Ford has announced another significant recall for its new-generation Ranger pickup truck, this time involving 100,900 vehicles from the 2024 through 2026 model years over a potential defect with the side curtain airbags. According to documents filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the airbags could tear in a crash, compromising their ability to protect occupants.
This action follows several other recent recalls for the redesigned Ranger. Here is what owners need to know about this latest safety issue.
The Problem: What Ranger Owners Need to Know
The recall addresses a serious safety concern: the side curtain airbags on both the left and right sides of the vehicle may tear upon deployment.
The cause is a design issue involving the truck’s interior B-pillar. During a crash that triggers the airbags, the inflating curtain can come into contact with what Ford describes as the B-pillar’s „inner reinforcement flange.“ This contact can be forceful enough to tear the airbag material, which would prevent it from inflating properly and providing the intended level of protection, thereby increasing the risk of injury.
The issue is believed to affect all Ranger pickups manufactured between December 9, 2022, and July 29, 2025.
Affected Models and Previous Recalls
This recall specifically impacts the following vehicles:
This is the latest in a series of quality-related recalls for the new Ford Ranger. Previous recalls for the 2024-2025 models have addressed potential defects with the brake booster, rearview camera, and a steering problem.
The Solution and Parts Availability
Ford has already developed a remedy for the airbag issue. The fix involves installing protective shields over the B-pillar reinforcement flange. These shields will create a smooth surface, preventing the deploying airbag from snagging or tearing.
However, there is a delay in implementing the fix. The parts required for this repair are not yet available. Ford has notified owners in a preliminary letter and stated that it expects to have the shields ready „in the fourth quarter of 2025“ (October-December).
What Owners Should Do Now
Owners have already been sent an initial notification about this recall. Ford will send a second letter when the parts are available, instructing them to make a service appointment with their local dealership.
In the meantime, Ranger owners can check for updates on their specific vehicle by:
Once the parts are available, the installation of the protective shields will be performed completely free of charge to the customer.
