If you drive a Ford in South Africa, you may want to double-check whether your vehicle is included in the brand’s latest recall. In July 2025, Ford Motor Company of Southern Africa announced a major safety campaign affecting nearly 22,000 vehicles across the region.
The recall involves popular models like the Ford Ranger, EcoSport, Everest, Mustang, and Transit Custom, with issues ranging from infotainment screen malfunctions to rare transmission faults. While some fixes will take time to roll out, owners are being assured that repairs will be handled free of charge.
Here’s a breakdown of what’s happening, which vehicles are affected, and what South African drivers should do next.
Why Ford is Issuing the Recall
Ford has identified three key issues across different vehicles:
- Infotainment screen freeze – Affecting Rangers, Everests, and Transit Customs (2021–2025). If the rear-view camera image freezes or blacks out while reversing, it can create a false sense of safety, raising accident risk.
- System instability – Found in certain Mustang, EcoSport, Ranger, and Everest models (2018–2023). Repeated short ignition cycles may cause the SYNC infotainment system to behave unpredictably, including displaying a frozen or blank reverse image.
- Transmission fault – Limited to just 8 units of the 2025 Ranger. In rare cases, the transmission’s internal dimensions may cause the vehicle to move forward even when set to reverse or neutral.
Ford says it is actively preparing software updates and replacement parts to fix these issues. Most software remedies are expected by Q3 2025, while transmission parts should be available by October 2025.
How Many Vehicles Are Affected in Southern Africa?
The scale of this recall is significant, particularly for South Africa. Here’s the breakdown:
- Ford Ranger: 17,741 units (16,820 in SA, with others in Namibia, Botswana, and Swaziland)
- Ford Everest: 3,317 units (3,199 in SA)
- Transit Custom: 678 units (674 in SA)
- Mustang & EcoSport: 33 units combined in SA
That brings the total to 21,736 vehicles across Southern Africa, with the majority right here in South Africa.
What This Means for South African Drivers
If your Ford is listed in the affected years, you’ll receive an official notification to book a free repair at an authorized Ford dealership. But you don’t have to wait. Ford owners are encouraged to check their vehicle’s recall status using their VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) on the Ford SA recall portal.
Car Care Tip
If you’re concerned about your rear-view camera while waiting for the update:
- Always double-check surroundings by looking over your shoulder.
- Keep mirrors properly adjusted and clean to reduce blind spots.
- Park in well-lit areas to improve visibility when reversing at night.
Simple habits like these can reduce risks until official repairs are completed.
Buying or Selling a Ford? What to Keep in Mind
If you’re planning to buy a used Ford Ranger, Everest, or any other affected model, it’s important to confirm whether the recall has been addressed. Dealers are required to disclose recall work, but it’s worth checking independently.
Websites like auto24.co.za list second-hand Fords, including Rangers and Everests that remain popular in the local market. Before finalizing a purchase, request the VIN and check recall status to ensure safety and avoid future headaches.
For broader updates on recalls, new car launches, and driving advice in South Africa, visit imotonews.co.za — a trusted hub for local automotive news.
What to Do If Your Vehicle Is Affected
- Check your VIN on Ford’s recall portal.
- Wait for official communication from Ford SA (via mail or email).
- Schedule a service appointment once the fix becomes available.
- Don’t ignore recall notices — repairs are free and designed to protect your safety.
If you need further support, Ford’s Customer Relationship Resolution Centre can be reached on 0860 011 022 or via email at [email protected].
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which Ford vehicles are part of the latest recall?
A: Ranger, Everest, Transit Custom, EcoSport, and Mustang models manufactured between 2018 and 2025.
Q: What are the main problems being fixed?
A: Infotainment screen malfunctions, SYNC system instability, and a rare transmission defect.
Q: When will the fixes be available?
A: Software updates are expected in Q3 2025, while transmission parts should arrive by October 2025.
Q: Will repairs cost anything?
A: No. All recall repairs are carried out free of charge.
Q: Where can I check if my Ford is affected?
A: Use your VIN to search on Ford SA’s recall page.
Final Thoughts
Recalls are inconvenient, but they’re also an essential part of keeping drivers safe. With the Ford Ranger being one of the most popular bakkies in South Africa, this recall affects thousands of local households and businesses.
If your Ford is listed, act promptly — booking your free fix ensures your safety and protects your vehicle’s resale value. And if you’re in the market for a used Ford, always confirm recall status before buying.
For more car care tips, industry updates, and news on recalls in South Africa, explore our latest articles here
