Ford Issues Do-Not-Drive Advisory for Certain Takata Airbag Vehicles

Ford has issued a do-not-drive advisory for specific vehicle owners who have yet to repair their cars under three previous safety recalls.

The recalls in question are identified as 15S21, 17S42, and 19S01. The first recall, initiated in 2015, involved vehicles equipped with a Takata non-desiccated airbag inflator. This marks Ford’s second advisory of this type related to Takata airbags, and the automaker has emphasized the need for owners to seek repairs without delay.

The do-not-drive advisory specifically pertains to customers who have not addressed these recalls, affecting driver and passenger airbag inflators in the following models:

• 2004-2006 Ford Ranger trucks
• 2005-2014 Ford Mustang vehicles
• 2005-2006 Ford GT vehicles

Additionally, it includes passenger airbag inflators in these models:

• 2006-2012 Ford Fusion, Mercury Milan, Lincoln MKZ / Zephyr vehicles
• 2007-2010 Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX vehicles
• 2007-2011 Ford Ranger trucks

The reason behind Ford’s urgent advisory lies in the age of these vehicles. According to Ford, it has become “increasingly possible” for certain components within the airbags to malfunction, leading to potential explosions that could launch sharp metal fragments during an accident. This poses a significant risk of injury or death to drivers and passengers.

Ford is actively working on reaching out to affected customers, having made over 121 million attempts to notify owners in the U.S. To date, more than 95% of customers affected by these recalls have completed the necessary repairs.

There are around 374,300 airbag inflators in affected Ford and Lincoln vehicles in the United States, while the global total stands at 765,600.

For those whose vehicles fall under the do-not-drive advisory, Ford has indicated that replacement parts are readily available. Customers have the option to request mobile service, or dealerships can arrange to tow vehicles to their locations for repairs.

If needed, dealerships will provide free interim loaner vehicles while repairs are being handled. Furthermore, Ford will maintain monthly notifications to known owners regarding the recalls, including the updated do-not-drive advisory.

Owners wondering if their vehicle is included in this recall can check for details by visiting Ford’s support page or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website.

This advisory highlights the importance of addressing safety recalls promptly, especially those related to airbags, which can have life-threatening consequences if neglected.

It’s crucial to remain vigilant and informed about vehicle safety updates. Should you be among the affected owners, taking immediate action to rectify this situation could be a matter of safety for you and your passengers.

Continuing to uphold safety standards is important to both Ford and its customers. The company’s outreach initiatives demonstrate their commitment to public safety and consumer confidence.

Source: USA TODAY