Ford Recalls Small SUVs Due to Fire Risk
Ford is recalling nearly 43,000 small SUVs due to a fire risk caused by gasoline leaking onto hot engine surfaces. The recall includes certain Bronco Sport SUVs from 2022 and 2023, as well as Escape SUVs from 2022, all of which are equipped with 1.5-liter engines.
The problem stems from cracked fuel injectors, which can allow gasoline or vapor to build up near ignition sources, leading to fires. To address this issue, Ford dealers will install a tube below the vehicle to prevent gasoline from flowing back onto hot surfaces. Additionally, the engine control software will be updated to detect a drop in fuel injection pressure. If such a drop is detected, the software will disable the high pressure fuel pump, reduce engine power, and lower engine compartment temperatures.
Ford plans to send a letter to owners starting April 1 to inform them of the recall. However, it’s worth noting that no injuries or crashes have been reported thus far, despite 14 fuel injectors being replaced under warranty due to five under-hood fires.
In an effort to reassure customers, Ford stated that it is confident the recall repair will prevent the issue from occurring and protect the customer. The new software will also trigger a dashboard warning light to alert customers to drive to a safe location, stop their vehicle, and arrange for service. Ford estimates that the problem affects only about 1% of the SUVs involved.
Ford has also announced that owners who experience cracked fuel injectors will be covered by the company’s warranty. In June, details of an extended warranty will be announced. Repairs are already available for affected vehicles.
It’s important to note that this recall is a continuation of a recall issued in 2022. Ford has already tested the repair on vehicles involved in the previous recall and has not encountered any issues.
However, not everyone is satisfied with Ford’s approach to the recall. The nonprofit Center for Auto Safety criticized Ford’s solution for the fuel leaks, referring to it as a “band-aid recall.” The organization believes that Ford is simply avoiding the expense of repairing the fuel injectors. They argue that recalls should address the root cause of vehicle problems rather than opting for less-costly repairs.
There are also concerns that even with the repairs, drivers may still be forced to exit a freeway at low speeds, increasing the risk of a crash. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has been urged to ensure that recalls address the underlying issues rather than just providing temporary fixes. However, the NHTSA is currently restricted from preapproving recall fixes.
If owners have any questions about the recall, they are advised to contact a Ford dealership or Ford directly. Some experts argue that Congress should consider changing the law to allow the NHTSA to require more comprehensive solutions for recalls.
In conclusion, Ford is taking action to address the fire risk caused by gasoline leaking onto hot engine surfaces in its small SUVs. The company’s recall plan includes installing a tube to prevent gasoline flow, updating the engine control software, and offering warranty coverage for cracked fuel injectors. However, criticisms have been raised about the effectiveness of the recall and the need for more comprehensive solutions to vehicle problems.