Ford is recalling nearly 420,000 vehicles due to a seat belt defect that could lead to injury if a crash occurs. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported on Tuesday that specific Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator models from 2018 to 2022 are affected.

The problem is with seat belts that may lock automatically, preventing them from retracting or extending, which might lead to injuries in a crash. There is also the potential risk of injury in situations where the seat belt retracts too quickly.

This recall builds upon two earlier ones issued by the NHTSA. According to the report, Ford Motor Co. has identified two warranty claims and two field reports related to this latest recall. Additionally, the company knows of one related injury.

Vehicle owners will be notified via mail about the recall. They are advised to visit a Ford or Lincoln dealer for a free inspection and replacement of the front seat belt retractors involved in the recall.

Moreover, Ford has issued a do-not-drive warning for thousands of Bronco Sport and Maverick vehicles due to suspension system issues. The NHTSA noted that the front lower control arm ball joints might have been improperly installed or repaired at the assembly plant, potentially leading to detachment from the front wheel knuckle. Such detachment can result in loss of vehicle control, increasing the likelihood of crashes.

The recall affects 4,600 Bronco Sport vehicles from 2021 to 2026 and Maverick vehicles from 2022 to 2026. Dealers will inspect and repair the front lower control arm ball joints as required, at no cost to the owners.

For further details about the recalls, vehicle owners can contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332 or reach the NHTSA at 1-888-327-4236.