Safety Recall NHTSA · 89V171000 Reported October 13, 1989

Lighting:switch:button:ring:head lights

Ford Motor Company · Exterior Lighting · 2,900 vehicles potentially affected

NHTSA ID
89V171000
Manufacturer Campaign
NR (Not Reported)
Manufacturer
Component
Exterior Lighting
Vehicles Affected
2,900
Recall Type
Vehicle
Report Received
October 13, 1989

Defect Summary

An incorrect transistor may cause autolamp system light sensor module malfunction.

Safety Consequence

Headlamps could turn off while vehicle is being driven orremain on after vehicle is parked. Loss of headlights while driving at nightcould be hazardous to the driver and other trafific.

Corrective Action

Replace light sensor modules.

What you should do

  1. Look up your VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls to confirm this recall applies to your vehicle.
  2. Contact an authorized Ford Motor Company dealer and reference recall ID 89V171000 or campaign NR (Not Reported).
  3. Schedule the free repair. By federal law, the manufacturer must remedy the defect at no cost.
View Official NHTSA Notice →
Related

Similar Recalls

Other recalls from Ford Motor Company or involving Exterior Lighting.

FAQ: Recall 89V171000

Your rights, the repair process, and what each field on this page means.

What is recall 89V171000?

NHTSA recall 89V171000 was issued by Ford Motor Company on October 13, 1989. It addresses: Lighting:switch:button:ring:head lights. The recall affects approximately 2,900 vehicles, with the defect involving the Exterior Lighting component.

How do I get this recall repaired?

Contact any authorized Ford Motor Company dealer and reference NHTSA recall ID 89V171000 or the manufacturer campaign number NR (Not Reported). Under federal law, the repair is completely free regardless of vehicle age or owner history.

Is my vehicle included in this recall?

The only way to confirm is to look up your 17-character VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. NHTSA's tool will tell you if VIN-by-VIN this exact recall applies.

How long do I have to get a recall repair done?

There is no expiration on most federal safety recalls. Even if your vehicle is years old and you bought it used, the manufacturer is required to perform the repair at no cost.

Where does the data on this page come from?

All information on this page is sourced directly from the U.S. Department of Transportation public dataset for NHTSA recalls. Last refreshed: 2026-05-22. For the most current official notice, visit nhtsa.gov/recalls.