Legally reviewed by: Jessica Anvar Stotz, JD, MBA
Ford Motor Company has recalled over 77,000 Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator SUVs from model years 2018 through 2020. The problem stems from a faulty pretensioner, a critical safety component designed to quickly tighten the belt in the event of a collision, reducing the risk of injury.
This premature deployment may cause the seat belt to become locked in place, resulting in inadequate protection during a collision.
According to documents submitted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Ford attributes the problem to high humidity, which could be caused by water infiltration from the vehicle’s air conditioning system.
Over time, this corrosion, exacerbated by increased humidity within the vehicle cabin, particularly after prolonged use of air conditioning in hot climates, can cause partial separation at the weld between the squib pin and the bridgewire, the heating element of the pretensioner’s pyrotechnic device.
If you notice an airbag malfunction light on the vehicle’s cluster prior to any inadvertent deployment of the seatbelt retractor pretensioner, your vehicle’s seatbelt system may be compromised.
| Recall Information | Details |
| Total Vehicles Recalled | 77,574 potentially involved vehicles |
| Description of Noncompliance | If the retractor pretensioner is inadvertently deployed, the seatbelt will become locked in place and not be able to retract or extend, which is noticeable to the occupant. In the event of a crash, a seatbelt that fails to retract or extend may cause injuries. |
| Ford Motor Company Contact Number | 1-866-436-7332 |
| NHTSA Recall Number | 24V-099 |
| Manufacturer Recall Number | 24S06 |
| Owner Notification Letters | March 8, 2024 |
As of January 12, 2024, Ford has recorded 140 reports (involving 119 unique vehicle identification numbers) across all markets. An updated lifetime warranty projection reveals an increased rate of inadvertent deployment specifically within the defined sub-population of 2018-2019 model year Expeditions and Navigators.
Here’s What’s Included in the Seatbelt Pretensioner Recall
The recall encompasses a specific range of Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator SUVs produced between October 1, 2018, and June 30, 2019. The breakdown of affected Ford vehicles according to the manufacturer is as follows:
- 3,101 units of the 2018 model year Ford Expedition
- 57,031 units of the 2019 model year Ford Expedition
- 23 units of the 2020 model year Ford Expedition
Here is the breakdown for affected Lincoln vehicles:
- 709 units of the 2018 model year Lincoln Navigator
- 16,696 units of the 2019 model year Lincoln Navigator
- 14 units of the 2020 model year Lincoln Navigator
Here’s What’s NOT Included in the Seatbelt Pretensioner Recall
Affected vehicles were built between October 1, 2018, and June 30, 2019, with driver and front passenger seatbelt retractor pretensioners. If your vehicle was not built in this range and/or does not have front and passenger seatbelt retractor pretensioners, it is not included in the recall.
Please note that these vehicles are not built in VIN order. Owners should contact Ford’s toll-free line at 1-866-436-7332 or a local Ford or Lincoln dealer for specific information on the recall’s applicability to their vehicles. These dealers can obtain detailed vehicle information from the Ford Online Automotive Service Information System (OASIS) database.
What should I do if my Ford or Lincoln was Recalled?
If your vehicle falls within the recall parameters, you should promptly schedule an inspection at a Ford or Lincoln dealership. During this inspection, trained technicians will assess the seat belt pretensioner and, if necessary, replace it. Additionally, any issues with the air conditioning drain will be rectified at no cost to you. According to the automaker, repair parts are anticipated to become available in the latter half of 2024.
For further assistance or inquiries regarding the recall, owners can contact Ford directly at 866-436-7332, referencing the specific recall number, 24S06. To determine if your vehicle is affected by any open recalls, you can also check the NHTSA’s recall check site.
While recalls aim to rectify specific safety or performance concerns, they do not always address underlying problems or potential defects that may affect the vehicle’s reliability or safety in the long term. Therefore, even after the necessary repairs have been made, you should thoroughly evaluate the vehicle’s condition and functionality.
We strongly recommend getting help from a consumer protection or lemon law attorney if you are experiencing frequent issues with your Ford or Lincoln SUV.
These legal professionals possess the knowledge and experience to scrutinize the vehicle’s history, including any prior repairs, recalls, or persistent issues. They can help determine whether the vehicle meets the criteria for classification as a “lemon” under applicable state lemon laws.
Contact an Expert in California Lemon Law
The 2024 Ford and Lincoln recall concerning faulty seat belt pretensioners in certain Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator SUVs demonstrates the potential risks associated with manufacturing errors. Given the critical role of seat belts in ensuring occupant safety, taking immediate action is imperative.
If you find yourself affected by the seat belt pretensioner recall and believe you qualify for a lemon law claim against Ford or Lincoln, it’s essential to explore your legal options.
Depending on the circumstances, you may be eligible for compensation, which could include a refund, a replacement vehicle, or cash compensation. As the prevailing party, the defendant is responsible for your attorneys fees and costs, which means our representation is at no out of pocket cost to you.
If you purchased or leased your vehicle in California, the Lemon Law Experts stand ready to assist you. With years of experience in handling lemon law cases across the state, our dedicated team possesses the expertise and resources necessary to advocate for your rights effectively.
Regardless of the manufacturer or specific issue involved, you can rely on the Lemon Law Experts to provide comprehensive support in seeking the compensation and resolution you deserve. Contact us today to learn more.
