Ford needs owners of 471 Transit vans from model years 2022-2023 to bring them back in for a second attempt to fix an old recall. In late 2022, Ford recalled more than 31,000 Transit models because a software problem could leave their HVAC controls inoperative. The company has since learned some vans were returned to owners unrepaired.
The company has seen a spate of re-recalls in recent weeks. Ford recently discovered the tool dealers use to install software updates sometimes records a successful installation even when it fails. The company can determine from its records which vehicles need a second repair. So, it is re-issuing dozens of old recalls to fix small numbers of unrepaired vehicles.
Inoperable HVAC controls are more than a comfort problem. Ford tells regulators at the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) that the problem could leave drivers unable to defrost windows, which could be dangerous.
Dealers will fix the issue by uploading the software that fixed most Transits in 2022. Ford has a new update system that lets dealers verify success before returning a vehicle to its owner, the company says.
Recall repairs are always free.
Manufacturers attempt to contact every owner but don’t always reach them all with the news. Find out if your car needs any critical safety repairs at our recall center.