Ford is recalling 261,890 vehicles in the U.S. for a spate of problems including transmission, suspension, and tire defects, the company said Wednesday.

The largest recall involves 184,000 models of the 2011-2012 Ford F-150, along with the 2012 Expedition, Mustang, and Lincoln Navigator. Output-speed sensors on the 6R80 automatic transmission’s lead frame?the metal connectors joined to a circuit board controlling the transmission?may suddenly force a downshift into first gear. That could cause the rear tires to slide or lock up. The company knows of at least three related accidents but no injuries. Only vehicles equipped with this six-speed automatic are affected. Dealers will update the powertrain control module software and replace the lead frame if the module throws out trouble codes. Ford will also warranty the lead frame for 10 years or 150,000 miles from its installation date and provide one replacement if it fails again. The 2014-2015 Explorer has rear-suspension toe links that may not be welded properly and can break. Ford said it knows of at least one accident and one injury related to this problem. Dealers will replace both toe links and align the suspension. Police Interceptor models are also included, for a total of 75,364 cars.
During the assembly of certain F-series Super Duty trucks (F-250 and above), a conveyor may have damaged the tire sidewalls, which could rupture while driving. Dealers will inspect the tires for sidewall damage and replace them i...