Ford Recalls 7.4 Million Cars in Four Months

Ford began this year picking up where it left off in previous years: recalling a slew of vehicles over a wide range of defects that put everyone on the road at risk.

The automaker called back at least 7.4 million cars through April, Motor1 reports. The tally shows Ford is likely to once again retain the dubious crown as the country’s most recalled carmaker.

The bulk of the recalls - about 4.4 million cars - were over a software issue that could cause trailer connection lights to go on the fritz. Trailer turn signals and brake functions could also fail, the automaker told the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration in a February recall notice.

Ford has led the country’s automakers in annual safety recalls for several years running. The manufacturer, by August 2025, broke the record for total number of recalls in a year - more than 100 - blowing past the mark set by General Motors more than a decade ago. 

The recalls run a wide range of defects and malfunctions. The problems are routinely discovered long after cars have left factory floors, sold to unsuspecting buyers.

Ford also recalled more than 400,000 Explorers this year, warning that drivers could suddenly lose control of the cars. The automaker said it was aware of at least two accidents related to the problem with the SUVs’ rear suspension’s toe links.

In March, the company said it was recalling some 250,000 Ford and Lincoln SUVs because of a software defect that can disable rearview cameras and driver-assistance features.

Ford late last year began offering owners with major service and repair issues 10% off new vehicles. The company’s owner retention certificate program came in response to requests from dealers and “‘to help retain customers who have lost confidence in their vehicle due to unsatisfactory service experiences,’” according to a report by Cars Direct.

California Lemon Law Rights for Ford Drivers

The good news for Ford owners and lessors in California is that you have some valuable rights and protections under the state’s lemon law.

The California lemon law requires automakers to perform a variety of repairs on vehicles while they are under warranty. The law also requires the companies to buy back or replace cars that they cannot or simply refuse to fix. That includes covering the car’s purchase price, financing fees, rental car costs, and other related expenses.

There is no specific number of repair requests or attempts required before the buyback or replace requirement kicks in. An experienced California lemon law attorney can help you understand your rights and take action.

Talk with a California Lemon Law Attorney

If you have been stuck with a defective or malfunctioning vehicle, a California lemon law attorney at Bickel Sannipoli APC can help you fight back.  

Call us at (888) 800-1983 or contact us online to speak with a California lemon law attorney.