Ford issues recall for nearly 420,000 vehicles over seat belt defect

Ford is issuing a recall covering 419,967 vehicles due to a faulty seat belt problem that could fail to retract or extend, potentially leaving occupants unrestrained in a crash. The recall notice, issued May 27 by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, covers certain 2018–2022 Expedition and Lincoln Navigator models. The issue involves the driver and/or front passenger seat belt pretensioner, which could lock inadvertently, preventing normal belt operation. Ford says repairs will be performed at no cost, with technicians replacing seat belt retractors if needed. Interim owner notices will be mailed June 8, with additional notices expected once a remedy becomes available, projected in August. Owners can call Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332 for guidance or to schedule service. The recall replaces and expands prior NHTSA recalls 24V099 and 25V197, and vehicles already repaired under those campaigns will need the new remedy.