If you or a loved one are the driver of a Ford Fusion or Lincoln MKZ, there has been a serious vehicle recall that needs your attention. Some of these sedans could have loose bolts in the steering wheel that could cause it to completely come off. Other drivers sharing the road with these cars should be aware of the dangers too! What are the details of the recall?
When Was the Issue Discovered?
In October 2017, federal regulators launched an investigation into these Ford models after many complaints to the NHTSA. In fact, the initial complaints began back in 2015, but Ford could not find a conclusive trend among the reported defects.
There have been two accidents and one injury related to the steering wheel problem, which Ford acknowledged as “alleged”. According to reports, one driver lost control of the vehicle when the steering wheel fell in his lap.
What Drivers Need to Know
This recall affects every version of the Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ. Most of the recalled vehicles are driven in the US, with about 100,000 sold in Canada and Mexico. To resolve the issue, Ford is telling car dealerships across the country to install a longer bolt in the steering wheel “with more robust thread engagement and larger nylon patch placed properly for proper torque retention”.
In the same announcement, Ford is also recalling 6,000 Fusion and Focus models for fire risk. The following models could be affected by a fracture in the clutch pressure plate:
- Focus model years 2013 – 2016 with Fox GTDI engine and B6 manual transmissions.
- Fusion model years 2013 – 2015 with Sigma GTDI engines and B6 manual transmissions.
Ford is no stranger to vehicle recalls. They are involved in the Takata air bag recall, in which shards of metal are launched at vehicle occupants upon air bag deployment, and several other 2017 recalls related to the Ford Fusion, Mondeo and Super Duty.
Unfortunately, Ford is not the only vehicle manufacturer to experience steering wheel issues. In February, Hyundai recalled nearly 50,000 Santa Fe and Santa Fe Sport crossovers.
What Should You Do?
If you receive a recall notice in the mail, call your dealership to schedule an appointment for the repairs. These will be done free of charge, but you could be put on a list if you wait too long to call. Even if a recall seems like a minor issue, always get it resolved because the future consequences could be serious.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident due to a vehicle defect, get the lawyers at Trantolo & Trantolo involved. To pursue your claim, contact us today.
