Ford to recall 1.2 lakh Figo and Classic models in India

In the biggest ever vehicle recall in India, US auto giant Ford Motors' Indian subsidiary is recalling over 1.2 lakh units of its popular Figo and Classic models (earlier known as Fiesta) to fix a potential defect in the rear suspension and the steering unit that could lead to brake failure and even fires.

Ford now joins other carmakers like Maruti Suzuki, Toyota Motor, Honda Motor, Suzuki Motor and Tata Motors in recalling cars in India over defects.

The largest vehicle recall made in India was in September 2011, when Honda Siel Cars Ltd recalled 72,115 units of its best-selling mid-sized sedan, Honda City, to replace defective power window switches.

Chennai-based Ford India, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Detroit, Michigan-based Ford, will recall batches of the Figo and the Classic manufactured between January 2008 and December 2010, and from September 2010 till February 2011.

The carmaker said it will inspect the rear twist beam (RTB) for all Figo and Classic vehicles manufactured between January 2008 and December 2010, and replace the power steering hose (PAS) in all Figo and Classic petrol engine vehicles manufactured from September 2010 till February 2011 as a precautionary measure to ensure the long-term durability of the vehicle.

Ford said it will inspect around 1,11,000 vehicles for faults in the RTB, but added that all may not need part replacements.