FROM THE BLOG

Ford Motor Company Issues Several Safety Recalls

As of early June 2022, Ford Motor Company has announced a number of auto safety recalls impacting a variety of makes and models. From tire issues to overheating batteries, the safety issues all pose a potential threat to drivers, passengers, and others on the road. If you own or lease a Ford vehicle, you should visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website to keep abreast of the latest safety recalls. Ford Motor Company plans to start notifying customers affected by these recalls within the next few weeks and months. Once you receive the recall notice, schedule an appointment at your nearest dealership to obtain the recommended repairs. Here’s the latest on the recently announced Ford safety recalls.

Defective Passenger Door Locks

On June 10, 2022, Ford announced a recall concerning defective child safety door locks in some of their vehicles. It appears that the 2021 and 2022 Ford Bronco models allow the passenger door to be opened from the inside of the vehicle, even when the child safety lock is in the “ON” position. Ford stated that it would begin notifying customers by mail starting on July 25, 2022. Once recipients have the formal notification, they can visit the dealership for a full inspection of the passenger-side child safety locks door, the lock itself, and the latch. If necessary, the dealership will replace the defective parts free of charge.

High-Volt Battery Issues

Several 2021 and 2022 Ford Mustang Mach-E vehicles have been experiencing overheating issues due to a defective high voltage battery. According to the Safety Recall Report filed with the NHTSA, “Direct Current (DC) fast charging and repeated wide-open pedal events can cause the high voltage battery main contactors to overheat. Overheating may lead to arcing and deformation of the electrical and contact surfaces, which can result in a contactor that remains open or a contactor that welds closed.” The document goes on to explain that an overheated contactor can lead to loss of power while the vehicle is in motion, increasing the risk of a crash. Ford will start notifying affected customers on July 18, 2022. Dealers plan on updating the onboard software at no cost to the consumer, and this update may be performed remotely and reduce the need to bring the vehicles to the dealership for the necessary repairs.

Detached Shift Cable Defect

A slew of Ford vehicles is experiencing shifting problems, most likely due to a detached shift cable. Ford announced a safety recall affecting multiple cars, including the 2013-2019 Escape, 2013-2018 C-Max, 2013-2016 Fusion, 2013-2021 Transit Connect, and 2015-2018 Edge vehicles. These cars appear to have damaged or missing bushing to prevent the vehicles from shifting into the intended gear, causing the vehicle to move in an unexpected direction. In some cases, a driver who attempts to put the vehicle into “Park” mode may cause the vehicle to roll. Those who drive these affected vehicles put themselves and others at increased risk of crash and injury. When affected customers receive their formal notification after June 27, 2022, they can take their vehicle to the nearest dealership to receive a replacement of the underhood shift bushing and an added protective cap over the shift cable bushing.

Powertrain Control Module Defect

In late May, Ford Motor Company announced a safety recall impacting 2019-2020 Mustang vehicles equipped with 5.0L engines and manual transmissions. These vehicles may have a defective Powertrain Control Module (PCM) that broadcasts an unintended faulted signal to the modules controlling the reverse camera, backup light, and driver assistance features. These faulty signals can lead to unsafe driving practices and increase the likelihood of collisions. Ford intends to start mailing notifications of the recall to affected customers by the end of June, encouraging those who own or lease these vehicles to accept the updated PCM software—which can typically be downloaded remotely.

Proudly Advocating On Your Behalf

While most people affected by an auto safety recall are able to obtain the recommended repairs without any issue, there are times when problems arise. If the dealership informs you that it does not have the repair you need, or your vehicle continues to experience persistent issues after you’ve obtained the recommended repairs, it’s essential that you recognize your legal options. Enlisting the services of a trusted and experienced lemon law attorney is a great way to ensure you obtain your desired outcome. Together, you can assess the specifics of your situation and determine the most strategic path forward.

 

Call Lemon Law Partners, LLP, today at (510) 944-0336 to arrange a free case evaluation with a trusted and friendly Berkeley attorney.

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