Written By: Jessica Anvar Stotz
Legally Reviewed By: Jessica Anvar Stotz
1% or 2,730 of the 273,789 recalled vehicles may be affected by the Ford Loss of Brake Function recall.
This recall includes 2022–2024 Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator models and was issued due to a brake system defect that could lead to a loss of braking performance and increase the risk of a crash.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the front brake lines in these vehicles may have been improperly routed during assembly.
In some cases, the lines can come into contact with the engine air cleaner outlet pipe, potentially resulting in brake fluid leaks.
This may cause increased brake pedal travel, reduced braking effectiveness, and longer stopping distances.
The 2025 Lincoln Navigator Brake Function Recall affects 223,315 Expeditions and 50,474 Navigators. As of April 17, the automaker had received 45 warranty reports of front brake line leaks, but no accidents or injuries have been reported.
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What Causes the Ford Brake Issue?
The brake issue in certain Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator models is caused by a manufacturing defect that occurred during engine installation at Ford’s assembly plant.
During assembly, the front brake lines may have been bent or improperly routed, causing them to come into contact with the engine air cleaner outlet pipe.
Over time, this contact can cause wear or abrasion on the brake lines, which may lead to a brake fluid leak and or loss of front brake function.
Ford’s Critical Concern Review Group (CCRG) began investigating this issue on February 27, 2025, after noticing an increase in warranty claims for 2022 model year Navigator vehicles.
From March to April 2025, Ford reviewed assembly plant records and the engine installation process.
They found that at the Kentucky Truck Plant (KTP), the radiator hose stowage method during engine installation could cause the radiator hose to catch and bend the right front brake line, resulting in misrouting and rubbing against the engine air cleaner outlet pipe.
To address this, KTP modified the radiator hose stowage process starting November 20, 2024, ensuring proper clearance to prevent brake line bending. However, vehicles produced before this change are potentially affected by the defect.
As of April 17, 2025, Ford is aware of 45 warranty reports involving front brake line leaks between November 4, 2022, and April 8, 2024.
In addition, there are two field reports and two customer service reports documenting similar concerns. These findings confirm that the defect could lead to brake system failure if left unresolved.
What Are the Consequences of the Associated Brake Problems?
The brake problems in the affected Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator models can have serious and potentially dangerous consequences if not promptly addressed.
One of the primary risks is reduced braking performance caused by brake fluid leaks, which lower the hydraulic pressure in the braking system.
This reduction results in longer stopping distances, especially during emergency braking situations where every foot counts.
Drivers may also experience a soft or spongy brake pedal that sinks closer to the floor than normal. This sensation indicates air or fluid loss in the brake lines and signals compromised control over the vehicle’s braking response.
These issues significantly increase the risk of accidents. The inability to stop the vehicle quickly can lead to rear-end collisions, intersection crashes, or even loss of control, particularly in high-speed or congested traffic conditions.
If the brake fluid leak worsens and remains unrepaired, it may cause complete brake failure. In such cases, pressing the brake pedal will no longer slow or stop the vehicle, creating an extremely hazardous situation.
Beyond safety concerns, there are also legal and financial consequences to consider. Operating a vehicle with known safety defects may expose the driver to fines or penalties.
Additionally, insurance claims could become extremely complicated if an accident occurs while the vehicle has an unresolved brake issue.
Repair costs may also become the responsibility of the owner if the problem is not addressed through the recall process.
Which Vehicles Are Affected by the Ford Brake Recall?
The Ford brake recall affects a total of 273,789 vehicles, specifically certain Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator models. The breakdown of affected vehicles is as follows:
- Ford Expedition (2022-2024)
Approximately 223,315 units are impacted. - Lincoln Navigator (2022-2024)
Approximately 50,474 units are affected.
To find out if your vehicle is included in this recall, you can visit the official Ford recall website and enter your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Alternatively, you can call Ford Customer Service at 1-866-436-7332 for assistance.
Does Ford Have a Solution?
Ford has developed a solution to address the brake issue affecting the 2022–2024 Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator models.
Dealerships will inspect the front brake lines to determine if they are improperly routed or making contact with the engine air cleaner outlet pipe.
If any damage or wear is found, the brake lines will be replaced. Additionally, the air cleaner outlet pipe will be replaced or repositioned as needed to prevent future contact and wear.
All repairs related to this recall will be performed free of charge to the vehicle owner. Ford will begin notifying affected owners by mail between May 26 and May 30, 2025. Dealers will receive notification on May 14, 2025, to prepare for servicing these vehicles.
Vehicle owners can check if their car is part of the recall by entering their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on Ford’s recall website or the NHTSA recall lookup tool.
If affected, owners should schedule a service appointment with their local Ford or Lincoln dealer to have the inspection and necessary repairs completed at no cost.
What Should I Do If My Ford Expedition or Lincoln Navigator Is Affected?
If your Ford Expedition or Lincoln Navigator is affected by the brake recall, follow these steps to ensure your safety and proper vehicle servicing:
- First, verify your vehicle’s recall status by visiting the Ford recall website or the NHTSA recall lookup tool. Enter your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to confirm whether your vehicle is included in the recall.
- Next, contact your local Ford or Lincoln dealership to confirm the recall and schedule a free inspection and any necessary repairs. When doing so, reference NHTSA Recall No. 25V-314 for clarity.
- Be sure to watch for official recall notifications, which Ford will mail between May 26 and May 30, 2025. Keep an eye on your mailbox and email for these important updates.
- If you notice any warning signs such as a soft or spongy brake pedal, longer stopping distances, or brake fluid warning lights, avoid driving your vehicle and contact your dealership immediately to arrange for service.
- Finally, keep thorough records of all service appointments, receipts, and communications related to the recall. If you have already paid for repairs connected to this issue before receiving the recall notice, you may be eligible for reimbursement.
Get the Help You Deserve Today!
If your 2022–2024 Ford Expedition or Lincoln Navigator is experiencing brake problems—such as a soft or spongy brake pedal, longer stopping distances, or brake fluid leaks—even after multiple repair attempts, you may be protected under your state’s lemon law.
These laws are designed to help consumers who purchase or lease vehicles with ongoing safety or performance defects during the warranty period.
If your vehicle qualifies, you could be entitled to a refund, a replacement vehicle, or financial compensation.
If you receive a refund, the manufacturer may deduct a usage fee based on the mileage driven before the problem occurred.
If you receive a replacement vehicle, you might be responsible for any price difference if the new vehicle costs more.
Many lemon law statutes also require the manufacturer to cover your legal fees if your claim is successful, allowing you to pursue your rights without upfront legal costs.
If your Ford Expedition or Lincoln Navigator continues to have brake issues despite repairs, it may be time to explore your legal options and protect your safety and investment.
Since 2009, our dedicated team at the Lemon Law Experts has been helping drivers resolve lemon law and warranty-related cases.
We provide personalized support to those dealing with defective vehicles, working tirelessly to secure the best possible resolution for each client—whether that means compensation, a replacement vehicle, or another legal remedy. Unsure if your Ford or Lincoln qualifies as a lemon?
Take action now and reach out for a free, no-obligation case review. Call (877) 885-5366 or complete our online form to get started.
Citations
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. “25V314 – Front Brake Line Leak Recall Report.” NHTSA, 2025, https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2025/RCLRPT-25V314-7594.PDF.
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. “25V314 – Recall Acknowledgment Letter.” NHTSA, 2025, https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2025/RCAK-25V314-9119.pdf.
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. “25V314 – Recall Manufacturer Notification.” NHTSA, 2025, https://static.nhtsa.gov/odi/rcl/2025/RCMN-25V314-1790.pdf.
Associated Press. “Ford Recalls Expedition, Navigator over Brake Line Leak Risk.” AP News, 2025, https://apnews.com/article/ford-recall-expedition-navigator-brake-loss-63d81f8585077e1f5f62b6763780eb41.
