Ford has announced a new safety recall affecting more than 66,000 hybrid SUVs in the United States after discovering an issue that could prevent the vehicles from emitting the legally required low-speed warning sound for pedestrians.
The recall involves certain 2025–2026 Ford Escape Hybrid, Escape Plug-in Hybrid, and Lincoln Corsair Hybrid models. According to documents filed with the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the problem is linked to the Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System (AVAS), which may fail to produce warning sounds while the vehicle is operating at low speeds. This could increase the risk of a crash involving pedestrians, particularly those who are visually impaired. (nhtsa.gov)
Why The Recall Matters
Unlike conventional petrol or diesel vehicles, hybrid and electric vehicles can operate almost silently at low speeds.
To improve pedestrian safety, regulations require manufacturers to install an Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System (AVAS) that generates an artificial sound when the vehicle is travelling slowly.
Ford has identified that, in some affected SUVs, the system may not function correctly due to a software issue.
Without the warning sound, nearby pedestrians may not realize the vehicle is approaching.
Models Included In The Recall
The recall affects the following vehicles:
| Model | Model Year |
|---|---|
| Ford Escape Hybrid | 2025–2026 |
| Ford Escape Plug-in Hybrid | 2025–2026 |
| Lincoln Corsair Hybrid | 2025–2026 |
Approximately 66,000 vehicles are included in the recall campaign. (nhtsa.gov)
What Causes The Problem?
According to Ford’s recall report, the issue stems from software controlling the Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System.
Under certain conditions, the system may fail to emit the mandatory warning sound while the vehicle is moving at lower speeds.
Although the vehicles remain safe to drive, they may not comply with federal safety standards requiring audible pedestrian alerts.
Ford said it is not aware of any accidents or injuries related to this issue at the time the recall was announced. (nhtsa.gov)
How Ford Will Fix The Issue
Owners of affected vehicles will receive notifications from Ford.
The solution involves a software update that will restore proper operation of the Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System.
The repair will be performed free of charge at authorized Ford and Lincoln dealerships.
Recall Summary
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Vehicles | About 66,000 |
| Issue | Acoustic Vehicle Alerting System may not emit warning sound |
| Safety Risk | Pedestrians may not hear the vehicle approaching |
| Repair | Software Update |
| Cost To Owners | Free |
Why Warning Sounds Are Required
Modern hybrid and electric vehicles produce very little noise when operating on electric power.
For this reason, regulators in several countries require manufacturers to install external sound generators that help pedestrians detect approaching vehicles, especially:
- Visually impaired pedestrians
- Cyclists
- Children
- People in crowded urban environments
These systems are designed to improve safety without affecting the driving experience.
Conclusion
Ford’s latest recall highlights how software has become just as important as mechanical components in today’s vehicles.
While the affected hybrid SUVs remain fully functional, ensuring that pedestrians can hear them at low speeds is an important safety requirement.
Owners of affected Ford Escape Hybrid, Escape Plug-in Hybrid, and Lincoln Corsair Hybrid models should watch for official recall notifications and schedule the free software update as soon as it becomes available.
Disclaimer
This article is based on official recall information released by Ford and the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Owners should verify whether their vehicle is affected by checking the VIN through Ford or the NHTSA recall database and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the free repair.