Ford is placing renewed emphasis on comprehensive safety inspections following collision repairs, with the latest edition of its OnTarget newsletter focusing on seatbelt systems and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).
The manufacturer stresses that any vehicle system containing a repaired or replaced component must be inspected and tested to ensure it continues to operate as intended. This includes seatbelts, retractors and associated restraint components. Ford directs repairers to its official Workshop Manual for the correct inspection and functional testing procedures, which it says should form part of the standard repair process for businesses working on Ford and Lincoln vehicles.
The latest OnTarget edition also launches a new series covering seatbelt systems, using the 2026 Ford Expedition to explain key components and operating principles. The first instalment examines emergency locking retractors, automatic locking retractors and web sensing retractors.
Emergency locking retractors are designed to lock the seatbelt when the vehicle experiences heavy braking, sharp cornering or an impact. By restricting belt movement, the system helps limit occupant movement during sudden changes in vehicle motion. Ford specifies that testing should be performed with the retractor installed in the vehicle and with the vehicle positioned on level ground.
Automatic locking retractors are typically used when securing a child restraint in a passenger seating position. The locking function is activated by pulling the belt webbing fully out and then allowing it to retract. A clicking sound indicates that the retractor has entered automatic locking mode. Once activated, the belt cannot be pulled out again until the webbing has completely retracted.
The web sensing retractor operates according to the speed at which the seatbelt webbing is pulled out or retracted. When the webbing moves at a predetermined speed, the mechanism locks the spool and prevents further belt from being released. Ford notes that only a small amount of webbing movement is generally required to release this mode, while any locked system should be dealt with in accordance with the relevant Workshop Manual procedure.
Ford is also reinforcing its position on ADAS repairs. The latest newsletter highlights an updated Ford and Lincoln position statement that uses stronger language around the restoration of vehicle safety systems, stating that compliance with Ford's standards is mandatory when returning a vehicle to its original safety performance.
The manufacturer points out that ADAS repairs extend beyond cameras, radar and ultrasonic sensors. Components such as bumper beams, grilles, windscreens and other glass, sensor brackets, quarter panels and related body components can influence sensor positioning, operation or visibility. Repairers must therefore follow original equipment specifications carefully, particularly when carrying out glass replacement, refinishing, body repairs and structural work.
For collision repair businesses, the message is clear: restoring the appearance of a damaged vehicle is only part of the repair process. Safety-critical systems and components must also be inspected, tested and correctly calibrated where required to ensure the vehicle performs as intended after a collision.
The latest OnTarget edition also includes repair information covering Lincoln Nautilus A-pillar trim, a sectioning option for the Ford Explorer and body components for the Ford Escape.
