Ford recalls 200,000 cars over fear passengers could become 'trapped inside'

Ford has issued an urgent recall for almost 200,000 vehicles due to an issue that could cause passengers to be trapped inside them. The top car brand has notified the USA’s National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA) of a problem with certain Mustang Mach-E models.

Safety reports suggested the issue was a software problem involving the latches on rear passenger doors. The Mustang Mach-E is one of Ford’s flagship electric cars with 197,432 models built between 2021 and 2025 thought to be affected. The recall first came to light after Ford wrote to the NHTSA in Washington last week.

The NHTSA report reads: “Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2021-2025 Mustang Mach E vehicles.

“In the event of a low battery charge, the electronic door latches may remain locked once the driver or front passenger exits and shuts the door, possibly trapping someone who is unable to use the inside door release handles, such as a child in the back seat.”

The NHTSA notice warns the consequence is an “inability to enter or exit the vehicle in an emergency” which increases the risk of injury.

At this stage, it is believed the issue is only a problem in the United States with no updates on whether UK cars have been affected.

Dealers are expected to carry out repairs completely free of charge with any motorists affected likely to hear the news this week.

The NHTSA form explains: “Dealers will update the Powertrain Control Module (PCM) and the Secondary On-Board Diagnostic Control Module C (SOBDMC) software, free of charge.

“Interim letters notifying owners of the safety risk will be mailed June 23, 2025. Second letters will be mailed once the remedy is available, anticipated for September 29, 2025.”

However, those with the keys to Mustang Mach-E models may be possible to identify some quick warning signs before an issue develops.

Consumer Reports admits owners may notice the SYNC infotainment screen displaying a “system off to save power” warning or a blank screen when the power is in the “off” position.

Experts stress that this could signal an imminent issue in a blow to owners.

Another major warning flag is if occupants begin to notice that the inside release handle needs to be pulled further back than usual to open the door.

Express.co.uk has contacted Ford for further comment.