On July 30th 2018, owners of 2013-2016 Fusion sedans and 2013-2014 Escape SUVs were notified by Ford about a transmission system defect that posed a rollaway risk. The defect resulted in 550,000 vehicles across North America to be recalled. Now almost a year later, Ford recalls another 270,000 vehicles, specifically the 2013-2016 Ford Fusion cars equipped with a 2.5-liter engine, over the same issue of faulty shifter cable bushings and urges owners to use the parking brake until the defect has been repaired.
During a news release, Ford reported that they believe 259,182 affected models are in the United States, 19,282 in Canada, and another 3,765 are in Mexico. Affected models were manufactured between April 12, 2013 and February 29, 2016 at the Flat Rock Assembly Plant and between February 9, 2012 and April 4, 2016 at the Hermosillo Assembly Plant.
The Michigan-based automaker says it is aware of three reports of property damage and one injury related to the issue.
“The condition could allow the driver to move the shift lever to park and remove the ignition key while the transmission may not be in park, with no warning message or audible chime. If the parking brake is not applied, a shifter cable that detaches from the transmission could result in unintended vehicle movement, increasing the risk of injury or crash.”
Ford adds that the cause and definitive fix are still being determined, and that affected owners will be notified when they can start taking their vehicles in for the free fix.
In the same release, the Ford announced a recall of about 2,500 brand new Ranger pickup trucks in the U.S. due to an issue with the transmission shift cable bracket fastener.
To search for active recalls or sign up for safety alerts for a specific vehicle for free, use https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls.
If you or someone you know has been injured by a recalled vehicle or an automobile defect, contact an attorney at Abraham, Watkins, Nichols, Agosto, Aziz & Stogner by calling (713) 222-7211 or toll free at 713-222-7211.