Ford Motor Company is recalling more than 30,700 Mustangs from the 2022-2023 model years because of a defect that could cause the steering wheel to turn unintentionally, potentially leading to a loss of vehicle control and an increased risk of a crash. This recall was detailed in a report filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on June 28.

Details of the Recall

The recall affects Mustangs manufactured between September 15, 2022, and April 5, 2023. The specific models at risk include all variants of the Mustang produced during this period. The issue is linked to an improper calibration of the secondary digital torque sensor in the steering gear, which can be corrected through a software update.

Ford's Response

"A steering wheel that turns unintentionally can cause a loss of vehicle control and increase the risk of a crash," the recall notice stated. Fortunately, there have been no reported injuries or accidents related to this defect so far.

In a statement to FOX Business, Ford highlighted its dedication to preventing quality issues and responding quickly when they do occur. "Our goal is to prevent quality issues from happening in the first place," the company said. "When they do occur, our focus is on responding quickly with a recall or service action to prevent our customers from experiencing issues with the least inconvenience possible. We are committed to improving our launch quality and long-term quality and are already starting to see improvements in both."

Resolution and Customer Service

Ford has identified that the defect can be fixed with a software update. Affected customers can have this update performed for free at any Ford dealership. Additionally, to minimize inconvenience, Ford is offering a pickup and delivery service for the recalled vehicles at participating dealerships.

The company will begin sending notification letters to Mustang owners in early August, informing them of the recall and providing instructions on how to proceed with the repair.

Historical Context and Recent Sales

The Ford Mustang, an iconic model that has been celebrated for six decades, marked its 60th anniversary in mid-April. Since its debut in 1964, over 10 million Mustangs have been sold worldwide, cementing its place in automotive history as a symbol of American muscle cars.

In the first two quarters of 2024 alone, Ford recorded about 27,400 U.S. sales of the Mustang, reflecting the model's continued popularity. This robust sales performance underscores the importance of maintaining high safety and quality standards to uphold the brand's reputation.

Conclusion

Ford's proactive recall and commitment to addressing the steering wheel issue underscore its dedication to customer safety and product quality. By offering a free software update and additional customer service options, Ford aims to ensure that affected Mustang owners can resolve the issue with minimal disruption. The company's actions also highlight the importance of rigorous quality control measures and prompt responses to potential safety concerns in the automotive industry.