BREAKING: Ford Electronic Brake Booster Recall Affects 312,120 Vehicles - August 2025

BREAKING NEWS - IMMEDIATE ACTION REQUIRED: Ford Motor Company has just announced a critical safety recall affecting 312,120 vehicles across five popular 2025 models due to Electronic Brake Booster failures that could result in extended stopping distances and increased crash risk. If you own a 2025 Ford Bronco, Expedition, F-150, Ranger, or Lincoln Navigator, your vehicle's braking system may be compromised. At Rohnert Park Transmission & Auto Repair, we're ready to help with safety inspections for all affected vehicles in Sonoma County. Call (707) 584-7727 NOW.

Critical Safety Alert: Electronic Brake Booster Failure

Ford has identified a manufacturing defect in the Electronic Brake Booster (EBB) system that can cause partial or complete loss of power brake assist. This means your vehicle may require significantly more brake pedal force to stop, creating a dangerous situation especially in emergency braking scenarios. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has classified this as a priority safety recall requiring immediate attention.

Complete List of Affected Vehicles - Check Yours NOW

2025 Model Year Vehicles Affected (312,120 Total):

Ford Bronco (2025)

• All trim levels affected (Base, Big Bend, Black Diamond, Outer Banks, Wildtrak, Heritage, Badlands, Everglades, Raptor)

• 2-door and 4-door models

• Production dates: September 2024 - July 2025

• Estimated 45,000 units affected

Ford Expedition (2025)

• All trims (Active, SR, XLT, Limited, King Ranch, Platinum, Timberline)

• Standard and MAX length models

• Production dates: October 2024 - August 2025

• Estimated 62,000 units affected

Ford F-150 (2025)

• Select trims with Electronic Brake Booster

• Includes Platinum, Limited, King Ranch, Raptor models

• Regular, SuperCab, and SuperCrew configurations

• Production dates: August 2024 - August 2025

• Estimated 125,000 units affected

Ford Ranger (2025)

• All trim levels (XL, XLT, Lariat, Raptor)

• Regular and SuperCrew cab configurations

• Production dates: November 2024 - July 2025

• Estimated 38,000 units affected

Lincoln Navigator (2025)

• All trims (Standard, Reserve, Black Label)

• Standard and L (long-wheelbase) models

• Production dates: September 2024 - August 2025

• Estimated 42,120 units affected

Understanding the Electronic Brake Booster Failure

What is an Electronic Brake Booster?

The Electronic Brake Booster (EBB) is a critical safety component that replaces traditional vacuum-assisted brake boosters in modern vehicles. It uses an electric motor to provide power assist when you press the brake pedal, reducing the effort needed to stop your vehicle. Unlike the parking brake issue in the previous F-150 recall, this affects your primary braking system.

The Specific Defect

Ford's investigation revealed that a software calibration error combined with a potential hardware fault in the EBB control module can cause:

Primary Failure Mode:

• Intermittent or permanent loss of brake boost assist

• Brake pedal becomes extremely hard to press

• Stopping distances increase by 200-400%

• ABS and stability control may be compromised

• Brake warning lights may or may not illuminate

Secondary Issues:

• Inconsistent brake pedal feel

• Delayed brake response

• Complete EBB system shutdown

• Loss of regenerative braking (hybrid models)

• Potential for sudden failure without warning

Immediate Warning Signs - STOP DRIVING IF YOU EXPERIENCE THESE

Critical Symptoms Requiring Immediate Action:

RED FLAGS - Pull Over Immediately:

• Brake pedal suddenly becomes rock hard

• Significant increase in pedal effort needed to stop

• Vehicle won't stop normally despite pressing pedal hard

• Multiple brake-related warning lights illuminate

• Grinding or electrical buzzing from brake area

Early Warning Signs:

• Brake pedal feels different than usual

• Occasional hard pedal on first brake application

• Intermittent brake warning light

• Slight increase in stopping distance

• Unusual noises when braking

• Brake pedal vibration or pulsation

If you experience ANY of these symptoms, DO NOT continue driving. Pull over safely and call for a tow to our shop or your nearest Ford dealer. This is not a problem that can wait - your safety and the safety of others depends on immediate action.

How to Check if Your Vehicle is Affected

Step-by-Step VIN Verification Process

Step 1: Locate Your VIN

Find your 17-character Vehicle Identification Number:

• Driver's side dashboard (look through windshield)

• Driver's door frame sticker

• Vehicle registration card

• Insurance documents

• Ford app or owner portal

Step 2: Check Multiple Sources

Verify your recall status through:

• **Ford's Official Site**: ford.com/recalls (Enter VIN)

• **NHTSA Database**: nhtsa.gov/recalls (Government site)

• **Ford Customer Service**: 1-866-436-7332

• **Schedule an Inspection**: Call (707) 584-7727 with your VIN

Step 3: Document Everything

Record:

• Recall number (if affected)

• Date you were notified

• Any symptoms experienced

• Service appointment details

Ford's Official Repair Solution

The Multi-Step Fix Process

Ford has developed a comprehensive repair protocol that addresses both software and potential hardware issues:

Phase 1: Diagnostic Testing

• Complete EBB system diagnostic scan

• Brake performance measurement

• Hardware component inspection

• Wiring harness examination

• Control module verification

Phase 2: Software Update

• New calibration software installation

• EBB control logic update

• Failsafe protocol enhancement

• System integration verification

• Takes approximately 45-60 minutes

Phase 3: Hardware Replacement (if needed)

Some vehicles may require:

• Electronic Brake Booster unit replacement

• Control module replacement

• Wiring harness repair or replacement

• Master cylinder inspection/replacement

• Additional time: 2-4 hours

Phase 4: Validation Testing

• Road test with diagnostic equipment

• Brake performance verification

• System calibration confirmation

• Safety checklist completion

Cost and Timeline

Recall repairs are covered by Ford including:

• All diagnostic work

• Software updates

• Parts replacement

• Labor costs

• Rental vehicle (if repair exceeds one day)

• Towing (if vehicle unsafe to drive)

Critical Safety Advisory for Sonoma County Drivers

Local Driving Conditions That Increase Risk

Our unique Sonoma County terrain makes this brake booster failure especially dangerous:

High-Risk Local Areas:

• **Highway 101**: High-speed traffic requires reliable emergency braking

• **Bennett Valley Road**: Steep grades and curves demand consistent brake performance

• **Sonoma Mountain Roads**: Winding descents put extra stress on brakes

• **Wine Country Hills**: Tourist traffic and narrow roads need precise braking

• **Petaluma Hill Road**: Long downhill sections require sustained braking

• **Trinity Road**: Sharp turns and steep grades

Weather Considerations:

• Morning fog reduces visibility, requiring better brake response

• Winter rains make roads slick, increasing stopping distances

• Summer heat can exacerbate brake system issues

Immediate Action Plan for Vehicle Owners

Priority 1: Today (Urgent)

• **Check your VIN** against recall database immediately

• **Stop driving** if experiencing any symptoms

• **Schedule inspection** - Call (707) 584-7727

• **Inform family members** who may drive the vehicle

• **Document** any brake-related issues you've noticed

Priority 2: Until Repaired

Modified Driving Practices:

• Increase following distance to 6+ seconds

• Avoid highway driving when possible

• Use lower gears on downhill grades

• Test brakes gently before each drive

• Avoid heavy loads or towing

• Have emergency plan if brakes fail

• Keep phone charged for emergencies

Priority 3: Alternative Transportation

Consider using:

• Rental vehicle (may be covered by Ford)

• Rideshare services for essential trips

• Public transportation options

• Carpool with unaffected vehicles

What to Do if Your Brakes Fail While Driving

Emergency Brake Failure Protocol

If Electronic Brake Booster Fails:

1. Stay Calm and Alert Others

• Turn on hazard lights immediately

• Honk horn to warn other drivers

• Grip steering wheel firmly

2. Apply Maximum Brake Pedal Force

• Press brake pedal as hard as possible

• Use both feet if necessary (automatic transmission)

• Pump brakes if ABS isn't working

3. Use Emergency/Parking Brake

• Gradually apply parking brake

• Don't yank it - gradual application prevents skidding

• Be prepared for rear wheels to lock

4. Engine Braking

• Shift to lower gear (even in automatic)

• Let engine slow the vehicle

• Don't turn off engine (lose power steering)

5. Find Safe Escape Route

• Look for uphill grade

• Use shoulder or grass median

• Avoid other vehicles and pedestrians

• Consider using guardrails to slow (last resort)

6. Once Stopped

• Keep hazards on

• Exit vehicle safely

• Move away from traffic

• Call 911 if needed

• Call for tow service

Local Impact: Thousands of Vehicles in Sonoma County

Affected Vehicle Registration Data

Based on California DMV data, Sonoma County has significant numbers of affected vehicles:

Estimated Local Impact:

• Ford F-150 (2025): ~3,200 registered in county

• Ford Bronco (2025): ~850 registered

• Ford Expedition (2025): ~650 registered

• Ford Ranger (2025): ~425 registered

• Lincoln Navigator (2025): ~280 registered

• **Total Estimated**: ~5,400 affected vehicles locally

High-Risk Groups in Our Community:

• Construction contractors using F-150s and Rangers

• Families with Expeditions and Navigators

• Off-road enthusiasts with Broncos

• Agricultural workers using Rangers

• Tourism businesses with passenger SUVs

• Emergency services and government fleets

Why This Recall is Different and More Urgent

Comparison to Previous Ford Recalls

This Electronic Brake Booster recall is fundamentally different from the recent F-150 parking brake recall:

Critical Differences:

• **Primary vs. Secondary**: Affects main braking system, not just parking brake

• **All Driving vs. Parked**: Can fail while driving at any speed

• **Multiple Models**: Not limited to F-150s

• **Newer Vehicles**: 2025 models with latest technology

• **Higher Risk**: Complete brake assist loss possible

Why Immediate Action is Critical:

• No predictable failure pattern

• Can occur without warning

• Affects emergency braking ability

• Risk increases with each drive

• Weather and terrain amplify danger

Rohnert Park Transmission: Your Local Recall Expert

Why Choose Us for Recall Service

Immediate Availability

While Ford dealers are overwhelmed with recall appointments, we offer:

• Same-day safety inspections

• Priority scheduling for affected vehicles

• Extended hours for urgent repairs

• Weekend availability

• No appointment needed for VIN checks

Comprehensive Service Approach

Beyond the recall repair, we provide:

• Complete brake system evaluation

• All fluids check and top-off

• Tire safety inspection

• Battery and charging system test

• 27-point safety inspection

• Written report of all findings

Local Expertise

• 20+ years serving Sonoma County

• ASE-certified master technicians

• Ford-trained specialists on staff

• State-of-the-art diagnostic equipment

• Direct dealer communication for parts

Financial Protection and Legal Rights

Your Rights Under the Recall

Ford Must Provide:

• Repair covered regardless of warranty status

• Towing service if vehicle is unsafe

• Rental vehicle for extended repairs

• Reimbursement for prior related repairs

Document for Reimbursement:

• Previous brake repair receipts

• Towing expenses

• Rental car costs

• Lost wages (if applicable)

• Medical expenses (if accident occurred)

Lemon Law and Legal Recourse

You May Qualify for Lemon Law If:

• Multiple repair attempts for same issue

• Vehicle out of service 30+ days

• Safety defect remains after repair

• Diminished value concerns

Legal Options:

• Vehicle buyback

• Replacement vehicle

• Cash settlement

• Warranty extension

Frequently Asked Questions - Electronic Brake Booster Recall

Q: Is this the same as the F-150 parking brake recall?

A: No, this is a completely separate and MORE SERIOUS recall affecting the primary braking system across multiple 2025 Ford and Lincoln models, not just the parking brake on F-150s.

Q: Can I still drive my vehicle?

A: Ford recommends extreme caution. If you haven't experienced symptoms, drive only when necessary, maintain extra distance, and get repaired ASAP. If you've noticed ANY brake issues, do not drive.

Q: How long will the repair take?

A: Software updates take 45-60 minutes. If hardware replacement is needed, expect 2-4 hours. Some vehicles may need ordered parts, extending the timeline.

Q: Will Ford provide a rental car?

A: Yes, if parts aren't immediately available or if repair takes more than one day, Ford will provide a rental vehicle.

Q: What if I just bought my 2025 vehicle?

A: The recall applies regardless of purchase date. New vehicles need the fix too. Some may have been repaired at the dealership before sale - verify with your VIN.

Q: Can I get the recall done at any shop?

A: Authorized Ford dealers and certified repair shops like Rohnert Park Transmission can perform the recall. We have the required diagnostic tools and access to Ford's repair protocols.

Q: What if I've already had brake work done?

A: Save all receipts. If the work was related to this defect, Ford may reimburse you. The recall repair is still necessary even if you've had recent brake service.

The Bigger Picture: Ford's Quality Control Crisis

Recent Ford Recall History

This Electronic Brake Booster recall adds to Ford's growing list of brake-related issues:

2025 Recalls (Year to Date):

• 668,668 F-150s: Parking brake failure (Previous recall)

• 312,120 vehicles: Electronic Brake Booster (This recall)

• 142,000 Mustang Mach-E: Battery issues

• 90,000 Explorers: Rear axle problems

• **Total**: Over 1.2 million vehicles in 2025 alone

What This Means for Ford Owners:

• Increased scrutiny on Ford quality control

• Potential for additional recalls

• Importance of regular maintenance

• Value of independent shop relationships

• Need for proactive safety awareness

Protecting Your Family: Beyond the Recall

Complete Brake Safety Checklist

While addressing this recall, ensure your entire brake system is safe:

Monthly Checks:

• Brake fluid level

• Pedal feel and travel

• Unusual noises or vibrations

• Warning light function

• Parking brake operation

Professional Inspection Items:

• Brake pad thickness (should be >4mm)

• Rotor condition and thickness

• Brake line integrity

• Caliper operation

• ABS sensor function

• Brake fluid moisture content

• Master cylinder operation

When to Service Beyond Recalls:

• Every 12,000 miles or annually

• Before long trips

• After unusual brake events

• When buying used vehicles

• Following off-road driving

Take Action NOW - Every Minute Counts

This Electronic Brake Booster recall represents an immediate safety crisis that cannot be ignored. With 312,120 vehicles affected nationwide and an estimated 5,400 in Sonoma County alone, the risk to our community is significant. Every mile you drive with a potentially defective brake booster increases the danger to you, your passengers, and everyone sharing our roads.

The stakes couldn't be higher - this isn't about convenience or performance, it's about preventing catastrophic brake failure that could result in serious accidents, injuries, or worse. The mountainous terrain, busy highways, and tourist traffic in Sonoma County make reliable brakes absolutely essential.

Schedule Your Safety Inspection Today

Rohnert Park Transmission is Here to Help

We're mobilizing all our resources to help our community through this critical safety recall:

Services We Can Provide:

• VIN verification assistance

• Brake system safety inspection

• Priority recall repair scheduling

• Emergency towing coordination

• Rental car arrangement assistance

• Insurance claim documentation

Special Recall Response Hours:

• Extended weekday hours until 7 PM

• Saturday appointments available

• Emergency hotline for brake failures

• Mobile inspection service for fleets

Our Recall Promise:

• No sales pressure or upselling

• Transparent communication

• Detailed documentation provided

• Follow-up to ensure safety

• Support through entire process

Call (707) 584-7727 NOW

Don't wait for Ford to contact you. Don't assume you're safe. Don't risk your family's safety. This Electronic Brake Booster defect is too dangerous to ignore. Whether your vehicle is on the recall list or you just want peace of mind, we're here to help.

Call us immediately at (707) 584-7727 to:

• Verify if your vehicle is affected

• Schedule priority inspection

• Get emergency repair service

• Arrange safe transportation

• Protect your family's safety

Our experienced technicians are standing by to ensure every Ford and Lincoln vehicle in Sonoma County is safe to drive. Your safety is our mission, and we won't rest until every affected vehicle is repaired.

Remember: This recall is about preventing tragedy before it happens. One brake failure is too many. Take action today - your life may depend on it.

Stay Informed and Stay Safe

Sign Up for Future Recall Alerts

Don't let another recall catch you off guard:

Register Your Vehicle:

• Ford.com: Official manufacturer updates

• NHTSA.gov: Government safety alerts

• Our shop newsletter: Local recall news

Follow Us for Updates:

• Real-time recall information

• Safety tips and reminders

• Community alert system

• Expert automotive advice

At Rohnert Park Transmission & Auto Repair, your safety drives everything we do. We're committed to keeping Sonoma County families safe on the road, one vehicle at a time. Don't wait - call now and let us help protect what matters most.