The problem
Vehicle description: passenger cars. The seat belt buckle tongue May not fully eject from the buckle assembly when the release button is pushed slowly. This condition could also result in a partial latch of the tongue in the buckle.
The risk
In the event of a vehicle crash, the vehicle occupant May not be properly restrained, possibly resulting in personal injury or death.
The fix
Dealers will replace the driver and right front passenger seat belt buckles. Owner notification began May 4, 2001. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Ford at 1-800-392-3673.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 01V-144 (01V144000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | 01S16 |
| Manufacturer | Ford Motor Company |
| Component | Seat belts › Front › Buckle assembly |
| Report date | April 27, 2001 |
| Owners notified | May 4, 2001 |
| Vehicles affected | 4,567 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the seat belts
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 01V-144 repair free?
Yes. Ford dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will replace the driver and right front passenger seat belt buckles. Owner notification began May 4, 2001. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable…
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 4,567 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.