Ford Recall Affects Nearly 420,000 Expedition and Lincoln Navigator Vehicles in the U.S.

The Ford Recall announced on June 2 covers 419,967 vehicles across the United States and affects certain 2018–2022 Ford Motor Company Expedition and Lincoln Navigator models. According to the recall notice, the seat belt pretensioner located in the driver and/or front passenger seat may unexpectedly lock the seat belt. When this condition occurs, the belt may no longer retract or extend properly, potentially affecting occupant convenience and raising safety concerns that require inspection and corrective action by authorized dealers.

The issue was highlighted by the United States National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). The agency stated that the propellant used within the retractor pretensioner may deteriorate when exposed to prolonged high-temperature environments. As the degradation progresses, oxidation can develop on internal components. Over time, this process may result in an unintended deployment of the pretensioner mechanism, leading to the seat belt becoming locked and unable to function as designed.

The affected seat belt retractor pretensioner assemblies were supplied by ZF Lifetec, a supplier based in Michigan. Investigations into the issue identified the possibility that environmental conditions could accelerate deterioration within the assembly. The recall is intended to address the concern before it results in broader operational issues in vehicles that remain in service across the market.

Recall Details for Affected Vehicles

Vehicle owners are scheduled to receive notification letters by mail and will be instructed to visit a Ford or Lincoln dealership. Dealers will inspect both front seat belt retractors and determine whether replacement retractors are required. The inspection and repair process is intended to ensure that the seat belt system continues to operate correctly and meets safety expectations for affected vehicles.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which vehicles are included in the Ford recall?
The recall affects nearly 420,000 vehicles manufactured by Ford between the 2018 and 2022 model years. Specifically, it includes Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator models equipped with potentially affected seat belt pretensioner assemblies. The issue may cause the seat belt to lock unexpectedly, preventing normal extension or retraction. Owners of these vehicles are expected to receive notification letters and instructions regarding inspection and potential replacement of the affected components.

What causes the seat belt pretensioner problem?
The issue is linked to degradation of the propellant used inside the retractor pretensioner assembly. According to NHTSA, prolonged exposure to high-temperature environments can contribute to oxidation of internal components. As this process advances, the pretensioner may inadvertently deploy, causing the seat belt to lock. This condition can interfere with normal seat belt operation, prompting the recall and inspection campaign initiated by Ford for affected vehicles.

What should owners do if their vehicle is affected?
Owners should wait for the official notification letter and then schedule an appointment with a Ford or Lincoln dealership. During the visit, technicians will inspect both front seat belt retractors and determine whether replacement parts are necessary. The inspection is intended to identify affected assemblies and restore proper seat belt functionality where required. Following the manufacturer's guidance will help ensure the vehicle's restraint system continues operating as intended.