Ford Recalls 43,000 SUVs for Fuel Leaks Posing Fire Risk

Apr 12, 2024 04:36 AM EDT

A BLACK VEHICLE PARKED FORD BRONCO — (Photo : PEXELS/Hawk i )

Ford Motor Co. has issued a recall for a substantial number of compact SUVs due to fears surrounding cracked fuel injectors, which may lead to fuel leakage and potentially ignite engine fires. However, the recall solution does not involve addressing the underlying fuel leak issue.

Latest Recall: Ford Fire Risk

In response to the concern raised by the NHTSA, Ford is taking action by instructing dealers to update the engine control software of the 43,000 SUVs to incorporate detection for fuel injector leaks. Additionally, they will install a drain tube to mitigate potential fuel leakage issues.

As reported by The Associated Press, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued a notice regarding Ford's recall of specific 2022-2023 Bronco Sport and 2022 Escape models equipped with 1.5-liter engines, totaling 42,652 SUVs. This recall is prompted by concerns related to potential fuel leaks.

Documents filed with U.S. safety regulators reveal that Ford has detected the possibility of fuel injector cracks, which might lead to gasoline or vapor buildup close to ignition sources and cause a fire hazard. Dealerships will install a tube that diverts gasoline away from hot surfaces and allows it to safely spill to the ground beneath the car in order to allay this worry. They will also perform software updates for the engine to allow for the identification of any pressure reduction in the fuel injection system.

Should such a drop occur, the software will take preventive action by deactivating the high-pressure fuel pump, reducing engine power output, and initiating measures to lower temperatures within the engine compartment. These details were outlined in documents published on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration website on Wednesday.

In correspondence via email, Ford stated its decision against replacing fuel injectors, expressing confidence that the recall repairs would effectively prevent such failures and safeguard customers.

The updated software is designed to activate a dashboard warning light, alerting drivers to the issue and enabling them to safely maneuver to a stop and arrange for service. According to documents submitted to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration by Ford, the problem is encountered in only about 1% of the affected SUVs.

Another report from Fox Business, stated that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued a notice indicating that Ford is taking steps to resolve the issue by instructing dealers to update the engine control software of the affected vehicles. This update will incorporate fuel injector leak detection capabilities and involve the installation of a drain tube as part of the remedy process.

2024 Ford Bronco Sports

According to Car and Driver, the 2024 Bronco Sport lineup sees the introduction of the Free Wheeling model, drawing inspiration from Ford's vibrant appearance package of the 1970s. This contemporary rendition features 17-inch wheels accented in red, a silver-painted grille, and body graphics reminiscent of a sunset. Inside, similar designs adorn the seatbacks, accompanied by reddish trim pieces and a distinctive plaque on the center console.

Additionally, Big Bend models now offer a Black Appearance package for $1750, which incorporates dark elements like a blacked-out grille, matte-black body decals, and 17-inch wheels. The 2024 Bronco Sport also welcomes two new paint options: Azure Gray and Desert Sand. Notably, the base trim level has been discontinued, elevating the Big Bend model to the new entry point and slightly increasing the starting price of the Bronco Sport by approximately $2000.