Product Recalls: Ford Withdraws 370K Vehicles in US, Canada Markets Due to Steering Shaft Issues
Although it has yet to receive reports or complaints of accidents and injuries, Ford Motor Co has ordered the recall of some 370,000 vehicles across its U.S. and Canada markets due to issues on the steering shaft of the involved units.
The company said it is recalling the vehicles because it found a corrosion of the lower intermediate steering shaft which could cause a loss of steering.
Those set for recall include the 2005 to 2011 models of Ford Crown Victoria, Mercury Grand Marquis and Lincoln Town Cars.
Ford dealers will inspect the cars and will replace the lower intermediate steering shaft, if found faulty. It ensured customers it will be free of charge.
"If the lower bearing separates, the vehicle may experience a loss of steering, increasing the risk of a crash," the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration was quoted by Hispanic Business.
Ford also said that if needed, it will resecure a lower steering column bearing and replace the upper intermediate steering shaft.
The recall covers 355,000 vehicles sold in the U.S., including the states of Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, Wisconsin and West Virginia.
The rest of the 15,000 are sold in Canada.
The recall is expected to begin Oct 21. Owners may contact Ford at 1-866-436-7332.