Ford Motor Co. is recalling more than 125,000 Ford Escapes, Maverick pickups and Lincoln Corsairs from the 2020 to 2023 model years due engine failures that can cause an engine fire.
The recall covers various versions of the SUVs and pickups equipped with 2.5-liter hybrid or plug-in hybrid engines, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
According to the automaker, certain engine production issues could cause the engine to fail prematurely. There are 86,656 Escapes, 35,501 Mavericks and 3,165 Corsairs included in the recall.
Once that happened, engine oil and fuel vapor may be released into the engine compartment and accumulate near ignition sources such as hot engine or exhaust components, possibly resulting in an engine compartment fire, the company said in a NHTSA filing.
“Engine oil and/or fuel vapor that accumulates near a sufficiently hot surface, below the combustion initiation flame speed, may ignite resulting in an under hood fire, and increasing the risk of injury,” the company wrote in a report.
Ongoing problem
The action is really an expansion of the original recall where Ford recalled 100,000 Escapes, Corsairs and Mavericks last July after identifying 23 reports globally of a fire or smoke after a suspected block or oil pan breach.
Ford said on Tuesday it had reports of at least three vehicles that suffered fires after getting the 2022 recall fix.
“Owners are advised to park and shut off the engine as quickly as possible if they hear unexpected engine noises, notice a reduction in vehicle power, or see smoke,” the company wrote in the filing. “The remedy is currently under development.”
The action follows the Michigan-based automaker’s recall of 142,000 Lincoln MKC SUVs last week due to fire risks. The company advised owners to park outside and away from structures until the recall repair is complete.
Ford said last week that dealers will add an in-line fuse to the battery monitor sensor power circuit.
“certain engine production issues.” I’d love to see the 8D(s) on this one.