Ford Recalls 2024 Ranger Pickups Over Window Pinching Issue | Owner Guide
Ford Motor Company has issued a critical safety recall for 2024 Ford Ranger pickups due to a dangerous window pinching issue that fails to protect fingers and hands.
This comprehensive recall impacts approximately 70,483 vehicles manufactured at Ford’s Michigan Assembly plant, making it one of the most significant Ford safety campaigns of 2024.
Understanding the 2024 Ford Ranger Window Safety Defect
The core safety concern involves the power windows failing to automatically reverse when detecting an obstruction – a feature mandated by federal safety standards.
When functioning properly, modern power windows should immediately stop and reverse direction when encountering resistance (like a hand or fingers). However, the affected Rangers have a software malfunction that disrupts this critical safety mechanism.
This defect not only creates injury risk but also means these vehicles don’t comply with Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 118 for “Power-Operated Window Systems.”
Which 2024 Ford Ranger Models Are Affected?
The recall specifically targets 2024 Ford Ranger pickups manufactured during a specific timeframe:
- Vehicles built at Michigan Assembly Plant
- Manufacturing dates between December 9, 2022, and July 15, 2024
- Ford recall identification number: 24C24
- NHTSA recall number: 24V597000
Additionally, this same window pinching issue affects 2024 Lincoln Nautilus vehicles produced between September 26, 2022, and August 5, 2024.
Technical Details: How the Dangerous Window Malfunction Occurs
Ford’s investigation revealed a software glitch in both the Driver Door Module (DDM) and Passenger Door Module (PDM) as the root cause.
The malfunction typically happens under these specific conditions:
- When the window is partially open
- After the vehicle has been in a “sleep cycle” exceeding 12 minutes
- When using the one-touch up window feature
- When using the global close function via key fob or mobile app
Ford discovered this dangerous safety issue through their Vehicle Engineering and Validation process in July 2024, which prompted an immediate investigation by their Critical Concern Review Group.
Safety Risks for Ranger Owners and Passengers
The primary danger is the potential for windows to pinch fingers, hands, or other body parts before reversing. This risk is particularly concerning for:
- Children who might have their smaller fingers caught
- Situations where the global close feature is used without visual confirmation
- Rideshare or carpool scenarios where passengers might be unfamiliar with the vehicle
While Ford has not yet reported accidents or injuries directly related to this issue, the risk remains significant enough to warrant immediate attention.
Ford’s Official Fix for the Window Pinching Problem
Ford has developed a comprehensive solution for the defect:
- Free software update for both the DDM and PDM
- Performed at authorized Ford dealerships
- Requires no hardware replacement
- Typically completed in under an hour
Ford began notifying affected vehicle owners via mail starting September 13, 2024. However, if you haven’t received notification but suspect your vehicle might be affected, you should take immediate action.
Complete Step-by-Step Guide for 2024 Ranger Owners
If you own a 2024 Ford Ranger, follow this detailed action plan:
- Verify Your Vehicle’s Status
- Visit the NHTSA recall website and enter your VIN
- Contact Ford Customer Service directly: 1-866-436-7332
- Check your VIN’s first digit (1 indicates USA manufacture, 5 indicates China)
- Schedule Your Free Repair
- Contact your nearest authorized Ford dealership
- Mention recall number 24C24 specifically
- Provide your VIN when scheduling
- Get the Software Update
- The dealership will update both door modules
- Confirm the repair is performed at no cost to you
- Request documentation of the completed recall work
- Verify Proper Window Operation
- Test all power windows after the repair
- Confirm they properly reverse when encountering resistance
- Report any continued issues immediately
- Follow Up if Problems Persist
- Contact Ford Customer Service for additional support
- Request priority scheduling for unresolved issues
- Document all communication regarding the recall
Additional 2024 Ford Ranger Safety Recalls Owners Should Know
Unfortunately, this isn’t the only recall affecting the 2024 Ranger lineup:
Fuel System Recall (24V848000)
- Affects 65 Rangers with 2.7-liter V6 engines
- Involves faulty fuel vapor line brackets
- Potential for fuel leaks creating fire hazards
Suspension Safety Recall (24V770000)
- Impacts 2,416 Ranger pickups
- Concerns improperly installed front upper control arm ball joint nuts
- Risk of control arm detachment leading to steering failure
Consumer Protection and Lemon Law Rights
For owners experiencing persistent issues with their 2024 Ford Ranger, even after multiple repair attempts:
- The average Lemon Law settlement for affected 2024 Rangers is reportedly $72,839
- Consult with an automotive consumer rights attorney if you’ve had multiple unsuccessful repairs
- Document all repair attempts, communications, and ongoing issues
Expert Analysis and Owner Experiences
Automotive safety experts have noted several concerning aspects about this recall:
- Some reports indicate the anti-pinch feature may be overly sensitive in some vehicles
- Other owners report the safety feature deactivating completely after sleep mode
- The issue highlights increasing concerns about software-dependent safety features
As one Ranger owner commented in a popular forum: “Just another normal day at Recall Motors aka Ford Motor Company” – reflecting growing frustration with quality control issues.
- Also Read: Berkeley Club Beverages Recall Terminated.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Ford Ranger Window Recall
How do I confirm my specific Ranger is affected by this recall?
Check your 17-character VIN through the NHTSA website or by contacting Ford Customer Service directly.
Is it safe to continue driving my Ranger before the repair?
Yes, but exercise caution with power windows, especially when using remote or one-touch features.
Will this software update affect other vehicle systems?
No, the update specifically targets the door modules controlling window operation without impacting other systems.
How long does the window safety repair typically take?
Most dealerships complete the software update within 1-2 hours, though scheduling availability varies.
What if I purchased my Ranger used and never received recall notification?
Ford’s recall obligations extend to all affected vehicles regardless of ownership changes. Contact Ford with your VIN for confirmation.
The Broader Safety Implications
This 2024 Ford Ranger window pinching recall highlights the critical intersection of software reliability and physical safety in modern vehicles. As automobiles become increasingly software-dependent, manufacturers must ensure robust testing protocols.
For consumers, this situation reinforces the importance of promptly addressing safety recalls and remaining vigilant about vehicle safety announcements.
Ford recalls 2024 Ranger pickups over window pinching issue representing just one example of how digital systems impact physical safety in today’s automotive landscape.