Ford Lincoln Fuel Pump Recall: What You Need to Know in 2026

If you own a Ford or Lincoln vehicle from the 2021–2023 model years, you need to be aware of a major safety recall affecting over 850,000 vehicles in the United States. The recall, officially designated as NHTSA campaign number 25V455000 and Ford’s internal recall number 25S75, involves a defect in the low-pressure fuel pump that can cause the engine to stall while driving, significantly increasing the risk of a crash. This is not a minor issue—it is a safety defect that Ford has acknowledged and is actively working to fix, though the remedy was still under development as of mid-2025, with second notification letters expected around March 2026. As of July 2026, many owners are still awaiting the final repair. This article will explain everything you need to know about the recall, which vehicles are affected, what symptoms to watch for, what Ford is doing about it, and what you can do right now to protect yourself and your family.

1. Which Vehicles Are Affected by the Ford Lincoln Fuel Pump Recall?

The recall covers a wide range of Ford and Lincoln models. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Ford’s official documentation, the following vehicles are included:

Ford Models:

  • 2021–2023 Ford Bronco (SUV)
  • 2021–2023 Ford Explorer (SUV)
  • 2021–2023 Ford F-250 SD, F-350 SD, F-450 SD, F-550 SD (Super Duty pickup trucks)
  • 2021–2022 Ford F-150 (pickup truck)
  • 2021–2022 Ford Mustang (sports car)
  • 2022 Ford Expedition (SUV)

Lincoln Models:

  • 2021–2023 Lincoln Aviator (SUV)
  • 2021–2022 Lincoln Navigator (SUV)

In total, 850,318 vehicles are potentially affected in the U.S. alone. Ford estimates that approximately 10% of these vehicles actually have the defective fuel pump, meaning about 85,000 vehicles are at real risk. However, because the defect can be unpredictable and dangerous, Ford is recalling all vehicles that may have been built with the suspect fuel pump component.

It is important to note that the recall also extends to Canada, where Transport Canada has issued a similar recall (number 2025-366) affecting 107,534 vehicles. If you live in Canada, you should check your vehicle’s eligibility through Transport Canada’s recall database.

2. What Is the Problem? Understanding the Fuel Pump Defect

The core issue is with the low-pressure fuel delivery module (FDM), which includes the fuel pump and the jet pump inside the fuel tank. According to Ford’s investigation, the problem has two main causes:

First, internal contamination of the jet pump can occur, especially when the fuel level is low. This contamination can block the jet pump orifices, reducing fuel pressure and flow to the engine.

Second, reduced internal clearances within the fuel pump itself can increase friction. This makes the pump more sensitive to vapor lock, a condition where fuel vaporizes in the pump and prevents proper fuel delivery. This problem is more likely to occur in warm weather or when the fuel tank is nearly empty, because hot fuel is more prone to vaporization.

Ford’s Critical Concern Review Group (CCRG) opened an investigation into this issue as early as September 2022, after receiving a high number of warranty claims and parts returns related to the fuel delivery system. The fuel pump was sourced from supplier Phinia (formerly part of Delphi Technologies), and a Tier 3 supplier was found to have manufactured the pumping chamber not to Phinia’s specifications, resulting in low clearances and increased friction.

The supplier implemented corrective actions between December 2021 and September 2022 to reduce contamination and production variation, which significantly lowered the failure rate for newer vehicles. However, vehicles produced between July 2021 and July 2022 remain at higher risk. This is why the recall covers specific model years and production periods.

3. Symptoms of a Failing Fuel Pump: What to Watch For

Ford and NHTSA have provided clear guidance on the warning signs that may appear before the fuel pump fails completely. If you notice any of these symptoms, you should take your vehicle to a certified mechanic or Ford dealer immediately:

  1. Poor engine performance: The engine may misfire, run rough, or hesitate during acceleration.
  2. Check engine light: The malfunction indicator light (MIL) may illuminate on your dashboard.
  3. Reduced engine power: You may experience a sudden loss of power, especially when driving uphill or at highway speeds.
  4. Engine stalling: In the worst case, the engine may shut off completely while you are driving, which can lead to a loss of power steering and power brakes.
  5. Difficulty starting: The engine may crank but fail to start, or take longer than usual to start.

Ford advises that these symptoms are more likely to occur when the fuel tank is low on fuel (near empty) or during warm weather when the fuel in the tank is hot. If you live in a warm climate or frequently drive in hot conditions, your risk may be higher.

As of the recall date, Ford reported that it was aware of 1,860 warranty claims related to fuel pump failures from September 2021 through May 2025. However, the company stated that it was not aware of any crashes or injuries caused by this defect. This does not mean the risk is not real—it simply means that no accidents had been officially reported to Ford at the time of the recall.

4. What Is Ford Doing About the Recall? The Remedy Timeline

Ford has taken the following steps to address this recall:

  • Interim notification letters were mailed to all affected owners starting July 14, 2025. These letters inform owners of the safety risk and advise them to watch for symptoms.
  • The remedy is still under development. As of the latest available information, Ford had not yet released a final fix. The company initially anticipated that a second letter with the repair instructions would be sent in March 2026. However, given that we are now in July 2026, it is possible that the timeline has shifted. Some sources indicate the remedy was anticipated for the 2nd Quarter of 2026.
  • The proposed fix includes two approaches depending on the vehicle type:
    • For Super Duty trucks (F-250, F-350, F-450, F-550): Dealers will replace the low-pressure fuel pump entirely.
    • For all other affected vehicles (Bronco, Explorer, F-150, Mustang, Expedition, Lincoln models): Dealers will update the powertrain control module (PCM) software to improve fuel pump management and reduce the risk of stalling.

All repairs will be performed free of charge to the vehicle owner. Ford has also stated that owners will receive a second notification letter once the remedy is available, with instructions on how to schedule an appointment with an authorized dealer.

If you have not yet received your interim letter, or if you want to check whether your vehicle is included, you can contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332 and reference recall number 25S75. You can also visit the NHTSA recalls website at www.nhtsa.gov/recalls and enter your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to check your vehicle’s status.

5. Is It Safe to Drive Your Vehicle? Practical Advice

This is the most important question for owners. While Ford has stated that the risk of a sudden stall is relatively low (only about 10% of recalled vehicles are estimated to have the defect), the consequences of a stall while driving can be severe. Here is what you should do:

Check your VIN immediately by visiting the NHTSA recall site or calling Ford. If your vehicle is included, you should take the following precautions:

  • Avoid driving with a low fuel tank. The defect is more likely to occur when the fuel level is low. Keep your tank at least half full whenever possible.
  • Be alert for warning signs. If you notice any of the symptoms listed above (misfiring, rough running, check engine light, power loss), do not ignore them. Have your vehicle inspected by a qualified mechanic as soon as possible.
  • Plan your trips carefully. If you need to drive long distances or in heavy traffic, consider using an alternate vehicle if available.
  • Keep documentation. If you experience a fuel pump failure, document everything: the date, time, weather conditions, fuel level, and any warning lights. This information may be important for warranty claims or potential legal action.
  • Do not ignore the recall. Even if your vehicle seems to be running fine, the defect can become active under certain conditions. Once the remedy is available, schedule your repair promptly.

If you experience a sudden engine stall while driving, try to remain calm. Steer your vehicle to a safe location off the road, turn on your hazard lights, and call for assistance. Do not attempt to restart the engine if it stalls repeatedly.

6. Legal and Lemon Law Considerations

Because this recall involves a safety defect that can cause engine stalling, it may have legal implications for owners. Under California’s Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act (the “Lemon Law”), if a vehicle has a substantial defect that cannot be repaired after a reasonable number of attempts, the manufacturer may be required to repurchase or replace the vehicle.

Ford has opted into California’s new lemon law procedures under Assembly Bill 1755 (AB 1755) and Senate Bill 26 (SB 26). This means that if you file a lemon law claim against Ford, your case will follow a specific process that includes a pre-suit written demand, mandatory mediation, and streamlined discovery. If Ford fails to repair the defect after two attempts (for safety-related issues) or if your vehicle is out of service for more than 30 days within 18 months or 18,000 miles, you may be entitled to a replacement or refund.

If you have already experienced a fuel pump failure and Ford has been unable to fix it, or if you have had multiple repair attempts, you should consult with a qualified lemon law attorney. Several law firms, including Nita Lemon Law Firm and Parker Waichman LLP, are actively reviewing cases related to this recall.

Note: This information is for educational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with a licensed attorney for specific legal questions.

7. What About the 2018 Recall? A Note on Previous Issues

Some owners may recall a previous Ford recall related to fuel pumps. In 2018, Ford issued a safety recall (NHTSA number 18V-392, Ford number 18S17) for certain 2018 Ford F-150, Expedition, and Lincoln Navigator vehicles. That recall involved the high-pressure fuel pump, which could fracture at its mounting flange and cause an oil or fuel leak, increasing the risk of fire.

The current 2025 recall is completely separate from that earlier one. The 2018 recall involved a different component (high-pressure fuel pump) and a different failure mode (fracture and leak). The 2025 recall involves the low-pressure fuel pump and is focused on stalling rather than fire risk. If you own a 2018 model year vehicle, you should check whether you had the earlier recall completed. If not, contact your Ford dealer to schedule that repair as well.

8. How to Check If Your Vehicle Is Affected (Step-by-Step)

To determine if your specific vehicle is included in this recall, follow these simple steps:

  1. Locate your VIN. Your Vehicle Identification Number is a 17-character code. You can find it on your vehicle’s registration, insurance card, or on the driver’s side dashboard near the windshield.
  2. Visit the NHTSA recall website at www.nhtsa.gov/recalls.
  3. Enter your VIN in the search box and click “Search.”
  4. Review the results. If your vehicle is included in recall 25V455000, you will see a description of the issue and the current status of the remedy.
  5. Call Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332 if you have questions or need assistance. Reference Ford recall number 25S75.
  6. If you are in Canada, visit Transport Canada’s recall database at https://recalls-rappels.canada.ca/ and search for recall number 2025-366.

9. How to Prevent Fuel Pump Problems (General Maintenance Tips)

While the current recall is specific to a manufacturing defect, there are general maintenance practices that can help extend the life of your fuel pump and reduce the risk of failure:

  • Keep your fuel tank at least a quarter full at all times. The fuel in the tank helps cool the fuel pump. Running on empty frequently can cause the pump to overheat and fail prematurely.
  • Use quality fuel. Low-quality or contaminated fuel can introduce debris and contaminants into the fuel system, potentially clogging the pump and injectors.
  • Change your fuel filter regularly. A clogged fuel filter can put extra strain on the fuel pump, causing it to work harder and wear out faster.
  • Pay attention to warning signs. If you hear a whining noise from the fuel tank area, or if your engine hesitates during acceleration, have your fuel system checked by a professional.

10. Recommended Replacement: KEMSO Fuel Pump

If you own one of the affected vehicles and your fuel pump has already failed, or if you want to proactively replace your fuel pump with a high-quality, reliable component, we recommend considering KEMSO Fuel Pumps.

KEMSO is a trusted brand in the automotive aftermarket, known for manufacturing high-performance, OEM replacement fuel pumps that meet or exceed original equipment specifications. Their fuel pumps are designed to deliver consistent fuel pressure and flow, ensuring reliable engine performance even under demanding conditions.

Why choose KEMSO?

  • OEM Replacement Quality: KEMSO fuel pumps are engineered to match or exceed the performance of the original Ford fuel pump, ensuring a perfect fit and reliable operation.
  • High Performance: Designed to handle the demands of modern engines, KEMSO pumps provide stable fuel delivery and reduce the risk of vapor lock or pressure loss.
  • Lifetime Warranty: KEMSO stands behind the quality of their products with a lifetime warranty, giving you peace of mind that your investment is protected.

If you are looking for a replacement fuel pump for your Ford Bronco, Explorer, F-150, Mustang, Expedition, or Lincoln Aviator/Navigator, KEMSO offers a wide range of options that are compatible with the affected model years.

To browse the full selection of KEMSO fuel pumps and other high-performance automotive components, visit their official website at: https://www.kemsoracing.com/

KEMSO also carries a variety of other automotive parts, including ignition coils, sensors, and engine components, all backed by the same commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.

Conclusion: Stay Informed and Take Action

The Ford Lincoln fuel pump recall is a serious safety issue that affects hundreds of thousands of vehicle owners across North America. While Ford is working to develop a permanent fix, the reality is that many owners are still waiting for a solution as of July 2026. In the meantime, the best thing you can do is stay informed, check your VIN regularly, watch for warning symptoms, and take preventive measures such as keeping your fuel tank at least half full.

If you have already experienced a fuel pump failure, document everything and contact Ford customer service. If you have had multiple unsuccessful repair attempts, consider consulting with a lemon law attorney to explore your options.

For those who need a reliable replacement fuel pump, KEMSO offers high-quality, OEM replacement products with a lifetime warranty. Visit https://www.kemsoracing.com/ to find the right fuel pump for your vehicle and ensure your Ford or Lincoln remains safe and dependable on the road.

Remember: Your safety and your family’s safety come first. Do not delay in addressing this recall, and take proactive steps to protect yourself until a permanent fix is available.


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