According to NHTSA, Ford has issued 53 recalls affecting over 12 million vehicles since January 1, 2026, outpacing Chrysler's 19 recalls.
Michael Brooks, executive director of the Center for Auto Safety, attributed the high recall volume to a 2024 legal agreement requiring independent oversight of Ford's safety reporting.
“Ford’s recall numbers started creeping up to significant levels right about the time the consent order was in the works,” Brooks said.
Ford has led all major automakers in total recalls for three consecutive years. The company is also running a multimedia campaign to highlight its quality improvements.
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“The campaign is: We put quality first. Now Ford is first in quality,” said Phil O'Connor, Ford's global head of marketing communications.