DETROIT (AP) — Ford will pay up to $165 million in penalties for failing to promptly recall more than 620,000 U.S. vehicles, including the popular F-Series pickups, due to faulty rearview cameras.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) called the fine the second-largest in its history, after Takata’s airbag recall penalty.
Ford will pay $65 million in penalties, invest $45 million to improve its recall processes, and defer another $55 million. Ford’s delayed response and incomplete information on the 2020 recall prompted the civil penalty. The recall, announced in September 2020, covered rearview cameras that could fail in several 2020 models.
NHTSA’s Deputy Administrator Sophie Shulman stressed the importance of timely and accurate recalls, stating that Ford’s actions jeopardized public safety. As part of the consent order, an independent monitor will oversee Ford’s recall practices for at least three years.
In addition to the camera recall, Ford is under investigation for a 2023 SUV recall related to fuel leaks that could lead to fires. Despite these issues, Ford stated it is committed to improving safety and compliance with federal laws.
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Hopefully these fines will exceed the amount of money Ford put in their pockets by not complying with the rules.
Please backup your assertion that Ford put money in their pockets by not recalling promptly
So, who gets this money? The camera in my 2016 F-350 failed and was replaced in Houston. My Carmax extended warranty covered it because I was out of “Ford” warranty.
This was my question as well! Where do these funds go – the national debt? To fund NHTSA? To the federal general fund to cover other programs? …and on and on! Did Ford make this camera or just install it? Hmmm? I’m not a Ford lover but this seems a bit like “…gotta outdo the last fine” syndrome.
I doubt Ford “made” the camera. They just put the idea out to bid and got it that way. I actually like the camera because it makes it a lot easier to hook my trailer if Wifey is not at hand. Also makes it easier to back into parking spaces. I always back into parking spaces.
“Ford stated it is committed to improving safety and compliance with federal laws.” OK. Let’s move on. I believe they will do better.
Yet another push against gas and diesel automobiles…and of course it’s in the name of “safety”…
Thank you, RV Travel! Well, bad look for Ford, in addition to being dangerous for its customers. They should make RVs. They have the recall aspect down already. Have a great weekend and safe travels!