A significant safety concern has emerged, prompting Transport Canada to issue recalls affecting over 21,000 Ford and Lincoln vehicles. The agency warns that critical components could detach while driving, posing a potential hazard to motorists and other road users.
The first recall focuses on approximately 20,521 Ford Escape SUVs from the 2020 and 2025 model years. Investigations revealed that hinge covers on the liftgate may not be securely fastened, creating a risk that they could loosen and fall off during operation.
Transport Canada emphasizes that detached parts present a clear and present danger, potentially leading to accidents. Ford is proactively contacting owners via mail, instructing them to schedule an inspection at a local dealership.
Dealerships will either securely reattach the liftgate hinge covers or replace them entirely, ensuring the structural integrity of the vehicle. This recall addresses a potentially dangerous flaw that could impact a substantial number of drivers.
A second, smaller recall involves 501 Lincoln MKT models from the 2016 and 2019 model years. In these vehicles, exterior B-pillar trims on the driver and front passenger doors may not be properly affixed.
Similar to the Escape recall, the agency warns that these trims could detach while driving, creating a road hazard and increasing the risk of a collision. Owners of affected Lincoln MKTs will also receive notification by mail and be directed to a dealership for repair.
The B-pillar trims will be secured by technicians, restoring the vehicle’s exterior safety features. This recall, while affecting fewer vehicles, underscores the importance of addressing even seemingly minor component failures.
These recalls are part of a larger wave of safety-related actions taken by Transport Canada, recently encompassing over 32,800 vehicles. The agency is diligently working to identify and address potential defects that could compromise driver and passenger safety.
Beyond the Ford and Lincoln recalls, more than 23,000 Ford Explorers, including those used by law enforcement, are also subject to inspection. These vehicles share a similar issue with exterior trims that may become detached from the doors.
Adding to the concerns, over 9,800 Ram trucks – specifically the 1500, 2500, 3500, 4500, and 5500 models from the 2025 and 2026 model years – have been recalled due to a software glitch. This issue can prevent the instrument panel cluster screen from displaying vital information.
The loss of critical data, such as gear selection and warning messages, while starting or driving significantly elevates the risk of an accident. Transport Canada is prioritizing these recalls to mitigate potential dangers on the road.
The agency’s proactive approach to identifying and addressing these defects demonstrates a commitment to ensuring the safety of all road users. Vehicle owners are strongly encouraged to respond promptly to any recall notifications they receive.
