By Shawn Henry 
The Ford Maverick is starting 2026 with a new safety recall after testing revealed a dashboard component that could detach during a crash, posing a potential injury risk to occupants.
Ford is recalling approximately 6,879 Maverick trucks from the 2025 model year due to concerns involving the panel located on top of the driver’s display. According to information submitted to federal safety regulators, the panel may not be properly secured because of insufficient weld adhesion. If the airbag deploys during a collision, the panel could come loose and be propelled into the cabin.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has identified the detached panel as a potential projectile hazard. If it strikes a driver or passenger, the risk of injury increases. Ford has indicated that it is not aware of any accidents or injuries linked to the issue so far. The problem was discovered during internal safety testing rather than through consumer complaints or real-world crashes.
Owners of affected trucks will need to bring their vehicles to a Ford dealership for inspection and repair. Dealership technicians will replace the dashboard panel at no cost to owners. Ford plans to begin notifying affected customers by mail starting January 19, providing instructions on how to schedule service.
Customers with questions about the recall can contact Ford Customer Service at 1-866-436-7332. The recall is identified by Ford under the reference number 25SE7. Owners can also check whether their vehicle is included by using the NHTSA’s Vehicle Identification Number lookup tool.
This latest recall adds to a growing list of issues for the Maverick. In 2025 alone, the compact pickup was subject to six separate recalls. Those previous actions addressed a range of problems, including engine-related concerns, transmission issues, and faulty electronic components.
The Maverick has been one of Ford’s most popular recent launches, drawing attention for its compact size and affordability. However, the string of recalls highlights ongoing quality and safety challenges as the automaker moves into the new model year.
While the current recall affects a relatively small number of trucks, it underscores the importance of addressing potential hazards before injuries occur. Ford’s move to replace the panel proactively reflects a focus on preventing a problem that testing suggests could become dangerous under the right conditions.