Ford Mustang Mach-E Recall: What's the Door Latch Issue and What Should Owners Do?

A significant recall affecting over 197,000 Ford Mustang Mach-E SUVs from model years 2021-2025 has been issued due to a faulty electronic door latch system that can potentially trap occupants in the back seat. The core issue involves a software malfunction that may prevent the rear doors from unlocking if the vehicle's battery charge is low, posing a safety risk, particularly for children. Owners will receive official notifications starting July 23, with a free software update fix available at Ford dealers around September 29.

What is the Specific Safety Defect with the Recalled Mustang Mach-E?

The problem centers on the SUV's electronic door latches. In the event of a low 12-volt battery charge—the battery that powers accessories, not the main high-voltage battery for driving—the electronic latches on the rear doors may not function correctly. When the driver or front passenger exits the vehicle and shuts their door, the system may incorrectly cause the rear door latches to remain in a locked state. This could prevent backseat passengers from opening the doors from the inside using the manual release handles, effectively trapping them. The risk is highest for individuals who cannot easily reach or operate the interior release mechanisms, such as young children seated in child safety seats.

Which Ford Mustang Mach-E Models Are Included in Recall 25S65?

This safety recall, identified by Ford as number 25S65 and by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), includes a wide range of Mustang Mach-E vehicles. The affected models span from the earliest production years to the current lineup.

Based on our assessment experience, the total number of vehicles potentially affected in the United States is 197,409. Owners should check their Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) for confirmation.

How Will Ford Fix the Door Latch Problem?

The remedy for this recall is a free software update that will be performed at authorized Ford dealerships. Technicians will reprogram two key vehicle modules:

• Powertrain Control Module (PCM): This module manages the engine and electric motor functions but is also integrated with other vehicle systems.
• Secondary On-Board Diagnostic Control Module (SOBDMC): This module is part of the vehicle's diagnostic system.

The updated software will correct the logic that controls the door latches, ensuring they operate correctly even when the battery charge is low. This repair incurs no cost to the vehicle owner.

What Should Mustang Mach-E Owners Do Right Now?

Ford will begin mailing official recall notification letters to registered owners on July 23, 2024. A second letter will be sent once the software remedy is widely available at dealerships, which is estimated to be around September 29, 2024.

Until the repair is complete, owners can take a simple precautionary measure: After parking and turning off the vehicle, ensure all occupants, including those in the back seat, have exited before the last person shuts their door. This prevents the scenario where someone could be left inside with locked doors.

For immediate questions or to verify if your vehicle is included, you can:

• Contact Ford Customer Service: 1-866-436-7332 (Reference Recall 25S65)
• Visit the NHTSA Website: and enter your 17-character VIN.
• Call the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline: 1-888-327-4236.

The most critical step for any vehicle owner is to ensure their contact information is up-to-date with both Ford and their state's vehicle registration office to receive timely safety recall notices. This recall underscores the importance of addressing software-related issues in modern vehicles with the same urgency as traditional mechanical faults.