Ford’s Transit Recall Ruined Off-Road Performance. Now, Owners Are Suing

Ford faced an issue with the Transit Trail model requiring smaller tires due to rubbing against the wheel arch liners, resulting in discontent among owners. The automaker is now confronted with a class action lawsuit claiming that the vehicle no longer meets Ford’s initial promises. This predicament arose from a recall in early 2024 related to the original 30.5-inch Goodyear Wrangler Workhorse tires potentially rubbing against the wheel liner. Ford’s resolution was to replace the tires with smaller 28.5-inch ones.

The lawsuit argues that this adjustment has reduced the vehicle’s ground clearance, ultimately compromising the unique features that attracted buyers to the Transit Trail model. Introduced in November 2022, the Transit Trail boasted a 3.5-inch heightened ride and 30.5-inch all-terrain tires. Priced at $65,975, the 2023 Transit Trail is now subject to scrutiny, with a plaintiff regretting her purchase due to the supposed safety flaw concealed by Ford.

Ford initiated the tire rubbing recall for the Transit model in March 2024 after investigating the issue earlier that year. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s safety recall report confirmed that the front tires could contact the wheel arch liners under specific conditions. When loaded to or near the Front Gross Axle Weight Rating, the tires could rub at a 60 percent turn while braking.

Upon reaching out to Ford for comments on the lawsuit, no response was received, as companies typically refrain from discussing ongoing legal matters. Updates on this development will be provided if any new information is disclosed. For further details, the filing can be accessed here.

Find more Ford-related news on Classaction.org via The Drive.