The recall notice spanned 740,000 vehicles. But before that, Volkswagen sent recall notices to 250,000 Atlas owners, advising them to stop using their vehicles as some models could suddenly engage the parking brake. Ford has now come out with its own advisory. Read on to find out which models the recall includes and what you should do next.
Here’s the backstory
In late February, Ford’s hugely popular Mustang had issues with the rearview camera being too dim or not working. But while that problem wasn’t deadly, the latest recall can have much more severe consequences. Ford has issued a couple of recalls spanning 737,000 vehicles, with most affected models at risk of catching fire. In the first notice, a problem with the 1.5-liter engine oil separator can occur in:
2020-2022 Ford Escape2021-2022 Ford Bronco Sport
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the engine oil separator housing could crack and develop an oil leak. The leaking oil could contact the hot engine, starting a fire when that happens. While no injuries or deaths have been reported, Ford is aware of at least eight such engine fires. In the second recall notice, Ford explains that the electric or electric-over hydraulic brake system on towed trailers might not work correctly when attached to specific models. The affected vehicles are:
2021-2022 Ford F-1502022 Ford F-250 SD2022 Ford F-350 SD2022 Ford F-450 SD2022 Ford F-5502022 Ford Maverick2022 Lincoln Navigator2022 Ford Expedition
What you can do about it
You should take your recalled vehicle to a Ford dealership for inspection in both cases. If inspectors find damage in the oil separator or any oil leaks, the dealer will replace the oil separator and seals free of charge. For the failing trailer brake recall, dealers will conduct an investigation and update the integrated trailer brake control module software. The update will also be done free of charge. If you have specific questions regarding the recalls, you can contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332 or the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236.
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