Nearly 600,000 Ford vehicles, including Ford Fusion, Lincoln MKZ sedans, Lincoln MKX SUVs, and Ford’s Edge SUV were recalled in August 2019 due to a significant problem with the steering column that could increase risk for crashes.
Despite efforts to reach owners of these vehicles, many people remain unaware that their vehicles should be taken to a Ford dealership to be repaired.
The problem lies within the steering wheel housing. Not enough wax protectant was applied to the bolts that attach the motor housing to the steering gear motor. As a result, the bolts have a tendency to corrode when exposed to winter salt products used on roadways, causing steering gear motors to detach from the housing. This results in a loss of the power-assist feature, which means steering becomes more difficult to control at low speeds.
Ford says it is not aware of crashes, deaths, or injuries associated with this problem. As part of the recall, the car maker has authorized dealerships to replace the affected bolts and re-apply wax sealant.
Recalled Vehicles
Vehicles involved in the recall include the following U.S. and Canadian cars and SUVs:
- 2014-16 Ford Fusions vehicles manufactured at Ford’s Flat Rock Assembly Plant in metro Detroit, Michigan from Aug. 21, 2013 until June 14, 2015
- 2013-16 Ford Fusions manufactured at Ford’s Hermosillo Assembly Plant in Mexico Aug. 14, 2012 until June 28, 2015
- 2013-16 Lincoln MKZs manufactured at the Hermosillo Assembly Plant in Mexico Oct. 10, 2012 until June 28, 2015
- 2015-16 Ford Edge SUVs manufactured at Ford’s Oakville Assembly Plant in Canada June 25, 2014 until June 26, 2015
- 2016 Lincoln MKX SUVs manufactured at the Oakville Assembly Plant in Canada Nov. 11, 2014 until June 26, 2015
What to do if your vehicle has been recalled
If you own a Ford vehicle involved in this recall, contact Ford’s customer service at 866-436-7332 and reference Recall #19S26.
If you are unsure if your vehicle has been recalled, visit the NHTSA website here and enter your car or SUV’s VIN number. This will not only tell you if it is involved in the latest recall, but can keep you informed if it has been issued a recall at any time.
If you have been injured in a crash involving a steering issue in a recalled vehicle, contact OnderLaw for a free, no-obligation consultation.
