Ford Recalls Over 105,000 Expedition and Lincoln Navigator SUVs for Critical Seat Belt Safety Issue

Which Vehicles Are Affected by the Recall?

The recall impacts specific model years of Ford's popular large SUVs:

• Ford Expedition: 2018-2020 model years
• Lincoln Navigator: 2018-2020 model years (Lincoln is Ford's luxury vehicle division)

This action follows a previous recall where some vehicles may have received incomplete repairs, requiring additional corrective measures.

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Understanding the Seat Belt Pretensioner Defect

The recall centers on a critical safety component - the seat belt pretensioner system. This mechanism is designed to:

• Quickly retract seat belts during sudden stops or collisions
• Remove slack to properly restrain occupants
• Work in conjunction with airbags for maximum protection

In affected vehicles, the pretensioner may malfunction by:

• Prematurely locking the seat belt mechanism
• Preventing proper retraction or extension of the belt
• Compromising the belt's ability to restrain occupants during crashes
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Potential Safety Consequences

When seat belts fail to function as designed, occupants face significantly increased risks:

• Reduced effectiveness in crash protection systems
• Greater potential for impact injuries
• Higher likelihood of ejection in severe collisions

Official Recall Repair Process

Ford has established a comprehensive repair protocol for affected vehicles:

1. Dealers will inspect seat belt retractor date codes
2. Faulty retractors will be replaced at no cost to owners
3. Complete system testing to verify proper functionality

The repair typically takes about one hour to complete at authorized Ford/Lincoln service centers.

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Timeline for Recall Notifications

Ford has implemented the following notification schedule:

• Official recall notices mailed to registered owners
• Follow-up communications for vehicles requiring additional repairs
• Ongoing dealership notifications to ensure service availability

Why This Recall Matters for SUV Owners

This safety action highlights several important considerations for vehicle owners:

• Seat belts are your primary safety restraint: Even with advanced airbag systems, properly functioning seat belts remain the most critical safety feature.
• Early action saves lives: Addressing recall notices promptly can prevent potentially life-threatening situations.
• Resale value protection: Completed recalls help maintain your vehicle's value and ensure smoother transactions.
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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my SUV is affected?

The recall specifically targets 2018-2020 model year Expeditions and Navigators. The most accurate way to confirm is by checking your VIN through official channels.

What should I do if my seat belt seems stuck?

If you experience seat belt retraction issues, avoid forcing the mechanism. Contact your local Ford/Lincoln dealer immediately for inspection and schedule recall service.

Is it safe to drive my vehicle before the repair?

While the risk exists primarily during collisions, Ford recommends having the repair completed as soon as possible. Consider using alternative transportation if possible until the repair is complete.

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Additional Safety Resources

For more information on vehicle safety and recalls:

• National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
• Ford Motor Company Recalls
• SaferCar.gov Vehicle Safety Portal

Understanding Vehicle Recalls

Automotive recalls are implemented when:

• A safety-related defect is identified
• The defect exists in a group of vehicles of the same design or manufacture
• The issue presents an unreasonable safety risk
• Federal safety standards are not met

Recalls are mandated by the NHTSA and repairs are always performed at no cost to the vehicle owner.

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Looking Ahead: Vehicle Safety Innovations

This recall underscores the automotive industry's ongoing commitment to safety improvements:

• Advanced pretensioner systems with multiple redundancy checks
• Smart seat belt technology that adjusts tension based on occupant size
• Integrated crash anticipation systems that prepare restraints before impact

Ford continues to invest in research and development to enhance occupant protection systems across all vehicle lines.

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