Summary
Ford Motor Company has entered into a Consent Order with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to resolve allegations concerning the timeliness of a 2020 rearview camera performance recall. While Ford does not admit liability, the agreement entails a significant $165 million civil penalty. This penalty is structured with an immediate cash payment, a portion held in abeyance contingent on compliance, and a substantial investment in enhancing Ford's compliance and safety data capabilities.
Key Highlights
- 1Ford agrees to a $165 million civil penalty with NHTSA, resolving a probe into the timeliness of a 2020 rearview camera recall.
- 2The penalty includes $65 million in immediate cash payment, $55 million held in abeyance, and $45 million for investments in advanced data analytics and a new testing facility to improve compliance.
- 3Ford will submit monthly Safety Evaluation Lists (SEL) to NHTSA and engage in quarterly meetings to discuss safety-related issues.
- 4An independent third party, chosen by NHTSA, will assess Ford's adherence to the Consent Order and Vehicle Safety Act over the three-year term.
- 5Ford commits to reviewing its past recalls from the last three years to ensure all affected vehicles were included, with potential for recall updates.
- 6The Consent Order has a term of three years, with a possible one-year extension at NHTSA's discretion.
- 7This action resolves allegations without an admission of liability by Ford.