Reports from NHTSA on Monday reveal that the 2022-2024 Ford Maverick small truck is undergoing a recall due to rear lights that may fail to illuminate in the dark.
While the brake lights and turn signals remain functional, there is a possibility of the control module misreading the currents and unintentionally turning off the rear lights while the vehicle is in operation. The issue could stem from the module being calibrated for a single bulb, rather than the two bulbs that actually constitute each rear light.
The front lights, brake lights, and signals are all in working order. The problem is only related to the rear lights typically visible at night or in situations of low visibility such as fog, hence the recall of 242,669 units of the popular hybrid pickup introduced in 2022.
This model was the recipient of the Best Car To Buy 2022 award, marking the highest accolade. It has consistently performed well, earning the title of Best Car To Buy Pickup Truck this year. However, it has faced challenges, including 11 recalls, mostly minor. In the previous month, Ford had to recall nearly half a million Maverick and Bronco Sport vehicles due to a loss of drive power. In June 2023, Ford expanded its recall of hybrid engines due to an escalated risk of engine fires.
The 2024 Ford Maverick is equipped with either a base 250-hp 2.0-liter turbo-4 engine with front- or all-wheel drive, or an optional 191-hp 2.5-liter inline-4 hybrid featuring a battery pack and electric motor. This model achieves a combined 37 mpg.
Most of the other recalls related to the Maverick pertain to electrical issues, including this rear light recall. Ford has not reported any injuries or accidents linked to this recall, but has acknowledged 11 warranty claims associated with the problem.
Affected owners will receive official notification by mail starting May 20, 2024, and will be directed to bring their Maverick to a Ford or Lincoln service center. A technician will update the control module software. Owners who had previously covered the costs for the repair out of pocket will be reimbursed, with eligibility for reimbursement expiring on June 3, 2024.
Image Source: arren Brode / Shutterstock
