Recall News: Ford, Tesla

More than 50,000 million vehicles in the United States have unrepaired safety recalls. Fleet operators need to stay abreast of recalls to ensure that their fleet vehicles are not among those with dangerous defects. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) monitors each safety recall to make sure owners receive safe, free, and effective remedies from manufacturers according to the Safety Act and federal regulations.

Recently, two manufacturers issued recalls that can impact some commercial fleets. The details follow.

Ford Motor Company is recalling an estimated 39,013 2021 Expedition and Lincoln Navigator vehicles because an engine compartment fire may occur while driving or parked, even with the ignition in the "off" position.

This is a hazardous situation as a vehicle fire increases the likelihood of injury.

The remedy for this problem is under development, according to the automaker. In the meantime, owners are advised to park their vehicles outside and away from structures until the remedy is performed.

Letters notifying owners of the safety risk will be mailed May 23. A second letter will be mailed once the remedy is available. Ford's reference number for this recall is 22S36.

In a second action, Ford is recalling approximately 310,203 2016 Super Duty F-250, F-350, F-450, and F-550 vehicles for an airbag malfunction issue. Specifically, dust may accumulate in the steering wheel clock spring, causing a disconnection in the electrical connection, resulting in the driver air bag not deploying as intended.

This scenario increases the risk of injury in the event of a collision.

To remedy the matter, dealers will replace the steering wheel clock spring, free of charge. Owner notification letters will be mailed July 5. Ford's reference number for this recall is 22S35.

Owners can reach Ford customer service at (866) 436-7332.

Tesla is recalling an estimated 129,960 2021-2022 Model S, Model X, and 2022 Model 3 and Model Y vehicles operating certain firmware releases for an overheating problem. Specifically, the infotainment central processing unit (CPU) may overheat during the preparation or process of fast-charging, causing the CPU to lag or restart.

A display malfunction can be very dangerous. A lagging or restarting CPU may prevent the screen from displaying a variety of important information including the rearview camera image, gear selection, windshield visibility control settings, and warning lights.

The driver’s inability to see any or all of the above increases the risk of a crash.

To fix the problem, Tesla will perform an over-the-air (OTA) software update that will improve CPU temperature management, at no cost to owners. Owner notification letters will be mailed on or around July 1. Tesla's reference number for this recall is SB-22-00-009.

Owners may contact Tesla customer service at (877) 798-3752.