Brake, Power Problems Lead to Ford Minivan, SUV Recall

About 450,000 Ford SUVs and minivans have been recalled because of brake and power problems, which could lead to fires and auto accidents. 

The U.S. National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) has announced a Ford Escape recall (pdf) affecting the SUV’s 2001 and 2002 models due to brake problems that could leak brake fluid and cause a fire.

The NHTSA also announced a recall of some 2004-2004 model year Ford Freestar and Mercury Monterey minivans (pdf), which could suffer a loss of power due to defective torque converter output shafts.

The Ford Escapes had a similar recall in 2007 to fix the antilock brake system, but Ford officials say that some of those SUVs may not have been repaired properly. The latest recall warns that the vehicles may be equipped with a brake master cylinder reservoir cap that can leak. If the leaking brake fluid comes into contact with the antilock brake system module wiring harness connecter, it could smoke, melt or cause a vehicle fire.

The problem may take time to fix. The defective parts were manufactured from October 1999 to July 2002 at a factory that has since closed. That could result in a parts shortages that may delay repairs to affected vehicles. Ford is recommending that owners of SUVs that are a part of the recall park the vehicles outdoors and away from structures until the vehicle can be repaired.

The Ford Escape recall affects about 244,530 SUVs from the 2001-2002 model year, which were manufactured from October 22, 1999 through July 19, 2002.

The minivan recall affects some 205,896 Ford Freestar and Mercury Monterey vehicles from the 2004-2005 model years, which may have bad torque converters. If the torque converter output shaft fails, it could lead to a sudden loss of power with no warning, creating a crash risk.

The Monterey is no longer in production.

Affected Ford Escape owners can expect to be notified starting January 23. Ford Freestar and Mercury Monterey owners can expect to be notified sometime in the second quarter, the company announced. Consumers with questions can contact the Ford Motor Company Customer Relationship Center at (866) 436-7332.

Photo Courtesy of noelweathers via Flickr CC by 2.0