Ford is recalling 43,000 Escape and Bronco Sport SUVs due to a fuel injector leak that might catch fire.
According to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) documents, these automobiles' 1.5-liter engines are problematic. Fuel injector issues may allow vapor or gasoline to infiltrate near hot engine parts, starting fires.
The Ford recall covers Bronco Sport SUVs (2022-2023 models) and Escape SUVs (2022 model). All possess 1.5-liter engines, per ABC News.
Ford's Strategy Questioned
The automobile manufacturer says the solution is installing a drainage tube that deflect fuel spills from heated surfaces. Additionally, Ford will incorporate software modifications to detect pressure reductions within the fuel system. If it detects a dip, the software will turn off the high-pressure fuel pump, cut engine power, and lower engine compartment temperatures.
Even though Ford is aware of reports of five fires and 14 fuel injector warranty replacements, the company is certain that the fixes will protect customers and prevent similar issues in the future. The firm underlines that the new software will warn drivers enough to reach a safe spot before halting and calling for help.
However, the Center for Auto Safety, which views Ford's decision to forego fuel injector replacement as a cost-cutting strategy, has disapproved of the move. They assert that a 1% failure rate is considerable and that the existing patch might leave drivers in unsafe circumstances.
Owners with questions should contact Ford or their dealerships, as the NHTSA will monitor these fixes.
The Ford logo is displayed on the front of a brand new Ford Escape SUV on the sales lot at Journey Ford on June 4, 2013 in Novato, California.
Ford Troubles Early This Year
In February, Ford Motor Company recalled over 77,000 Expedition and Lincoln Navigator SUVs for seat belt issues, as per a USA Today report. The NHTSA got notice of the recall for the 2018-2020 model year Ford automobiles made between October 2018 and June 2019.
NHTSA warned that the seat belt pre-tensioner, which tightens the seat belt after an accident, may fail and lock the driver's and front passenger's seats. It may prevent the seat belt from retracting or extending, increasing accident risk.
Notably, Ford Motor Company 2024 F-150 Lightning electric vehicle delivery has been delayed. The company made the decision in early February as the automobile was undergoing quality inspections, as reported by TechTimes.
In January, Ford Motor Company recalled 1.9 million Explorer SUVs for a safety problem with exterior trim, according to NPR. The recall covers the 2011-2019 Ford Explorer. The firm said certain clips holding trim to the vehicle's exterior between the front windows and windshield "are not properly engaged due to improper assembly or repair," which might loosen or remove the A-pillar trim.
The NHTSA worried that a loose trim piece would become a "road hazard" and increase accident risk. Even though Ford has not identified any accidents or injuries related to the defective item, it urged owners to bring their vehicles in for a free inspection and repair.
