Ford problems
Ford Motor Company (commonly known as Ford) is an American multinational automobile manufacturer headquartered in Dearborn, Michigan, United States. It was founded by Henry Ford and incorporated on June 16, 1903. The company sells automobiles and commercial vehicles under the Ford brand, and luxury cars under its Lincoln brand. Ford also owns a 32% stake in China's Jiangling Motors. It also has joint ventures in China (Changan Ford), Taiwan (Ford Lio Ho), Thailand (AutoAlliance Thailand), and Turkey (Ford Otosan). The company is listed on the New York Stock Exchange and is controlled by the Ford family; they have minority ownership but the majority of the voting power.
Ford introduced methods for large-scale manufacturing of cars and large-scale management of an industrial workforce using elaborately engineered manufacturing sequences typified by moving assembly lines; by 1914, these methods were known around the world as Fordism. Ford's former UK subsidiaries Jaguar and Land Rover, acquired in 1989 and 2000, respectively, were sold to the Indian automaker Tata Motors in March 2008. Ford owned the Swedish automaker Volvo from 1999 to 2010. In the third quarter of 2010, Ford discontinued the Mercury brand, under which it had marketed upscale cars in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and the Middle East since 1938.
Ford is the second-largest U.S.-based automaker (behind General Motors) and the sixth-largest in the world (behind Toyota, Volkswagen Group, Hyundai Motor Group, Stellantis, and General Motors) based on 2022 vehicle production. At the end of 2010, Ford was the fifth-largest automaker in Europe. The company went public in 1956 but the Ford family, through special Class B shares, still retain 40 percent of the voting rights. During the financial crisis of 2007–08, the company struggled financially but did not have to be rescued by the federal government, unlike the other two major US automakers. Ford Motors has since returned to profitability, and was the eleventh-ranked overall American-based company in the 2018 Fortune 500 list, based on global revenues in 2017 of $156.7 billion. In 2008, Ford produced 5.532 million automobiles and employed about 213,000 employees at around 90 plants and facilities worldwide.
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Ford models
Common Ford problems
Common Problems with Ford Cars Based on Complaints from Owners
- Transmission Failure: Transmission failure is another significant issue that Ford owners face, with thousands of complaints about sudden lethargy, lunging forward or backward, or refusal to shift altogether. This problem tends to occur around the 98,000-mile mark and can cost up to $7000 to repair.
- Brake System Failures: Brake system failures are also a common problem with Ford cars. This issue can lead to a dangerous situation, especially if the brake pedal becomes unresponsive or the vehicle pulls to one side while braking.
- Electrical System Malfunction: The electrical system in Ford cars can also be problematic, with issues ranging from minor annoyances to serious safety hazards. Common electrical problems include dead batteries, faulty alternators, and malfunctioning fuel pumps.
- Tailgate Problems: The panel below the rear window of the Ford Explorer can easily become cracked, leading to costly repairs.
- Coolant-Leak Problems: The radiator on the Ford Explorer is a weak spot, with numerous complaints from owners about coolant leaks.
- Paint Problems: Paint issues are common in some Ford models, particularly the 2013 Ford Explorer, where the paint on the leading edge of the hood bubbles up and flakes off, leading to rust if not attended to.
- Transmission Jerking and Shaking: Transmission jerking and shaking are common problems with Ford models, causing discomfort and inconvenience to drivers.
- Dashboard Connectivity: Dashboard connectivity issues can also affect Ford models, leading to problems with the infotainment system and other electronic features.
- Vehicle Safety Features: Some Ford models have reported issues with vehicle safety features, including airbags and seatbelts, which can compromise the safety of the vehicle.
- Oil Leaks: Oil leaks are a common problem with Ford cars, particularly in older models, and can lead to significant engine damage if not addressed promptly.
In summary, Ford cars are known for their reliability and toughness, but like all vehicles, they are prone to mechanical problems. Electrical issues, transmission failure, brake system failures, and engine overheating are some of the most common problems that Ford owners face. By staying vigilant and addressing issues as soon as they arise, Ford owners can keep their vehicles running smoothly and avoid costly repairs down the road.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Ford models
We have analysed all the complaints filed against Ford cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Ford models:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Ford brand.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Ford models
We have also compiled a table for you with the number of complaints about specific models of Ford cars:
Distribution of Ford car problems by type
Based on an anlyse of all Ford related complaints and concluded that the most common problems with Ford cars are the following:
- Power train problems
- Electrical system problems
- Steering problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Service brakes problems
Below is a graph with statistics on all Ford vehicle components and the number of complaints about them.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Ford models
A total of 14182 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Ford models
There were a total of 10502 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Ford models
There were a total of 14011 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Ford models
There were a total of 872 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model.
The NHTSA has received 278954 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Ford Ford. Below are 15 recent complaints about various Ford models. In order to research complaints about a particular brand you need to select it from the list of available models above.
List of the last 15 complaints about Ford models
Ford Focus 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-21
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-21
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 1FADP3K20EL
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2014 Ford Focus. The contact stated while starting the vehicle, steering wheel seized, and felt very stiff. The power steering warning light was illuminated. The dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 167,000.
Ford Fusion 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-21
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-21
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 3FAHP0JGXBR
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: POWER STEERING ASSISTANCE FAILURE WHILE DRIVING. WARNING LIGHT APPEARED ON DASH AS WELL STATING “POWER ASSIST FAILURE” VEHICLE STEERING BECAME UNMANAGEABLE. WAS DRIVING AT 40 MPH. HAS HAPPENED TWICE.
Ford Fusion hybrid 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-21
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-21
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 3FAHP0JGXBR
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: POWER STEERING ASSISTANCE FAILURE WHILE DRIVING. WARNING LIGHT APPEARED ON DASH AS WELL STATING “POWER ASSIST FAILURE” VEHICLE STEERING BECAME UNMANAGEABLE. WAS DRIVING AT 40 MPH. HAS HAPPENED TWICE.
Ford Focus 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-20
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 1FADP3K2XEL
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I am filing a safety complaint regarding my 2014 Ford Focus due to recurring error codes P0456 (Very Small Leak Detected), P1450 (Unable to Bleed Up Fuel Tank Vacuum), and P2190 (System Too Rich at Idle). These issues relate to the Evaporative Emission Control System (EVAP) and fuel tank system, which have caused symptoms such as intermittent Check Engine Light warnings, fuel odor, and difficulty refueling. These problems were confirmed by an independent service center during diagnostic testing, but the dealership refused to perform a goodwill fix, citing that my vehicle is not currently included in related recalls. This is particularly concerning because a large number of 2014 Ford Focus vehicles—approximately 1.5 million—have been recalled for similar issues with the EVAP and fuel systems, which pose risks such as fuel vapor leaks and stalling due to fuel system pressure irregularities. Although my VIN is not listed under the recall, the identical symptoms strongly suggest my vehicle should be included. I have not had the vehicle inspected by Ford or other representatives, but I urge NHTSA to investigate further as this is a significant safety concern that endangers me and others on the road.
Ford Focus 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-09-19
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-19
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 1FADP3F23EL
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: The contact owns a 2014 Ford Focus. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle was shaking abnormally and then stalled with the “Service Transmission” warning light illuminated. In addition, the contact stated that the vehicle shut off in the middle of the roadway. The contact was assisted by a Police Officer was nearby in moving the vehicle over to the shoulder. The contact stated that the failure had occurred several times. The contact stated that occasionally while depressing the accelerator pedal the vehicle failed to accelerate as intended. The contact stated that occasionally while driving and exceeding 40 MPH, the vehicle stalled. Additionally, the horn and the hazard lights failed to function as intended. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The contact was informed that the transmission needed to be repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 81,000.
Ford Fusion hybrid 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-19
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 3FAHP0JG1CR
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The vehicle’s power steering failed on a major roadway with a 17 year old driver at the wheel. This is a defect in the power steering that is known to Ford, the recall was supposedly fixed but it failed again so the fix is also very unsafe. Ford needs to find a way to actually make the steering safe.
Ford Fusion 2012
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-19
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 3FAHP0JG1CR
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The vehicle’s power steering failed on a major roadway with a 17 year old driver at the wheel. This is a defect in the power steering that is known to Ford, the recall was supposedly fixed but it failed again so the fix is also very unsafe. Ford needs to find a way to actually make the steering safe.
Ford Escape 2013
- Date Of Incident: 2024-01-18
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-19
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 1FMCU0HX3DU
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: My 2013 Ford Escape has had a very large coolant leak more than 10 months ago and the mechanics have not been able to repair it, they have changed hoses and the problem continues.
Ford Focus 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-16
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-18
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 1FADP3F21EL
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: The contact owns a 2014 Ford Focus. The contact stated while reversing, the vehicle failed to reverse as intended. In addition, the contact stated that the gear shifter did not function as intended. The contact stated that the gear shifter did not go into park or drive. The contact had to use the parking brake. The contact stated that he tried driving the vehicle again, the contact was able to drive a short distance and the failure reoccurred. In addition, the transmission was slipping. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired by an independent mechanic or the dealer. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure but provided no assistance. The contact was advised to contact the NHTSA Hotline and report the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 83,000.
Ford Fusion 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-15
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-18
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 3FAHP0HA4AR
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2010 Ford Fusion. The contact stated while driving at various speeds and attempting to turn the steering wheel to the left or the right and while driving straight, the steering wheel was sticking as if the power steering functionality had failed. The failure occurred mostly after the vehicle had been idle. The contact had to use excessive strength to manipulate the steering wheel until the steering wheel loosened and could be steered as needed. The contact researched and learned that it was a common failure with the steering rack. The dealer was contacted and informed the contact of the cost of replacing the steering rack. The vehicle had not been diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The manufacturer had referred the contact to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The failure mileage was 164,000.
Ford Fusion 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-11
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-14
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 3FAHP0HG8AR
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2010 Ford Fusion. While the contact’s wife was driving approximately 30 MPH, the steering wheel was not responding to the steering adjustments to the left or the right. The contact’s stated that the "Power Steering Fault" warning light was illuminated. The contact’s wife stopped, and turned off and restarted the vehicle. The contact stated that the power steering functionality then resumed normal functionality. The contact stated that failure had reoccurred. The contact stated that the vehicle had not been taken to a dealer or to an independent mechanic. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 218,000.
Ford Fusion 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-01
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-14
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 3FAHP0HA7AR
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2010 Ford Fusion. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle, the "Power Steering Assist Fault" message was displayed on the instrument panel. The contact stated that excessive force was needed to steer the vehicle. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure and confirmed that there were no recalls on the vehicle. The contact was referred to the NHTSA Hotline to report the failure. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 140,000.
Ford Focus 2014
- Date Of Incident: 2024-07-06
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-14
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 1FADP3K24EL
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I am the owner of a 2014 Ford Focus VIN [XXX] . I have had the car into an Authorized Ford Dealership numerous times. On the 2nd to last visit the Transmission Control Module was replaced at no cost to me. However, since then the transmission has malfunctioned again. It lurches, loses power and stalls. I took it back to the Ford Dealer and was told I needed a new transmission. I blame this on the extended length of time it took the Ford Motor Company to get the TCM and schedule the replacement. Am I entitled to any compensation or a buyback from Ford? What other steps can be taken to resolve my issue? Thank you for your time. INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Ford Fusion 2011
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-12
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-13
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 3FADP0L34BR
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Son was driving the car home from soccer. Red "Service Power Steering" message illuminated as well as the two yellow TCS lights. Steering became more difficult. Upon restart of vehicle, steering is impossible.
Ford Fusion 2010
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-07
- Date Complaint: 2024-11-13
- Number Of Injuries: 0
- Number Of Deaths: 0
- Crash: 0
- Fire: 0
- VIN: 3FAHP0JAXAR
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: Brake pedal goes all the way to the floor. Very soft. Needs new abs module but this vin is not affected by the recall. Should be included. I have another 2010 fusion that had the same issue and ford fixed it with the recall. Recall needs to be expanded
Latest 5 Ford recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5312 recalls involving various Ford models.You can learn more about the model you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Ford Maverick 2024
- Report Received Date: 2024-10-18
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: CHILD SEAT:VEHICLE TETHER ANCHOR
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2024 Maverick vehicles. The second-row child seat tether anchors may not properly secure a child seat, due to incomplete thread engagement. As such, these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 225, "Child Restraint Anchorage Systems."
- Consequence: A child seat that is not secured properly increases the risk of injury in the event of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will repair the tether anchorage points, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed December 2, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24C33.
- Model: Ford Mustang mach e 2021
- Report Received Date: 2024-10-18
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021 Mach-E vehicles. An Over-The-Air (OTA) update to the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) may result in a loss of power brake assist, ABS, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control, and driver assistance features.
- Consequence: A loss of power brake assist can extend the distance required to stop the vehicle. Additionally, a disabled antilock brake system and/or stability control system can result in a loss of vehicle control. Either of these scenarios can increase the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will update the ABS calibration, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed November 4, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S65.
- Model: Ford Maverick 2023
- Report Received Date: 2024-09-13
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2022-2024 Ford Maverick vehicles equipped with Connected Touch Radios (CTR). The rearview camera image may freeze when the vehicle is in reverse.
- Consequence: An inoperative rearview camera display can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will update the Connected Touch Radio (CTR) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed September 30, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S59.
- Model: Ford Maverick 2022
- Report Received Date: 2024-09-13
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2022-2024 Ford Maverick vehicles equipped with Connected Touch Radios (CTR). The rearview camera image may freeze when the vehicle is in reverse.
- Consequence: An inoperative rearview camera display can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will update the Connected Touch Radio (CTR) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed September 30, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S59.
- Model: Ford Maverick 2024
- Report Received Date: 2024-09-13
- Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
- Components: BACK OVER PREVENTION:SOFTWARE
- Summary: Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2022-2024 Ford Maverick vehicles equipped with Connected Touch Radios (CTR). The rearview camera image may freeze when the vehicle is in reverse.
- Consequence: An inoperative rearview camera display can reduce the driver's rear visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.
- Remedy: Dealers will update the Connected Touch Radio (CTR) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed September 30, 2024. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 24S59.
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