Recall News: Ford, Volkswagen

Fleet operators understand the importance of staying informed about the latest safety recalls. More than 50 million vehicles in the United States have unrepaired safety recalls. These defects can pose serious danger to your drivers and other road users. Recently, two automakers issued recalls that could impact some commercial fleets.

Ford Motor Company is recalling an estimated 78,376 2021-2022 Edge vehicles because a software error may cause the rearview camera to display a blank or distorted image when the vehicle is in reverse.

This scenario is hazardous as it reduces the driver’s view, increasing the likelihood of a crash.

To fix the problem, Ford is ensuring that the rearview camera software will be updated by a dealer, or through an over-the-air (OTA) update, at no cost to owners.

Owner notification letters will be mailed April 25. Owners can reach Ford customer service at (866) 436-7332. Ford's reference number for this recall is 22S14.

Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. is recalling approximately 222,892 2019-2020 Atlas, 2020-2023 Atlas Cross Sport, and 2021-2023 Atlas FL vehicles due to an airbag issue. Specifically, the door wiring harness electrical contacts may corrode, disrupting the electrical connection and delaying the deployment of the driver or passenger front side air bag during a side impact crash.

This situation poses significant danger as delayed airbag deployment can increase injury risk in the event of a collision.

The remedy for this problem is currently under development, according to the manufacturer.

Interim owner notification letters informing owners of the safety risk will be mailed May 10. A second notice will be sent once the remedy becomes available. Owners may contact Volkswagen customer service at (800) 893-5298. Volkswagen's reference number for this recall is 97GF.