Ford Motor Company has recently announced a safety recall for select 2022-2024 Ford Maverick, 2020-2022 Ford Escape, and 2021-2022 Lincoln Corsair vehicles to address an issue with the hybrid powertrain control module (HPCM) software that could lead to an engine stall while driving. The recall involves updating the HPCM software in affected vehicles. Owners of recalled Ford and Lincoln models should watch for notification letters so this critical repair can be completed.
What is Causing the Engine Stall Risk?
Ford has discovered that certain HPCM software updates released for use at dealerships in January 2024 contain faulty software for the Hybrid Transmission Internal Park Module (HTIPM). This software can erroneously detect noise from the Park Motor Position Sensor, leading to a diagnostic trouble code that forces the transmission into neutral while driving.
As the vehicle coasts to a stop in neutral, the transmission will automatically shift into Park mode. While power braking and steering are retained, the driver will experience a complete loss of motive power once stopped. Shifting back into Drive will put the vehicle into a limited “limp home” mode allowing only low speeds up to 30 mph.
What Warning Signs Should I Look For?
If the HPCM software issue occurs, you will see several warning indicators:
- The gear shift indicator light will flash “Drive”
- The instrument panel cluster will display “Neutral”
- You will receive a wrench light warning
- Warning messages on the instrument cluster
- An audible chime or alert sound
- The vehicle will not respond to accelerator pedal inputs
Which Ford and Lincoln Vehicles Are Affected?
The following Ford and Lincoln vehicles are included in this engine stall recall:
- 2022-2024 Ford Maverick (8,369 units)
- 2020-2022 Ford Escape (277 units)
- 2021-2022 Lincoln Corsair (81 units)
Ford will begin mailing recall notification letters to owners on May 23, 2024, with instructions to bring their vehicle to a Ford or Lincoln dealer for a free HPCM software update.
Can I Still Drive My Vehicle Before the Recall Repair?
Ford is not explicitly instructing owners to stop driving recalled vehicles before the software update. However, the sudden loss of motive power increases crash risks, so it is advisable to limit driving as much as possible until the recall repair is performed.
When taking your vehicle to the dealer for service, be prepared to describe any warning lights, messages, or symptoms you have experienced related to the HPCM software issue.
Ford’s number for recall questions is 1-866-436-7332. You can also contact your local Ford or Lincoln dealer to check if your vehicle is included in this recall using the OASIS database.
Ford’s Other Recalls in 2023-2024
In addition to the hybrid powertrain control module recall, Ford has issued several other major recalls over the past year for issues such as:
- In August 2023, over 346,000 F-Series trucks were recalled due to a potential fire risk from the engine block heater cables.
- In November 2023, over 520,000 Ford Explorers were recalled to replace the wiring harnesses which could cause a short circuit and increase fire risk.
- In January 2024, nearly 195,000 Ford Mustangs were recalled for a brake pedal bracket that could potentially detach and cause a loss of braking ability.
- In March 2024, Ford recalled 83,000 Ranger trucks due to a rear axle issue that could suddenly immobilize the vehicle while driving.
Owners of Ford and Lincoln vehicles should stay up-to-date on recalls by checking NHTSA.gov/recalls, signing up for notifications from Ford’s website, or contacting their local dealer periodically.
What If My Vehicle Keeps Having Repeated Issues?
If you have experienced recurring issues with your Ford Maverick, Escape, Lincoln Corsair, or other Ford/Lincoln vehicle even after multiple repair attempts, you may have a case under your state’s lemon law.
Lemon laws provide consumers with remedies such as a vehicle buyback or replacement when an automaker is unable to fix defects after a reasonable number of repair opportunities. An experienced lemon law attorney can review your situation and advise if you meet the criteria for lemon law relief in your state.
At Consumer Action Law Group, our firm has helped many clients resolve stubborn vehicle defect cases with Ford and other automakers. We offer free consultations to evaluate potential lemon law claims.
Get Help from a Ford Lemon Law Attorney
If you have a Ford or Lincoln vehicle that keeps having the same problem over and over again, even after the dealer has made multiple repair attempts, our lemon law attorneys may be able to help.
During a free consultation, we will review the details of your vehicle’s issues, repair records, and your state’s lemon law rights to determine if you have a valid claim against Ford. There is no risk or obligation with this initial review.
Don’t keep dealing with repeated safety defects that the manufacturer can’t seem to fix properly. Let us fight to get you the resolution you deserve under your state’s consumer protection laws.
Call us at (818) 254-8413 to schedule your free lemon law case evaluation today. You can also fill out our online form and we will follow up with you promptly.
