2024 Ford Maverick Safety Report

The 2024 Ford Maverick presents a mixed safety picture, with strong crash test performance but a notable number of recalls and emerging complaint patterns. NHTSA awarded the vehicle an excellent 5-star rating for Frontal and Side crash tests, and a 4-star rating for Overall and Rollover safety, indicating robust occupant protection in collisions. However, the vehicle has been subject to a high number of recalls for a relatively new model, totaling 14. These recalls address critical safety components such as the power train (loss of drive power), electrical system (trailer brake control, engine block heater fire risk), back over prevention (rearview camera issues), exterior lighting (tail lights, turn signals), and child seat anchors, suggesting potential manufacturing or design flaws that required widespread correction. Complaint data, while still relatively low at 60 total for a new model year, reveals several concerning patterns. The 'UNKNOWN OR OTHER' category leads with 9 complaints, followed closely by 'POWER TRAIN' with 7, and 'BACK OVER PREVENTION' with 6. Specific issues highlighted in complaints include recurring 12V battery drain leading to 'Battery Saver Mode' and electrical glitches, CV axle failures causing severe vibration, and instances of sudden loss of drive power or transmission issues. There are 5 reported crashes and 3 injuries, with no fatalities or fires, which is positive, but the nature of some complaints (e.g., sudden loss of power at highway speeds, critical braking failure) indicates potential for serious incidents. The recall history directly correlates with some complaint patterns. For example, multiple recalls address power train issues (loss of drive power due to HPCM software or incorrect repairs) and rearview camera malfunctions, aligning with 'POWER TRAIN' and 'BACK OVER PREVENTION' complaints. The 'ELECTRICAL SYSTEM' complaints, particularly regarding battery drain, are also concerning, though not directly linked to a specific recall for the 12V battery itself, but rather broader electrical system recalls. The high number of recalls for a new model year suggests Ford is actively addressing issues, but also points to a vehicle that has required significant post-launch corrections.

Our recommendation: While the 2024 Ford Maverick performs well in crash tests, potential buyers should be aware of the high number of recalls and emerging reliability concerns, particularly with the 12V battery, CV axles, and power train; ensure all recalls are addressed and consider an extended warranty.