2012 Ford Expedition, 2012 Lincoln Navigator: Recall Alert

Suzanne Kane

3,273 views Feb 10, 2012

2012 Ford Expedition

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Ford is conducting a voluntary recall of certain 2012 model year Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator full-size SUVs over concerns about potentially improperly welded head restraint support brackets in the second row.

A notice on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) site lists the number of potentially affected units at 569. Affected Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator models were built at the Kentucky Truck Assembly Plant from November 19, 2011 through December 2, 2011.

2012 Lincoln Navigator

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The problem

The issue involves failure to fully comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 202, “Head Restraints.” The NHTSA notice says that affected vehicles may have inadequate welds on the head restraint support brackets on the second row, passenger or right-hand seat.

Such a condition could increase the risk of injury in the event of a crash, as the seat head restraint may not provide the required strength, NHTSA warns.

Ford said that it has not received any warranty complaints related to the issue.

What Ford will do

Ford will notify owners and dealers will replace the head restraints, as necessary, at no charge. The Ford safety recall is expected to begin February 20, 2012. Any unsold vehicles involved in the campaign on dealer lots will be inspected and head restraints replaced, as necessary, prior to sale.

In the meantime, owners of 2012 Ford Expedition or Lincoln Navigator models with any questions or concerns may contact Ford at 1-866-436-7332. Refer to the Ford safety recall campaign No. 12C22.

Alternatively, owners of vehicles involved in the campaign may contact the NHTSA’s Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 or go to http://www.safercar.gov. Reference the NHTSA campaign ID No. 12V034000.

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