Ford Recall Issued Over Steering Wheel Problems Following Accidents

Ford Motor Company has announced it is recalling approximately 1.4 million vehicles  due to the potential for the steering wheel to detach from the steering column, significantly increasing the risk of a crash and injury to drivers and occupants. 

The Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ steering wheel recall was announced by the automaker on March 14, following two warranty claims indicating the steering wheels detached from the steering column, resulting in two accidents and one injury.

According to recall announcement, the impacted vehicles may have steering wheel bolts that may not maintain torque, allowing the bolts to loosen over time and the steering wheel to detach. In this event, drivers will experience a complete loss of steering that could result in a vehicle crash and injuries.

The recall involves model year 2014 through 2017 Ford Fusion vehicles built at the Flat Rock Assembly Plant from August 6, 2013 through February 29, 2016, 2014 through 2018 Ford Fusion vehicles built at the Hiroshima Assembly Plant from July 25, 2013 to March 5, 2018, and 2014 through 2018 Lincoln MKZ vehicles built at the Hermosillo Assembly Plant from July 25, 2013 through March 5, 2018.

The recall involves approximately 1,378,637 vehicles distributed for sale throughout the United States at licensed Ford dealers. Another 62,479 were sold in Canada, and 14,172 were distributed for sale in Mexico.

Ford has announced the manufacturer will be issuing the safety recall notices to customers with instructions on how to schedule a repair appointment at their local dealer, who will be instructed to replace the steering wheel bolt on the vehicle with a longer bolt with more robust thread engagement and longer nylon patches for proper torque retention, free of charge.

Customers with questions or concerns regarding the recall are encouraged to contact Ford Customer Service at 1-800-392-3673 and reference the recall campaign number 18S08.

Less than a month ago, 44,000 Hyundai Santa Fe vehicles were also recalled, following two warranty claims where the steering wheel became loose and detached from the steering column, posing a risk of crash and injury.