Ford has issued a heartfelt recall for over 197,000 vehicles in the US, as shared by the NHTSA, to protect rear passengers—especially children or grandparents—from the risk of being trapped due to a software glitch. If you drive a 2021–2025 Mustang Mach-E, this is a kind notice to take seriously. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) found a bug that can lock rear doors from the inside when the 12-volt battery runs low, posing a real concern for those needing to exit quickly.
With care and urgency, Ford is working to fix this, ensuring safety and peace of mind for all families on the road. Ford is sending out official letters starting June 23, 2025, offering a free fix at dealerships or via an over-the-air (OTA) update. The goal? Patch the software by September 29, 2025, so no one gets stuck.
Ford Recalls Over 197000 Vehicles In The US
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Model Years | 2021–2025 Ford Mustang Mach‑E |
| Affected Vehicles | 197,432 in the U.S. (plus ~120,000 outside the U.S.) |
| Safety Concern | Rear door e-latches may stay locked if 12V battery falls below 8.4 V |
| Origination Date | NHTSA launched investigation in January 2025, after six complaints (two involving kids) |
| Remedy | Free software update via dealers or OTA by Sept 29, 2025 |
| Notifications Begin | Interim letters mailed June 23; final letters upon fix release |
| Warning Signs | “System off to save power” screen message, stiff door-handle feel |
| Corporate Action | Ford halted sales of Mach-E until defect fixed; component update started June 3, 2025 |
| Careers Affected | Software engineers, EV service techs, NHTSA investigators, UX/UX designers, legal advisors |
| Official Sources | Reuters report • [NHTSA report 25V404] (static.nhtsa.gov) |
The thought of someone—perhaps a child or loved one—trapped in a parked electric vehicle is heartbreaking and unthinkable. Ford’s compassionate recall shines a light on a modern truth: today’s cars are like gentle computers on wheels, woven with care into our lives. As we embrace the electric vehicle era with hope, software safety becomes as vital as the sturdy builds of classic cars once were. This recall reminds us to prioritize thoughtful innovation, ensuring every journey is safe and secure for all.s
Own a Mustang Mach‑E? Check your mail, schedule your update, and park safely till it’s fixed. And as elders say, “walk the straight path”—doing these small safety steps now keeps your journeys smoother and safer down the road.
What’s Going On With These Mach‑Es?
In Mach‑Es from 2021 up to over mid‑2025, Ford uses electronic door latches (e‑latches) instead of mechanical handles. When the 12‑volt battery voltage dips below 8.4 V after shutting off the car, the software accidentally keeps the doors locked—even the interior release handles don’t work. That could trap someone in the back seat if the battery died quietly and no one notices.(static.nhtsa.gov) Imagine it hot out, a kid can’t get out, car stays locked. No joke.
How This Defect Was Discovered
From January to May 2025, NHTSA tracked six complaints—two involving kids stuck in back seats. In one case shared on Reddit, a father ended up breaking a window to rescue his son after both Ford roadside and AAA couldn’t help. Ford reviewed its 2022 tests and re-opened the investigation, confirming the software bug when voltage fell below 8.4 V. It pulled the component from production by June 3, 2025, and said no injuries have been reported yet.(thedrive.com)
Ford Recalls Over 197000 Vehicles In The US: What Mach‑E Owners Should Do
- Check If You’re in the Recall: Use your VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) on the NHTSA recall lookup tool or Ford’s site to see if your Mach‑E is listed.
- Expect the Letter: Ford’s mailing recall letters start June 23. Keep an eye on your mailbox and look for reference number 25S65.
- Set Up the Free Fix: Options:
- Dealership update of your vehicle’s PCM and SOBDMC software
- OTA download via Wi‑Fi—just keep the car connected overnight
- Watch For Warning Signs: These messages/feelings could signal the bug:
- Dashboard shows “System off to save power” or blank screen
- Rear door handles feel “sticky,” especially when battery is low
- Add a Safety Toolkit: Though Ford fixes the software soon, it’s smart to carry:
- A small 12 V jump-starter, or
- Frunk-access panel tools
- Window-breaking tool, as backup—particularly if kids ride often
What the Fix Does (Tech Insight)
Ford’s upcoming software version:
- Keeps the 12‑volt DC/DC converter running for at least 12 minutes after shutdown
- Ensures inside rear door handles work during that window—even if car battery drops
- Holds doors unlocked until the owner locks them manually again.
- Smart system fix for a tricky bug.
Why This Recall Matters (Beyond the Bug)
- Highlights growing software complexity in EVs
- Shows risk of tech oversight in life-critical systems
- Sends reminder: safety checks matter, not just features
- Spotlights role of NHTSA and Ford’s “voluntary” recall—it’s about acting fast to keep public trust
Ford also simultaneously issued global stop-sales for Mach‑E models until the patch is available.
Broader Context—Other Ford Recalls
This rides shotgun alongside other big recalls:
- Rear-view camera glitch impacting 1 million F‑150s, Broncos, Mach‑Es—fixed OTA.
- Seat belt & explosion risk issues in other Ford SUVs and trucks
- Software recalls are becoming a core aspect of modern vehicle safety.
Related Links
Ford Recalls Certain 2024–2025 F-150 Lightning Trucks Over Suspension Issue
Nissan Recalls Over 79,000 Newer Vehicles – Check Which Models Are Impacted
Careers Keeping Us Safe
| Career | Role in Recall |
|---|---|
| Automotive Software Engineer | Diagnoses bugs, programs safety patches |
| EV Technician | Applies software updates, tests electronic systems |
| Compliance Officer | Manages coordination with NHTSA and legal standards |
| UX Designer | Creates dashboard alerts that are clear and easy to understand |
| Legal Counsel | Navigates recall disclosures and regulatory compliance |
| Safety Investigator (NHTSA) | Tracks defects, gathers complaints, monitors manufacturer responses |
FAQs
Q: Can I drive my Mach‑E before getting the update?
A: Yes—you can drive it. But don’t leave rear-passengers in it if battery might be low.
Q: Is OTA fix available right away?
A: Not yet—Ford may begin dealer updates sooner. OTA rollout follows once tested.
Q: What happens if I don’t fix it?
A: Your Mach‑E could leave rear-seat passengers trapped in emergencies. Plus, unresolved recalls affect resale and coverage.
Q: Do other Ford models have this risk?
A: No—this glitch only impacts certain 2021–2025 Mach‑E models with this e-latch software.
