What Fords Are Recalled for Airbags: Essential Information for Vehicle Owners

Have you ever wondered if your Ford vehicle is part of an airbag recall? You’re not alone. Many drivers worry about the safety of their cars, especially when it comes to crucial features like airbags. It’s important to stay informed, as recalls can affect your vehicle’s performance and your safety on the road.

In this article, you’ll discover which Ford models have faced airbag recalls and what you need to do if yours is affected. Understanding these recalls can help you take the right steps to ensure your vehicle is safe and reliable. Let’s get started on keeping you and your loved ones protected while driving.

Overview of Ford Airbag Recalls

Ford has issued multiple recalls over the years related to airbag safety. These recalls typically arise from defects that may prevent airbags from deploying or might cause them to deploy unexpectedly. It’s crucial to stay informed about these recalls to ensure your vehicle’s safety.

Common Reasons for Recalls

1. Faulty Airbag Sensors: Defective sensors may fail to detect a passenger’s weight, leading to non-deployment in crashes.
2. Inflator Issues: Certain airbag inflators might rupture, causing metal fragments to shoot into the cabin during deployment.
3. Wiring Problems: Damaged wiring can disrupt the connection between airbag systems and the vehicle, preventing deployment.
4. Software Glitches: Updates may be necessary for airbag control software to address potential malfunctions.

Affected Models

Numerous Ford models have faced airbag recalls. Examples include:

• Ford Fiesta (2011-2013): Recalled due to issues with front side airbag sensors.
• Ford Focus (2012-2018): Certain models had inflator defects that posed risks.
• Ford Explorer (2011-2013): Models with faulty side curtain airbags were recalled.

What to Do If Your Vehicle Is Affected

1. Check Recall Status: Visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website. Enter your vehicle identification number (VIN) to check for recalls.
2. Contact Ford: Reach out to your local Ford dealership for specifics about the recall and what steps to take.
3. Schedule Repairs: If your vehicle is affected, schedule the necessary repairs immediately. Repairs are often free of charge.

Staying Updated

Stay informed on recalls by subscribing to notifications from Ford or the NHTSA. Regularly checking your vehicle’s safety can enhance your driving safety and peace of mind.

Common Issues Leading to Recalls

Ford has experienced airbag-related recalls due to several common issues. These problems can affect the safety and reliability of your vehicle. Here’s a closer look at some key concerns.

Faulty Airbag Sensors

Faulty airbag sensors cause unintended airbag deployment or failure to deploy in an accident. These sensors may become damaged or experience malfunction due to environmental factors, such as moisture exposure. Models like the Ford Fiesta (2011-2013) often report these sensor issues. It’s critical to address sensor problems promptly to maintain vehicle safety.

Deployment Issues

Deployment issues involve airbags not deploying correctly during a collision. These issues may result from various factors, including defective inflators, software glitches, or wiring problems. For instance, the Ford Explorer (2011-2013) has had cases where airbags failed to activate due to such failures. Drivers must remain vigilant and seek repairs if they suspect deployment issues, ensuring maximum protection on the road.

Timeline of Major Recalls

Major recalls involving Ford vehicles highlight the ongoing concerns regarding airbag safety. Understanding the timeline helps you stay informed about significant events related to these recalls.

Notable Recall Events

• 2016: Ford recalled 2,800 vehicles, including the 2016 Explorer, due to faulty sensors that affected airbag deployment.
• 2017: A massive recall involved over 1.3 million vehicles, primarily the 2011-2013 Fiesta and Focus models, because of inflator defects that posed risks during crashes.
• 2018: The recall expanded, affecting more than 1 million Ford Explorers from 2011-2013 due to software issues preventing airbags from deploying correctly.
• 2020: Ford announced a recall for over 200,000 vehicles, including the 2019 Ranger and 2018-2020 Mustang, because of wiring problems that could lead to airbags failing during accidents.

Impact on Consumers

• Safety Risks: Faulty airbags can lead to severe consequences during an accident. Understanding the recalls helps you assess the safety of your vehicle.
• Repair Accessibility: Most repairs due to recalls are free of charge. Contacting your local Ford dealership ensures prompt servicing.
• Notification Importance: Staying updated on recalls can prevent safety risks. Subscribing to notifications from Ford or the NHTSA keeps you informed about your vehicle’s status.
• Resale Value: Vehicles with unresolved recalls may have lower resale values. Addressing recalls promptly maintains your car’s market value.

How to Check if Your Ford is Affected

Checking if your Ford is affected by an airbag recall is straightforward. Follow these steps to ensure your vehicle’s safety.

1. Visit the NHTSA Website

Navigate to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website. Enter your vehicle identification number (VIN) in the designated search box. This will provide information on any active recalls related to your Ford.

1. Contact Your Local Ford Dealership

Call or visit your nearest Ford dealership. Provide them with your VIN, and ask if your vehicle has any open recalls. Dealerships can also inform you about any remedies available for your specific model.

1. Check Ford’s Official Website

Visit Ford’s official website. Most manufacturers have a section dedicated to recalls. Input your VIN or vehicle details to find relevant recall information.

1. Sign Up for Recall Notifications

Register for recall notifications through the NHTSA or Ford’s website. You’ll receive updates directly related to recalls, ensuring you stay informed about your vehicle’s status.

1. Review Owner’s Manual

Check your vehicle’s owner’s manual for recall information. This manual often contains details on how to stay updated about recalls and safety notices.

1. Follow Up Regularly

Make it a habit to check your vehicle’s recall status periodically. New recalls can emerge, affecting models previously considered safe.

Using these steps helps you ensure your Ford remains safe and reliable. Keeping informed about recalls protects you and your passengers on the road.

Steps to Take if Your Vehicle is Recalled

1. Check Recall Status

Visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website. Enter your vehicle identification number (VIN) to see if any recalls affect your Ford vehicle.

1. Contact Your Local Ford Dealership

Call or visit your local Ford dealership. Ask about the recall specifics and request an appointment for repairs. Dealerships have information on current recalls and can guide you through the process.

1. Schedule Necessary Repairs

Arrange a time for repairs. Many recalls, like airbag fixes, are free of charge. Ensure you complete this step as soon as possible to maintain your vehicle’s safety.

1. Sign Up for Notifications

Register for recall alerts from Ford or the NHTSA. This service keeps you informed of any new recalls that may affect your vehicle in the future.

1. Review Your Owner’s Manual

Check your owner’s manual for any recall-related information. It often contains specific details about your vehicle and maintenance instructions.

1. Stay Informed

Regularly follow up on your vehicle’s recall status, especially if you hear about new recalls affecting Ford models. Updates can change frequently.

1. Know Your Rights

Familiarize yourself with your rights as a vehicle owner. Under federal law, you have the right to receive timely repairs for recalls.

Taking these steps ensures your Ford vehicle remains safe, reliable, and compliant with safety standards. Stay proactive to keep yourself and your passengers safe on the road.

Conclusion

Staying informed about airbag recalls is crucial for your safety and peace of mind. If you own a Ford vehicle it’s important to regularly check for any recalls that may affect you. Taking proactive steps like checking your recall status and scheduling repairs can make all the difference in ensuring your vehicle remains reliable on the road.

Don’t hesitate to reach out to your local Ford dealership for assistance or to get more information. Keeping up with recalls not only protects you and your passengers but also helps maintain your vehicle’s value. Stay safe and drive with confidence knowing you’re taking the right steps to keep your Ford in top shape.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Ford models are affected by airbag recalls?

The affected Ford models include the Ford Fiesta (2011-2013), Ford Focus (2012-2018), and Ford Explorer (2011-2013). It’s essential for owners of these models to check for any recall notices to ensure safety.

How do I check if my Ford vehicle is under an airbag recall?

You can check your Ford vehicle’s recall status by visiting the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website. Enter your vehicle identification number (VIN) for detailed information on recalls.

What are common reasons for Ford airbag recalls?

Common reasons for Ford airbag recalls include faulty airbag sensors, inflator issues, wiring problems, and software glitches. These problems can lead to airbags failing to deploy during an accident or deploying unexpectedly.

How can I stay updated on airbag recalls?

To stay updated on airbag recalls, subscribe to notifications from Ford or the NHTSA. Regularly checking your vehicle’s recall status and reviewing the owner’s manual can also help ensure awareness of any potential issues.

What should I do if my Ford vehicle is recalled?

If your Ford vehicle is recalled, check its recall status and contact your local Ford dealership for details on necessary repairs. Repairs are often free of charge to ensure your safety on the road.