Lemon Law News – Ford Recalls Vehicles with Incorrect Brake Hoses
Lemon Laws Protect Ford Consumers
Ford Motor Company will recall a handful of Ford and Lincoln vehicles equipped with incorrect brake hoses.
The Dearborn, Michigan-based manufacturer notified the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) it will recall 88 2018 Ford Escape and 2018 Lincoln MKC vehicles built between Oct. 29, 2017 and Oct. 30, 2017.
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The affected vehicles were built containing incorrect brake hoses, which can “encounter interference” with adjacent components during normal usage. This can wear the hoses prematurely, potentially causing brake fluid leaks. Brake fluid leakage can extend the required stopping distance and increase crash risk.
Ford’s recall chronology states their Supplier Technical Assistance group brought up an issue concerning the Ford Escape and Lincoln MKZ vehicles and their brake hoses. A line operator at Ford’s Louisville, Kentucky assembly plant observed the front brake hose installed at the chassis workstation was incorrect. The incorrect hose looks similar, but is shorter, has a different attachment location and has differently designed protection sleeves.
Further investigation found the incorrect hoses are limited to a specific pallet and installed in a small number of vehicles. However, Ford’s Field Review Committee reviewed the concern and approved a recall.
Ford will notify owners and dealers will inspect the brake hoses, replacing any that are incorrect free of charge. The recall is expected to begin March 5, 2018. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford’s number for this recall is 18S04. Ford owners can also visit the NHTSA’s website and enter their VIN to see if their vehicle is included in any recalls.
Your vehicle’s manufacturer is legally required to fix any recalled problems for free. If the dealership refuses to fix the part or tries to charge you for the repair, contact the manufacturer immediately. The Highway Safety Act of 1970, which created the NHTSA, requires car manufacturers to pay for the recall and replacement of a defective part.
If the manufacturer fails to repair, replace, repurchase, or provide your recalled vehicle’s loss value, they are violating the warranty and a lawyer may be able to assist you.
Lemon law attorneys help their clients by dealing directly with the manufacturer on the clients’ behalf, working to promptly resolve the issue and get their clients back on the road. Thanks to the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, attorneys can seek their fees directly from the manufacturer, meaning a client can obtain legal counsel without having to pay attorneys’ fees directly out of pocket.
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