Ford has issued a recall affecting over 2,500 cars in Australia, spanning its 2019-2025 Ranger, Everest, and F-150 models. The recall stems from a potential issue with the ARB Solis lights wiring harness, which could lead to a vehicle fire. The fault is serious enough to warrant immediate action, and if you’re one of the affected vehicle owners, here’s what you need to know.
What’s Happening?
The problem arises from moisture potentially entering the ARB Solis lights wiring harness, which could cause corrosion. If this corrosion occurs, it could lead to excessive heat buildup, increasing the risk of a fire while driving or even when the vehicle is parked. To put it simply, it’s not a situation you want to ignore. The recall has already affected 2,696 vehicles in Australia, and although this may sound like a lot, it’s important to note that only specific models with the ARB Solis lights are impacted, explains Drive.
Ford is taking this seriously and has advised owners to park their cars in open spaces away from flammable materials until the issue is fixed. This will help mitigate the risk while they work on addressing the defect.
What Should You Do if You’re Affected?
First and foremost, if you own one of the affected models, it’s crucial to follow the guidelines provided in the recall notice. Ford is offering an interim solution while they get the parts to fix the issue. Owners are advised to deactivate the Solis lights as a temporary fix. If you’re unsure how to do this, Ford dealerships have been provided with clear instructions, and they can help you out. The recall notice, lodged with the Department of Infrastructure, also provides a VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) list for owners to check if their vehicles are involved.
You can find your VIN in your vehicle registration documents or check with a dealership.
What Ford Is Doing About It
Ford has already started working on the repairs and is committed to rectifying the issue as quickly as possible. While parts for the permanent repair are being sourced, Ford is actively addressing the problem with the deactivation instructions, allowing owners to safely continue using their vehicles. This recall serves as a reminder of how quickly issues can arise in vehicles, even with relatively new models. Ford’s quick action in notifying customers and offering interim solutions is essential for keeping people safe while awaiting the final repairs.
For now, if you own one of these vehicles, your best course of action is to follow the recall guidelines closely. Make sure to park your vehicle in a safe, open space and deactivate the Solis lights until a more permanent fix is available. It’s always unsettling when a car manufacturer has to issue a recall, especially when it concerns something as serious as a potential fire hazard. But it’s reassuring to know that Ford is on top of it and working to resolve the issue as swiftly as possible.
