Ford Issues Two New Recalls for Popular Models

Ford has announced two new recall campaigns affecting several popular models, highlighting ongoing quality challenges despite previous improvements.

The first recall involves HVAC system failures that could impact driver visibility and safety. According to Ford, certain Lincoln Aviator and Ford Explorer vehicles may experience HVAC system malfunctions due to improperly secured electrical ground joints on the blower motor during assembly. While a non-functional heating and cooling system is certainly inconvenient, Ford warns it could also increase crash risk if drivers cannot properly defrost or defog their windshields.

This recall affects 55 vehicles total: 5 Lincoln Aviators from the 2026 model year built between October 20 and December 18, 2025, and 50 Ford Explorers from the same model year assembled between October 19, 2025, and January 12, 2026. Owners will receive notifications on April 10, and dealers will inspect and secure all instrument panel joints at no cost.

The second recall is more extensive, impacting 3,170 Ford Bronco Sport and Ford Maverick models. These vehicles may have a broken Occupant Classification Sensor (OCS) bladder port, which could prevent the system from properly detecting whether an adult or child is in the front passenger seat. When this occurs, the front passenger airbag will be disabled, creating a significant safety hazard.

Owners can identify this issue if they see a "Passenger Airbag OFF" warning in the gauge cluster. The recall covers all 2025-2026 Ford Bronco Sport models built from July 29 to December 3, 2025 (1,515 vehicles), and 2025-2026 Ford Mavericks assembled from August 8 to September 11, 2025. Dealers will replace the Occupant Classification Sensor free of charge.