Ford Ranger recalled due to seat belt fault

Ford has recalled its most popular vehicle in New Zealand, the Ranger, over a supposed fault with the vehicle’s seat belts.

The issue involves the driver’s seat belt not being threaded through the metal seatbelt anchor which reduces its effectiveness in the event of an accident.

A report from Stuff recently confirmed that a total of 183 vehicles from the 2022 model year are affected by the problem. It adds that owners of the recalled Ford Ranger will be contacted by letter.

The issue can be repaired at any local Ford dealership at no cost to the vehicle owner.

The same recall has been issued in Australia where it has affected around 1380 vehicles including both the Ranger and Everest.

On the Australian Department of Infrastructure website, the recall states: “Due to a defect during assembly, some vehicles may have the driver’s seat belt assembled incorrectly. This will reduce the effectiveness of the seat belt in the event of an accident.

“If the seat belt is not assembled correctly, it will not adequately restrain the occupant in a crash, increasing the risk of injury or death.”

There’s no word on whether the Everest is included in the New Zealand recall.