Ford, one of the biggest automakers in the world, does not seem to catch a break with its 2024 Ford Mustang release. The brand has been struggling due to 2024 Mustang production delays, and now new issues concerning this lineup have arisen.
Ford is recalling the latest 2024 Mustangs built between July 25, 2023, and September 15, 2023, affecting the safety and reliability of this iconic vehicle.
The automaker is recalling 2024 model year’s:
- 4,595 Mustangs over a casting error in rear suspension knuckle defect that could lead to crack and failure.
- 8,161 Mustangs equipped with manual transmissions because they can lose drive power and catch fire.
Thus, if you own the latest Mustang or plan to purchase one, it is highly crucial for you to understand these recalls and take the necessary steps to ensure your safety.
1. Manual Transmission Clutch Pressure Line Issue
If you are someone who prefers manual transmission over automatic, then the latest Mustang is a great choice. However, the irony is that one of the biggest reasons for the 2024 Ford Mustang recalls is the manual gearbox integration.
The 2024 models of the Mustang lineup equipped with a stick shift could face the problem of losing driving power and, in some cases, catching fire. The problem has arisen from a potential error during the vehicles’ assembly. The barrel nut that secures the clutch pressure line might have been missed or improperly installed.Â
Due to this, the clutch pressure line can come into contact with hot exhaust components, leading to significant risks.
What’s The Risk?
If the clutch pressure line comes into contact with the hot exhaust, it can lead to a variety of dangerous outcomes. The most severe risks you can face include the potential for the line to melt, causing a loss of drive power. In extreme cases, this issue can lead to an underhood fire.
What Is Ford’s Response?
Ford is recalling about 8,161 Mustangs to address this issue. The automaker is offering free vehicle inspections and repairs at their authorized dealerships.
Your vehicle’s clutch pressure line will be checked by trained technicians for proper installation. They will reroute it if necessary to prevent any contact with the hot exhaust parts. This recall is a critical step from Ford in ensuring the safety of its Mustang owners and preventing any potential accidents.
2. Rear Suspension Knuckle Defect
The second recall that is affecting the 2024 Ford Mustang is related to the model’s rear suspension knuckle. The rear suspension knuckle is a crucial component essential for the vehicle’s overall stability and steering control. Unfortunately, a supplier’s casting error has led to the production of defective rear suspension knuckles, which may be prone to fracturing.
What’s the Risk?
A fractured suspension knuckle is a matter of concern as it can severely impair your Mustang’s steering control, putting you at risk of losing control, especially at high speeds or during sharp turns. This Mustang defect increases the likelihood of accidents, making it a major safety concern that cannot be overlooked.
What Is Ford’s Response?
Understanding the severity of the rear suspension knuckle defect, Ford has recalled 4,595 Mustangs. The recalls involve checking the serial numbers of the rear suspension knuckles to identify any defective parts and replace them as a priority.
Like the clutch pressure line recall, the inspection and replacement of this issue are provided at no cost to the vehicle owners.
Why Do These Recalls Matter?
The first thing as a Mustang owner or a potential Mustang buyer should know is that these kinds of recalls are not uncommon in the automotive industry. Recalls from any automaker are important and should not be ignored. They highlight potential safety risks that could lead to accidents, injuries, or even fatalities if left unattended.
These recalls for the 2024 Ford Mustang ensure that both the car and the automaker live up to their reputation for performance and safety. Ignoring these recalls could lead to severe consequences, such as vehicle fires or loss of control, both of which can have catastrophic outcomes.
Thus, if you are a proud owner of this legendary American muscle car from the model year 2024, take it to a nearby Ford dealership and get it inspected. What I personally commend is Ford’s proactive approach to issuing these recalls. It clearly shows how this manufacturer prioritizes its customers’ safety over securing its reputation.
How To Check If Your Mustang Is Affected?
Simply because Ford has issued recalls does not mean you have to go into panic mode. You first need to determine if your 2024 Mustang is affected by the recalls or not. You can easily do it from the comfort of your home by using Ford’s official recall lookup tool.
All you have to do is enter your vehicle’s VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) and check if your particular Mustang is under recall. Doing this one simple task ensures that you are not left unaware of potential safety risks associated with your purchase.
What Is The Importance of Timely Recall Repairs?
Timely repairs are crucial whether you own something as extravagant as a Ford Mustang, something rugged as a Chevy Silverado, or any other type of ride for that matter.
Ignoring or delaying your Mustang’s recall repairs can lead to severe consequences, such as losing vehicle control or risking an underhood fire. Even if your ride seems to be working well, these unseen issues could compromise safety down the road.
In addition, Ford is offering the inspection and repairs of the affected vehicle at no cost to you, the vehicle owner. Thus, as a responsible car owner, it is your duty to have your ride inspected and get yourself out of the problematic zone.
What Do These Recalls Say About Ford?
Issuing a recall for a model and that too a popular one is not an easy task. It not only affects the sales but also hurts the brand’s reputation. However, these recent recalls from Ford for its 2024 Mustang showcase this automaker’s proactive stance on vehicle safety.
By addressing these issues early, before NHTSA could weigh in, Ford aims to maintain Mustang’s reputation as a reliable and high-performance vehicle. The quick response from the company to reports of potential problems highlights its commitment to customer safety and vehicle integrity.
Are These Recalls Going To Impact Mustang’s Reputation?
Generally, recalls negatively impact a car’s reputation, whether that vehicle is a beloved Toyota or an extravagant Bugatti. However, in the case of new Mustangs, the damage will not be severe due to Ford’s fast action. Ford’s transparency and willingness to correct the potential issues with the new Mustang releases will surely help mitigate potential damage.Â
The Mustang community is known for its loyalty, and I am sure that they will appreciate Ford’s efforts to ensure quality and safety. This move from Ford is likely to reinforce customer trust in the brand not only for this muscle car but for all the other Ford models.
In conclusion, if you own a 2024 Ford Mustang or are contemplating buying one, it is highly crucial that you first check whether your vehicle is affected by these Ford recalls or not. Ford has offered a recall lookup tool on their website, making it easy for you to check if your ride needs repairs. In addition, all the repairs are available free of charge at any Ford dealership.
Thus, instead of putting things off, take time to address these issues. Doing this will not only ensure your safety but also allow you to keep enjoying driving your Mustang for a long time without any concerns. Lastly, for more information on the recalls or to check if your Mustang is affected, visit Ford’s official recall page or contact your local Ford dealership today.