About Ford VINs
How Ford VINs are built
Ford's F-Series pickup has been America's best-selling vehicle for 44 consecutive years and its best-selling truck for 49 (through 2025). VIN numbers on Ford vehicles use three main prefixes: 1FA for passenger cars such as the Mustang and Fusion, 1FM for SUVs and crossovers including the Explorer, Escape, and Expedition, and 1FT for trucks across the F-Series, Ranger, and Transit lines. Canadian-assembled Fords substitute 2 as the first digit; Mexican-assembled models such as the Maverick use 3FT. A free VIN decode on any Ford shows its factory specs, assembly plant and engine, plus any open NHTSA recalls.
The first three characters identify the country, Ford and the type of vehicle: 1FA cars, 1FM SUVs and 1FT trucks and vans from the US, with 2 for Canada and 3 for Mexico. NHTSA's vPIC decodes a 2017 F-150 to Dearborn or Kansas City, a 2019 F-250 to the Kentucky Truck Plant (Jefferson County), a 2019 Edge (2FM) to Oakville, Ontario, and a 2021 Bronco Sport and 2022 Maverick (3FM, 3FT) to Hermosillo, Mexico. Imports use other prefixes, such as MAJ for the India-built EcoSport and NM0 for the Transit Connect. The 11th character and the full decode confirm the plant.
Ford vehicles manufactured for the US market carry VIN prefixes of 1FA, 1FM, 1FT (US); 2FA, 2FM, 2FT (Canada); 3FA, 3FM, 3FT (Mexico). The VIN number encodes the country of manufacture (USA), production plant, vehicle line, body style, engine type, model year, and a unique production sequence number.
Sources: HQ, founded: Ford history · CEO: Ford Media Center · Sales: Ford Q4 2025 sales release (SEC filing)
NHTSA campaign data
Which model years each recall covers
Drag the year line to your car’s model year. Bars it crosses are the campaigns to confirm on the VIN.
Coverage depends on build dates and equipment (engine, cab, drivetrain). A listed year doesn't mean every vehicle from that year is included; the VIN lookup decides. "Takata" marks campaigns NHTSA files under its Takata inflator investigation (EA15-001). "Do not drive" and "Park outside" mean NHTSA's recall record carries that advisory. Super Duty covers F-250 to F-550; many campaigns also include Lincoln or Mercury models.
Ford Recalls: How to Check a Specific VIN
- Enter the full 17-character VIN in the NHTSA recall lookup. It shows open safety recalls, including the do-not-drive and Takata campaigns above.
- Then use Ford's recall lookup, which also lists Ford customer satisfaction programs and warranty extensions.
- Several big 2026 campaigns (F-150 downshift, 10-speed park pawl, Explorer toe links and seats, Bronco wiring, F-150 fuel tank) may still be waiting for parts. Ask the seller or dealer whether the remedy is available yet.
- If a do-not-drive or park-outside recall is open, follow it until the repair is done. Recall repairs are free at Ford dealers.
Full list: every campaign in this timeline
| Campaign | Issue | Models & years |
|---|---|---|
| 17V-787 · 17V-788 · 18V-022 · 18V-023 | Do Not Drive Takata driver and passenger inflators may rupture: Ranger | 2004–2006 Ranger. 17V-787 (driver) and 17V-788 (passenger) replaced the original 2015–2016 Ranger recalls with a final repair. 18V-022 and 18V-023 (January 2018) cover about 2,700 2006 Rangers that Ford told owners not to drive. Filed under NHTSA's Takata inflator investigation (EA15-001). NHTSA's record tells owners not to drive the vehicle until it is repaired. |
| 23V-125 · 23V-306 | Replacement Ranger passenger inflator may have been installed incorrectly | 2004–2006 Ranger. Trucks that already received a replacement passenger inflator under an earlier recall. An incorrectly installed inflator may not inflate the air bag properly. |
| 15V-319 | Do Not Drive Takata dual-stage driver inflator may rupture (moisture over time) | 2005–2014 Mustang. 2005–2014 Mustang and 2005–2006 Ford GT. Filed under NHTSA's Takata inflator investigation (EA15-001). NHTSA's record tells owners not to drive the vehicle until it is repaired. |
| 16V-384 · 17V-024 · 18V-046 · 19V-001 | Do Not Drive Takata passenger inflator may rupture; phased by zone | 2005–2014 Mustang, 2006–2012 Fusion, 2007–2010 Edge, 2007–2011 Ranger. Rolled out from 2016 to 2019, starting with vehicles ever registered in the hot, humid Zone A states. Also the Ford GT and Mercury Milan, Lincoln Zephyr, MKZ and MKX. Filed under NHTSA's Takata inflator investigation (EA15-001). NHTSA's record tells owners not to drive the vehicle until it is repaired. |
| 21V-158 | Takata driver inflator may explode (propellant degradation) | 2006–2012 Fusion, 2007–2010 Edge, 2007–2011 Ranger. Filed March 2021 (also Mercury Milan and Lincoln Zephyr, MKZ and MKX). The inflator is replaced with an alternate one. Filed under NHTSA's Takata inflator investigation (EA15-001). |
| 19V-075 | 6-speed automatic may downshift into first gear at any speed | 2011–2013 F-150. A sudden downshift can cause loss of control. The fix reprograms the powertrain control module. |
| 24V-444 | Lost speed-sensor signal may downshift the transmission into first gear | 2014 F-150. Loss of signal between the output shaft speed sensor and the PCM. Filed June 2024 after NHTSA recall query RQ24-005. |
| 26V-237 | Lost range-sensor signal may downshift the transmission into second gear | 2015–2017 F-150. About 1.39 million trucks (April 2026), after NHTSA engineering analysis EA26-001. Software update; owner letters went out in July 2026. |
| 26V-402 | Transmission park pawl may engage while moving; rollaway risk | 2018–2021 Expedition, 2020–2021 Explorer, 2021 F-150. Also Lincoln Navigator and Aviator. Damage to the park system can let the vehicle roll away. Software update plus inspection. |
| 18V-568 · 19V-880 | Seat belt pretensioner sparks may ignite B-pillar materials | 2015–2018 F-150, 2017–2019 Super Duty. 18V-568: 2015–2018 F-150 Regular Cab and SuperCrew. 19V-880: 2017–2019 Super Duty SuperCrew with carpet. The fire risk follows a crash that deploys the pretensioner. |
| 20V-332 | Brake master cylinder may leak fluid into the booster | 2014–2017 F-150. 3.5L EcoBoost trucks only. Reduced front braking and a longer pedal. Linked to NHTSA recall query RQ16-001. |
| 17V-652 | Door latch cable or frozen latch can let a door open while driving | 2015–2017 F-150, 2017 Super Duty. Dealers inspect the latch cables and add water shields. |
| 26V-578 | Fuel tank may be improperly secured; leak or tank detachment | 2023–2026 F-150. 2023–2027 F-150 (September 2026). Dealers replace the tank straps. Fire risk. |
| 11V-385 | Corroded fuel tank straps may fail | 2000–2004 F-150. 1997–2003 F-150 and 2004 F-150 Heritage. A failed strap can separate the fuel lines or drop the tank. Only vehicles sold or registered in the salt-belt states and Washington, D.C. are included. Fire risk. |
| 05V-017 · 05V-388 · 06V-286 · 07V-336 · 09V-399 | Speed control deactivation switch may leak, overheat and burn | 2000–2004 F-150, 2000–2002 Expedition, 2000–2002 Explorer, 2000–2003 Ranger, 2000–2003 Super Duty. One of the largest recall programs in US history, filed in stages from 2005 to 2009 (also E-Series, Excursion and Windstar). A fire can start with the engine off. Dealers disconnect the switch or add a fused harness. |
| 11V-107 | Clockspring jumper wire may chafe; driver air bag can deploy on its own | 2004–2006 F-150. Also the 2006 Lincoln Mark LT. An air bag warning light often comes on first. Followed NHTSA engineering analysis EA10-001. |
| 08V-208 | Brake booster vacuum hose may detach (5.4L) | 2005–2006 F-150. 5.4L 3-valve engines. Braking still works but needs much more pedal effort. |
| 25V-401 | Do Not Drive Brake booster pushrod spring may be missing; loss of braking | 2025 Super Duty. A small group of 2025 F-250 to F-550 trucks. NHTSA's record tells owners not to drive the vehicle until it is repaired. |
| 19V-435 · 20V-675 · 21V-537 · 26V-101 | Rear suspension toe links may fracture | 2011–2019 Explorer. 19V-435: 2011–2017. 20V-675 and 21V-537: 2013–2017 Explorers in salt-belt states, including trucks repaired before (knuckle and ball joint). 26V-101 (February 2026): 2017–2019. A broken toe link causes a sudden loss of steering control. |
| 22V-255 | Rear axle mounting bolt may fracture; driveshaft can disconnect | 2020–2022 Explorer. 2.3L RWD, 3.0L ST, 3.0L plug-in hybrid and 3.3L hybrid (also Police Interceptor). The vehicle can roll away in Park without the parking brake. |
| 24V-031 | A-pillar trim may detach | 2011–2019 Explorer. About 1.9 million Explorers (January 2024) after NHTSA preliminary evaluation PE23-001. Phased remedy. |
| 25V-393 · 26V-451 | Easy-entry second-row seat may unlatch, tip or slide | 2020–2026 Explorer. 25V-393: 2020–2025. 26V-451 (July 2026) widens it to 2020–2026 Explorer and Lincoln Aviator. The switch bezel can bind. |
| 22V-859 · 25V-467 | 1.5L fuel injector may crack and leak fuel in the engine bay | 2020–2023 Escape, 2021–2024 Bronco Sport. 22V-859 added leak-detection software and a drain tube; 25V-467 (July 2025, after NHTSA recall query RQ24-008) replaces the fuel rail and injectors. Fire risk. |
| 22V-191 | 1.5L oil separator housing may crack and leak oil | 2020–2022 Escape, 2021–2022 Bronco Sport. Oil can reach hot engine or exhaust parts. Fire risk. |
| 18V-471 · 19V-362 · 22V-413 | Shifter cable bushing may degrade; vehicle may roll or move in the wrong gear | 2013–2019 Escape, 2013–2016 Fusion, 2015–2018 Edge. 18V-471 and 19V-362 covered 2013–2014 Escape and 2013–2016 Fusion; 22V-413 (about 2.9 million vehicles) adds 2013–2019 Escape, 2015–2018 Edge, C-Max and Transit Connect with a protective cap. |
| 12V-336 | Do Not Drive 1.6L engine-compartment fuel line may split and leak | 2013 Escape. Early-build 2013 Escapes with the 1.6L EcoBoost. Ford told owners to stop driving and had dealers pick the vehicles up. Fire risk. |
| 14V-165 | Corrosion at the lower control arm's forward mount; arm can separate | 2001–2004 Escape. A separated control arm means a major loss of steering control. Dealers install a reinforcement cross-brace. Only vehicles sold or registered in the salt-belt states and Washington, D.C. are included. |
| 24V-267 · 25V-019 | 12-volt battery may fail suddenly; loss of drive power | 2021–2024 Bronco Sport, 2022–2023 Maverick. 24V-267 recalibrates the body and powertrain modules so they detect a low battery; 25V-019 (January 2025, after NHTSA recall query RQ24-014) inspects and replaces the battery. |
| 26V-340 | Do Not Drive Front lower control arm ball joints may be installed or repaired incorrectly | 2021–2026 Bronco Sport, 2022–2026 Maverick. A small number of vehicles (May 2026). The control arm can disconnect from the knuckle. NHTSA's record tells owners not to drive the vehicle until it is repaired. |
| 25V-863 | Integrated park module may not lock into Park | 2025–2026 Maverick. Also the 2022–2026 F-150 Lightning and 2024–2026 Mustang Mach-E. Fixed by software, over the air or at a dealer. |
| 26V-468 | Engine-compartment wiring may be damaged and short circuit | 2021–2026 Bronco. Bronco and Bronco Raptor (July 2026, phased). Dealers add sheathing over the wiring. Fire risk. |
| 22V-346 · 25V-628 | Park outside Engine-compartment fire may occur while driving or parked | 2020–2021 Expedition. 22V-346: 2021 Expedition and Navigator. 25V-628: 2020, from a short circuit in the battery junction box. NHTSA's record tells owners to park outside, away from structures, until it is repaired. |
| 20V-469 · 25V-544 | Front and rear brake hoses may rupture and leak fluid | 2015–2018 Edge. 20V-469: front hoses. 25V-544 (August 2025, after NHTSA preliminary evaluation PE24-027): rear jounce hoses. Also Lincoln MKX. |
| 18V-167 | Steering wheel bolt may loosen; wheel can detach | 2014–2018 Fusion. About 1.3 million Fusion and Lincoln MKZ vehicles. A longer bolt is fitted. |
| 23V-162 | Front brake hoses may rupture | 2013–2018 Fusion. Also Lincoln MKZ. Filed after NHTSA recall query RQ22-004. |
| 18V-735 · 26V-369 | Canister purge valve may fail; engine can stall | 2012–2018 Focus. 2.0L GDI and GTDI engines. 26V-369 (June 2026) recalls cars that were repaired incorrectly under 18V-735. |
| 15V-246 · 16V-643 · 20V-331 | Door latch component may break; door may not latch | 2012–2015 Focus, 2013–2015 Escape, 2013–2014 Fusion, 2015 Mustang. Also Fiesta, C-Max and Transit Connect. 20V-331 rechecks cars whose earlier latch repair may not have been done properly. |
| 25V-614 | Front seat belt anchor pretensioner cables may corrode | 2015–2017 Mustang. Water and road salt can corrode the cables so the belt doesn't restrain properly. |
| 26V-547 | Engine-bay ground connections may fracture; loss of drive power | 2024–2026 Mustang. Can also cut headlights, washers, A/C or the cooling fan (August 2026). |
| 17V-408 · 19V-767 | Transmission-to-driveshaft flexible coupling may fail | 2015–2017 Transit. The van loses drive and the loose shaft can damage brake and fuel lines; it can roll if left in Park without the parking brake. 19V-767 brought back vans that only had the interim coupling replacement. |
Trucks
F-150 and Super Duty: the campaigns that matter most
The F-150 has more NHTSA campaigns than any other Ford (about 170 since the 2000 model year), so a used truck can have several open at once. These are the ones to check first.
Unexpected downshifts
19V-075 (2011–2013, into first), 24V-444 (2014, into first) and 26V-237 (2015–2017, into second; April 2026). All three are software fixes, but a sudden downshift at speed can cause loss of control.
Fire risks
2000–2004: speed control deactivation switch (05V-388, 07V-336, 09V-399). 2015–2018 F-150 and 2017–2019 Super Duty: pretensioner sparks 18V-568/19V-880. 2023–2027 F-150: fuel tank straps 26V-578.
Brakes and doors
2014–2017 3.5L EcoBoost: brake master cylinder 20V-332. 2005–2006 5.4L: booster hose 08V-208. 2015–2017 F-150 and 2017 Super Duty: door latches 17V-652.
10-speed park pawl
26V-402 (June 2026): 2021 F-150, 2018–2021 Expedition and 2020–2021 Explorer. The park pawl can engage while moving and damage the park system, so the truck may roll away later. Use the parking brake until it is repaired.
Sources: NHTSA recall records and investigations EA26-001, RQ24-005, RQ17-010, RQ16-001 · Ford recall lookup
About Ford
If there's an emblem that truly represents American automotive culture, it's the blue oval of Ford. From the rugged terrains of truck country to suburban driveways across the nation, the legacy of Ford Motor Company is interwoven with the stories of countless Americans. An icon as familiar as the roads it has driven on, Ford's journey from a modest factory in Detroit to a global automotive powerhouse is as riveting as any legend. It's a tale of innovation, courage, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
The Birth of a Revolution: 1903 and the Model T
Henry Ford founded the Ford Motor Company in 1903, setting up shop in a rented factory on Mack Avenue in Detroit. With a modest investment, Ford embarked on a mission to build an automobile that was affordable for the average American. Out of this vision emerged the Model T in 1908. Priced at just $850, it was revolutionary, democratizing personal transportation and reshaping the American landscape. By 1927, Ford had sold over 15 million Model Ts, making it one of the best-selling cars of all time.
The Assembly Line That Changed Everything
While the Model T was groundbreaking, it was Ford's innovation of the moving assembly line in 1913 that truly changed the manufacturing world. This innovation reduced the time it took to produce a car from over 12 hours to just 90 minutes. By streamlining production, Ford was able to reduce costs and pass those savings on to customers, further boosting the accessibility of automobiles. This assembly line not only revolutionized the automotive industry but also set a standard for manufacturing processes worldwide.
Ford's Role in WWII
During World War II, Ford paused civilian vehicle production to contribute to the war effort. The company produced everything from B-24 Liberator bombers to military jeeps and tank engines. Ford's Willow Run manufacturing plant became a symbol of American industrial might, capable of producing a B-24 bomber every 63 minutes at its peak. This period solidified Ford's role as a hallmark of American resilience and innovation.
From Mustangs to Maverick
The 1964 launch of the Ford Mustang was another milestone that captured the spirit of an era. The Mustang's sleek design and performance capabilities appealed to a broad audience, defining what a sporty yet affordable car could be. The launch of the Mustang signaled Ford's knack for creating not just vehicles, but icons, a tradition the company has continued with models like the Maverick and the reimagined Bronco.
The F-Series: America's Truck
The Ford F-Series, introduced in 1948, epitomizes durability and ruggedness. Known for their reliability and capability, the F-Series trucks have been America's best-selling vehicle for over 40 consecutive years. These trucks have found their way into every corner of American life, serving as reliable workhorses on farms, construction sites, and family adventures. The F-150, in particular, holds a special place in the hearts of many, combining utility with comfort in a way few trucks can match.
Ford in the Modern Era
In recent years, Ford has embraced the changing dynamics of the automotive industry with its transition to electric vehicles. The introduction of the F-150 Lightning marks Ford's bold step into the EV market. This electric version of their flagship truck combines traditional power and capability with the benefits of electric performance, further cementing the F-Series' relevance in a changing world.
Despite the shift to electric, Ford remains a dominant force in the U.S. market, consistently ranking among the top automakers in terms of market share. Ford's ability to innovate and adapt while maintaining its core values has been pivotal to its continued success. Key milestones include the continued popularity of its SUVs and the successful revival of the iconic Bronco, which has captured the imaginations of adventure-seekers once again.
Before You Buy a Used Ford
Run the VIN through our free VIN decoder to confirm what the car was when it left the factory (model, model year, engine and assembly plant, from NHTSA's vPIC database) and to see NHTSA safety recalls for that model year. The Ford model pages on this site add owner complaints, service bulletins, defect investigations, EPA fuel economy and crash ratings where NHTSA publishes them. We don't provide vehicle history reports, so accidents, title brands and odometer readings aren't part of the lookup. For title brands, the federal NMVTIS program is the official source, and an independent mechanic's pre-purchase inspection is worth the cost.
Used-car checklist
What to Verify on a Used Ford
Six checks specific to used Fords.
Takata air bags
2004–2006 Ranger: 17V-787/17V-788 and 2006 18V-022/18V-023 (do not drive). 2005–2014 Mustang: 15V-319. Passenger: 16V-384, 17V-024, 18V-046, 19V-001 (Mustang, Fusion, Edge, Ranger). Driver: 21V-158.
F-150 transmission and brakes
Downshift recalls 19V-075, 24V-444 and 26V-237; brake master cylinder 20V-332. See the F-150 section.
Explorer suspension and seats
Toe links: 19V-435, 20V-675, 21V-537, 26V-101. 2020–2022 rear axle bolt 22V-255; 2020–2026 second-row seats 25V-393/26V-451.
Rollaway and shifting
Shifter cable bushing 22V-413 (Escape, Fusion, Edge); 10-speed park pawl 26V-402; Maverick park module 25V-863; Transit driveshaft coupling 19V-767. Always test that the vehicle holds in Park on a slope.
World Manufacturer Identifier
Ford VIN prefixes (WMI)
Prefix registrations and example decodes come from NHTSA's vPIC database. The prefix tells you the country, maker and vehicle type; the 11th character and the full decode tell you the plant.
A 2017 F-150 decodes to Dearborn or Kansas City, a 2019 F-250 to the Kentucky Truck Plant, a 2019 Ranger to Wayne, Michigan and a 2020 Transit to Kansas City.
A 2017 and a 2020 Explorer decode to Chicago, a 2020 Escape to Louisville, a 2021 Bronco to Wayne and a 2020 Expedition to the Kentucky Truck Plant.
A 2018 Mustang decodes to Flat Rock, Michigan and a 2018 Focus to Wayne, Michigan.
A 2019 Edge (2FM) decodes to Oakville, Ontario; a 2006 Crown Victoria (2FA) to St. Thomas (Talbotville), Ontario.
A 2010 and a 2017 Fusion (3FA), a 2021 Bronco Sport (3FM) and a 2022 Maverick (3FT) decode to Hermosillo, Mexico.
A 2019 EcoSport (MAJ) decodes to Chennai, India; a 2017 Transit Connect (NM0, Ford Otosan) to Valencia, Spain.
Worked example
Worked example: reading a Ford VIN
Example VIN (demo only, not a real vehicle): 1FTEW1EG8HFA00000
H = 2017 (federal year-code table)K here would be Kansas City).Buyer notes by model
Top Ford Models: What to Check
Open a model for the checks that matter most.
Ford F-150
2000–2004: cruise switch fires and, in salt states, tank straps 11V-385. 2004–2006: air bag wire 11V-107; 2005–2006 5.4L: booster hose 08V-208. 2011–2017: downshift recalls 19V-075, 24V-444, 26V-237. 2014–2017 3.5L EcoBoost: master cylinder 20V-332. 2015–2017: door latches 17V-652; 2015–2018: pretensioner fire 18V-568. 2021: park pawl 26V-402. 2023–2027: tank straps 26V-578.
Ford F-150 VIN check, recalls and complaints → · F-250 → · F-350 →
Ford Explorer
Ford Escape and Bronco Sport
2001–2004 Escape: control arm mount 14V-165 (salt states). 2013 1.6L: do-not-drive fuel line 12V-336. 2013–2019: shifter bushing 22V-413; 2013–2015: door latches 20V-331. 1.5L 2020–2024: fuel injector 22V-859/25V-467, oil separator 22V-191. Bronco Sport 2021–2024: 12V battery 24V-267/25V-019; ball joints 26V-340 (do not drive).
Ford Mustang
Ford Ranger, Maverick and Bronco
Ford Fusion, Focus and Edge
Fusion 2006–2012: Takata 16V-384/21V-158; 2013–2016: shifter bushing 18V-471/19V-362/22V-413; 2013–2018: brake hoses 23V-162; 2014–2018: steering wheel bolt 18V-167. Focus 2012–2018: purge valve 18V-735/26V-369 and the PowerShift clutch program. Edge 2007–2010: Takata; 2015–2018: brake hoses 20V-469/25V-544.
FAQ
Common questions about Ford VINs
What VIN prefix do Ford vehicles use?
Ford vehicles built in the United States carry VIN prefixes starting with 1FA, 1FB, 1FC, or 1FT depending on the body style and assembly plant. Trucks assembled in Dearborn or Kansas City typically begin with 1FT. Canadian-built Fords start with 2FA (such as the Crown Victoria from St. Thomas, Ontario) or 2FM (such as the Edge from Oakville, Ontario). Any Ford with a VIN starting with a digit other than 1, 2 or 3 was assembled outside North America.
What does a free Ford VIN check on VinNumber.net show?
The free decoder reads the VIN in NHTSA's vPIC database and returns the model, model year, body, engine, drive type and assembly plant. Ford VINs in vPIC start with prefixes such as 1FT, 1FA, 1FM, 2FM and 3FA. The same lookup lists NHTSA safety recalls for that make, model and model year. Each of our 15 Ford model pages adds what NHTSA and the EPA have published: owner complaints, technical service bulletins, defect investigations, fuel economy and, where NHTSA has tested the car, NCAP crash ratings. It is not a vehicle history report: it doesn't show accidents, title brands, odometer readings or theft records.
Which Ford models carry the most recall history?
The Ford F-150 has accumulated a large number of NHTSA recalls over its production run, covering airbag inflators, seatbelt pretensioners, and various powertrain issues. The Ford Focus has recalls for door latches and the canister purge valve, while its PowerShift dual-clutch automatic was handled through warranty extensions and a class-action settlement, not an NHTSA safety recall. The Ford Bronco Sport and Maverick each received early recalls tied to fuel system and structural concerns shortly after their respective launches.
Where is the VIN located on a Ford vehicle?
On most Ford cars and trucks, the primary VIN plate is mounted on the driver side dashboard and visible through the windshield from outside the vehicle. A second location is the sticker inside the driver side door jamb, which also includes the GVWR and tire pressure ratings. On F-Series trucks, the VIN is additionally stamped on the frame rail near the front axle. The VIN on the engine block may differ from the body VIN if a replacement engine was installed.
Is Ford the best-selling vehicle brand in the United States?
Ford consistently ranks as one of the top two best-selling automotive brands in the United States. The F-Series pickup has been the single best-selling vehicle in the country for more than 40 consecutive years. Ford Motor Company sold 2,204,124 vehicles in the US in 2025 (including Lincoln), mostly trucks and SUVs, with a shrinking car lineup. The brand commands particularly strong loyalty in Texas, Michigan, and the broader Midwest.
Which Ford models are on a Takata do-not-drive warning?
NHTSA's records carry a do-not-drive advisory for unrepaired 2004–2006 Ford Rangers (17V-787, 17V-788, and 18V-022 and 18V-023 for 2,700 2006 trucks), 2005–2014 Mustangs and 2005–2006 Ford GTs with the driver inflator recall 15V-319, and the passenger inflator recalls 16V-384, 17V-024, 18V-046 and 19V-001 on certain Mustang, Fusion, Edge and Ranger models. If the VIN shows one of these open, don't drive the vehicle; Ford dealers repair it free.
Is my F-150 in the transmission downshift recall?
Three separate F-150 recalls cover sudden downshifts: 19V-075 (2011–2013 with the 6-speed automatic, into first gear), 24V-444 (2014, into first gear) and 26V-237 (about 1.39 million 2015–2017 trucks, into second gear, filed April 2026 after NHTSA engineering analysis EA26-001). All are fixed with a free powertrain software update. Check the VIN: a truck can be in one but not the others.
Which Ford Explorer years have the rear toe link recall?
Recall 19V-435 covers 2011–2017 Explorers, 20V-675 and 21V-537 recheck 2013–2017 Explorers in salt-belt states (including ones already repaired), and 26V-101 (February 2026) adds 2017–2019 models. A fractured toe link causes a sudden loss of steering control, so confirm every campaign listed for the VIN is closed, not just the first one.
Was the Focus and Fiesta PowerShift transmission recalled?
No NHTSA safety recall covers the PowerShift (DPS6) clutch shudder. Ford handled it with warranty programs instead: for example, program 19N08 extended clutch coverage to 7 years or 100,000 miles on 2014–2015 Fiesta and 2014–2016 Focus models, and earlier programs covered 2011–2014 cars. By now most of that coverage has expired with age, so ask for clutch and transmission control module repair records before buying.