Ford Recalls Escape And New Fusion

Ford Motor Co.’s new Escape crossover has been the subject of a series of recalls since its mid-year debut – and now faces another as the automaker warns versions of the popular CUV equipped with a 1.6-liter EcoBoost engine could overheat and catch fire.

The problem also impacts the 2013 Ford Fusion. In all, about 89,000 of the two models – among Ford’s best-selling nameplates – are affected. The 2013 Fusion was named "Green Car of the Year" in early December.

According to Ford, the problem involves vehicles equipped only with the 1.6-liter turbocharged EcoBoost engine, an optional powertrain designed to deliver both better mileage and improved performance. Ford says the engine can overheat and leak coolant. That, in turn, could catch fire if it comes into contact with hot engine components such as the exhaust pipes.

So far, the maker confirmed reports of twelve fires involving the Escape and one with the Fusion.

Ford Motor Co. also plans to recall more than 19,000 of its new Fusion midsize sedans to replace faulty headlamps.

The maker says motorists appear to get a warning when the problem develops, a message flashing on the instrument cluster advising either, "Engine Power Reduced to Lower Temps" or "Engine over temp, stop safely." Red warning lights and chimes may also signal a problem. Ford says motorists should take the problem seriously and pull over immediately in the event of such a warning.

A total of 73,320 of the 2013 Ford Escape models are covered by the recall, along with 15,833 2013 Ford Fusion sedans. About 80,000 of the affected vehicles were sold in the U.S.

The maker says it is looking for a fix for the problem and plans to offer loaners to owners until repairs can be made. Ford says that it will make repairs to the affected vehicles at no charge to owners.

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