In a recent development, Ford Motor Company is recalling nearly 274,000 of its popular Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator SUVs due to a potentially serious brake line defect. This recall, which affects roughly 1 percent of the vehicles involved, comes after safety concerns were raised regarding the front brake lines, which may have been bent during engine installation at the company’s Kentucky Truck Plant. The design flaw can result in the brake lines rubbing against the engine air cleaner outlet pipe, leading to brake fluid leaks and a consequent loss of braking power.
The recall specifically impacts 223,315 Ford Expeditions and 50,474 Lincoln Navigators manufactured between April 15, 2021, and November 20, 2024. Although the company has reported no accidents or injuries related to this defect, it has received 45 warranty claims that point to brake line leaks. Drivers may notice warning signs, including increased brake pedal travel or a red brake warning light illuminating on their dashboard.
In response to this issue, Ford has stated that it has already addressed the defect in production as of November 2024, meaning that new models rolling off the assembly line are not affected. Owners of the recalled vehicles will be notified by mail starting on May 26 and are encouraged to take their SUVs to a dealership for a complimentary inspection. Should the inspection reveal the need for repairs, the brake line or air cleaner outlet pipe will be replaced at no cost to the owners. Furthermore, those who previously incurred expenses for these repairs may be eligible for reimbursement under Ford’s recall reimbursement plan.
This recall is set against a backdrop of broader challenges facing Ford, particularly in light of new U.S. tariffs on foreign-built vehicles and parts, which are projected to impact the company’s earnings by approximately $1.5 billion through 2025. These tariffs have compelled Ford to suspend its full-year financial guidance while it assesses the implications of these policies. Despite a remarkable 64 percent decrease in first-quarter earnings compared to the previous year, Ford managed to surpass Wall Street expectations, highlighting its potential to leverage its significant manufacturing presence in the U.S. as a competitive advantage.
Ford CEO Jim Farley articulated this sentiment during a recent conference call with analysts, noting that the company assembled over 300,000 more vehicles in the United States than its closest competitor. “It’s still too early to fully understand our competitors’ responses to these tariffs,” he stated. “However, it’s clear that in this new environment, automakers with the largest U.S. footprint will have a significant edge, and that certainly applies to Ford. It puts us in the pole position.”
In a strategic move to counter the rising costs associated with tariffs, Ford recently announced price increases on certain Mexican-built vehicles ranging from $600 to $2,000. A spokesperson clarified that these adjustments are part of standard midyear pricing revisions but also reflect the additional costs incurred due to tariffs, emphasizing that not all costs will be passed directly to consumers.
As Ford navigates these complexities, the recall serves as a reminder of the intricate relationship between vehicle safety, production practices, and the broader economic landscape. For vehicle owners, awareness of these issues is crucial, not only for ensuring their safety but also for understanding the evolving dynamics of the automotive industry. The proactive measures taken by Ford in addressing the brake line defect demonstrate the company’s commitment to safety, even as it grapples with external pressures that could reshape its operational strategies in the years to come.
