Ford is initiating a recall of over 600,000 vehicles in Canada and approximately 4.3 million in the U.S. due to a software defect that could lead to malfunctioning trailer brakes and non-operational exterior lights. The affected vehicles include select models of popular Ford vehicles such as F-150s from 2021-2026, Super Duty trucks from 2022-2026, Rangers from 2024-2026, and Mavericks from 2022-2026.
To address this issue, Ford will provide an over-the-air software update for the impacted vehicles. Customers can also opt for mobile service or visit a Ford dealership to receive the update. The software update is scheduled to be accessible for most vehicles in Canada before March ends and for all vehicles by the conclusion of May.
The software glitch could disrupt communication between the vehicle and a trailer, resulting in the trailer’s stop lamps and turn signals failing to illuminate when hauling a trailer. Additionally, the trailer’s braking function may be compromised in certain instances. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has highlighted that malfunctioning trailer lights or brakes can hinder a driver’s ability to control the trailer, thereby escalating the risk of an accident.
Drivers will receive a warning message labeled as “Trailer Brake Module Fault” and notice rapid flashing of the turn signal indicator if their vehicle encounters communication loss. Ford has reported 407 incidents possibly linked to the recall issue, but no accidents or injuries have been attributed to it.