Ford is recalling over 600,000 vehicles in Canada and around 4.3 million in the U.S. due to a software malfunction that could lead to trailer brake and exterior light failures. Affected models include select 2021-2026 F-150s, 2022-2026 Super Duty trucks, 2024-2026 Rangers, and 2022-2026 Mavericks.
The company plans to provide an over-the-air software update for the impacted vehicles, with the option for customers to receive the update via mobile service or at a Ford dealership. The software update is expected to be accessible for most Canadian vehicles before the end of March and for all vehicles by the end of May.
The software glitch may disrupt communication between trailers and vehicles when towing, resulting in non-functional trailer stop lamps and turn signals, and potential loss of braking function. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration warns that malfunctioning trailer lights or brakes can compromise the driver’s ability to control the trailer, heightening the risk of accidents.
Ford assures that drivers will receive a “Trailer Brake Module Fault” notification and rapid flashing of the turn signal indicator if their vehicle encounters communication issues. Although Ford is investigating 407 incidents possibly linked to the recall, there have been no reported accidents or injuries associated with the problem.