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Compared to Toyota’s recall of approximately 2.17 million vehicles at the end of February, Ford’s latest recalls aren’t very large. The automaker is recalling 25,000 Ford Rangers from the 2010 model year and is also recalling the 2011 Ford Edge, F-Series and Lincoln MKX. The recall affects 9,100 vehicles produced from October 25, 2010 through November 20, 2010.

The F-Series (which includes the F-150, F-250, F-350, F-450 and F-550), Edge and MKX have been targeted due to an electrical short that could cause a vehicle fire. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) explains how the problem was discovered. “These vehicles were inspected using [an] integrated diagnostic system (IDS) that had a custom software routine to read the suspect body control module (BCM) serial number. Based on the serial number the BCM was either not affected or replaced. The custom software routine was not reading the correct set of characters, and was not able to identify a BCM that required replacement. Affected BCMs have the potential for an internal short.”

There have been no reports of accidents or injuries.

The recall will begin on or around March 7. Dealers will insect the BCM, and if needed, replace it for free. In an email, Ford adds, “This is a relatively quick repair is expected to take less than a half day. Customers should work with their dealers on scheduling.”

If you have further questions, you may contact Ford at 1-866-436-7332 or contact NHTSA at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153) or go to www.safercar.gov. The recall number is 10S14.

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