Ford Motor Company has announced one of its largest recent safety recalls, affecting more than 4.3 million pickup trucks, SUVs, and vans across the United States. The action comes after regulators identified a software defect that could interfere with critical trailer functions, potentially increasing the risk of accidents.

According to safety filings reviewed by U.S. authorities, the recall impacts several high volume models produced between 2021 and 2026. The affected models include Ford F 150 Super Duty trucks Ranger Expedition Maverick Transit vans and Lincoln Navigator vehicles. The recall affects a large number of popular Ford vehicles which makes the recall particularly important for both vehicle owners and dealership operators.

Software Glitch Could Disable Trailer Brakes and Lights

The issue originates from a malfunction within the Integrated Trailer Relay Module, a system responsible for maintaining communication between the towing vehicle and an attached trailer. Investigators found that a software error during vehicle startup may prevent the module from syncing properly with the vehicle.

The failure of communication systems will result in a complete shutdown of trailer brake lights and turn signals and all braking functions. Safety regulators warned that such failures reduce visibility to other drivers and limit control over attached trailers, which increases crash risks.

Drivers receive dashboard warning alerts that display trailer brake module faults and show rapidly flashing turn signals as indicators. Ford claimed that it has not received any reports of accidents or injuries or fires which directly stem from this serious defect. The company confirmed that it had received hundreds of related incident reports which led to an investigation that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration would conduct together with them.

Over the Air Update Planned for May 2026

Ford plans to resolve the issue through a free over the air software update expected to roll out starting May 2026. Vehicle owners will receive notifications once the update becomes available.Customers may also visit Ford or Lincoln dealerships to complete the repair at no cost.

The automaker reopened its investigation earlier this year after it had met with regulators who raised concerns about software reliability in vehicles that now use digital technology. The automotive sector is facing an increase in software-related recalls according to industry experts who observe that modern vehicles depend on electronic modules for their operations.

The company requires affected owners to track official recall announcements while they must arrange updates to maintain proper operation of their trailer safety systems.