Two of Australia’s best-selling utes have been urgently recalled over fears a software issue could cause them to stop suddenly.
The federal Department of Infrastructure on Wednesday announced the recall of 4831 Ford Ranger and Everest vehicles.
The defect, affecting some of the 14,000 Ford Rangers sold in early-2023, is triggered when battery level drops below a critical threshold.
“Under certain circumstances, the transmission may shift in Park when travelling below 6km,” the recall notice reveals.
“This may cause a sudden stop without the rear brake lamps illuminating as intended.
“(That) could increase the potential risk of an accident, causing injury or death to vehicle occupants and other road users.”
The potentially defective vehicles were sold by the Ford Motor Company of Australia between 2021 and 2023.
Ford will contact affected owners in writing requesting they attend a Ford dealership for a free repair of exit warning system.
A spokesperson for the auto giant told online car site Drive the recall only affected vehicles powered by a 2L, Bi-Turbo engine with “e-shifter”.
“A supplier issue means the Powertrain Control Module may limit the alternator‘s charging output under certain circumstances,“ Ford said.
The Hyundai i30 2010-201, Mercedes Benz S Class 223 2020-2022, and Bentley Bentayga 2015-2023 were slapped with recalls this week.
The Bentley, which sells for about $400,000, was recalled because of faulty wiring within the fuel tank that could cause it to ignite.