Ford Mustang GT's Rev-Matching System Has A Dangerous Consequence

There's never a dull moment in the world of the Ford Mustang. The world's most popular sports car has been having a few major ups and downs this year, with production facing numerous setbacks due to global parts shortages and the ongoing chip shortage. As Ford readies the all-new Mustang, it is still keeping the current-gen car alive by releasing tons of special editions, but a major recall in February will now be followed by another. This time, 25,032 Ford Mustangs produced between 2019 and 2020 equipped with a 5.0-liter V8 engine and manual transmissions are being recalled by the Dearborn-based manufacturer because the manual gearbox is disabling key safety features.

The issue is software related and specifically pertains to the rev-matching feature introduced to the Mustang lineup for the 2019 model year. The system makes use of sensors to detect gear positioning. These sensors can, in some cases, send an "unintended fault signal" to the powertrain control module. In turn, this error code has been found to disable many functions, including the backup camera, reverse lights, and driver assistance systems such as traction control, blind-spot warning, cross-traffic warning, and forward collision warning. Models built from 2021 and after had this system recalibrated, and do not face the same issues.

The recall has been issued for cars built between January 8, 2018, and December 16, 2020. Ford has stated that it will contact owners through email, but affected parties can call Ford on 866-436-7332 and enquire about recall number 22S37. Ford will correct the issue free of charge via a software update. Ford states that it has received close to 200 warranty claims for this issue, but no crashes or injuries have been reported.

In February, Ford recalled over 330,000 Mustang vehicles built between 2015 and 2017 for a malfunctioning backup camera. 2019 model year Mustangs have also been recalled for a malfunctioning instrument cluster display, and 2020 model year cars have been recalled for an issue with the hydraulic pedals and linkages on automatic transmission vehicles.