Ford Motor Co. has issued a global recall of approximately 300,000 Mustang Mach-E electric crossovers due to a 12-volt battery issue that can prevent doors from unlocking, potentially locking passengers out or trapping them inside. The stop-delivery order, reported by Automotive News, affects dealers worldwide and halts demonstrations until a fix is deployed.

Battery Malfunction Disrupts Access

The recall targets 196,911 Mach-Es from the 2021–2025 model years in the U.S., with an additional 120,000 vehicles impacted globally, including 32,569 in Canada. The problem stems from an unexpected discharge of the 12-volt battery, causing the front door electronic latches to freeze in their last lock or unlock state. Ford spokesperson Mike Levine confirmed, “A software update is coming soon to address this recall.” No accidents or injuries have been reported.

This issue could disrupt EV owners’ daily routines, particularly for those relying on the Mach-E for commutes or family transport. The inability to access or exit the vehicle poses safety concerns, especially in emergencies. Ford’s swift response aims to mitigate these risks through a forthcoming software patch, though no specific timeline was provided beyond “soon.”

Separate Recall for Park Rod Defect

In a related development, Ford recalled 276 Mach-Es from the 2025 model year in the U.S. due to faulty park rods that could increase crash risks. Dealers have been instructed to halt demonstrations and deliveries of affected vehicles, with repair details expected in Q3 2025. This secondary recall, while smaller, compounds Ford’s challenges in maintaining consumer confidence in its EV lineup.

Ford’s Ongoing Quality Struggles

Ford’s recall woes are not new. The company has led the industry in total recalls for three of the past four years, with 76 recalls in 2025 alone, according to NHTSA data. Despite these setbacks, Mach-E sales have shown resilience, rising 11% in May and 2.8% year-to-date, even as Ford’s overall EV sales dropped 8.3%. The Mach-E, priced starting at approximately $39,000, remains a key player in Ford’s electric portfolio, competing with models like the Tesla Model Y.

Implications for EV Owners and Industry

For Mach-E owners, the recall introduces inconvenience and potential safety concerns, though Ford’s promise of a software fix suggests a relatively quick resolution. Dealerships face operational challenges, as inventory cannot be moved until repairs are implemented, potentially impacting sales momentum. In the broader EV market, Ford’s quality issues highlight the growing pains of scaling electric vehicle production. As competitors like Tesla and Rivian refine their offerings, Ford must address these technical hiccups to maintain its position.

The recall also underscores the importance of robust battery management systems in EVs. The 12-volt battery, often overshadowed by high-voltage packs, plays a critical role in ancillary functions like door latches. This incident may prompt manufacturers to enhance testing protocols for secondary systems, ensuring reliability as EV adoption grows.

Ford’s response to these recalls will be closely watched by EV enthusiasts and industry analysts. A timely and effective fix could reinforce trust in the Mach-E, while delays or further issues may erode confidence. For now, owners are advised to await Ford’s software update and contact dealers for interim guidance.