Ford Motor Company has initiated a significant safety recall affecting a substantial portion of its electrified fleet in the United States. The action, announced on December 19, 2025, encompasses more than 270,000 vehicles and centres on a defect that could allow them to roll away unexpectedly while parked.
Scope and Cause of the Major Safety Recall
The recall targets specific electric and plug-in hybrid models. According to documentation from the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the issue stems from a potential failure in the vehicle's transmission park mechanism. In certain circumstances, the affected vehicles may not properly shift into "Park." If this occurs and the parking brake is not applied, the vehicle could move unintentionally, posing a serious risk of injury or property damage.
The recall notice was officially filed on December 19, 2025. While the precise models and model years were detailed in the NHTSA filing, the recall highlights a critical engineering challenge as automakers rapidly expand their electric and hybrid lineups. Such large-scale actions underscore the rigorous safety protocols governing the automotive industry, even for leading manufacturers.
Next Steps for Owners of Affected Vehicles
Owners of the recalled Ford vehicles will be notified directly by the company via mail. The notification will instruct them to schedule a service appointment with an authorized Ford dealership. There, certified technicians will inspect and, if necessary, repair the transmission park mechanism at no cost to the vehicle owner. The repair procedure is designed to eliminate the roll-away risk entirely.
Ford has advised owners to exercise caution until the repair is completed. The automaker recommends that drivers of the affected models always engage the electronic parking brake firmly every time they exit the vehicle, providing an additional layer of security. This interim measure can help prevent any unintended movement while the vehicle is unattended.
Implications for the Broader Automotive Market
This recall is one of the largest focused specifically on electric and hybrid vehicles in recent years. It serves as a reminder of the complex engineering behind modern powertrains and the continuous vigilance required for vehicle safety. For Canadian consumers and regulators, this U.S. action may prompt increased scrutiny of similar models sold in the Canadian market, although a separate recall by Transport Canada has not been announced at this time.
Recalls of this magnitude can impact consumer confidence but are also a standard part of the automotive safety ecosystem, demonstrating a manufacturer's responsibility to address potential defects proactively. Ford has stated its commitment to resolving the issue swiftly and ensuring the safety of its customers. Owners with immediate concerns are encouraged to contact their local Ford dealer or call Ford's customer service line for more information.
