Ford recalls more than 694,000 Bronco Sport and Escape SUVs over fuel leak risk

Ford has issued a recall for 694,271 Bronco Sport and Escape SUVs due to a faulty fuel injector that can leak fuel, posing a fire hazard. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has alerted consumers about the potential risk associated with these vehicles.

The recall affects specific models, including the 2021-2024 Bronco Sport and 2020-2022 Escape vehicles equipped with 1.5L engines. According to the recall notice, a cracked fuel injector may lead to fuel leakage within the engine compartment, increasing the likelihood of a fire.

In response to the issue, Ford has announced that dealers will update the engine control software of the affected vehicles as a temporary safety measure. This update will be provided free of charge to owners. While it is not a permanent solution, the updated software will enable the detection of a cracked fuel injector and implement measures to reduce the risk of ignition in the engine compartment.

Owners of the impacted vehicles will receive notification letters on August 18, informing them of the recall. They will also be notified when a permanent fix is available. Owners can reach out to Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332 for further assistance. The NHTSA safety hotline is also available at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-888-275-9171), and information can be found on the NHTSA website.

This recall supersedes previous NHTSA recall numbers 22V-859, 24V-187, and 25V-165. Vehicles that were previously remedied under these recalls will require the new final remedy once it is available. Ford has issued a total of 90 vehicle recalls this year, affecting over 5 million vehicles. The manufacturer has been proactive in addressing safety concerns, with the most recent recall involving more than 850,000 vehicles due to faulty fuel pumps.

In recent months, Ford has surpassed all other automakers in the number of safety recalls issued. The Wall Street Journal reports that Ford has demonstrated a commitment to addressing safety issues promptly and effectively. Anne Marie D. Lee, an editor for CBS MoneyWatch, highlights Ford’s dedication to ensuring the safety of its vehicles and customers.