Ford Edge Faces New Brake Failure Probe: Is History Repeating Itself?

U.S. safety regulators are digging into potential brake issues in the 2015-2017 Ford Edge after dozens of drivers reported dangerous failures. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) launched an investigation in October following 36 complaints about rear brake hose malfunctions, which reportedly happen without warning and result in longer stopping distances—something no driver wants to experience in an emergency.

The scope of the problem could affect up to 368,309 Edge models, and what’s especially concerning is that some drivers claim the brake issues linger even after repairs. The NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation is conducting a preliminary evaluation to determine the severity and extent of the defect.

Ford, for its part, is cooperating, but an investigation doesn’t always lead to a recall—at least not right away. If this sounds familiar, there’s a reason: Ford has dealt with brake-related issues on the Edge before. A similar brake hose problem triggered a recall in 2020, affecting nearly half a million Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX models.

Despite promises to tighten up quality control, Ford’s recall record has been less than stellar. In fact, the automaker led the industry in 2023 with 54 recalls affecting almost 5.7 million vehicles. By mid-2024, Ford had already issued 31 more recalls, impacting over 3.6 million vehicles, including a notable one involving F-150 trucks. A software bug in those trucks could cause them to unexpectedly shift into first gear without any warning.NHTSA is currently concentrating on identifying the complete extent of the problem—and whether Ford's brake problems are still ongoing.