Ford Recalls 4.4 Million Vehicles Over Faulty Software

Automaker says tech glitch can cause trailer lights, brakes to fail, increasing crash risk.

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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Ford Motor Company is recalling nearly 4.4 million vehicles due to a software problem that can cause a loss of communication between the towing vehicle and the trailer, leading to issues with the trailer's tail lights, turn signals, and brakes. The automaker says the software glitch increases the risk of a crash and is not aware of any accidents, injuries or fires related to the flaw so far.

Why it matters

This recall affects a significant number of Ford trucks, vans and SUVs, highlighting the importance of automakers quickly addressing software-related safety issues that could impact vehicle performance and driver control, especially when towing trailers.

The details

The software issue can cause the trailer's tail lights, turn signals and brakes to fail if there is a loss of communication between the towing vehicle and the trailer. Drivers will see warning messages on the dashboard, including 'Trailer Brake Module Fault' and 'Blind Spot Assist System fault.' Ford says the problem increases the risk of a crash, as inoperable trailer lighting and braking functions can make the trailer less visible and harder to control.

  • Ford started investigating the issue in October 2025.
  • The recall affects Ford vehicles from model years 2021 to 2026.
  • Ford plans to issue a software update to fix the issue in May.

The players

Ford Motor Company

The Detroit-based automaker that is recalling nearly 4.4 million vehicles due to a software problem that can impact trailer lights and brakes.

National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)

The federal regulator that issued a notice about the Ford recall, stating the software glitch can increase the risk of a crash.

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What they’re saying

“Inoperable trailer lighting and trailer braking functions can reduce a driver's ability to control an attached trailer and make the attached trailer less visible to other drivers, increasing the risk of a crash.”

— NHTSA (NHTSA notice)

What’s next

Ford is scheduled to issue a software update for the affected vehicles in May. Owners can also go to a Ford or Lincoln dealer to have their vehicle fixed free of charge.

The takeaway

This recall highlights the importance of automakers quickly addressing software-related safety issues that could impact vehicle performance and driver control, especially when towing trailers. It serves as a reminder for Ford owners to stay vigilant and get their vehicles serviced as soon as the software update becomes available.