Ford Motor Co. is recalling more than 500,000 sport utility vehicles across the United States because of a potentially fire risk from cracked fuel injectors.
Ford, the second-biggest carmaker in the US, said the fire was highly unlikely, prompting it to offer the recall after it learned of at least 20 such incidents. The recall covers the company’s Bronco Sport and Escape SUVs manufactured between the 2020 and 2023 model years.
According to the company, a cracked fuel injector can cause fuel or fuel vapor to accumulate and cause a fire under the hood of the vehicle. The repair isn’t available yet, but Ford is working on a software update that will alert owners if their vehicle’s fuel injectors are compromised.
In a statement, the company said, “If a pressure drop is detected in the fuel rail, the engine power will be automatically reduced to reduce any risk, as well as prompt customers to drive to a safe location and restore the vehicle.” Permission will also be given to stop and arrange for service.
Despite the recall, Ford isn’t urging consumers to stop driving those models. Instead, the company says that if drivers suspect there is a problem with their vehicle, they should take it to a dealership and have it inspected.
In cases where there is a problem, Ford will replace the cracked fuel injector. The company is also extending its warranty to cover cracked fuel injectors for up to 15 years.