Ford Transit Can Show Rear Passengers Buckled Up When They Aren'tAutoblogRex SanchezSun, September 13, 2026 at 1:58 PM UTCAdd us on GoogleAutoblog and Yahoo may earn commission from links in this article.Latest Trip to NHTSAFord has issued about 71 recalls so far this year, from minor defects like loose window trim on the Mustang Mach-E to significant ones like transmission leaks that can cause fires in the Focus and Fusion. That is currently the highest total among automakers in NHTSA's database, though the Blue Oval has maintained that its high recall count reflects a proactive approach to addressing problems earlier. The latest recall involves a faulty wireless seatbelt reminder system that can mislead drivers about rear passengers' seatbelt use and pose a safety risk.That's because if a rear passenger is unbuckled, the system may incorrectly show that their seatbelt is buckled. This could leave the driver unaware that a passenger needs a reminder to buckle up. In a crash, an unbelted passenger may not be adequately restrained, increasing the risk of injury. NHTSA recall number 26V579 covers 1,945 model-year 2026–2027 Ford Transits equipped with the Bus package and produced between February 16 and July 19, 2026.FordThe Rear Seats Sent the Wrong MessageAccording to the recall report, a supplier's end-of-line test command overlapped with the wireless seatbelt reminder system's polling signal during manufacturing, causing a permanent error state. Normally, the instrument panel cluster should display a "green" seat when buckled, "red" when recently unbuckled, and "gray" when unbuckled. The Transit is available in various seating configurations, similar to the Chevrolet Express, so adopting a wireless seatbelt reminder could help simplify wiring requirements.AdvertisementAdvertisementFord's Field Review Committee reviewed the concern and approved a field service action on September 1, 2026. As of August 17, the company was aware of two field reports related to the issue. However, no accidents or injuries have been reported.As part of the remedy, affected owners will be instructed to bring their vans to a Ford or Lincoln dealer for a rear seatbelt inspection. If the buckle status does not update when buckling or unbuckling, the wireless seatbelt buckle will be replaced free of charge.FordThe Fix-It Era ContinuesFord plans to mail interim notification letters from September 21 to September 25, 2026, with remedy notification letters scheduled for December 31.On paper, this may be another recall that could affect Ford's reputation for quality, but company executives have said they are still pleased with its progress. After all, the automaker topped the mass-market category in J.D. Power's 2026 Initial Quality Study – a study in which it ranked 23rd three years earlier.FordThis story was originally published by Autoblog on Sep 13, 2026, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Autoblog as a Preferred Source by clicking here.