Ford is recalling the vehicles because the fuel pump could fail without warning. A July 8 recall notice issued by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) states:
“Affected vehicles may lose fuel pressure and flow from the fuel tank due to failure of the low-pressure fuel pump. This can cause a lack of fuel delivery to the engine and result in an engine stall. An engine stall while driving increases the risk of a crash.”
Which vehicles are affected
The recall covers a wide range of Ford and Lincoln models from 2021 through 2023. If you own any of these vehicles, your fuel pump might be a ticking time bomb.
Ford models include:
- 2021–2022 F-150
- 2021–2022 Mustang
- 2021–2023 Bronco
- 2021–2023 Explorer
- 2021–2023 F-250 through F-550 Super Duty trucks
- 2022 Expedition
Lincoln models include:
- 2021–2022 Navigator
- 2021–2023 Aviator
According to the NHTSA, you may notice warning signs such as rough idling, engine misfires, or reduced power before the vehicle experiences complete failure. The problem tends to worsen in hot weather or when your fuel tank is running low.
The potential cost of ignoring this recall
Ford will fix the fuel pump for free once a remedy is available, but ignoring this recall could still cost you dearly. Beyond the immediate safety risk, a stalled engine on a busy highway could lead to crash-related costs, including insurance deductibles, higher premiums, and potential liability if others are hurt.
Even without a crash, ignoring a major recall can hurt your vehicle’s resale value. Savvy buyers check recall histories, and unresolved safety issues often lower trade-in offers.
An unexpected breakdown could also force you to rent or buy a replacement sooner than planned, adding more financial strain.
Your action plan starts today
First, check if your vehicle is affected. You don’t need to wait for Ford’s notification letter, scheduled for July 14. You can visit Ford’s website or the NHTSA recall page and enter your VIN to see if your model is included under recall number 25V-455.
Document everything. If you’ve already experienced fuel pump issues, save all repair receipts, tow bills, and rental car expenses. Take photos or videos if your engine acts up. This documentation could be crucial if you need to seek reimbursement for related expenses or prove an ongoing unresolved issue.
Schedule the repair immediately once Ford announces that the fix is available. Don’t assume you can wait. Recall parts are often in short supply, and early birds receive priority. Ask your dealer about a loaner vehicle if the repair will take more than a day.
Know your rights as a consumer
Ford must provide the recall repair free of charge, even if your warranty has expired. They are also required to reimburse you for past repairs related to this defect, so dig up those old receipts. The reimbursement process can take months, but it is worth pursuing if you’ve already paid for fuel pump work.
If your vehicle has recurring fuel pump problems even after the recall repair, you might have a lemon law claim. Lemon law gives consumers legal recourse if they’re sold a defective vehicle.
These laws typically define what constitutes a “lemon” and outline the process for consumers to receive a refund or other remedy. Keep detailed service records and consult your state’s lemon law provisions if problems persist.
If you’re shopping for a used Ford, this recall should factor into your negotiation strategy. Affected models might sit longer on dealer lots, creating opportunities for better deals. But verify the recall work has been completed before signing anything. You do not want to inherit someone else’s safety problem.
Add a Comment