Ford announced on Wednesday, March 14, that it is recalling 1.4 million cars after finding that two of its models have steering wheels that tend to fall off while driving.
The steering wheel problem makes it hard for drivers to properly control the car and can lead to accidents.
No Steering Wheels
According to its statement, Ford was aware of two accidents and one injury that occurred due to the steering wheel problem. The company explained that bolts on the steering wheel may become loose, causing the steering wheel to fall off. This bolt becomes loose over time.
Ford models affected by this recall are the Ford Fusion and the Lincoln MKZ. These include cars from model years 2014 through 2018. Most of these cars were sold in the United States but almost 80,000 of the vehicles were also sold in Canada and in Mexico.
"In affected vehicles, the steering wheel bolt may not maintain torque, allowing the bolt to loosen over time, and if not serviced, a steering wheel could potentially detach and lead to a loss of steering control and increased risk of a crash," said Ford in a press release regarding the defect.
These cars were made in two different factories in Flat Rock in Michigan and in Hermosillo in Mexico. To fix the issue, Ford will be replacing the bolt with a longer bolt, which it describes as more robust, along with a large nylon patch that will help secure better torque retention.
All of the cars in question were manufactured from 2013 to 2018 at the two assembly plants. Ford dealers will be fixing the issue free of charge.
USA Today found that there have been 10 incidents where Ford Fusion steering wheels have fallen off. Some drivers reported that the steering loosened while they were driving, causing them to lose control. One driver veered off the road before regaining control of the vehicle. Some reported feeling unsafe to the point of no longer wanting to drive the car.
Yet Another Recall
Ford has announced a separate recall, which also involves its Ford Fusion vehicles. The car company is recalling about 6,000 units with manual transmissions and specific engines due to a risk of fire from clutch plate fractures.
Affected cars include 2013-2016 Ford Fusion vehicles that have a 1.0 liter Fox GTDI engine and B6 manual transmission, and 2013-2015 Ford Fusion vehicles that have a 1.6 liter Sigma GTDI engine and a B6 manual.
The issue occurs when drivers repeatedly change gears, which wears down the clutch lining prematurely and degrades the pressure plate. This can cause transmission fluid to leak, which can then lead to a fire.
