UAW Reaches Tentative Deal with Ford: Workers to Return Amid Pressure on GM, Stellantis

The United Auto Workers union reached a tentative four-and-a-half-year contract with Ford on January 21, 2026, agreeing to an 11% immediate pay raise and at least 25% total increase by expiration, potentially boosting wages above $40 per hour. The deal includes a return of cost-of-living adjustments (COLA), which could yield total increases over 30% for most workers. Lower-tier employees, such as Isaiah Goddard earning $17/hour, stand to gain 85% in base pay. While the agreement has not yet taken effect, UAW leaders announced workers would return to work “soon” to pressure General Motors and Stellantis into similar deals. A ratification vote by Ford’s 57,000 UAW members is required before implementation. The contract does not restore traditional pensions or retiree health care for newer hires, nor does it include EV battery plants under the national master agreement—key union demands. These omissions may prompt rank-and-file rejection, risking renewed strikes. Meanwhile, 29,000 UAW members remain on strike at GM and Stellantis, where negotiations continue. Both companies stated they are working toward agreements. Ford’s council approval is expected; rank-and-file support is uncertain, echoing past rejections at John Deere and Mack Trucks despite strong raises.