Week of September 7, 2026

News — September 7, 2026

This week’s driver news includes Ford safety actions, a Ford Edge investigation, financing offers and higher fuel costs. Check your vehicle and your monthly budget before your next trip, repair or purchase.

Story 1

Ford recalls 2026 Maverick, F-150 and Bronco Sport vehicles

Ford is recalling certain 2026 Maverick, F-150 and Bronco Sport vehicles because some vehicle joints may be improperly tightened. The condition can lead to detached parts, unsecured cargo, degraded crash protection, electrical system failure or a loss of vehicle stability; owner letters are expected September 21, 2026.

The Car Dogs take: Check your VIN for recall 26V550000 and schedule the free dealer repair if your vehicle is affected.

Go deeper Source: NHTSA

Story 2

NHTSA investigates Ford Edge engine power-loss reports

NHTSA opened an investigation covering an estimated 499,603 2015-2018 Ford Edge vehicles with 2.0 Liter EcoBoost engines. A petition alleged coolant intrusion can cause significant engine power loss, an Engine Coolant Over Temperature warning and rough running after the vehicle cools down.

The Car Dogs take: Watch for coolant-temperature warnings or power loss and arrange a service inspection promptly if either occurs.

Go deeper Source: forbes.com

Story 3

NHTSA warns replacement air bags may evade VIN searches

NHTSA warned used-car owners that dangerous replacement air bag inflators may not appear in VIN recall searches. The defective inflators have been linked to 11 deaths and three severe injuries, including a newly reported death involving a Chevrolet Equinox.

The Car Dogs take: Check the air bag history before buying a used vehicle and have any questionable replacement parts inspected.

Go deeper Source: brooklyn.news12.com

Story 4

Mazda offers 0% financing on 2026 CX-90 PHEV

Mazda is offering well-qualified buyers 0% APR financing for up to 72 months on select 2026 CX-90 Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle trim levels through the end of September. The program also offers a $5,000 cash alternative, while taxes, title, registration, loan-origination charges and dealer documentation fees remain the buyer’s responsibility.

The Car Dogs take: Compare the 0% financing offer with the $5,000 cash alternative before choosing how to pay.

Go deeper Source: cbs17.com

Story 5

California average gasoline price rises to $5.678

The U.S. Energy Information Administration reported California’s regular gasoline average at $5.678 per gallon for September 7, 2026. That was up $0.158 from the prior week’s $5.520 average.

The Car Dogs take: Plan fuel stops and combine errands to reduce miles while gasoline prices are rising.

Go deeper Source: U.S. Energy Information Administration

Story 6

More commuting may add pressure to insurance costs

A NerdWallet analysis found that about 27% of Americans said their auto insurance premium increased in the last year. Its car ownership cost index showed overall expenses rose 11% between 2024 and 2026, with much of the increase occurring this year largely because of higher gas prices.

The Car Dogs take: Compare insurance quotes regularly to see whether comparable coverage is available for less.

Go deeper Source: kyoutv.com

Sources we checked

Written by the Car Dogs team. General information only — your own numbers depend on your vehicle, credit and where you live.

Ask a Car Dog (AI)

Ask anything about your car decision

Straight answer first, then the reasoning — free, and it remembers what you've already told us.

Rather talk to a person? Chat with a real Car Dog — free, and we'll carry this over.