INDIANA — The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has released a significant wave of vehicle recalls affecting millions of drivers. The alerts range from minor trim issues to critical “Do Not Drive” and “Park Outside” warnings for popular models from Ford, Subaru, and BMW.
Critical “Do Not Drive” Alert: 2025 Ford Transit
Ford has issued an immediate “Do Not Drive” order for nearly 16,000 2025 Ford Transit vans.
- The Problem: A missing cotter pin in the brake assembly can cause the brake pedal to completely disconnect from the system while driving.
- The Risk: Total loss of braking function, significantly increasing the risk of a crash.
- Action Required: Owners are told to park these vehicles immediately. Ford is offering free towing and mobile service to perform the repair at no cost.
“Park Outside” Warning: Subaru Hybrids
Subaru is recalling nearly 70,000 hybrid vehicles due to a fire risk.
- Affected Models: 2025 Forester Hybrid and 2026 Crosstrek Hybrid.
- The Problem: An insufficient seal on the fuel cap may cause gasoline to expand and leak out of the filler neck, especially as ambient temperatures rise.
- Action Required: Owners are advised to park outside and away from structures until the cap is replaced. Additionally, Subaru recommends keeping the fuel tank no more than 50% full to reduce pressure.
Over 4.3 Million Fords Recalled for Trailer Risks
In one of the largest actions of the year, Ford is recalling over 4.3 million trucks and SUVs across several model lines (2021–2026), including the F-150, Maverick, Expedition, and Ranger.
- The Problem: A software glitch in the Integrated Trailer Module can cause a total loss of trailer brake lights and, in some “High Series” packages, a loss of trailer braking entirely.
- The Fix: Most vehicles will receive a free Over-the-Air (OTA) software update, meaning a trip to the dealer may not be necessary.
Summary of Major Recalls (Late Feb/March 2026)
| Manufacturer | Affected Models | Primary Hazard | Recall ID |
| Ford | 2025 Transit | Complete Brake Failure | 26V090 |
| Ford/Lincoln | 2023-26 Escape & Corsair PHEV | High Voltage Battery Fire/Short | 26V091 |
| Subaru | 2025 Forester & 2026 Crosstrek Hybrid | Fuel Leak / Fire Risk | 26V106 |
| BMW | 2024-26 5-Series, 7-Series, i5, i7 | A/C Wiring Short Circuit | 26V096 |
| Ford | 2017-19 Explorer | Rear Suspension Fracture | 26V101 |
| Land Rover | 2023-26 Range Rover & Sport | Sunroof Trim Detaching | 26V097 |
| Kia | 2025 Telluride | Front Seat Frame Failure | 26V105 |
If you own any of these vehicles, safety officials urge you not to wait for a letter in the mail.
Locate your VIN found on your dashboard (driver’s side) or insurance card.
Visit NHTSA.gov/recalls or your manufacturer’s owner portal.
By law, all recall repairs are FREE at authorized dealerships.
