Ford recalled over 4.3 million trucks, SUVs, and vans to fix a software defect in the Integrated Trailer Module that can disable trailer lights, turn signals, and brakes.
What You Can Do & How We Can Help
The Schmidt Firm, PLLC is currently accepting Ford trailer module recall injury cases in all 50 states. If you were injured in a Ford truck accident due to a defective Integrated Trailer Module, contact our lawyers immediately for a free case consultation. Please use the form below to contact our Truck Accident Litigation Group or call toll free 24 hours a day at (866) 920-0753.
Ford Recalls 4.3 Million Trucks and SUVs for Trailer Module Failure Risks
In February 2026, Ford recalled over 4.3 million trucks, SUVs, and vans because a software glitch in the Integrated Trailer Module (ITRM) could result in failure of the trailer brake lights, turn signals, and braking systems.
What is the Problem?
The defect involves the Integrated Trailer Module (ITRM), a software-controlled unit that manages trailer connectivity — including brake lights, turn signals, and trailer braking systems.
The problem is that the ITRM can unexpectedly lose communication with the host vehicle, often at startup, even when no trailer is connected. When a trailer is attached during one of these failures, the results can be dangerous:
- Trailer brake lights may not work
- Turn signals may go dark
- On higher-trim “High series” trucks equipped with trailer brake control, the trailer’s brakes may stop functioning entirely.
Safety Recall Report
The Safety Recall Report was filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) on February 20, 2026, under campaign number 26V104000.
No injuries or crashes were reported. The repair involves a software update, which will be provided for free to owners.
According to Ford’s recall submission to NHTSA:
“On affected vehicles, the Integrated Trailer Module (ITRM) may lose communication with the vehicle. If a loss of communication condition occurs when a trailer is connected to the vehicle, it would result in the loss of stop lamps and turn signal indicators for both High and Low series ITRMs as well as the loss of trailer brake function for High series only.”
Safety Risks of Trailer Module Failures
The recall involves Ford trucks and SUVs that are designed to tow heavy loads at highway speeds, like boats and RVs, trailers, work equipment, and livestock. Any accidents involving these heavy vehicles could be catastrophic or even deadly, especially at highway speeds when the braking systems fail.
For example, some of the serious risks include:
- Failure of the brake systems can reduce a driver’s ability to control the trailer, especially in an emergency when stopping quickly is necessary.
- Failure of the trailer turn signals and brake lights could make the vehicle less visible to other drivers, increasing the risk of a crash.
Warning Signs Drivers Might Notice
Drivers may notice the following warning signs of the defect:
- A “Trailer Brake Module Fault” message on the instrument cluster
- A rapidly flashing turn signal indicator
- A “Blind Spot Assist System Fault” warning
Ford Received 400+ Warranty Claims Linked to Trailer Module Failures
As of February 4, 2026, Ford had identified 405 warranty claims and two Vehicle Owner Questionnaires (VOQs) potentially related to this condition.
Ford said it first became aware of the problem in October 2025, when it was brought to the company’s internal safety group for review. Ford said it is not aware of any accidents or injuries as of the recall filing date.
How To Identify Recalled Ford Trucks and SUVs
The following vehicles are covered under NHTSA recall number 26V104000:
- 2021–2026 Ford F-150 — 2,297,857 units built January 8, 2020 through February 6, 2026
- 2022–2026 Ford F-250 Super Duty — 1,135,063 units built April 5, 2021 through February 6, 2026
- 2022–2026 Ford F-350 Super Duty
- 2022–2026 Ford F-450 Super Duty
- 2022–2026 Ford F-550 Super Duty
- 2022–2026 Ford F-600 Super Duty
- 2024–2026 Ford Ranger — 129,836 units
- 2022–2026 Ford Maverick — 412,105 units
- 2022–2027 Ford Expedition — 317,604 units
- 2022–2026 Lincoln Navigator — 75,029 units
- 2026 Ford E-Transit — 13,115 units
Owners can verify whether their specific vehicle is included by entering their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) at www.nhtsa.gov/recalls or through the FordPass app. VINs are searchable beginning March 17, 2026.
What Should I Do?
If you own one of the affected Ford or Lincoln vehicles, take the following steps:
- Watch for a notification letter — Ford will begin mailing recall notices to affected owners beginning March 23, 2026
- Check your VIN — Starting March 17, 2026, search your VIN at www.nhtsa.gov/recalls or contact Ford directly at 1-866-436-7332
- Schedule a software update — Beginning March 17, 2026, a free ITRM software update is available at any Ford or Lincoln dealership, or through mobile service. An over-the-air (OTA) update is expected to be available for eligible vehicles by May 2026
- Avoid towing until repaired — If your vehicle is displaying a “Trailer Brake Module Fault” warning, avoid towing trailers until the software update has been applied
- If you were in an accident — Contact The Schmidt Firm immediately if you believe this defect contributed to a crash or injury
Do I Have a Ford Trailer Module Lawsuit?
The Schmidt Firm, PLLC is currently accepting Ford trailer module recall injury cases in all 50 states. If you were injured in a Ford truck accident due to a defective Integrated Trailer Module, contact our lawyers immediately for a free case consultation. Please use the form below to contact our Truck Accident Litigation Group or call toll free 24 hours a day at (866) 920-0753.
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