In June 2022, Ford Motor Company announced a massive recall affecting approximately 2.9 million vehicles in the United States due to a critical safety issue involving the gear shift mechanism. This recall, one of the largest in recent years, addresses concerns that vehicles could roll away even when the gear shift appears to be in the “park” position, posing a significant risk of accidents, injuries, or property damage. Here’s a detailed look at the recall, its implications, and what affected owners should do.
What’s the Issue?
The problem stems from a defective bushing that connects the shift cable to the transmission. Over time, this bushing can degrade, particularly in conditions involving heat and humidity. When the bushing fails, the gear shift may not properly engage the transmission in the park position, allowing the vehicle to roll unexpectedly. This malfunction increases the risk of rollaway incidents, which could lead to crashes, injuries, or damage to property.
Ford has reported receiving 1,630 warranty claims and 233 vehicle owner questionnaires related to this issue since April 2015. The company is aware of six reports of property damage and four reports of injuries potentially linked to the defect. Although no warning message or chime alerts drivers to the issue, the instrument panel will display the correct gear position when the vehicle is turned on, which may help drivers identify the problem.
Which Vehicles Are Affected?
The recall covers a wide range of Ford models manufactured between 2013 and 2021, including:
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2013-2019 Ford Escape (1.7 million vehicles)
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2013-2018 Ford C-Max
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2015-2018 Ford Edge
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2013-2016 Ford Fusion
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2013-2021 Ford Transit Connect
Additionally, the recall includes approximately 394,000 vehicles in Canada. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that about 1% of the recalled vehicles may be affected by the defect, though the issue’s severity warrants action for all listed models.
What Is Ford Doing About It?
Ford is addressing the issue by offering free repairs at authorized Ford and Lincoln dealerships. The repair involves replacing the degraded bushing with a higher-grade material and adding a protective cap to prevent further deterioration. Owners will receive notification letters starting June 27, 2022, informing them of the recall and the steps to take. Dealerships will perform the repairs at no cost to the owners, ensuring that affected vehicles are safe to operate.
Ford has also issued four previous recalls related to this bushing issue, indicating ongoing efforts to address the problem across different model years and vehicle types. The company continues to work with the NHTSA to monitor and resolve these concerns.
What Should Owners Do?
If you own one of the affected Ford models, here are the steps you should take:
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Check Your Vehicle: Confirm whether your vehicle is part of the recall by visiting the NHTSA website (nhtsa.gov) and entering your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) in their recall database. You can also contact Ford directly at 1-866-436-7332 for assistance. The recall number is 22S43.
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Watch for Notifications: Ford began mailing recall notification letters on June 27, 2022. If you receive one, follow the instructions to schedule a free repair at a Ford or Lincoln dealership.
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Be Vigilant: Until your vehicle is repaired, be cautious when parking. Ensure the vehicle is on a flat surface, engage the parking brake, and double-check that the gear shift is in park. If you notice any unusual rolling or difficulty shifting gears, contact your dealership immediately.
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Stay Informed: Monitor updates from Ford and the NHTSA for any additional information about the recall or repair process.
Why Does This Matter?
This recall highlights ongoing challenges in the automotive industry regarding quality control and safety. Ford has faced significant scrutiny for its recall history, with over 90 recalls affecting more than 6 million vehicles in the first six months of 2025 alone. The 2022 gear shift recall, while older, remains a critical example of the potential risks posed by manufacturing defects. For Ford, addressing these issues promptly and transparently is essential to maintaining consumer trust and ensuring driver safety.
The gear shift issue is particularly concerning because it can lead to unexpected vehicle movement, which is especially dangerous in crowded areas or on slopes. The reported injuries and property damage underscore the importance of taking swift action to repair affected vehicles. By offering free repairs and working with the NHTSA, Ford is taking responsibility for the defect, but owners must act proactively to ensure their vehicles are safe.
Ford’s Broader Recall Context
Ford’s 2.9 million vehicle recall in 2022 is part of a broader pattern of safety-related recalls. In 2023, the company recalled over 6 million vehicles across 57 recalls, and in 2025, Ford has already issued over 90 recalls, including significant ones for rearview camera issues (1.1 million vehicles) and low-pressure fuel pump failures (850,000 vehicles). These numbers have positioned Ford as the industry leader in recalls, a title that comes with financial and reputational costs. The company spent $2.3 billion on warranty and recall costs in Q2 2024 alone, and in November 2024, Ford agreed to pay a $165 million civil penalty to the NHTSA for delays in addressing rearview camera defects.
Despite these challenges, Ford is implementing new quality control measures, including enhanced testing, simplified designs, and improved supplier traceability. These efforts aim to reduce future recalls and improve vehicle reliability, but the road to recovery remains long.
Final Thoughts
The Ford recall of 2.9 million vehicles is a significant event that underscores the importance of vehicle safety and manufacturer accountability. If you own an affected vehicle, take immediate steps to verify your status and schedule a repair. While Ford is working to address this and other quality issues, owners must remain proactive to ensure their safety on the road. Stay informed, act promptly, and drive with confidence knowing that solutions are available.
For more information, visit the NHTSA website or contact Ford’s customer service. Your safety is worth the effort.
