Ford Brake Light Problems and Rollaway Risks Result in Recall of 200K Fusion, Lincoln MKZ and Mustangs

Nearly 200,000 Ford vehicles are being recalled due to problems with the brake pedals, which could cause brake light problems and potentially allow parked vehicles to “rollaway”, increasing the risk of an auto accident.

The Ford recall (PDF) was announced by the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on January 18, after more than 615 warranty claims were submitted to Ford involving problems with the brake pedals. However, the auto maker claims there have been no crashes or injuries linked to the problem.

At issue are brake pedal bumpers used on certain Fusion, Lincoln and Mustang vehicles sold between 2014 and 2015, which were distributed throughout Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia and Hawaii. According to the recall notice, the environmental conditions in these states, such as high temperatures, high humidity, and salty air, can cause the brake pedal bumper to disintegrate and separate from the brake pedal.

When this happens, it can cause a variety of problems. In some cases, the defective bumper pedal can cause the brake lights to turn on and stay on continuously, which can confuse drivers behind the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash. In vehicles with automatic transmissions, the bumper disintegrating can let the driver shift the vehicle out of the “PARK” position without stepping on the brake first, which could lead to a rollaway accident.

An estimated 199,085 vehicles sold in the United States are affected by the recall, including 2014-2015 model year Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ vehicles, and 2015 model year Ford Mustang vehicles. All of the affected vehicles have build dates through July 31, 2015.

Ford indicates that while the recall only applies vehicles in 10 states listed above, vehicle owners with the affected models who do not live in those states and experience any similar problems should contact the Ford dealership where they live to participate in the company’s customer satisfaction program.

Those with vehicles affected by the recall will have their brake pedal bumpers and clutch pedal bumpers replaced by a Ford dealer free of charge. The company expects to mail out recall notification letters to owners on March 3, 2022. Owners with questions may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332, referencing recall 22S02.