Ford Recalls 420,000 Vehicles for Seat Belt Fix and Issues Do Not Drive Warning for 4,653 Others Over Suspension Parts

Ford Motor is recalling nearly 420,000 vehicles because seat belts in certain Expedition and Lincoln models may inadvertently lock. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said the belts can fail to retract or extend, preventing proper restraint of occupants. The recall covers model years 2018 to 2022.

"Seat belts that do not retract or extend can fail to restrain an occupant as intended, increasing the risk of injury in a crash," NHTSA stated. Ford reported one injury linked to the defect. The company will begin mailing owner notifications on June 8.

Dealers will inspect the vehicles and replace the seat belt retractors at no cost. The recall number is 26S34. Separately, Ford issued a Do Not Drive warning for 4,653 Maverick and Bronco Sport vehicles.

The front lower control arm ball joints may have been incorrectly installed or repaired at the assembly plant, allowing the control arm to disconnect from the front wheel knuckle. Ford advised owners not to drive the vehicles until the remedy is completed.

Dealers will inspect and repair the defective suspension parts free of charge. The recall number for the suspension issue is 26S36. Owners can contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332 for further information.

A safety watchdog had previously noted that the seat belts in certain Expedition and Lincoln vehicles may inadvertently lock, preventing them from functioning properly.