Ford Expedition, Lincoln Navigator SUVs Recalled over Second-row Seat Fastener

Ford has issued a new recall for the 2018 Expedition and Lincoln Navigator full-size SUVs over a missing J-channel reinforcement bracket. Without the fastener, the second-row seats may not be restrained in the event of a crash.

The automaker announced the recall, which affects 38,000 Expedition and Navigator models total in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Ford built affected SUVs between March 14, 2018, and Aug. 18. The recall only applies to SUVs with second-row bench seats, which did not receive the J-channel reinforcement bracket in the seat track assembly. In some cases, one or both brackets could be missing, and in a crash, the un-fastened seat could increase the risk of injury.

Ford said dealership technicians will inspect the affected SUVs to check for the J-channel brackets. If one or both parts are missing, dealers will replace the center-seat assembly at no cost to owners. The automaker added it is not aware of any injuries related to the recall, but advised owners to push the second-row seats to the furthest position away from the front cabin.