Ford has issued yet another recall. The problem this time seems to be a major one that affects a wide range of their most popular cars and trucks. The problem centers around the vehicle experiencing unexpected forward movement while either in neutral or reverse. The impact this could have is monumental for Ford. The company has issued a recall for the affected vehicles. With the problem originating from a specific transmission that Ford uses in a range of vehicles, the recall has worsened Ford’s already crumbling credibility as a leader in mass production of reliable cars and trucks.
How will this latest recall affect Ford’s reputation and profit margins?
The issue stems from an “incorrectly machined part” that can result in the vehicle moving forward even while in reverse. Which does not have to be said is incredibly dangerous. How can one of the world’s oldest and reliable car makers miss a problem such as this? With the company stating that any customers who own any of the affected vehicles to take them into a Ford dealer to replace the problematic transmission at no cost.
With Ford producing a wide range of vehicles, particularly for the American market, the impact and amount of potential customers affected is troubling to say the least. The affected vehicles include the 2024 versions of the Bronco, Ranger, and the best selling truck in America, the F150. The iconic F150 at one point was the best selling car in world with one being bought every few seconds.
When we consider that the affected vehicles are mostly bought by people with a family, the idea of the car rolling forward in any situation is truly a terrible thought. The possible repercussions and most certain lawsuits that Ford could be faced with are astronomical. While the company is set to send out an official mail to listed customers soon, the announcement is just the first step.
Can the legendary carmaker recover from the latest setback while exploring the future of the industry?
Ford has experienced a wide range of problems recently. The company has a long history being a leader in the automotive sector. With Henry Ford pioneering mass production of cars for sale to the general public and further down the line, his descendants inspiring the Ford racing team to beat the iconic Ferrari at Le Mans with the GT40, the company has a foothold on the industry. Could this be slipping?
Ford also produces components for other brands it owns. One the brands affected is Lincoln. The company experiences decent sales in America but struggles in the international market, how will this affect their sales? The problem is not limited to the 2024 range of cars either. With the 2025 Mustang also being one of the vehicles with the faulty transmission.
One must ask if the emergence of EV’s and alternative power options coming out of countries like China and Japan, was the cause of the oversight a result of Ford paying too much attention to the competition? With huge investments in these alternative power solutions and many major car makers committing to going zero emissions within the decade, could this all have been prevented?
Can the American car sector continue to lead the way or have they fallen behind international standards?
The rest of the world are no doubt moving the automotive industry forward. But with the national government has been forced to step in after the issue became public knowledge. The ideal situation would have been handled internally. However, considering the potential impact of the mistake, we can understand and appreciate the government’s involvement. The 25V-164 report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Association is clear in its findings, Ford is required to do a recall. How will this affect them? Only time will tell.
