BLOG: Ford Recalls Half Million Minivans and SUV's
By Jim Donovan: Ford is recalling nearly half a million minivans and SUVs because of a pair of mechanical issues.
The first recall involves 205,896 Freestar and Mercury Monterey minivans made during the 2004 and 2005 model years, because their torque converter output shaft may fail. If that happens, there could be a sudden loss of power that could cause a crash.
The second recall involves 244,530 Escape SUVs made during the 2001
and 2002 model years, because their brake master cylinder reservoir
cap could leak brake fluid. If the fluid leaks, it could corrode
electrical connectors in the vehicle's breaking system and lead to
melting, smoke, or a fire.
Ford said that with both recalls, it will inform the affected owners, and dealers will replace the parts for free. In the case of the Escape, Ford said it will begin notifying owners the week of Jan. 23, but because of a parts delay, Ford said it may not be able to fix some of the vehicles right away. In those cases, Ford said it will tell owners to park their SUVs outside until the parts become available and the vehicles can be fixed.
