2013 Ford Escape In Recall For Potential Fire Risk

Ford has announced the voluntary recall of 2013 Ford Escape models equipped with the 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine and built through July 11, 2012. At issue is an engine compartment fuel line that can split and leak gasoline, increasing the risk of a vehicle fire and accident.

Some 11,500 vehicles will be affected by this recall, and Ford is advising owners not to drive their crossovers until repairs are completed. Owners are directed to contact their local Ford dealer to arrange a loaner car, and to schedule pick up of their 2013 Escape for warranty repairs.

The actual repair is expected to take less than an hour, and Ford is working to get sufficient replacement parts to dealerships as quickly as possible. The automaker estimates that the entire recall campaign will take less than two weeks to complete if owners act quickly.

Ford points out that no injuries relating to this defect have been reported, and that the risk is only present when the vehicle is running and the fuel system is pressurized. Only models equipped with the 1.6-liter engine are included in this recall, so 2013 Escape models with 2.0- and 2.5-liter engines are unaffected and safe to drive.

While Ford is advising customers to contact their local dealers for repairs, it is also fielding questions on this recall via www.fordowner.com and Ford’s Customer Relationship Center, which may be reached at (866) 436-7332.