Week of September 14, 2026

News — September 14, 2026

Here’s the car news to know for the week of September 14. Start with recall checks, then use the pricing and fuel updates to plan your next move.

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 have been improperly tightened. The issue can lead to detached parts, unsecured cargo, degraded crash protection, electrical failure or loss of vehicle stability; dealers will inspect and tighten joints or repair and replace retention mechanisms free of charge.

The Car Dogs take: Check your VIN now and schedule the free recall repair if your vehicle is included.

Go deeper Source: NHTSA

Story 2

Ford recalls certain 2026 F-150 trucks over rear axle bearings

Ford is recalling certain 2026 F-150 vehicles because incorrect rear axle tail bearings may have been installed. The condition can cause rear-wheel lock-up or driveshaft separation, and dealers will replace the rear axle tail bearing free of charge.

The Car Dogs take: Check your VIN before driving a potentially affected F-150, especially if you notice driveline concerns.

Go deeper Source: NHTSA

Story 3

Jeep recalls more than 328,000 Grand Cherokee SUVs

Jeep issued a recall involving 328,381 early WL-generation 2021-2023 Grand Cherokee SUVs. Rear coil springs could come off the vehicle while driving.

The Car Dogs take: Check your VIN and arrange the recall work promptly if you own a 2021-2023 Grand Cherokee.

Go deeper Source: tflcar.com

Story 4

NHTSA opens Ford Edge probe over possible engine power loss

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 and an Engine Coolant Over Temperature warning message.

The Car Dogs take: Get a warning message or power-loss symptom inspected promptly and keep records of the visit.

Go deeper Source: forbes.com

Story 5

Average new-vehicle price rose above $50,000 in August

Kelley Blue Book reported that the average U.S. new-vehicle transaction price reached $50,089 in August, up 0.5% from July and 1.9% from August 2025. The report said a richer mix of midsize SUV sales and price increases in subcompact SUVs and compact cars influenced transaction prices.

The Car Dogs take: Set a full out-the-door budget before shopping and compare vehicle payments, not just advertised prices.

Go deeper Source: Cox Automotive

Story 6

California regular gas average reaches $5.678 per gallon

The U.S. Energy Information Administration reported California’s regular gasoline average at $5.678 per gallon for the week of September 7. That was up 15.8 cents from the prior week.

The Car Dogs take: Plan fuel stops and combine errands when possible while prices are moving higher.

Source: U.S. Energy Information Administration

Sources we checked

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

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