Ford Motor Co is issuing a recall for approximately 125,000 vehicles due to engine failures that could potentially lead to fires, according to a statement released on June 6. The recall applies to a range of vehicles, including Escape and Lincoln Corsair SUVs, as well as Maverick compact pickup trucks from the 2020-2023 model years, all equipped with 2.5L hybrid or plug-in hybrid engines. The decision to expand the recall was made after Ford discovered that certain engine manufacturing issues could cause premature engine failure, resulting in the release of engine oil or fuel vapor and increasing the risk of fire and potential injury.
In July 2022, Ford initially recalled 100,000 Escape, Corsair, and Maverick vehicles in the United States after identifying 23 instances globally where a fire or smoke was reported following a suspected block or oil pan breach. Since then, Ford has received reports of at least three vehicles experiencing fires even after undergoing the 2022 recall fix. In response to the issue, Ford and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) advised affected vehicle owners to park their vehicles and turn off the engine immediately if they hear unusual engine noises, notice a decrease in vehicle power, or observe smoke.
Ford has acknowledged that the new recall fix is currently under development, indicating that they are working to find a solution to the problem. This recent recall comes shortly after Ford announced another recall involving 142,000 Lincoln MKC SUVs in the United States last week, citing fire risks. Owners of the affected vehicles were advised to park their vehicles outside and away from structures until the recall repair is completed. As part of the remedy, Ford dealers will add an in-line fuse to the battery monitor sensor power circuit.
