Ford Motor Company has announced a significant recall affecting several models due to various safety concerns, with the most notable being the 2025 Ford Explorer. This mid-size SUV is being recalled due to a malfunction in the powertrain control module (PCM) software, which could lead to power loss and issues with the vehicle's ability to transition into park.
The recall affects 24,655 units of the 2025 Ford Explorer equipped with a standard turbocharged 2.3-liter four-cylinder engine paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. According to a report submitted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on April 11, 2025, the problem arises from faulty PCM software that may intermittently reset while driving. If this occurs, the SUV's park pawl can ratchet, potentially damaging the pawl and other parking-related components if the vehicle is moving at speeds greater than 10 mph.
In addition to the risk of damage to the parking system, drivers may experience a temporary loss of acceleration or even complete power loss if the PCM resets eight or more times within a span of 18 seconds. This situation poses a serious safety risk, as it could lead to the vehicle rolling away if the transmission fails to engage the park mode properly.
Ford has already communicated with its dealerships regarding the recall and plans to notify affected owners by mail by May 30, 2025. Owners are advised to take their vehicles to authorized dealers, where technicians will update the PCM software and inspect the transmission for any damage, which will be repaired at no cost to the vehicle owners.
In a broader context, Ford's recall announcement on April 11 included another significant issue affecting 123,611 vehicles, primarily the 2017–2018 Ford F-150, Ford Expedition, and Lincoln Navigator. These models are at risk of a brake fluid leak due to contamination in the brake master cylinder. This contamination could interfere with the rear cup seal function, potentially leading to a loss of brake performance or complete brake failure.
Ford has stated that if the brake fluid leak occurs, fluid could escape from the master cylinder's front wheel circuit into the brake booster. To mitigate this risk, the automaker has designed a new and improved brake master cylinder, which will be installed in affected vehicles. If a vehicle is found to already have a leaking master cylinder, owners will also receive a new brake booster.
To enhance driver awareness, Ford has incorporated a warning system that includes a chime and a message in the vehicle's dashboard cluster to alert drivers when the brake fluid level in the reservoir drops below a predetermined threshold. This proactive approach aims to prevent potential accidents caused by brake failure.
Additionally, Ford is addressing a re-recall situation involving 1,168 vehicles, specifically the 2024 Ford Ranger and Lincoln Nautilus. These vehicles were previously recalled for a problem with the global closing feature of the windows, which affected the pinch control mechanism. Unfortunately, it was discovered that the initial recall fix was not implemented correctly, prompting the need for these vehicles to return to the dealership for proper installation and validation of the repair.
As part of its commitment to safety, Ford continues to monitor and address any issues that arise in its vehicle lineup. The automaker has emphasized the importance of consumer safety and the need for prompt action when it comes to recalls. By informing owners and providing necessary repairs, Ford aims to maintain trust and ensure the safety of its customers.
In summary, Ford's recent recall actions highlight the company's responsiveness to safety concerns. With the recall of the 2025 Ford Explorer due to PCM software issues, the brake fluid leak risk in older models, and the re-recall of the Ranger and Nautilus, Ford is taking steps to address potential safety hazards and protect its customers. Owners of affected vehicles are encouraged to stay informed and take proactive measures to ensure their vehicles are safe and roadworthy.
