Ford Escort recalls
38 official safety recalls for the Ford Escort from NHTSA (United States), DVSA (United Kingdom) and the EU Safety Gate, newest first. Recall repairs are normally free at the maker’s dealers.
Whether your car is affected and still needs the repair depends on its VIN or registration. Check it on the official site for your country:
- United States: nhtsa.gov/recalls
- United Kingdom: check-vehicle-recalls.service.gov.uk
Air bag monitor may short if contaminated
Water or other liquids can contaminate the air bag monitor and cause an electrical short. The readiness light may come on; in rare cases, an air bag may deploy, wiring may melt or a fire may occur. Dealers will fit a shield and apply grease to the connector. The remedy is free.
Official NHTSA recall text
- Component
- AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE-INACTIVE
- Defect
- ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE INTEGRATED AIR BAG MONITOR (IABM) CAN BE CONTAMINATED WITH WATER OR OTHER LIQUIDS AND COULD EXPERIENCE INTERNAL ELECTRICAL SHORTING.
- Consequence
- THIS MAY, IN TURN, CAUSE THE AIR BAG READINESS LIGHT TO ILLUMINATE AND IN VERY RARE OCCURRENCES, AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT, MELTED WIRING, OR FIRE MAY OCCUR.
- Remedy
- DEALERS WILL INSTALL THE SHIELD OVER THE IABM AND APPLY NYOGEL GREASE TO THE CONNECTOR. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN FEBRUARY 11, 2003. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-866-436-7332.
- Notes
- CUSTOMERS CAN ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).
Power steering pump pulley may break
The power steering pump drive pulley may crack or break, making the steering heavy or stiff. A modified pulley will be fitted.
Official DVSA recall text
- Component
- LOSS OF STEERING POWER ASSISTANCE
- Defect
- The power assisted steering pump drive pulley may crack or break up. this could result in the steering being heavy/stiff to operate.
- Remedy
- Fit a modified drive pulley to the affected vehicles.
Seat belt buckle base may not withstand crash forces
The buckle base may not meet the required load strength because it was not properly heat treated. In a crash, an occupant may not be properly restrained. Dealers will check buckle date codes and replace affected buckles free of charge.
Official NHTSA recall text
- Component
- SEAT BELTS
- Defect
- VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES, LIGHT DUTY TRUCKS, SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, AND MINI VANS EQUIPPED WITH TRW SEAT BELT BUCKLE ASSEMBLIES. THE BUCKLE BASE OF THESE SEAT BELT ASSEMBLIES WERE NOT PROPERLY HEAT TREATED AND THEREFORE DO NOT PASS THE LOAD BEARING REQUIREMENT OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 209, "SEAT BELT ASSEMBLIES."
- Consequence
- IN THE EVENT OF A VEHICLE CRASH, THE OCCUPANT MAY NOT BE PROPERLY RESTRAINED.
- Remedy
- DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE DATE CODE ON CERTAIN SEAT BELT BUCKLES OF YOUR VEHICLE AND REPLACE ALL SEAT BELT BUCKLES THAT FALL WITHIN THE SUSPECT DATE CODE RANGE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN OCTOBER 26, 2000. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673.
- Notes
- ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).
Manual transmission shift pattern is not displayed
The transmission shift pattern is not displayed where the driver can see it, so the driver may not know the transmission position. Owners will receive an adhesive shift pattern plaque and instructions; a dealer can attach it if requested.
Official NHTSA recall text
- Component
- POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION:SHIFT PATTERN INDICATOR
- Defect
- VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH THE S/R OPTION. THE S/R OPTION INCLUDES, AMONG OTHER FEATURES, A 5-SPEED MANUAL TRANSMISSION. ON THESE VEHICLES, THE TRANSMISSION SHIFT PATTERN IS NOT DISPLAYED IN THE OCCUPANT COMPARTMENT IN VIEW OF THE DRIVER. THIS DOES NOT COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 102, "TRANSMISSION SHIFT LEVER SEQUENCE, STARTER INTERLOCK, AND TRANSMISSION BRAKING EFFECT."
- Consequence
- THE DRIVER MAY NOT BE AWARE OF THE TRANSMISSION POSITION OF THE VEHICLE.
- Remedy
- OWNERS WILL BE PROVIDED WITH AN ADHESIVE BACKED PLAQUE CONTAINING THE SHIFT PATTERN, ALONG WITH MATERIALS AND INSTRUCTIONS FOR LOCATING AND AFFIXING THE PLAQUE TO THE VEHICLE CENTER CONSOLE, JUST FORWARD OF THE SHIFT LEVER. OWNERS WILL ALSO BE ADVISED THAT THEIR DEALER CAN AFFIX THE PLAQUE IF THEY PREFER.
- Notes
- FORD RECALL NO. 99S31.OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN NOVEMBER 2, 1999. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673.ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).
Passenger airbag may deploy unexpectedly
An electrostatic discharge through the airbag igniter may cause the passenger airbag to deploy unexpectedly. A ground wire will be fitted to the passenger airbag.
Official DVSA recall text
- Component
- UNEXPECTED DEPLOYMENT OF PASSENGER AIR BAG
- Defect
- Unexpected passenger air bag deployment due to an electrostatic discharge through the air bag igniter.
- Remedy
- Recall affected vehicles and fit ground wire to passenger air bag
Fuel tank may crack near heat shield attachment
Cracks may form in the fuel tank and allow fuel to leak, which could cause a fire if it reaches an ignition source. Dealers will remove the heat shield attachments; the tank straps retain the heat shield after installation.
Official NHTSA recall text
- Component
- FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
- Defect
- VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 1.9L ENGINES, BUILT AT THE HERMOSILLO ASSEMBLY PLANT AND ORIGINALLY SOLD OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN ARIZONA. CRACKS CAN DEVELOP IN THE FUEL TANK NEAR THE HEAT SHIELD ATTACHMENT RESULTING IN FUEL LEAKAGE IF THE CRACKS GO THROUGH THE FUEL TANK WALL.
- Consequence
- FUEL LEAKAGE IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE CAN RESULT IN A VEHICLE FIRE.
- Remedy
- DEALERS WILL REMOVE THE HEAT SHIELD ATTACHMENTS. THIS WILL NOT AFFECT HEAT SHIELD LOCATION OR FUNCTION, AS THE ATTACHMENTS ARE INTENDED TO KEEP THE SHIELD IN PLACE UNTIL THE FUEL TANK IS INSTALLED IN THE VEHICLE. AFTER INSTALLATION, THE FUEL TANK STRAPS RETAIN THE HEAT SHIELD.
- Notes
- OWNER NOTIFICATION WILL BEGIN SEPTEMBER 30, 1997.OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673.ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-800-424-9393.
Fuel tank may crack near heat shield attachment
Cracks may form in the fuel tank and allow fuel to leak, which could cause a fire if it reaches an ignition source. Dealers will remove the heat shield attachments; the tank straps retain the heat shield after installation.
Official NHTSA recall text
- Component
- FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
- Defect
- VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 1.9L ENGINES, BUILT AT THE HERMOSILLO OR WAYNE ASSEMBLY PLANTS AND ORIGINALLY SOLD OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN NEVADA, FLORIDA, HAWAII, TEXAS, CALIFORNIA, LOUISIANA, GEORGIA, SOUTH CAROLINA, MISSISSIPPI, OKLAHOMA, ALABAMA AND ARKANSAS. CRACKS CAN DEVELOP IN THE FUEL TANK NEAR THE HEAT SHIELD ATTACHMENT RESULTING IN FUEL LEAKAGE IF THE CRACKS GO THROUGH THE FUEL TANK WALL.
- Consequence
- FUEL LEAKAGE IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE CAN RESULT IN A VEHICLE FIRE.
- Remedy
- DEALERS WILL REMOVE THE HEAT SHIELD ATTACHMENTS. THIS WILL NOT AFFECT HEAT SHIELD LOCATION OR FUNCTION, AS THE ATTACHMENTS ARE INTENDED TO KEEP THE SHIELD IN PLACE UNTIL THE FUEL TANK IS INSTALLED IN THE VEHICLE. AFTER INSTALLATION, THE FUEL TANK STRAPS RETAIN THE HEAT SHIELD.
- Notes
- OWNER NOTIFICATION WILL BEGIN SEPTEMBER 30, 1997.OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673.ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-800-424-9393.
Ignition switch may overheat and catch fire
An internal short in the ignition switch can cause overheating, smoke and possibly fire in the steering column area. Dealers will replace the ignition switch.
Official NHTSA recall text
- Component
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
- Defect
- THE IGNITION SWITCH COULD EXPERIENCE AN INTERNAL SHORT CIRCUIT.
- Consequence
- THIS CONDITION COULD CAUSE OVERHEATING, SMOKE, AND POSSIBLY FIRE IN THE STEERING COLUMN AREA OF THE VEHICLE.
- Remedy
- DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE IGNITION SWITCH.
- Notes
- SYSTEM: ELECTRICAL; IGNITION SWITCH. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER AND MULTI-PURPOSE VEHICLES AND LIGHT DUTY TRUCKS. NOTE: OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME, SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673. ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-800-424-9393.
Brake vacuum pump may stop providing assistance
The brake vacuum pump may stop providing assistance, requiring greater pedal pressure and potentially increasing stopping distances. Dealers will check the pump's manufacturing code and replace pumps within certain ranges.
Official DVSA recall text
- Component
- FAILURE OF BRAKING SYSTEM VACUUM ASSISTANCE
- Defect
- The brake vacuum pump may cease to provide vacuum assistance. Should this occur greater brake pedal pressure would be needed and stopping distances may be increased.
- Remedy
- The affected vehicles are being recalled to Ford dealers to have the brake pump manufacturing codes checked. Vacuum pumps within certain ranges will be replaced with new units. This campaign supersedes recall R1995/081 and includes all the vehicles alrea
Rear brake cylinder bolts may loosen
If the bolts securing a rear brake cylinder are not fully tightened, they may loosen and impair the efficiency of that brake circuit. The bolts will be tightened to the correct specification.
Official DVSA recall text
- Component
- POSSIBILITY OF REAR BRAKE CYLINDERS BEING INSECURE
- Defect
- It is possible that the two bolts securing the rear brake cylinder to the brake back plate may not have been fully tightened. If the bolts were to come loose the efficiency of that brake circuit could be impaired.
- Remedy
- Recall the affected vehicles to tighten the subject bolts to the correct specification.
Rear brake hoses may be damaged by contact
Rear brake hoses may rub against the suspension and become damaged. Dealers will check and reroute the hoses, and replace any damaged hoses.
Official DVSA recall text
- Component
- CHAFING OF BRAKE HOSES
- Defect
- The hydraulic hoses to the rear brake calipers may have been incorrectly routed. This could result in contact between the hose and the suspension system with consequent damage to the hose.
- Remedy
- Recall the affected vehicles to check and where necessary re-route the subject hoses. Any damaged hoses will be replaced.
Tyres may have an insufficient speed rating
The fitted S-rated tyres may be below the vehicle's maximum speed capability, which could adversely affect stability at speeds above the tyre rating. They will be replaced with T-rated tyres.
Official DVSA recall text
- Component
- INCORRECTLY RATED TYRES
- Defect
- S maximum speed rated tyres have been fitted. As the vehicle maximum capability exceeds the maximum speed rating of the S rated tyre vehicle stability could be adversely affected on a vehicle travelling in excess of the speed rating.
- Remedy
- Recall the affected vehicles and replace the tyres with T maximum speed rated examples.
Driver air bag inflator weld may separate
An inadequate weld on the driver air bag inflator canister may separate in a collision. The air bag may not deploy properly, and hot gases could escape from behind the steering wheel, increasing injury risk. Dealers will install a new air bag module.
Official NHTSA recall text
- Component
- AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
- Defect
- THE DRIVER SIDE AIR BAG MODULE CAN HAVE AN INADEQUATELY WELDED INFLATOR CANISTER.
- Consequence
- IN THE EVENT OF A COLLISION, THE WELD SEAM CAN SEPARATE, CAUSING THE AIR BAG TO FAIL TO DEPLOY PROPERLY AND HOT GASES TO BE EXPELLED FROM THE BACK OF THE STEERING WHEEL. THIS CAN RESULT IN AN INCREASED RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY FROM THE HOT GASES AND THE AIR BAG FAILURE.
- Remedy
- DEALERS WILL INSTALL A NEW AIR BAG MODULE.
- Notes
- SYSTEM: INTERIOR SYSTEMS; PASSIVE RESTRAINT; AIR BAG; DRIVER SIDE.VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER CARS.NOTE: IF YOUR VEHICLE IS PRESENTED TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND THE REMEDY IS NOT PROVIDED FREE OF CHARGE WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME OR THE REMEDY DOES NOT CORRECT THE DEFECT, PLEASE CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673. ALSO, CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINSTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-800-424-9393.
Passenger air bag module mounting bolts may be missing
Two bolts may be missing from the passenger air bag module. In a frontal impact, the module could come out of the instrument panel and fail to restrain the passenger, increasing injury risk. Dealers will inspect and, if needed, install and properly torque the bolts.
Official NHTSA recall text
- Component
- AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
- Defect
- TWO BOLTS THAT ATTACH THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM MODULE TO THE INSTRUMENT PANEL ARE MISSING. IN THE EVENT OF A FRONTAL IMPACT, THE MODULE CAN COME OUT OF THE INSTRUMENT PANEL.
- Consequence
- THIS WOULD NOT RESTRAIN THE PASSENGER AND WOULD RESULT IN AN INCREASED RISK OF INJURY.
- Remedy
- DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND, IF NECESSARY, INSTALL AND TORQUE TO SPECIFICATION THE MOUNTING BOLTS FOR THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG.
- Notes
- SYSTEM: INTERIOR SYSTEMS; PASSIVE RESTRAINTS; AIR BAG; DRIVER.VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES.NOTE: IF YOUR VEHICLE IS PRESENTED TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND THE REMEDY IS NOT PROVIDED FREE OF CHARGE WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME OR THE REMEDY DOES NOT CORRECT THE DEFECT, PLEASE CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673. ALSO, CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-800-424-9393.
Exhaust downpipe may contact wiring
The exhaust downpipe may separate and fall onto the starter motor terminal, damaging the wiring loom and potentially causing loss of electrical circuits. The downpipe will be replaced.
Official DVSA recall text
- Component
- EXHAUST DOWNPIPE MAY MOVE AND CONTACT WIRING LOOM
- Defect
- It is possible that the exhaust downpipe may separate from the upper flange and drop onto the starter motor terminal causing damage to the vehicle wiring loom. This may result in the loss of various electrical circuits.
- Remedy
- Recall the affected vehicles for replacement of the exhaust downpipe with the current production component.
Driver seat may not lock in position
A lock plate defect may prevent the driver seat from fully engaging in some positions near the middle of its track. The seat could move in a crash and reduce occupant protection. Dealers will replace the inboard seat track.
Official NHTSA recall text
- Component
- SEATS
- Defect
- THE LOCK PLATE OF THE DRIVER SIDE INBOARD SEAT TRACK ADJUSTERS WERE MANUFACTURED WITH AN UNAUTHORIZED MODIFICATION TO THE FABRICATION PROCESS WHICH CAUSES THE SEAT NOT TO FULLY ENGAGE IN CERTAIN SEATING POSITIONS NEAR THE MID-POINT OF THE SEAT TRACK TRAVEL.
- Consequence
- IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH THE SEAT CAN MOVE, WHICH WOULD RESULT IN REDUCED OCCUPANT PROTECTION.
- Remedy
- DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE DRIVER SIDE INBOARD SEAT TRACK.
- Notes
- SYSTEM: INTERIOR SYSTEMS; SEAT TRACKS AND ANCHORS.VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES.NOTE: IF YOUR VEHICLE IS PRESENTED TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND THE REMEDY IS NOT PROVIDED WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME AND FREEOF CHARGE OR THE REMEDY DOES NOT CORRECT THE DEFECT OR NONCOMPLIANCE, PLEASE CONTACT FORD SERVICE CENTER AT 1-800-392-3673. ALSO, CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-800-424-9393.
Tailgate strut brackets may bend
One or both brackets attaching the tailgate struts may bend, allowing a strut to detach and the tailgate to close unexpectedly. Both brackets will be reinforced and any bent brackets replaced.
Official DVSA recall text
- Component
- TAILGATE STRUT BRACKETS MAY BEND.
- Defect
- There is a possibility that one or both of the brackets which attach the tailgate struts to the body 'C' pillars may bend allowing the strut to detach. This could permit the tailgate to close unexpectedly.
- Remedy
- Recall the affected vehicles for reinforcement of both strut brackets and replacement of any brackets found to be bent.
Ignition lock pins may move out of position
Pins securing the ignition lock may move or come out, allowing the lock to disengage and the steering column to lock, which could cause loss of vehicle control. The ignition lock housing and related locks will be replaced if a pin is missing or misplaced; otherwise, a sleeve will be fitted to keep the pins in place.
Official NHTSA recall text
- Component
- ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:ANTI-THEFT:CONTROL MODULE
- Defect
- THE ROLL PINS SECURING THE IGNITION LOCK IN THE STEERING COLUMN HOUSING CAN SEPARATE OR MOVE OUT OF POSITION.
- Consequence
- THE IGNITION LOCK CYLINDER MAY DISENGAGE FROM THESTEERING COLUMN HOUSING WHICH COULD CAUSE THE STEERING COLUMN TO LOCK UP,RESULTING IN LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL AND A POSSIBLE ACCIDENT.
- Remedy
- IF ONE OR BOTH OF THE ROLL PINS ARE MISSING OR NOT FULLY INSERTED, THE IGNITION LOCK HOUSING WILL BE REPLACED, ALONG WITH THE DOOR-LOCKS AND THE LIFTGATE OR DECK-LID LOCKS SO THAT KEY COMPATIBILITY IS MAINTAINED. IF BOTH PINS ARE PRESENT AND FULLY INSERTED, A PLASTIC SNAP-ON SLEEVE WILL BE INSTALLED AS A PRECAUTION TO PREVENT THE ROLL PINS FROM COMING OUT.
- Notes
- SYSTEM: STEERING.VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER CARS.
Front brake discs may be too thin
Some front brake discs may be too thin, which could reduce braking performance. Discs will be examined and both front discs replaced if either does not meet the specified dimensions.
Official DVSA recall text
- Component
- FRONT BRAKE DISCS OF INSUFFICIENT THICKNESS
- Defect
- A small number of subject vehicles may have been equipped with front brake discs of insufficient metal thickness. This could adversely affect braking performance.
- Remedy
- Recall the affected vehicles for examination of the front brake discs. Where any disc does not meet the manufacturers dimensional specification both front discs will be renewed.
Front towing eye may detach
Welds securing the front towing eye may not meet specification, allowing the eye to detach while towing. The welds will be inspected and reworked if needed.
Official DVSA recall text
- Component
- INSECURITY OF FRONT TOWING EYE
- Defect
- The welds securing the front towing eye to its mounting bracket are not to specification and can result in detachment of the eye when the vehicle is under tow.
- Remedy
- Recall the affected vehicles for inspection of the welds which secure the front towing eye. Where these are not to specification the welds will be reworked as per the manufacturers instructions.
Fuel pump solder joint may crack
A solder joint at the fuel pump sending unit may crack, allowing fuel vapour to escape or a small amount of fuel to leak. Leaking fuel could catch fire if exposed to an ignition source. Install a new fuel pump sending assembly.
Official NHTSA recall text
- Component
- FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Defect
- FATIGUE CRACKS CAN DEVELOP IN THE SOLDER JOINT BETWEEN THE FUEL RETURN TUBE AND THE FUEL PUMP SENDING UNIT LOCATED AT THE TOP OF THE FUEL TANK.
- Consequence
- SHOULD A CRACK DEVELOP, FUEL VAPOR CAN ESCAPE FROM THETANK WHEN THE TANK IS FULL, AND A SMALL AMOUNT OF FUEL CAN LEAK FROM THE CRACK.FUEL LEAKS CAN RESULT IN FIRE WHEN EXPOSED TO A SOURCE OF IGNITION.
- Remedy
- INSTALL A NEW FUEL PUMP SENDING ASSEMBLY.
- Notes
- SYSTEM: FUEL SYSTEM.VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH FUEL PUMP SENDINGASSEMBLIES PRODUCED BY FORD ELECTRICAL AND FUEL HANDLING DIVISION (FEHD).
Stop lamp switch may fail
The stop lamp switch may malfunction, leaving the brake lights off when braking and making it harder for following drivers to tell the vehicle is slowing. Replace the faulty switch.
Official NHTSA recall text
- Component
- EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH
- Defect
- THE STOP LAMP SWITCHES COULD INTERMITTENTLY MALFUNCTION RESULTING IN THE STOP LAMPS NOT ILLUMINATING WHEN THE BRAKES ARE APPLIED.
- Consequence
- THIS COULD RESULT IN FOLLOWING MOTORISTS NOT BEINGSIGNALED THAT THE VEHICLE IS BRAKING, AND COULD RESULT IN A COLLISION.
- Remedy
- REPLACE THE FAULTY STOP LAMP SWITCHES.
- Notes
- SYSTEM: STOP LAMPS.VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER CARS.
Brake pipes may chafe and leak
Brake pipes may chafe against the front stabiliser bar, causing brake fluid loss and reduced braking efficiency. The pipes will be rerouted and secured with additional clips; damaged pipes will be replaced if needed.
Official DVSA recall text
- Component
- BRAKE PIPES CHAFING
- Defect
- It is possible that certain brake pipes may not be secured to the vehicle underbody and may chafe on the front stabiliser bar. This could result in loss of brake fluid and reduced braking efficiency.
- Remedy
- Recall the affected vehicles. Re-route and secure the subject brake pipes using additional clips. Damaged brake pipes will be replaced where required
Horn bracket may fracture
The mounting bracket for the dual horns may fracture, allowing them to fall from the vehicle and creating a possible hazard to other traffic. Running over a fallen horn could momentarily affect steering. The bracket will be replaced with a stronger version.
Official DVSA recall text
- Component
- FRACTURE OF HORN BRACKET
- Defect
- The mounting bracket for the dual horns may fracture and allow the horns to fall from the vehicle. As well as presenting a possible hazard to other traffic this could result in the steering being momentarily affected should the vehicle run over the
- Remedy
- Recall affected vehicles and replace the original horn bracket with a stronger version.
Accelerator pedal may stick open
A bolt securing the fuel line shield may interfere with the accelerator pedal, causing it to stick at wide open throttle and potentially leading to loss of control and an accident. Cut off the excess bolt length.
Official NHTSA recall text
- Component
- VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL
- Defect
- INTERFERENCE OCCUR BETWEEN BOLT THAT SECURES A FUEL LINE SHIELD TO THE LOWER PORTION OF THE DASH PANEL AND THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL.
- Consequence
- THIS COULD CAUSE THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL TO STICK AT THE WIDE OPEN THROTTLE POSITION AND RESULT IN LOSS OF CONTROL WITH THE RISK OF A VEHICLE ACCIDENT.
- Remedy
- CUT OFF EXTRA LENGTH OF BOLT THAT PROTRUDES ABOVE SURFACE OF WELD NUT TO PREVENT INTERFERENCE.
- Notes
- SYSTEM: THROTTLE LINKAGES. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER CARS.
Windshield may not be properly bonded
Without the required primer, the windshield may not bond properly to the body, and the vehicle may not meet the stated safety standard. The windshield will be removed and reinstalled with the primer.
Official NHTSA recall text
- Component
- VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD
- Defect
- SPECIAL PRIMER THAT PROMOTES THE BONDING OF A URETHANE ADHESIVE TO THE GLASS WAS NOT APPLIED TO THE WINDSHIELDS BEFORE INSTALLATION.
- Consequence
- OMISSION OF THE PRIMER COULD CAUSE THE WINDSHIELD NOT TOBE PROPERLY ADHERED TO BODY, AND VEHICLE WOULD NOT COMPLY WITH FMVSS 212.
- Remedy
- REMOVE AND PROPERLY INSTALL WINDSHIELD USING SPECIAL PRIMER.
- Notes
- SYSTEM: WINDSHIELD / FMVSS 212VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER CARS.
Driver's seat track pedestal may fatigue
The driver's seat track pedestal may fracture from fatigue, allowing the seat to rock during acceleration or deceleration and potentially causing a crash. A reinforcement will be installed, and a new seat track fitted as needed.
Official NHTSA recall text
- Component
- SEATS
- Defect
- THE FORWARD OUTBOARD PEDESTAL OF THE SEAT TRACK OF DRIVER'S SEAT MAY BE SUSCEPTIBLE TO FATIGUE FRACTURE.
- Consequence
- THIS COULD RESULT IN A LIMITED DEGREE OF ROCKING MOTIONOF THE DRIVERS SEAT ASSEMBLY UPON ACCELERATION OR DECELERATION, WHICH COULDCAUSE AN ACCIDENT.
- Remedy
- INSTALL A REINFORCEMENT ON ALL MODELS AND A NEW SEAT TRACK AS NECESSARY
- Notes
- SYSTEM: SEAT TRACK PEDESTAL.VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER CARS.
Oil may leak onto the exhaust manifold
A cracked cylinder head or split rocker arm cover gasket may let oil leak onto the hot exhaust manifold, potentially causing an engine compartment fire. Cracked cylinder heads or rocker arm cover gaskets will be replaced, as applicable.
Official NHTSA recall text
- Component
- ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
- Defect
- EXTERNAL CRACKS ABOVE THE NUMBER 3 CYLINDER (1984 MODELS) OR ROCKER ARM COVER GASKETS SPLITTING (1985 MODELS) COULD ALLOW OIL TO LEAK ONTO THE EXHAUST MANIFOLD.
- Consequence
- ENGINE OIL LEAKING ONTO A HOT EXHAUST MANIFOLD COULDRESULT IN AN ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE.
- Remedy
- REPLACE CRACKED CYLINDER HEADS (1984 MODELS); REPLACE ROCKER ARM COVER GASKETS (1985 MODELS).
- Notes
- SYSTEM:ENGINE/CYLINDER HEADS, ROCKER ARM COVER GASKETS.VEHICLE DESCRIPTION:PASSENGER CARS WITH 1.6L AND 1.9L ENGINES.
Fuel pump diaphragm may rupture
The mechanical fuel pump diaphragm may deteriorate and rupture, allowing fuel to escape through the vent and potentially cause a fire. The remedy is to install pumps with improved diaphragm material and revise the electric fuel pump circuit wiring.
Official NHTSA recall text
- Component
- FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Defect
- THE DIAPHRAGM MATERIAL OF THE MECHANICAL FUEL PUMPS MAY DETERIORATE AND ALLOW THE DIAPHRAGM TO RUPTURE.
- Consequence
- FUEL PUMPED THROUGH THE RUPTURED DIAPHRAGM AND OUT OFTHE VENT OPENING COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
- Remedy
- INSTALL NEW MECHANICAL FUEL PUMPS WITH IMPROVED DIAPHRAGM MATERIAL AND REVISE WIRING FOR ELECTRIC FUEL PUMP CIRCUITS.
- Notes
- SYSTEM: FUEL PUMPS.VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER CARS WITH SPECIALLY EQUIPPED ENGINES FOR METHANOLFUELS.
Fuel line coupling may come apart
A spring-lock fuel line coupling may not be properly engaged and could separate, causing fuel loss and a fire risk if fuel meets an ignition source. The remedy is to install retainer clips over the couplings to prevent separation and leakage.
Official NHTSA recall text
- Component
- FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Defect
- SPRING LOCK FUEL LINE COUPLING MAY NOT BE PROPERLY ENGAGED.
- Consequence
- COUPLING COULD DISENGAGE DUE TO FUEL PRESSURE,VIBRATION, AND ENGINE MOVEMENTS; THIS WOULD CAUSE LOSS OF FUEL WHICH, INPRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, CREATES A FIRE RISK.
- Remedy
- INSTALL RETAINER CLIPS OVER THE COUPLINGS TO PREVENT COUPLING SEPARATION AND FUEL LEAKAGE.
- Notes
- SYSTEM: FUEL LINE COUPLINGVEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER CARS AND LIGHT TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH FUELINJECTION.
Lug nuts may seize and wheel studs may fracture
Lug nuts could gall and seize on the wheel studs without providing adequate clamping force. The studs could fracture, risking wheel separation with little warning. Replace the lug nuts and, if necessary, the wheels and wheel studs.
Official NHTSA recall text
- Component
- WHEELS:LUGS/NUTS/BOLTS/STUDS
- Defect
- LUG NUTS COULD GALL AND POSSIBLY SEIZE ON THE WHEEL STUDS WITHOUT PROVIDING ADEQUATE CLAMPING LOAD ON THE WHEELS.
- Consequence
- WHEEL STUDS COULD FRACTURE CREATING A RISK OF A WHEELSEPARATING WITH LITTLE FOREWARNING.
- Remedy
- REPLACE WHEEL LUG NUTS AND IF NECESSARY, REPLACE WHEELS AND WHEEL STUDS.
- Notes
- SYSTEM: WHEEL LUG NUTS.VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER CARS EQUIPPED WITH STAINLESS STEEL DECORATIVELUG NUTS INCLUDED WITH STYLED STEEL, POLYCAST, AND CAST ALUMINUM WHEELS.
Rear seat belt retractor may jam
Twisted webbing may enter the rear seat belt retractor housing and jam the retractor, interfering with belt movement and discouraging use. A clip will be inserted to prevent jamming.
Official NHTSA recall text
- Component
- SEAT BELTS:REAR/OTHER
- Defect
- REAR SEAT BELT RETRACTORS MAY ALLOW TWISTED WEBBING TO ENTER THE RETRACTOR HOUSING AND JAM THE RETRACTOR. CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: A JAMMED RETRACTOR WOULD INTERFERE WITH WEBBING RETRACTION AND WITHDRAWAL. THIS WILL DISCOURAGE SEAT BELT USAGE.
- Remedy
- A CLIP WILL BE INSERTED INTO THE RETRACTOR HOUSING WEBBING TO PREVENT JAMMING.
- Notes
- VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER CARS WITH FLOOR MOUNTED REAR SEAT BELT RETRACTORS. SYSTEM: REAR SEAT BELT RETRACTORS.
Throttle lever may not return to idle
Misalignment between the air conditioner shutoff switch and throttle lever pin may keep the throttle from returning to idle, causing loss of accelerator control. Dealers will adjust the switch and align it with the pin.
Official NHTSA recall text
- Component
- VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Defect
- THE THROTTLE LEVER MAY NOT RETURN TO IDLE POSITION DUE TO MISALIGNMENT OF THE AIR CONDITIONER SHUT OFF SWITCH TO THE THROTTLE LEVER PIN. CONSEQUENCE OF DEFECT: A JAMMED THROTTLE COULD RESULT IN A LOSS OF ACCELERATOR CONTROL, WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING, AND AN ACCIDENT.
- Remedy
- ADJUST SHUTOFF SWITCH AND ASSURE PROPER ALIGNMENT TO THROTTLE LEVER PIN.
- Notes
- VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER CARS EQUIPPED WITH 1.9 2V LITER ENGINES AND AIRCONDITIONING.SYSTEM: THROTTLE LEVER.
Brake line may rub against engine bracket
The brake line may be too close to an engine bracket, which could rub against it as the engine moves. The line will be inspected and rerouted if needed.
Official NHTSA recall text
- Component
- SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Defect
- THE BRAKE LINE MAY BE POSITIONED TOO CLOSE TO AN ENGINE BRACKET. NORMAL ENGINE MOVEMENTS MAY CAUSE THE BRACKET TO RUB AGAINST THE BRAKE LINE.
- Remedy
- THE BRAKE LINE WILL BE INSPECTED AND REROUTED IF NECESSARY.
- Notes
- VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH ELECTRONIC FUEL INJECTIONAND TURBO 1.6 LITER ENGINES.SYSTEM: SERVICE BRAKES; BRAKE LINE.CONSEQUENCES OF DEFECT: IF THE BRAKE LINE WEARS ENOUGH THAT BRAKE FLUID LEAKSFROM THE LINE, THE VEHICLE STOPPING DISTANCE MAY INCREASE. THE DETERIORATION INBRAKING PERFORMANCE FROM A FLUID LEAK COULD RESULT IN AN ACCIDENT.NOTE: THE BRAKE WARNING LIGHT SHOULD ALERT DRIVER TO FLUID LOSS. INCREASEDBRAKE PEDAL TRAVEL OR SPONGY BRAKE PEDAL ACTION MAY ALSO OCCUR.
Seat frame may sever front seat belts
In an accident, depending on the force of impact, the seat frame may sever the front seat belts. The dealer will install a molded spacer between the reinforcement plates and lower decorative plastic cover.
Official NHTSA recall text
- Component
- SEATS
- Defect
- SEAT FRAME STRUCTURE COULD SEVER FRONT SEAT BELTS IF VEHICLE IS INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT, DEPENDING ON FORCE OF IMPACT.
- Remedy
- DEALER WILL INSTALL A MOLDED SPACER BETWEEN REINFORCEMENT PLATES AND LOWER DECORATIVE PLASTIC COVER.
- Notes
- VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH NON-RECLINING FRONTSEATS.SYSTEM: INTERIOR; FRONT SEAT BELTS.CONSEQUENCES OF DEFECT: IF SEAT BELT IS CUT DURING IMPACT, FRONT PASSENGERSWILL NO LONGER BE PROTECTED BY SAFETY BELT, WHICH COULD RESULT IN PERSONALINJURY.NOTE: UNTIL THE DEFECT CAN BE CORRECTED, SEAT BELTS SHOULD BE USED AS THEY DOAFFORD SOME PROTECTION.
Shoulder belt anchor bolts may be inadequately supported
The material supporting the shoulder belt ring bolts may not be strong enough, and the attachment does not meet the stated safety standard. Dealers will install new attaching hardware to strengthen the mounting.
Official NHTSA recall text
- Component
- SEAT BELTS:FRONT:ANCHORAGE
- Defect
- THE BOLTS THAT ATTACH THE D-SHAPED RING FOR THE SHOULDER BELT ARE INADEQUATELY SUPPORTED BY THE MATERIAL IN WHICH THEY ARE MOUNTED. THE ATTACHMENT DOES NOT COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 210, "SEAT BELT ASSEMBLY ANCHORAGES".
- Remedy
- DEALERS WILL INSTALL NEW ATTACHING HARDWARE TO IMPROVE THE STRENGTH OF THE MOUNTING.
- Notes
- VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES AND LIGHT TRUCKS.SYSTEM: INTERIOR SYSTEMS; SEAT BELTS AND UPPER TORSO RESTRAINT ATTACHMENTS.CONSEQUENCES OF DEFECT: IN SEVERE COLLISIONS, THE SHOULDER BELT ATTACHMENTCOULD SEPARATE, INCREASING THE POSSIBILITY OF OCCUPANT INJURY.NOTE: MANUFACTURER ADVISES THAT SEAT BELTS SHOULD CONTINUE TO BE USED AT ALLTIMES, AS SUBSTANTIAL BENEFITS MAY STILL BE OBTAINED.
Door lock pillars may crack
Normal door use could cause fatigue cracks in the lock pillars where the latch striker reinforcements attach. Dealers will repair damaged pillars and install reinforcements.
Official NHTSA recall text
- Component
- LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH
- Defect
- DOOR LOCK PILLARS COULD DEVELOP FATIGUE CRACKS FROM NORMAL USAGE OF DOOR, AT THE POINT WHERE DOOR LATCH STRIKER REINFORCEMENTS ARE ATTACHED.
- Remedy
- ANY DAMAGED LOCK PILLARS WILL BE REPAIRED AND REINFORCEMENTS WILL BE INSTALLED BETWEEN THE DOOR LATCH STRIKER AND LOCK PILLARS.
- Notes
- VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES; TWO DOOR.SYSTEM: STRUCTURE; DOOR LOCK PILLARS.CONSEQUENCES OF DEFECT: DOOR MAY NOT LATCH PROPERLY. IN DRIVING OVER ROUGHROADS THE DOOR COULD OPEN, ALLOWING PASSENGER TO FALL FROM VEHICLE AND BECOMEINJURED.
Fuel filler hose may be cut in a crash
In a crash barrier test, the hose connecting the fuel tank and filler pipe vent tube was cut, causing fuel to leak. Dealers will install a brace to improve fuel tank impact resistance.
Official NHTSA recall text
- Component
- FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:FILLER PIPE AND CAP
- Defect
- DURING A CRASH BARRIER TEST, THE RUBBER HOSE CONNECTING THE FUEL TANK AND THE METAL FILLER PIPE VENT TUBE WAS CUT, RESULTING IN FUEL LEAKAGE. THE INVOLVED VEHICLES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 301, "FUEL SYSTEM INTEGRITY".
- Remedy
- DEALER WILL INSTALL A BRACE BETWEEN THE RIGHT SIDE REAR QUARTER PANEL AND THE BODY SIDE RAIL TO IMPROVE FUEL TANK IMPACT RESISTANCE.
- Notes
- VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES.SYSTEM: FUEL; FUEL TANK AND FILLER BRACKET.CONSEQUENCES OF DEFECT: FUEL LEAKAGE FOLLOWING AN ACCIDENT COULD RESULT IN AVEHICLE FIRE AND INJURIES TO VEHICLE PASSENGERS.
Sources: NHTSA (US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration), DVSA (UK Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency) and the EU Safety Gate (European Commission) recall data. Each recall covers vehicles sold in that market; models sold elsewhere may differ.