Although auto manufacturers use state-of-the-art tools, techniques, and operations philosophies, a vehicle recall can still be difficult to steer clear of.
Recalls result from non-conformance to quality standards, resulting in health and safety risks. When a car manufacturer deems that a certain model or make has a safety-related defect, they notify the owners about the issue, and they often offer free repairs to resolve the problem.
The Ford Motor Company (Ford) is no stranger to such problems. In fact, Ford recently topped all of its fellow automakers in the number of recalls issued in the first half of 2023.
If you own a Ford vehicle, you might have heard of some recalls being issued. The Ford Fusion, in particular, has had its fair share of safety recalls in the last few years.
Most notably, in 2023, the Ford Fusion sedan was involved in another huge recall announcement regarding an issue with faulty brake hoses.
So what happens when your Ford Fusion is part of the recall? What are the risks of a faulty brake hose? How will your dealer rectify the situation if your vehicle is recalled?
This article provides comprehensive information regarding these problems and discusses previous Ford Fusion recalls. Moreover, this write-up gives valuable tips about what to do in case your Ford vehicle is affected by a recall.
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Ford Fusion Brake Investigation Closed Due to Recall
Recently, Ford recalled certain 2013-2018 Ford Fusion vehicles because of a possible brake hose issue. The brake hoses might be damaged, resulting in a brake fluid leak, which could increase the required pedal travel for the brakes to be applied. Increasing pedal travel extends the distance a driver needs to stop the vehicle, increasing the likelihood of a crash.
In August 2022, a previous safety recall for different vehicle models instigated an investigation by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).
However, according to an online automotive complaint resource, the newly issued recall has convinced officials to close their investigation.
The NHTSA received 50 complaints about the front brake jounce hose used in 2013-208 Ford Fusion sedans. When the complaints were filed, the incidents weren’t within the scope of the original recall, which only encompassed the 2015-2018 Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX vehicles.
The Details
The vehicles recalled for the aforementioned brake hose issue are the Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ vehicles manufactured between February 2012 and July 19, 2017.
Due to inadequate testing during the designing process, there were risks that the front brake hoses of these vehicles might leak due to regulating steering and suspension travel. If this happens, the vehicle may be more difficult to stop, which could lead to a crash.
As a recourse, authorized dealers replaced the damaged brake hoses free of charge. Owner notification letters were dispatched for this safety recall on April 17, 2023.
What Is a Brake Hose Exactly?
A crucial part of a car’s braking system, the brake hose carries fluid from the brake line to the wheel’s brake caliper. It is important for the brake hose to be flexible to allow the wheel to move seamlessly with the suspension.
Unlike brake lines, a brake hose is usually rubber, although some vehicles use stainless steel.
Rubber hoses provide better stopping performance and work well under various weather conditions. They are used on each front wheel to allow for suspension and steering movement and at the rear to allow the rear suspension to travel efficiently.
Although rubber hoses are resistant to constant high pressure and temperature, they can still leak, blister, or crack.
Usually, a brake hose can last for thousands of miles. Still, it should be regularly inspected for cracks, damages, or any signs of wear.
A faulty brake hose can significantly impact the overall braking system and put you at risk of a crash.
Thankfully, a malfunctioning brake hose will present a few noticeable signs, such as:
Abnormally low brake fluid level – If the hydraulic system operates normally, your brake fluid level should also fall within normal limits. However, if you regularly refill your brake fluid, consider inspecting your braking system and replacing faulty hoses.
Leaking – To check for a leak in your braking system, ask another person to apply the brake pedal as you look underneath the vehicle for liquid squirts. If you see fluid leaking, your hydraulic system, including the brake hoses, will likely need repairs.
Soft brake pedal – Once the brake hose starts losing fluid, you’ll likely experience pressure loss in your brake pedal.
Risks of a Faulty Brake Hose
A faulty brake hose poses a substantial risk to the driver and other occupants of the vehicle. When a brake hose ruptures or malfunctions, it can lead to a leak in the braking system, resulting in a loss of stopping power.
Aside from the added risk of a collision, a faulty brake hose can cause other issues. For instance, if the brake fluid leaks out due to a ruptured hose, the brakes, in turn, will become unresponsive or spongy.
Sometimes, a damaged brake hose can also cause issues with the braking system’s components. A leaking hose can cause the brake fluid to come into contact with other braking system components and lead to corrosion.
Ford Fusion Recall History
The Ford Fusion, despite being in a category not known for distinct styling, offers slick handling to match its aggressive looks. It was a pioneer, marking the beginning of a new era for the automotive brand.
Released in 2005, the Ford Fusion was the first car to showcase a three-bar grille design. Back then, Fusion came in two variants– one with a four-cylinder, 160-horsepower engine and the other with a V-6, 221-horsepower engine.
The Ford Fusion introduced various enhancements in its first three years, such as the DVD (digital video disc) navigation feature and the tire pressure monitoring system.
In 2009, Ford introduced the Ford Fusion Hybrid. It sports a four-cylinder, 156-horsepower engine, providing better fuel economy than its predecessor.
In 2012, Ford released the second generation Fusion, with new features and an updated trim level.
Eventually, Ford added the Fusion Energi to the mix– a plug-in hybrid (electric and gas) vehicle with commendable power and mileage capabilities.
Fast forward to 2020, the latest generation of the Fusion offers a turbocharged four-cylinder setup for reliable power and improved fuel efficiency. Meanwhile, the hybrid variant features optional electronic safety features, including lane departure mitigation and rear cross-traffic alerts.
However, despite its commendable performance, sleek appearance, and state-of-the-art safety features, the Ford Fusion has been subject to several recalls throughout its production history.
Issues with the power steering, transmission, and airbags instigated some of the model’s recalls.
In 2016, Ford announced a recall for certain Ford Fusion vehicles, model years 2014-2016, due to an issue with the steering gear motor attachment. The bolts in the attachment could be loosened, causing the electric power-assisted system to be compromised.
In the same year, the automaker also recalled 2014-2015 Ford Fusion vehicles to resolve a potential airbag issue that caused them to not deploy properly during a crash.
Finally, in 2018, Ford Motor Company recalled certain 2017 Ford Fusion vehicles due to a potential problem with the transmission cable adjuster clip.
Ford Recalled 1.5 Million Vehicles Over Issues With Brake Hoses and Windshield Wipers: What Is the Recall on the 2017 Ford Fusion 23S12?
Ford Motor Company announced two recalls for approximately 1.5 million vehicles due to brake hose and windshield wiper problems.
The first recall affected 1.3 million Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKX SUVs. As stated, some of these affected vehicle models used a front brake hose, which had the potential to burst and leak brake fluid, compromising the driver’s ability to stop the vehicle in time.
As of March 2023, the automaker has received a report of one non-lethal accident related to the issue.
Meanwhile, the second recall relates to about 222,000 F-150s built in 2021. Ford noted that the windshield wipers on these vehicles might break.
To remedy the situation, Ford replaced the necessary parts for free. The reference number for this recall is 23S12.
Which Ford Fusions Are Being Recalled?
Ford recalled some 2013-2018 Fusion and Lincoln MKZ sedans due to potential damage to its front brake hoses. As discussed, a faulty brake hose might cause a brake fuel leak, resulting in increased brake pedal travel and heightened chances of a crash.
Authorized Ford dealers inspected and replaced the front brake hoses for free. Recall notices were dispatched on April 6, 2023.
According to NHTSA, as of December 2023, there are 43 safety recalls for the Ford Fusion. Listed below are some of the common issues that caused these recalls:
- Damaged battery energy control module (Ford Fusion 2019-2020)
- Degraded or detached shifter cable bushing (Ford Fusion 2013-2016)
- Brake pedal bumper corrosion (Ford Fusion 2014-2015)
- Aigbag issues (Ford Fusion 2006-2012)
- Door latch issues (Ford Fusion 2013-2014)
- Electric power assist system issues (Ford Fusion 2013-2016)
- Seatbelt issues (Ford Fusion 2015)
- Loose steering wheel retaining bolt (Ford Fusion 2014-2018)
Note that the above are just some examples of safety recalls issued for various Ford Fusion models. If you want to know more about a specific recall case, you can visit the NHTSA website.
What Do You Do if You Think You Might Be Affected?
In a recent finding, Ford said that the rupture in their front brake jounce hoses (supplied by Hitachi) was caused by the failure of the internal reinforcement braid due to cyclic fatigue during suspension and steering articulation.
The hoses Ford used in their remedy had a different material braid that was tougher and more robust than the previous one.
If you’re wondering whether your vehicle is affected by the brake hose recall, contact Ford’s toll-free line at 1-866-436-7332. You can also contact your local Ford dealership.
Finally, you can use the NHTSA online search tool to see if a specific vehicle is under an active recall.
Part 573 Safety Recall Report
The Part 573 Safety Recall Report of the NHTSA, submitted on March 10, 2023, revealed the details of Ford’s massive safety recall concerning an issue with front brake hoses.
Per the report, the number of potentially involved vehicles totals 1,280,726, with an estimated 2% having defects.
The subject hoses were included in production in February 2012 and were taken out in July 2017.
The following Fusion vehicles are affected by the recall:
- 220,367 units of Fusion 2013
- 267,524 units of Fusion 2014
- 188,403 units of Fusion 2015
- 280,180 units of Fusion 2016
- 211,313 units of Fusion 2017
- 38 Fusion units of Fusion 2018
Ford Is Also Recalling Trucks Over a Separate Issue
Aside from the already massive front brake problems, Ford recalls certain F-150 pickup trucks for faulty windshield wipers.
According to the NHTSA, the windshield wiper motors may prematurely fail due to a faulty spline, which is particularly risky during a storm.
A telltale sign of this problem will be one or both wipers moving erratically or slowly during operation.
Moreover, Ford Motor Company stated that it is aware of the detached or inoperative wiper arms reports. Ford also said that no injuries or crashes are related to the issue.
Ford dealers inspected and replaced the windshield wipers for free if needed to rectify the situation. Owners of these trucks will be reimbursed if they had previously paid to get their windshield wipers repaired.
Contacting Ford
If you have any queries or concerns about recalls, contact Ford’s customer service hotline at 866-436-7332. You can also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety at 888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153).
References
- Ford Recalls
https://www.ford.com/support/recalls/ - NHTSA safety recall results
https://www.cars.com/research/ford/recalls/ - NHTSA
https://www.nhtsa.gov/ - Ford website
https://www.ford.com/ - Ford Fusion retired
https://www.ford.com/cars/fusion/
Images sourced from Ford Media Center.