Ford recalls 240,000 SUVs over seatbelt issue as quality struggles continue

Ford is recalling 240,000 Ford and Lincoln SUVs due to a faulty seat belt—further highlighting why the automaker has been so focused on quality to improve its operations and reduce costs.

The details: The recall—Ford’s second major one in two months—includes Ford Explorer and Lincoln Aviator SUVs that could leave an occupant improperly restrained during a crash.

• The latest recall covers 216,000 Explorers and 24,000 Aviators from model years 2020 and 2021.

• In late January, Ford recalled 272,827 Broncos and Mavericks (made from 2021 – 2023) due to a power issue that could cause the vehicles to stop unexpectedly or fail to start. 

• Owners of the Ford Explorers and Lincoln Aviators included in the recent recall will be notified by Ford in late March to take their SUV to a dealership for repair if needed.  

Ford has said that it isn’t aware of any reports of accidents or injuries caused by the recent Explorer and Aviator recall or the one issued for Broncos and Mavericks in January.  

Between the lines: The latest pair of Ford recalls follow reports of the automaker having more than 60 recalls in 2024 and several measures put in place by Ford CEO Jim Farley in recent months to address quality issues to reign in on its warranty costs.    

• In December, the role of Ford quality head Jim Baumbick was expanded to include EVs and internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles.

• Ford says the leadership change enables the automaker to work more efficiently to ensure that its vehicles meet the highest quality standards for customers.

• Farley is also leaning on Ford’s “performance award system” for leadership roles to help improve its quality issues and reduce warranty costs.

Why it matters: Ford isn’t the only automaker hit with major recalls in recent months. But when reports of recalls are coupled with the automaker’s below average quality ranking in vehicle dependability (for both the Ford and Lincoln brands), they could start impacting dealer sales.

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