The latest Ford Mach-E recall, number four if you’re counting, is for unintended acceleration issues. The software problem submitted to the NHTSA also included another recall over gas engines catching on fire. The software doesn’t recognize rapid acceleration and deceleration, as well as certain incorrect hazard recognition. These all pose a safety risk that could result in an accident.

How many Mustang Mach-E EVs are affected?

Affecting 464 2021 Mach-E EVs, Ford says it can remedy the problem with over-the-air software fixes, or owners can have a local dealership do the update. Only all-wheel-drive Mach-Es have the affected powertrain control module software built between October 3, 2020, and May 26, 2021. Ford first became aware of the issue on March 1, 2022, and is not aware of any accident or injury as a result of the glitch. 

This is now recall number four for the Mach-E, involving both 2021 and 2022 versions. The other three did not involve software issues, but that doesn’t mean there haven’t been any. So far, Ford has issued 45 Technical Service Bulletins over electrical issues caused by software malfunctions, according to AboutAutos. Over-the-air, or OTA, updates took care of most of the problems. However, others required taking the Mach-E into a dealership for service. Usually, these updates required erasing existing data first.

Is Ford having problems with Mach-E software?

Of those 45 TSBs, the company has had six specifically related to the “Phone as a Key” or PAAK feature. The first Phone as a Key or PAAK recall notice went out in mid-June 2021. Then a succession of others included one in April 2021, July 2021, August 2021, and two in September 2021. A recall to recalibrate software because of charging and remote start issues went out in February 2021 as well.

TSBs are just part of the makeup of launching new vehicles. As the first electric vehicle Ford made, there was some expectation there would be problems in the field. But some frustrated Mustang owners wondered why OTAs couldn’t correct the software issues.

What were the other safety recalls for?

The three other safety recalls were not for software problems but instead, for incorrectly installed components. Ford discovered front subframe bolts improperly tightened could result in loose subframes in April 2021. Then, some Mach-E panoramic roof glass panels were found to have been improperly glued in late August 2021. Ford noted that a roof panel that separates from a vehicle can become a road hazard, increasing the risk of a crash or injury. 

Rear seat belt buckles not properly attached to the floor was the next recall, issued at the beginning of 2022. This meant that these vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle safety standard numbers 208, “occupant crash protection,” and 210, “seat belt assembly anchorages.”