Ford Recalls 175,500 Cars Due to Seatbelt Issues

Ford Motor Company has announced a voluntary recall of 175,500 five-door Bronco SUVs manufactured between September 23, 2020, and May 9, 2023. The recall is prompted by a safety audit conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), which revealed an issue with the front seatbelt design that may hinder accessibility for the driver and front passenger. Ford is taking immediate action to address the concern and ensure compliance with safety regulations.

The NHTSA audit determined that the location where the seatbelts are stowed when not in use does not meet the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard’s “latch plate access” regulations. The current design creates difficulty in reaching the seatbelt when the seats are in certain positions, primarily due to the clearance between the seat back and the interior trim.

Although no accidents or injuries related to the seatbelt issue have been reported, Ford recognizes the potential risk associated with occupants facing challenges in accessing the seatbelt latches. Wearing seatbelts is crucial for occupant safety, and any obstacles hindering their usage must be promptly addressed.

To rectify the accessibility concern, Ford will install a sliding clip latch stop, commonly referred to as a barrette clip, in the affected vehicles. This modification will ensure that the seatbelts are stowed in a compliant location, eliminating the clearance issue and allowing for easy access.

Letters will be sent to owners of the affected vehicles starting on June 30, notifying them of the recall and providing instructions on how to proceed. Bronco owners may also contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332 for further information and assistance regarding the recall.

It is important to note that the recall only affects the five-door version of the Bronco and does not impact the two-door models. The safety regulation for latch plate access is based on the “nominal design position for a 50th percentile adult male occupant.”

Ford’s commitment to ensuring customer safety is evident in its proactive approach to resolving the seatbelt accessibility issue. By promptly implementing the necessary modifications, the automaker aims to provide Bronco owners with a compliant and secure driving experience.

This recall marks the eighth for the Bronco since its debut in 2021. Ford continues to prioritize the safety and satisfaction of its customers by addressing potential concerns and taking decisive action to uphold its commitment to producing reliable and safe vehicles.

Owners of the affected vehicles are urged to respond to the recall notice promptly and have the necessary modifications performed to ensure the proper functionality of their seatbelts. Ford remains dedicated to supporting its customers throughout the recall process and is committed to resolving the issue efficiently and effectively.