Ford Motor Company has launched two major safety recalls affecting more than 450,000 vehicles across the United States after federal regulators identified defects involving rear suspension components, batteries and brake systems. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the issues could increase the risk of a crash if they are not repaired.
The recalls include hundreds of thousands of Ford Explorer SUVs as well as more than 40,000 additional vehicles with separate battery and brake-related concerns. Ford says repairs will be performed free of charge through its authorized dealer network.
More Than 412,000 Ford Explorer SUVs Are Included
The largest recall covers 412,774 model-year 2017 through 2019 Ford Explorer SUVs. The issue involves the rear suspension toe link, a metal component that helps keep the rear wheels aligned while the vehicle is moving.
Federal safety officials said the toe link could fracture over time. If that happens, rear wheel alignment may change unexpectedly, affecting steering stability and vehicle handling. Drivers may notice unusual movement from the rear of the vehicle, particularly during turns or lane changes.
Ford will replace the affected toe links with an updated and stronger component designed to improve long-term durability. The repair will be completed at no cost to vehicle owners.
Recall timeline
* Dealer notifications are scheduled to begin on February 25.
* Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed starting March 9.
Separate Recall Covers Battery And Brake Defects
Ford also announced a second recall affecting 40,655 additional vehicles because of unrelated battery and brake pedal concerns.
According to regulators, battery failures could lead to an unexpected loss of vehicle power while driving. Separate brake pedal defects could reduce braking performance, making it more difficult for drivers to stop safely under certain conditions.
Although the issues are unrelated, both have the potential to increase crash risk if they occur while a vehicle is in operation.
Recall Overview
| Recall | Vehicles | Safety Concern | Repair |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rear suspension recall | 412,774 Ford Explorer SUVs (2017â2019) | Rear toe link may fracture and affect wheel alignment | Replacement with redesigned suspension toe links |
| Battery and brake recall | 40,655 vehicles | Potential battery failure and brake pedal defects | Inspection and repair by Ford dealerships |
Why A Broken Toe Link Can Become A Safety Hazard
The rear toe link is an important part of a vehicle’s suspension system. It helps maintain proper wheel alignment, allowing the vehicle to remain stable during braking, acceleration and cornering.
If the component breaks, the rear wheels can move out of their intended position. That change may reduce vehicle stability and make steering less predictable, particularly during emergency maneuvers or at highway speeds.
Because suspension wear often develops gradually, manufacturers sometimes issue recalls before failures become widespread in order to reduce safety risks.
Ford Continues To Face Increased Recall Scrutiny
The latest actions follow a record year for Ford recalls. During 2025, the automaker issued 103 separate safety recalls, surpassing its previous annual record and drawing additional attention from regulators monitoring vehicle quality and manufacturing reliability.
Automotive safety recalls have become increasingly common as vehicles incorporate more advanced mechanical systems, electronic controls and battery technologies. Regulators continue to encourage manufacturers to identify and correct potential defects before they contribute to crashes or injuries.
What Owners Should Do Next
Owners of affected vehicles do not need to pay for recall repairs. Ford recommends waiting for an official notification letter or checking the Ford Recall Center to confirm whether their vehicle is included.
Drivers can also verify their vehicle’s status by entering the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) using the official NHTSA recall lookup service before scheduling a repair appointment with a local dealership.
Keeping recall repairs up to date helps ensure that critical safety systemsâincluding suspension, braking and electrical componentsâcontinue operating as designed. For more consumer safety developments, see our report on the latest product recall affecting millions of households.
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