With federal authorities applying more and more pressure on automakers, Ford announced today that it is recalling almost 600,000 vehicles in four separate recalls, with more than 80 percent of these cars and trucks being sent back due to steering gear bolt issues.
The largest recall involves 518,313 Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ sedans from the 2013-15 model years and Ford Edge crossovers from 2015, and is related to steering gear bolts that could possibly break, corrode, or crack. This would leave the car in manual steering, which could result in steering problems at slow speeds, and potential collisions. No accidents or casualties have been reported in relation to this large-scale recall.
Three other smaller recalls were also announced today, including one involving 50,157 Ford Focus, Edge, Escape, and Transit Connect units from the 2014 model year, and Ford Fiestas from the 2014-15 model years. These vehicles have problems with the nickel plating on the fuel pump that could cause the vehicles to stall or refuse to start. One accident has been brought to Ford’s attention in connection to this issue. Also, 22,616 2015 Lincoln MKZ sedans are being recalled for unusually bright parking lamps, and 91 2015 Ford F-150 pickups may be affected by improperly installed or missing underbody heat shields. No accidents or casualties have been reported for the latter two recalls.
The recalls come on the heels of a recent workshop organized by National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) administrator Mark Rosekind, where he expressed concern that automakers are not acting quick enough to address recalls and repair cars affected by these actions. Earlier today, Rosekind told reporters that he will be going to Detroit on Thursday to meet personally with Ford, General Motors, and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles officials regarding safety issues.