Ford Issues Dual Recalls Affecting 250,000 Vehicles Over Safety Concerns
Ford Motor Company has announced two separate safety recalls affecting nearly 250,000 vehicles in the United States, addressing critical issues with instrument panel displays and high-voltage battery systems that could increase crash risks. The recalls target popular models, including the Bronco, Bronco Sport, Escape, and Lincoln Corsair.
Instrument panel failure in new Broncos
The larger of the two recalls affects 229,609 2025-2026 Ford Bronco and Bronco Sport vehicles due to a software defect that can cause the Instrument Panel Cluster (IPC) to fail during startup. When this occurs, drivers lose access to critical information, including vehicle speed, fuel levels, and warning lights, significantly increasing the risk of a crash.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has assigned this recall campaign number 25V788. Ford plans to address the issue through a free software update that will be available either at dealerships or via over-the-air (OTA) update. Owner notification letters will be mailed starting December 8, 2025.
Battery defect in plug-in hybrid vehicles
A second recall involves 20,484 2020-2024 Ford Escape and Lincoln Corsair plug-in hybrid vehicles due to a manufacturing defect in the high-voltage battery cells. This defect can cause an internal short circuit, potentially leading to:
- Sudden loss of propulsion while driving, triggering a "Stop Safely Now" warning
- Thermal venting of hot gases from the battery
- Increased risk of a vehicle fire, even when parked and turned off
This recall, identified as NHTSA campaign 25V789, represents a re-recall of vehicles that previously received an inadequate software fix. Ford is developing a permanent remedy that may include battery pack replacement for affected vehicles.
What owners should do
Vehicle owners should take the following steps to address these safety concerns:
- Check your VIN: Visit the NHTSA recalls website to confirm if your vehicle is affected
- Wait for notification: Ford will mail official recall notices beginning in December 2025
- Schedule free repairs: Contact a Ford or Lincoln dealer to arrange for the necessary software updates or battery repairs
- Contact Ford: For questions, call Ford's Customer Relationship Center at 1-866-436-7332
These recalls underscore the growing complexity of modern vehicle systems and the necessity of addressing software and battery-related safety issues promptly. While no accidents or injuries have been reported related to these specific defects, the potential risks underscore the importance of manufacturers issuing safety recalls.
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