A series of Ford recalls now applies to nearly 700,000 of their vehicles as issues with airbags and latches have come to light.
Two separate Ford recalls also were announced this past week when it was learned some Escapes harbored a sub-frame problem that could endanger steering control. Also, a second seat back error concerned both the Ford Escape as well as a few other models. There were no injuries although one related accident was reported to have occurred.
Now, in a new set of recalls, Escape small SUVs and C-Max gas-electric hybrids sold in North America will require the two recently discovered glitches in airbags and door handle latches to be fixed for safety. While the recalls cover different vehicles from 2013 to 2014 model years, most of the Ford Escapes will require that both issues be addressed.
The first of the two cases regards about 692,500 Escape and C-Max vehicles.
#Ford recalls more than 692,000 Escape SUVs over air bag, door latch safety problems http://t.co/kONf6E5MNg #recall pic.twitter.com/ncYuFupRR9
— 7NEWS Denver Channel (@DenverChannel) May 10, 2014
Due to a software glitch, side curtain air bags might not inflate in some rollover crashes.
It’s what the company dubs a “safety canopy”, where the bag normally deploys from the ceiling by the windows to shield a passenger’s head in the event of a side impact crash or rollover incident. Because the defect is in the computer delay of airbag deployment, Ford dealers will perform a free reprogramming of the air bag control for customers.
As for the second recall regarding defective latches, it was found that roughly 692,700 Escape exterior door handles might bind and thus prevent proper door closing. The potential danger in this case is that the SUV doors could come open while driving. As the latch matter affects 692,700 Escapes in North America, dealers will be inspecting door handles for any necessary repositioning.
Fortunately, these recent issues came to light before any reported crashes or injuries related to them transpired. In a statement, company spokeswoman Kelli Felker reassured consumers: “Ford is committed to providing our customers with top quality vehicles,” and added:
“We are equally committed to addressing potential issues and responding quickly for our customers.”
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