Ford Recalls 741,195 US Vehicles Over Transmission Park Pawl Safety Issue

Ford has announced a safety recall affecting 741,195 sport utility vehicles and pickup trucks across the United States. The action follows the discovery of a transmission-related issue that could allow the park pawl to engage while the vehicle is still moving under specific shift conditions. Such engagement may damage the transmission park system and reduce the vehicle's ability to remain stationary when placed in Park, increasing the likelihood of unintended movement and raising the potential for a crash.

The recall covers several popular models, including the 2018–2021 Ford Expedition and Navigator, the 2020–2021 Ford Explorer, the 2020–2021 Lincoln Aviator, and the 2021 Ford F-150. These vehicles are equipped with 10R60, 10R80, or 10R80MHT automatic transmissions featuring park-by-wire technology. According to the company, a transmission valve body separator plate may restrict hydraulic flow to the park valve, creating conditions where temporary park pawl engagement can occur during certain transmission shifts.

Affected Vehicle Models Included in the Recall

If damage occurs within the transmission park system, the transmission's park function may no longer securely hold the vehicle after it is shifted into Park. This condition can result in unintended vehicle movement even when the driver believes the vehicle is safely parked. Because of the elevated safety risk, the manufacturer has initiated the recall to correct the condition before additional incidents occur.

The corrective action includes updating the vehicle's powertrain control module (PCM) software. The revised calibration will prevent the transmission from commanding the specific shift events that may temporarily engage the parking pawl while the vehicle remains in motion. Dealers will also inspect affected transmissions and replace any damaged transmission components whenever necessary to restore proper operation.

• PCM software will be updated on affected vehicles.
• Transmission components will be inspected for damage.
• Damaged transmission parts will be replaced if required.
• Interim owner notification letters begin mailing August 3.
• Final remedy letters are expected once repairs become available in April 2027.

Vehicle owners will initially receive interim notification letters beginning August 3 to inform them about the identified safety concern. A second notification will be issued after the complete repair solution becomes available, which is currently expected in April 2027. Owners are encouraged to respond promptly once notified so dealership technicians can complete the necessary software update and any required transmission repairs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which vehicles are included in Ford's latest transmission recall?
The recall affects 741,195 vehicles sold in the United States, including the 2018–2021 Ford Navigator and Expedition, 2020–2021 Ford Explorer, 2020–2021 Lincoln Aviator, and the 2021 Ford F-150. These vehicles use specific 10R60, 10R80, or 10R80MHT transmissions with park-by-wire functionality. Dealers will install updated PCM software and replace damaged transmission components when required after inspection.

What repair will Ford perform under the recall?
Ford dealers will update the powertrain control module software to prevent transmission commands that may temporarily engage the park pawl while the vehicle is moving. Technicians will also inspect the transmission for damage and replace affected components if necessary. Interim owner notifications begin on August 3, while the complete repair campaign is expected to be available in April 2027.