Ford recalls 741,000 SUVs and trucks over roll-away risk, plus 36,000 Bronco Raptors for loose fender flares

Ford has launched two major recalls in the US, the largest of which covers 741,195 big SUVs and trucks over a transmission fault that could cause the vehicle to roll away after being parked. The recall affects 2021 F-150s, 2020–2021 Explorers and Lincoln Aviators, and 2018–2021 Expeditions and Lincoln Navigators. The issue stems from certain transmission downshifts that can briefly engage the parking pawl while the vehicle is still moving due to insufficient fluid flow to the park valve. This can damage the transmission’s parking system, leaving it unable to securely hold the vehicle in Park unless the electronic parking brake is applied. Ford warns that in rare cases, the vehicle could roll away, increasing the risk of a crash. A wrench-shaped warning light may appear in the instrument cluster as a potential indicator of the problem. The automaker notes that its electronic parking brake is designed to apply automatically if the transmission fails to reach Park, but engineers found the safeguard may not always detect vehicle movement after the powertrain control module goes to sleep. The fix involves a software update for the powertrain control module to prevent the problematic shifts, along with dealer inspections of affected transmissions for park system damage and free replacement of any damaged components. Ford reports 24 allegations of property damage and nine alleged injuries related to the issue. The second recall involves 36,046 2022–2026 Bronco Raptors, where improperly manufactured attachment holes and leftover burrs or fibers can prevent the fender flares from securing properly during assembly. This can cause the flares to loosen and eventually detach, creating a road hazard. The issue was traced back to a warranty claim on a 2026 Bronco Raptor on January 13, 2026, where the front right fender flare detached while driving. Ford has recorded 409 reports across 352 unique VINs, with no accidents or injuries reported. Owners may notice gaps or sagging around the flare or hear rattling and flapping noises at highway speeds before a flare detaches. Dealers will inspect the flares, replace retaining push pins where needed, repair loose flares, or install new replacements if a flare is missing. The recalls come just days after Ford was named the top mainstream brand in JD Power’s latest Initial Quality Study, an accolade the company called proof it had become the “gold standard for new vehicle quality.”