2013-2015 Ford Escape, Fiesta ST, Fusion, Transit Connect: Recall Alert
CARS.COM
Vehicles Affected: Approximately 209,000 model-year 2014 Ford Escape SUVs manufactured between Feb. 12, 2013, and Sept. 2, 2014, at the Louisville Assembly Plant in Kentucky; model-year 2014-15 Fiesta ST hatchbacks manufactured between Jan. 22, 2013, and May 27, 2014, at the Cuautitlan Stamping and Assembly Plant in Mexico; model-year 2013-14 Fusion sedans manufactured between Feb. 15, 2012, and June 6, 2014, at the Hermosillo Stamping and Assembly Plant in Mexico; and model-year 2013-15 Transit Connect vans manufactured between June 13, 2013, and Dec. 14, 2014, at the Valencia Assembly Plant in Venezuela
The Problem: The vehicles — all equipped with 1.6-liter gasoline turbocharged direct-injected engines — could be subject to a lack of coolant circulation resulting in the engine overheating. This could cause a crack in the cylinder head, resulting in a pressurized oil leak that, in the presence of a heat source such as a hot engine surface, increases the risk of an under-hood fire.
Ford said it is aware of 29 reports of fire associated with this issue in the U.S. and Canada, but no injuries.
The Fix: When service kits become available, dealers will install a coolant level sensor with supporting hardware and software for free. In the meantime, owners can check their vehicle manual for instructions on how to check and refill their coolant. The automaker stated that owners can continue to drive their vehicles, but they should visit the dealer if the vehicle exhibits a coolant leak or overheating, or if it frequently needs coolant added.
What Owners Should Do: Ford did not immediately announce an owner notification schedule. Owners can call the automaker at 866-436-7332 or visit www.safercar.gov to check their vehicle identification number and learn more.
Need to Find a Dealer for Service? Go to Cars.com Service & Repair to find your local dealer.
