Ford to Recall 615,000 2020-22 Escapes, Explorers, Lincoln Corsairs and Aviators Over Wiper Motor, Driveshaft Defects
Ford will recall approximately 615,000 2020–22 model-year Escapes, Explorers, Lincoln Corsairs and Aviators in the U.S. due to windshield wiper motor failures and driveshaft weld issues, following a $19.5 billion EV business write-off and a 4.38 million-vehicle recall last month. This marks continued quality-control failures under CEO Jim Farley.
1. Recall Scope and Defects
Ford will recall approximately 615,000 2020–22 model-year Ford Escape, Explorer, Lincoln Corsair and Aviator vehicles in the U.S. due to malfunctioning windshield wiper motors that can stall and driveshaft components whose friction weld may fail. These defects pose crash risks and require part replacements and service scheduling across the dealer network.
2. Financial Impact and Recent Write-Off
This recall follows a $19.5 billion write-off on Ford’s electric-vehicle unit and a 4.38 million-vehicle recall announced last month, compounding warranty and repair obligations. The additional recall-related expenses are expected to pressure margins and cash flow as Ford funds repairs and customer remedies.
3. Quality Control Under CEO Farley
Persistent manufacturing and quality-management shortcomings have persisted since Jim Farley became CEO in October 2020, with Ford’s stock flat over the past five years versus a 78% gain for the S&P 500. The recurrence of large-scale recalls highlights ongoing challenges in restoring consumer confidence and supporting stock performance.