Ford issued a recall for 740,000 trucks and SUVs spanning the 2018-2021 model years due to a defect that allows vehicles to roll away while parked. The F-150 and Lincoln models are included in the action.
The issue stems from a transmission problem that can cause vehicles to shift out of Park unexpectedly. This defect creates a serious safety hazard, particularly in driveways, parking lots, and on inclines where unintended rollaway poses risk to occupants, bystanders, and property.
Ford advises owners to engage the parking brake manually with every park event until the recall fix becomes available. This extra step serves as a workaround to prevent unintended movement, though it places the burden on drivers to remember additional safety measures on vehicles sold as safe.
The affected models cover a four-year production span, suggesting the defect persisted across multiple model years before Ford identified and reported it to regulators. The sheer number of vehicles involved, 740,000 units, ranks this among the larger recalls Ford has issued in recent years and reflects the popularity of the F-150, America's best-selling truck.
Dealers will reprogram or repair the transmission control software and hardware as needed once parts availability allows. Ford typically contacts owners by mail with specific service appointment instructions and repair timelines.
This recall underscores ongoing transmission quality challenges in the industry. Ford's 10-speed automatic transmission in F-Series trucks has faced previous complaints and recalls related to shifting issues and unexpected behavior. Owners frustrated by repeated transmission problems may consider warranty claims or lemon law options if repairs fail to resolve the defect permanently.
Affected owners should check their vehicle identification number against Ford's official recall list to confirm eligibility and await service notices from their dealers.