A Ford recall on more than 460,000 vehicles was announced globally as the automaker identified a flaw that may cause fuel leaks in nine different 2013 models.
An extensive list of vehicles affected, the recall is for the Ford Explorer crossover, Flex crossover, Taurus sedan, Fusion sedan, the luxury Lincoln MKS, MKZ, and MKT models, as well as the police issue Interceptor Utility and Sedan.
The automaker has received 600 complaints as of March 31, reported Ford spokeswoman Kelli Felker.
The Ford Fusion midsize sedan represents one of the most popular models in the Ford Motor Company's lineup. As many as 30,000 units assembled since May are a part of the mass recall. What's more, the latest fuel leak defect represents the third recall for the Fusion, which is built in the Hermosillo, Mexico, assembly plant alongside the Lincoln MKZ.
"The condition could result in customers detecting a fuel odor, or in some cases, observe evidence of a fuel leak on the ground," announced Ford spokeswoman Kelli Felker an email. "While a fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source may result in a fire, there have been no reports of fires. We are not aware of any accidents or injuries attributed to this condition."
According to Ford's U.S. sales chief Ken Czubay, the automaker is taking initiative to protect its customers and denies any drop in quality amid the ramp up of production.
"There hasn't been a noticeable strain on the company," Czubay comments.
Beyond the fuel leak defect, Ford Motor Company also announced a smaller recall on Friday recarding its 2013 Lincoln MKZ. The engine block heater cord is prone to fire due to inadequate insulation. In addition, the 2013 Ford Fusion suffers from improperly assembled steering gears, which may cause loss of steering.
Owners who detect the smell of gas or notice a leak are urged to contact their dealer immediately for a service appointment. To learn weather your vehicle is associated with the latest Ford Motor Company fuel leak recall, visit the official Ford service website and enter your Ford vehicle VIN number.
