Ford Recalls 4.3 Million Trucks and SUVs Over Trailer Brake and Light Failure
One of the largest automotive recalls is now underway. If you own a Ford or Lincoln truck or SUV from the last five years, check your VIN below.
Ford Motor Company has issued a recall covering 4,380,609 Ford and Lincoln vehicles due to a software flaw in the Integrated Trailer Module (ITRM) that can disable trailer brake systems and lights without warning. The defect affects some of Ford's most popular trucks and SUVs and poses a serious risk to anyone towing.
Which Vehicles Are Affected
The recall spans 2021 through 2026 model years and includes the following:
Ford F-150 (2021 to 2026)
2.3 million units
F-250 Super Duty (2022 to 2026)
1.1 million units
Ford Maverick (2022 to 2026)
412,000 units
Ford Expedition (2022 to 2026)
Ford Ranger (2024 to 2026)
Ford E-Transit (2026)
Lincoln Navigator (2022 to 2026)
What's the Risk
A software bug in the trailer brake module (ITRM) can cause it to lose communication with the vehicle during startup, even though it appears powered on. When this happens, your trailer's brake lights and turn signals may stop working, and in some cases, trailer braking can fail entirely. No major crashes or injuries have been identified at this time.
Warning Signs
Stop towing immediately if you see any of these on your dashboard:
- "Trailer Brake Module Fault"
- Rapidly flashing turn signal
- "Blind Spot Assist System Fault"
How to Check Your Vehicle
Find your 17-digit VIN on your dashboard or door jamb and enter it at Ford's official recall page, through the FordPass app, or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Owner notification letters will begin mailing on March 17, and dealers can perform the update at no charge from that date, with walk-ins welcome. Ford's customer service line is 1-866-436-7332, reference recall number 26C10.
The Fix
Ford plans to begin rolling out an over-the-air software update in May 2026 for vehicles that support it. From March 17, owners can also take their vehicle to any Ford or Lincoln dealership for the update at no cost. After the update, test your trailer's connection to confirm that the brakes and lights are functioning before your next haul.
In the Meantime
Avoid heavy towing until the update is done. If you must tow, keep loads light, test your trailer brakes on a quiet road first, and watch for the warning messages above. Check your VIN today and schedule the update. It is a straightforward software fix with no parts required and no cost to you.
Very Driver