
The affected vehicles have a software flaw in their towing systems that could lead to incorrect calculations when using a fifth-wheel trailer or gooseneck hitch. While the issue does not pose an immediate safety risk, it could potentially compromise the vehicle's ability to handle trailers properly, affecting performance and driver experience. Ford plans to address this issue with an over-the-air (OTA) update, which will be pushed out in a few weeks. Owners can also visit their local dealerships for updates if they prefer not to wait for the OTA notification.
This recall highlights the growing importance of software updates in modern vehicles, as well as the challenges automakers face in ensuring the reliability and functionality of connected systems. Ford's proactive approach to addressing the issue through OTA updates reflects a shift in the automotive industry toward software-defined features and over-the-air fixes. For tech-savvy consumers, this recall serves as a reminder of the ongoing evolution of vehicles as connected devices, where software updates play a critical role in both performance and safety.
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Originally published on Ars Technica on 2/26/2026