Ford is recalling certain models of the Escape, Maverick and Corsair from 2020 to 2022 due to the risk of under-hood fire. Reuters and CNBC. The recall affects more than 100,000 vehicles in the US, all of which come with 2.5-liter hybrid/plug-in hybrid (HEV/PHEV) engines.
In case of engine failure, Reuters And CNBC reports that engine oil and fuel vapor can flood ignition sources, leading to a potential fire under the hood of the car. Ford plans to adjust the affected vehicles’ under-engine shield and active grille shutters to allow better airflow, and will begin notifying owners of the recall on Aug. According to CNBC, Ford has received 23 reports of the issue while the engine is running, although no injuries have been reported. Ford did not immediately respond ledgeComment request.
In addition to this recall, Ford expanded the previous recall of select 2021 Lincoln Navigators and Ford Expedition SUVs for the risk of under-hood fires. At the time, the recall affected about 39,000 vehicles, but an update from Ford expanded this pool to 66,221 cars manufactured between July 27, 2020 and August 31, 2021.
The automaker traced the problem to a switch in manufacturers during the COVID-19 pandemic, and said that printed circuit boards from this supplier are “uniquely susceptible to high-current shorts.” Ford advises owners to park their cars outside and away from structures, but says they can still drive the vehicle until necessary replacement parts become available in September.
In June, Ford recalled about 49,000 of its electric Mustang Mach-E vehicles due to battery safety issues, and halted deliveries until it was fixed. According to InsideEVDealers now have access to a software update that fixes the problem, with Ford set to roll out an over-the-air update later.