Safety Concerns Prompt Ford to Take Action on Bronco Sport and Escape Models
Ford has issued a recall for approximately 43,000 small SUVs due to a potential fire hazard stemming from gasoline leaks near the fuel injectors. The affected vehicles include certain Bronco Sport SUVs from the 2022 and 2023 model years, as well as 2022 Escape SUVs, all equipped with 1.5-liter engines.
The Issue:
- Fuel injectors in these SUVs may develop cracks, leading to the accumulation of gasoline or vapor near ignition sources, posing a fire risk.
The Recall Remedy:
- Dealers will install a tube to redirect gasoline away from hot surfaces beneath the vehicle.
- Engine control software will be updated to detect pressure drops in the fuel injection system, triggering measures to mitigate risks, such as disabling the high-pressure fuel pump and reducing engine power.
Customer Notification and Response:
- Owners will receive notification letters starting April 1, outlining the recall procedure.
- Ford assures customers that the recall repairs will prevent failures and protect them. The updated software will also provide warning signals and guidance for safe vehicle shutdown.
Safety Assurance and Extended Warranty:
- Ford reports five under-hood fires and 14 warranty replacements for fuel injectors but no crashes or injuries.
- Warranty coverage will be extended for cracked fuel injectors, ensuring replacements for affected owners.
Criticism and Regulatory Response:
- Critics, including Michael Brooks from the Center for Auto Safety, label the recall as a temporary fix, expressing concerns about potential risks even after repairs.
- NHTSA acknowledges its role in monitoring recall performance and encourages owners with queries to reach out to dealerships or Ford directly.
Ford’s proactive recall underscores the importance of addressing safety concerns promptly, yet questions linger regarding the efficacy of the proposed remedies and the regulatory oversight of recall processes.
