No more than a few days ago, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) announced that the 2013 Ford Escape would be recalled due to mis-aligned carpet padding. While not truly panic inducing, the event is still a set back and it appears, there is going to be one more. In order to act fast, Ford has issued another voluntary recall and this time, it’s a bit more serious. The problem stems from the 1.6 liter EcoBoost engine and one of its fuel lines. If affected, the component could split and leak gasoline which could eventually lead to an engine fire.
The recall affects just the turbocharged 1.6 liter Escapes and Ford is under the belief that the problem lies within SUV built through July 11, 2012. Since the vehicle is just now starting to hit the market, some models have yet to make it into the hands of the public. Escape models that have yet to be delivered or are being used as demonstration vehicles will be taken care of to insure they are absolutely safe before they land in a driveway. For the SUVs already owned by customers, Ford is advising drivers to stop using their Escapes and immediately contact their local dealers. To remedy the issue, Ford will temporarily trade Escape models with loaner vehicles so that the fuel line can be replaced with a stronger unit. The fix and loaner vehicle will be administered at no cost to owners.
“Our intensive investigation and testing has identified the area of concern and we are moving as quickly as possible to repair vehicles for our customers. In the meantime, it is extremely important that affected customers not ignore this recall and immediately contact their dealer,” said Ray Nevi, assistant director of Ford Automotive Safety Office.
Source: Ford
