Ford Faces Lawsuit Over Transit Trail Recall
In 2022, Ford introduced the Transit Trail, a version of its Transit van designed for off-road adventures. The 2023 model boasted a 3.5L V6 Flex-fuel engine, 10-Speed Automatic transmission, and All-Wheel Drive, making it capable of tackling rough terrain. With 310 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque, it was marketed as a robust off-road vehicle.
The Transit Trail was built on the extended high-roof model, offering ample space for living quarters. Its major selling points included an additional 3.5 inches of ground clearance, courtesy of 30.5-inch Goodyear all-terrain tires, and a 2.75-inch wider track for enhanced off-road stability. Other notable features were marker lamps in the grille and large fender flares to cover the tires.
However, in March 2024, Ford recalled all 1,902 Transit Trail units sold due to issues with the larger tires. The problem arose because the taller tires could contact the wheel arch liner and body under certain conditions, potentially causing “rapid air loss and tread-belt separation, which can result in a loss of vehicle control and increase the risk of a crash.” The recall remedy involved replacing the 30.5-inch tires with 28.5-inch-tall ones, effectively lowering the vehicle’s ground clearance.
Owners are now suing Ford, alleging that this fix renders their vehicles similar to the less expensive Ford Transit base model, rather than the off-road-capable Transit Trail they purchased. The lawsuit claims that Ford marketed the Transit Trail specifically for off-road driving but failed to ensure that the wheel wells and suspension could accommodate the larger tires.
One owner discovered the recall just an hour after purchasing her vehicle and before taking delivery. She had made payments for over six months without ever driving the van, stating that she would not have bought it or would have paid less had she known about the defect.
The lawsuit seeks relief for current and former owners, arguing that Ford’s misstatements and failure to disclose the defect deprived them of the benefit of their purchase. The plaintiffs claim that the vehicles are not capable of the off-road performance that Ford promised.
Ford has not commented on the ongoing legal action. The allegations have not been argued in court, and the outcome remains to be seen.
