Ford Motor Co. is recalling 422,613 vehicles across the United States due to defective windshield wiper components that may fail or detach. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the issue affects several popular SUVs and heavy-duty pickup trucks from recent model years. The recall raises safety concerns, particularly in adverse weather conditions.
Ford indicated that owner notification letters are expected to be sent starting April 13, while dealerships will replace faulty components at no cost to customers. The issue has not been linked to any accidents or injuries so far, though it has generated a notable number of warranty claims.
A Defect Linked To The Wiper Arm Mechanism
According to recall documents cited by Car and Driver, the issue originates from a faulty latch retention plate within the windshield wiper arm assembly. This component is designed to secure the wiper arm head in place, but defects in its production may prevent proper attachment.
As a result, both driver- and passenger-side wipers may behave unpredictably. Some may move at irregular speeds, while others could stop working entirely or even detach from the vehicle. This mechanical failure directly impacts visibility, especially during rain or snow, creating a potential safety hazard.
Hundreds Of Thousands Of Vehicles Across Multiple Models
The recall covers 422,613 vehicles across several of Ford’s key models. As reported by Breaking News, the majority are 326,239 Super Duty pickups from the 2022 and 2023 model years, alongside 79,164 Ford Expedition SUVs and 17,210 Lincoln Navigator units built between 2021 and 2023.
The affected range includes Super Duty trucks — F-250, F-350, F-450, F-550 and F-600 — as well as the Expedition and Navigator. According to the NHTSA, a defect may cause the windshield wiper arms to operate erratically, stop functioning, or even detach, raising safety concerns.
No Reported Injuries But Over 1,500 Warranty Claims
At the time the recall was filed, Ford had not identified any crashes or injuries related to the defective wiper systems. The automaker was aware of more than 1,500 warranty reports tied to the issue, along with 11 field reports.
Ford is still working on a permanent fix. In the meantime, dealers will inspect affected vehicles and replace faulty wiper arms free of charge. According to the agency, owners can also verify whether their vehicle is included in the recall through the NHTSA website, as notification letters begin rolling out mid April.
