By David Shepardson
WASHINGTON (Reuters) – Ford Motor Co said Friday it issuing a new recall for 100,000 U.S. vehicles over fire risks, and expanding an earlier recall after a series of reported fires.
The new recall covers certain 2020 through 2022 model year Ford Escape, Maverick and Lincoln Corsair vehicles with 2.5-liter Hybrid/Plug-In Hybrid engines. Ford said in the event of an engine failure, significant quantities of engine oil and fuel vapor may be released that could accumulate near ignition sources resulting in a potential under-hood fire.
Dealers will modify the Under Engine Shield and Active Grille Shutter to address safety concerns. There are no accidents or injuries associated with this issue and customers do not need to park the vehicle outside.
Ford is separately expanding its recall of 2021 Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator SUVs for under-hood fire risks by another 27,000 U.S. vehicles after five additional fires were reported after its recall of 39,000 vehicles announced in May following 16 fire reports. One injury has been reported.
The No. 2 U.S. automaker is still advising customers to park those vehicles outside and away from structures until repairs are completed.
Vehicles may pose a risk of under-hood fire, including while the vehicle is parked and switched off.
Ford said it has recall parts available for about one-third of vehicles with an 800-watt cooling fan system but will not have all parts available for vehicles with a 700-watt cooling fan system until September.
Ford believes the cause of these vehicle fires can be traced to a change in manufacturing location by a supplier during the COVID-19 pandemic.
(Reporting by David Shepardson, Editing by Louise Heavens)
