In August 2024, Ford Motor Company announced a significant safety recall affecting 70,483 vehicles, including the 2024 Ford Ranger pickups and 2024 Lincoln Nautilus SUVs.
The recall, designated as NHTSA Campaign Number 24V597000 and Ford Recall Number 24C24, addresses a critical issue where the power windows may not automatically reverse upon detecting an obstruction, posing a risk of pinching injuries to occupants.
In this article we will know about ford recalls 2024 ranger pickups over window pinching issue with some FAQs.
Understanding the Window Pinching Issue
The Defect
The core of the problem lies in a software malfunction within the Driver Door Module (DDM) and Passenger Door Module (PDM). Specifically, when using the “global close” feature—which allows all windows to be closed simultaneously via the key fob or mobile app—the windows may not reverse upon encountering an obstruction. This failure to comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) No. 118 increases the risk of injury.
Affected Vehicles
The recall impacts:
- 2024 Ford Ranger: Manufactured between December 9, 2022, and July 15, 2024.
- 2024 Lincoln Nautilus: Manufactured between September 26, 2022, and August 5, 2024.
All affected vehicles were produced with the faulty DDM and PDM software that may disable the automatic reversal system under certain conditions.
Safety Implications
The malfunctioning window system poses a significant safety hazard. If the automatic reversal feature fails, windows may exert excessive force before retracting, potentially causing pinching injuries to occupants. This is particularly concerning for children, who may be more susceptible to such injuries.
Ford’s Response and Repair Plan
The Fix
Ford has initiated a corrective action plan involving a free software update to the DDM and PDM. This update aims to ensure that the windows automatically reverse upon detecting an obstruction, restoring compliance with FMVSS No. 118.
Owner Notification
Ford began mailing owner notification letters on September 13, 2024. Owners are advised to contact their local Ford or Lincoln dealership to schedule the software update.
Legal and Consumer Considerations
Lemon Law Implications
Owners experiencing repeated issues with their vehicle’s power windows may be entitled to remedies under state Lemon Laws. For instance, in California, persistent defects that impair the use, value, or safety of a vehicle may qualify it as a “lemon,” entitling the owner to a replacement or refund.
Cost to Ford
While the repair is free for consumers, Ford bears the financial responsibility for updating over 70,000 vehicles. This includes costs associated with software development, dealer labor, and administrative expenses related to the recall process.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How can I check if my 2024 Ford Ranger is affected by the recall?
Visit the NHTSA recall website and enter your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to see if your vehicle is included in the recall.
2. Is the repair free of charge?
Yes, Ford is providing the software update at no cost to vehicle owners.
3. What should I do if I haven’t received a recall notice?
Contact Ford Customer Service at 1-866-436-7332 or your local dealership to inquire about the recall status of your vehicle.
4. Can I continue to use my vehicle before the repair?
While the vehicle remains operable, it’s advisable to avoid using the global close feature until the software update is completed to prevent potential injuries.
5. How long will the repair take?
The software update is a relatively quick process, typically completed within a few hours at the dealership.
Conclusion
The recall of the 2024 Ford Ranger pickups and Lincoln Nautilus SUVs underscores the importance of adhering to safety standards in vehicle manufacturing.
Ford’s proactive approach in addressing the window pinching issue through a free software update reflects its commitment to consumer safety. Vehicle owners are encouraged to promptly schedule the necessary repairs to ensure their vehicles operate safely and in compliance with federal regulations.
For more information or assistance, contact:Ford Customer Service: 1-866-436-7332NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline: 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153)NHTSA Website: www.nhtsa.gov
