Ford Motor to recall 89,000 vehicles over risk of engine fire

Ford Motor Co yesterday said that it will recall more than 89,000 vehicles in the US and Canada over engine overheating that could lead to fire.
 
The Dearborn, Michigan-based carmaker is recalling 2013 Ford Escape SE and SEL models equipped with the 1.6-litre engine and 2013 Ford Fusion SE and SEL models equipped with the 1.6-litre engine.

Ford said that the Escapes equipped with 2.0-litre and the 2.5-litre engines and Fusions equipped with the 2.5-litre and hybrid engines are not affected – as are all Titanium models.

Ford estimates that the recall will affect approximately 73,320 Escapes and 15,833 Fusions produced and sold in the US and Canada with 1.6-liter engines, with most in the US market.

Ford said that it is voluntarily recalling these vehicles because of reports of engine overheating, resulting in engine fires while the engine is running. No injuries have been reported.

''Some drivers who have experienced high engine temperatures followed by engine fires say that their clusters have shown the message ''Engine Power Reduced to Lower Temps'' or ''Engine over temp, stop safely.'' Some also indicated that their instrument clusters sounded a chime and illuminated a red light,'' said Ford in its recall statement.

Ford has advised drivers who see any of these indications to safely pull off the road as soon as possible, turn off the engine and exit the vehicle. Ford said that it would compensate owners for costs tied to overheating as well.