Ford Motor Company is facing serious scrutiny after announcing a recall of nearly 200,000 vehicles across the U.S. due to a troubling software defect that could trap children in the back seat — a nightmare scenario that could have deadly consequences, especially during sweltering summer months.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) revealed that the glitch causes electronic door latches to remain locked after the driver shuts the front door if the vehicle’s battery is running low. In such cases, passengers in the rear may find themselves unable to open the doors from inside, effectively locking them in — a hazard that no responsible automaker should take lightly.
This recall impacts 197,432 vehicles, specifically 2021 to 2025 Mustang Mach-E models, which Ford estimates to be 100% affected by this defect. While the company says it has yet to receive reports of injuries or accidents linked to this flaw, the potential for tragedy is obvious. Children trapped in a locked car during high temperatures could face life-threatening conditions.
Ford has pledged to fix the problem by issuing a free software update at dealerships nationwide. Vehicle owners will begin receiving recall notices by mail starting June 23, with a follow-up letter expected around September 29, when the fix will be ready.
This software defect came to light after the NHTSA contacted Ford in January, following complaints from at least six customers who reported difficulties opening rear doors after exiting their vehicles. Two of those incidents involved children trapped in the back seat — a chilling reality that should prompt serious questions about quality control at Ford.
Ford acknowledged the defective part was removed from production as of June 3, but the fact this problem persisted through multiple model years raises concerns about how thoroughly the company tests its safety features.
For now, Ford warns drivers to be vigilant for certain warning signs that could indicate the glitch is about to strike. The vehicle’s SYNC screen may display a “system off to save power” message or go blank entirely after the car is turned off. Additionally, drivers might notice that the inside release handles require more force than usual to open the front doors.
This recall is yet another example of how high-tech car systems, while innovative, can sometimes fail in ways that put everyday Americans at risk—especially the most vulnerable like children.
Ford owners should act quickly to bring their vehicles in for the free update. It’s a stark reminder that even established American automakers need to prioritize safety and reliability over rushing to market with unproven software.
With nearly 200,000 cars affected, this recall should serve as a wake-up call for Ford and other manufacturers: the safety of American families cannot be compromised, and when defects are discovered, swift and transparent action is non-negotiable.
