Ford CEO Jim Farley stated during an interview that the automaker remains unsatisfied with its quality progress.
He noted the Dearborn company still has considerable work ahead.
Ford has announced 56 recalls this year covering 12.1 million vehicles.

Ford recently led JD Power initial quality rankings among mainstream brands. Yet the company also heads the sector in recalls this year with 56 announcements affecting 12.1 million vehicles, indicating further efforts are required.

During a CNBC discussion, Ford Motor Company CEO Jim Farley expressed pride in the initial quality outcomes but stressed that no one at the firm feels content. He emphasized there is substantial work remaining to achieve top quality status across every category.

Farley has focused on quality enhancements since 2023 through stricter development tests, additional technical experts, and greater teamwork. In 2024 the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration penalized Ford for inadequate recall procedures.

The agency imposed a $65 million fine with $55 million deferred. NHTSA permitted Ford to apply $45 million toward performance goals. The agreement also mandated a review of three prior years of recalls to confirm proper scope and issue updates if needed.

Farley informed CNBC that the company will persist in lowering recall counts and warranty expenses.

The Current State Of Ford Recalls

Through 2026 Ford has released 56 recalls impacting 12.1 million vehicles and leads the sector. The firm is positioned to issue fewer recalls than the prior year record though the affected volume remains high.

Ford has frequently outpaced rivals in recent recall activity. It issued 153 recalls for nearly 13 million vehicles in 2025. In 2024 it recorded the second highest total at 67 behind Stellantis at 72 yet led all makers in 2021 through 2023.

The recalls have generated billions in warranty expenses including a record $4.8 billion charge in 2023. These costs have declined steadily since then.

Motor1 Analysis: Ford recognizes that resolving quality concerns requires sustained time and deliberate changes over multiple years. Leading the JD Power Initial Quality Study marks positive progress yet the automaker must deliver more to shift public perception.