Owners of Ford Escape vehicles need to be aware of a recent recall related to unintended acceleration. In late July, Ford issued a recall for nearly 500,000 Ford Escapes due to issues with the cruise control cables. The recall covers model years 2001-2004 that have 3-liter V-6 engines.
The reason for the recall is due to the potential for damage to occur to the cruise control cables during the course of other vehicle repairs, including repairs related to an earlier recall. When this damage occurs, the speed control cables can become stuck on an engine cover, causing unintended acceleration. The problem is most likely to arise when the pedal is almost fully depressed. This defect is potentially linked to the death of a teenager in Arizona earlier this year, which has sparked investigations from highway safety agencies.
Ford dealerships are offering interim repairs to customers, which involves disabling the speed control systems on the vehicles to eliminate the possibility of unintended acceleration. Parts for more permanent repairs should become available soon.
In addition, Ford also advised customers on what to do if the defect occurs while driving. Specifically, drivers should firmly and steadily apply the brakes without pumping the brake pedal, shift to neutral, steer the vehicle to a safe location, shut the engine off and place the vehicle in ‘park’ once it is safely stopped.
If this recall affects you or your loved ones, make sure you get to the nearest dealership and have this important safety issue addressed.
