Ford has issued a sweeping new safety recall that impacts nearly 275,000 large SUVs, including the popular Ford Expedition and luxury Lincoln Navigator models. This urgent action stems from a brake defect that can compromise the front brakes—putting drivers, passengers, and others on the road at serious risk.
This isn’t just another routine manufacturer notice. The 2024 Ford Expedition safety recall affects some of the newest SUVs on California roads and follows a troubling pattern of Ford brake defect issues in recent months. Combined with last month’s brake-related recall on older models, this latest development signals a growing safety concern among Ford’s full-size SUV lineup.
At The Barry Law Firm, we represent California drivers dealing with unsafe or defective vehicles. If you own or lease a 2022–2024 Ford Expedition or Lincoln Navigator and are experiencing brake-related issues—or haven’t been able to secure an effective repair—you may be eligible for compensation under California’s Lemon Law.
Don’t wait until your SUV’s brake failure becomes a serious accident. Below, we break down everything you need to know about the Ford Expedition recall, the nature of the defect, and how California consumers can take legal action if their vehicle poses a risk.
What’s Going On with the Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator Brake Recall?
On May 9, 2025, Ford officially notified the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) of a new recall impacting 273,789 SUVs, including 223,315 Ford Expeditions and 50,474 Lincoln Navigators built between 2022 and 2024. According to the recall report, the problem originates with the front brake lines—which can rub against a component of the engine air cleaner and become damaged over time.
That damage can lead to brake fluid leaks, which severely reduce braking effectiveness—particularly in the front wheels. In a vehicle as large and heavy as the Expedition or Navigator, even a partial loss of braking power significantly increases the risk of a crash. It’s a serious and potentially life-threatening failure.
This is not just a minor inconvenience—it’s a dangerous engineering oversight that could compromise a driver’s ability to stop their vehicle in traffic, during inclement weather, or while navigating busy intersections. For families who rely on these SUVs for daily transportation, the threat of brake failure represents a direct challenge to safety.
This issue is not theoretical. Ford’s own documentation confirms that damaged brake lines and fluid loss may result in degraded stopping power, and drivers may experience extended braking distances or a loss of control during emergency maneuvers. The Ford SUV brake issue also raises questions about how such a basic safety component made it into production without proper safeguards.
It’s worth noting that many owners may not experience symptoms immediately. The friction causing the damage can accumulate over time, meaning some vehicles might be developing this defect right now, unbeknownst to their drivers. That delayed onset makes it all the more critical to check your vehicle and act swiftly.
This is now the second brake-related recall Ford has issued in less than 30 days. While last month’s recall focused on older 2017–2018 models and a faulty master cylinder, this latest 2024 Ford Expedition safety recall shifts attention to the newest vehicles on the road. And though Ford estimates that only 1% of the recalled SUVs are affected, the scale of the recall makes that a significant number.
Dealers have been instructed to inspect the affected vehicles and replace any damaged brake lines or interfering components. However, many consumers have already reported delays in scheduling service or receiving parts—leaving drivers uncertain and unprotected while waiting for a fix.
Why This Brake Recall Matters for California Drivers
California roads are home to thousands of large SUVs, including family-oriented Ford Expeditions and executive-driven Lincoln Navigators. These vehicles are trusted for their power, size, and safety—making a recall like this even more alarming.
If you or a loved one owns a Lincoln Navigator 2024 model or a Ford Expedition impacted by this recall, the risks go beyond inconvenience. Brake failure is one of the most dangerous mechanical issues a vehicle can face. It doesn’t just impact drivability—it compromises safety in a way that can be catastrophic.
This issue is especially troubling given Ford’s recent recall history. Two major brake-related recalls in a single month suggest that systemic issues may be at play. And for California drivers, that means the stakes are high—whether you’re driving on a crowded freeway, navigating hills, or simply backing out of a driveway.
If you’ve experienced Lincoln Navigator brake recall symptoms—such as reduced stopping power, leaking brake fluid, or a soft brake pedal—document everything. Whether you’ve been turned away by a dealership, experienced multiple repair attempts, or have been left without a working solution, you may be eligible for Lemon Law protections.
What Should SUV Owners Do?
Ford is urging all affected drivers to contact their dealership immediately for an inspection. If necessary, the brake line or air-cleaner outlet pipe will be replaced at no cost to the consumer. Dealers began receiving notices on May 14, and owners should begin receiving formal recall letters by May 30, 2025.
But you don’t have to wait. Take these steps now:
- Look up your vehicle’s recall status by entering your VIN at nhtsa.gov
- Contact Ford’s customer service line at 1-866-436-7332
- Schedule a service appointment with your local dealership
- Document all service attempts, invoices, and correspondence
If you’re experiencing symptoms consistent with the Ford brake defect, don’t assume it will be resolved on the first try. Keep a detailed record of the problem and each attempt to fix it. Multiple failed repairs for the same issue may qualify your vehicle as a “lemon” under California law.
Why This Is a Legal and Financial Concern
Brake-related safety failures aren’t just hazardous—they’re expensive. Missed work, emergency tows, long repair times, and rental car fees add up fast. Meanwhile, your confidence in your SUV’s reliability erodes with every failed service appointment.
For many California families, the Ford Expedition is the go-to vehicle for hauling kids, towing trailers, and commuting safely. The Lincoln Navigator, often purchased for its high-end features, carries a premium price tag and expectation of flawless performance. In either case, a Ford SUV brake issue like this undermines the trust drivers place in their vehicles.
If Ford fails to deliver a lasting repair—or if service delays leave you in a dangerous or unusable vehicle—California’s Lemon Law is on your side.
What Vehicles Are Affected?
This recall applies to:
- 2022–2024 Ford Expedition models
- 2022–2024 Lincoln Navigator models
Owners of either SUV—whether purchased new, leased, or bought used through a dealer—should check their VIN immediately. Even if your vehicle hasn’t yet shown symptoms, the brake line defect may emerge over time as the parts wear down or shift position.
The Lincoln Navigator 2024 recall and Ford Expedition recall are both reminders that even high-end, late-model vehicles can contain hidden dangers. If your SUV is on the recall list, take action now.
How The Barry Law Firm Can Help
At The Barry Law Firm, we specialize in helping California consumers take legal action against manufacturers when their vehicles fail to meet quality and safety standards. If your Ford Expedition or Lincoln Navigator has been in the shop repeatedly for brake problems, fluid leaks, or failed repairs, you may be entitled to a refund, replacement, or cash compensation under California’s Lemon Law.
Why Work with The Barry Law Firm?
- Lemon Law Expertise – We specialize in California Lemon Law cases and know how to hold manufacturers accountable.
- No Upfront Costs – The California Lemon Law requires the manufacturer to pay our fees. That means, at The Barry Law Firm, we will never charge you, no matter the outcome of your case.
- Proven Success – We have helped thousands of consumers obtain favorable settlements for their defective vehicles.
- Personalized Attention – We handle all legal paperwork and negotiations so you don’t have to deal with the stress
If Ford’s dealership or recall fix hasn’t resolved your Ford brake defect, you may have a case. Contact us to explore your options.
Conclusion
The Ford Expedition recall and Lincoln Navigator brake recall highlight a disturbing trend: critical safety systems failing in modern SUVs built for families, professionals, and long-distance travel. When your brakes are compromised, everything else becomes irrelevant—because safety is no longer guaranteed.
With nearly 275,000 vehicles affected, this isn’t just a footnote in Ford’s recall history—it’s a full-scale crisis that leaves drivers vulnerable. And while Ford promises free repairs, thousands of Californians are still waiting for parts, appointments, and peace of mind. If you’ve experienced delays, repeated repairs, or unaddressed safety issues, you may be protected under California’s Lemon Law.
At The Barry Law Firm, we believe no driver should be stuck with a defective or dangerous SUV. Whether your vehicle is part of the 2024 Ford Expedition safety recall or the Lincoln Navigator 2024 recall, we’re here to help you get the resolution you deserve.
Contact The Barry Law Firm today for a FREE consultation. Let’s put the brakes on manufacturer negligence—and get you back on the road, safely and confidently.
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