Massive Recall: Ford Recalls 355,000 Trucks and SUVs Over Critical Instrument Panel Glitch

Ford has announced a significant recall affecting an estimated 355,000 trucks and SUVs due to a critical software error that could lead to an intermittent loss of the instrument panel display. This widespread issue poses a substantial safety risk, as drivers could lose access to vital information such as vehicle speed, odometer readings, and gear selection while on the road.

The recall specifically targets certain 2021-2023 F-150 pickup trucks, along with 2023 Ford Expedition, Lincoln Navigator, and F-Super Duty vehicles.

Owners of these models are urged to pay close attention to recall notifications and take prompt action to ensure their safety and the safety of others.

The root of the problem lies in a software flaw that causes the instrument cluster display to either go blank intermittently or fail to illuminate entirely.

This defect means drivers might suddenly find themselves without critical operational data, making it difficult to safely operate the vehicle and increasing the risk of an accident. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has highlighted these serious safety implications, emphasizing the importance of a fully functional instrument panel.

NHTSA initiated a preliminary investigation into the matter in February after receiving approximately 10 complaints from concerned vehicle owners.

Ford's internal records revealed a much broader scope, with over 17,000 warranty claims and 76 field reports directly linked to the instrument panel malfunction. While the scale of the issue is considerable, Ford has confirmed that, fortunately, no crashes or injuries have been reported as a direct consequence of this defect to date.

To rectify the problem, Ford plans to issue a software update that will correct the flaw and restore full functionality to the instrument panels.

Affected vehicle owners will be notified by mail, with the recall notification process expected to begin by April 8. Ford is advising all owners of the affected vehicles to contact their authorized dealership to schedule the necessary software update as soon as they receive their official notification.

This recall underscores the growing complexity of modern vehicle electronics and the importance of robust software systems for critical safety features.

Ford remains committed to addressing this issue swiftly and ensuring the safety and confidence of its customers.