Ford is recalling over 2.9 million vehicles to address a transmission issue that could lead to accidental rollaway accidents.
A bushing that connects the shifter cable to the transmission can erode or detach, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The defect may prevent the vehicles from switching into the appropriate gear. A car that appears to be in park may actually be in a different gear, permitting it to roll away.
“Root cause is unknown,” Ford stated in a report. “Based on Ford’s root cause investigation, heat and humidity have the potential to contribute to the hydrological breakdown of the bushing material.”
The automobile manufacturer recalled the following models: 2013 to 2019 Escape, 2013 to 2018 C-Max, 2013 to 2016 Fusion, 2013 to 2021 Transit Connect, and 2015 to 2018 Edge vehicles.
“The driver does not receive a warning message or audible chime,” according to Ford. “Exiting a vehicle without the transmission in the park position and without application of the parking brake may allow the vehicle to roll, increasing the risk of injury or crash.”
Ford is aware of four injury complaints and six property damage claims as a result of the malfunction, according to the company.
The problem has resulted in 1,630 warranty reports and 233 complaints to the business.
Owners will be alerted by letter and instructed to take their car to a Ford or Lincoln dealer to have the underhood shift bushing replaced and a protective cap installed over the shift cable bushing.
This service will be provided at no cost.
Dealer notifications began on June 13, 2022. Owner notice letters are expected to be mailed starting June 27 and conclude by July 25.
Neither Ford nor the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration immediately responded to The Dallas Express’ request for comment.