Ford Recalls 4 Million Vehicles—F-Series Trucks, SUVs, More—Over Software Glitch

Forbes Business

by Ty Roush, Forbes Staff

February 26, 2026

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Ford issued a recall affecting over 4 million vehicles, including popular F-Series trucks and SUVs, due to a software glitch that could impair trailer lights and turn signals, potentially increasing the risk of accidents. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported this as one of the largest single-manufacturer recalls in recent years. Affected models include the F-250, F-150, Expedition, Maverick, Ranger, E-Transit, and Lincoln Navigator from model years 2021 to 2026. Drivers may encounter warning messages like “trailer brake module fault” or “blind spot assist system fault,” though Ford has not reported any accidents or injuries linked to the issue. The problem was first identified in October 2025, with over 400 warranty claims filed by February 4. Ford plans to address the defect through an over-the-air software update starting in May or via dealership repairs. This recall follows a record-breaking year for Ford in 2025, during which it issued 153 recalls, the highest number ever by a single automaker in the U.S. In comparison, the next top manufacturers—Chrysler, Forest River, General Motors, and International Motors—combined to issue far fewer recalls. Recalls of over 2 million vehicles are rare, with Tesla being one of the few other companies to exceed this number recently. Ford’s history of recalls includes a September 2025 incident where 1.45 million vehicles were pulled due to faulty rearview cameras that could display blank, distorted, or inverted images while reversing. This latest recall highlights the growing challenge automakers face with software reliability in modern vehicles. For businesses and consumers alike, this underscores the importance of prioritizing software quality and safety in the automotive industry. Ford’s proactive approach to addressing issues, despite its high volume of recalls, positions it as a leader in promptly correcting defects. However, frequent recalls may also raise questions about the company’s product development processes and their long-term impact on brand reputation and customer trust. This situation reflects broader trends in the auto industry, where software updates are increasingly critical but can introduce

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Originally published on Forbes Business on 2/26/2026