After Nissan’s recall regarding a sudden engine cut-out issue related to Qashqai and Rogue model keys, lo and behold Ford is under investigation in the United States for doors that open without warning while the vehicle is in motion. The organization responsible for carrying out the investigation, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), explains that it received more than 118 complaints from across the border; no data has yet been identified in Canada.
25 injuries listed
The information collected so far by the NHTSA indicates that the doors of Ford Escapes built between 2020 and 2021 can be opened while the vehicle is in motion. According to the organization, the phenomenon would first be audible, because, in most cases, the complaints issued stipulate that a deaf banging noise was first heard in the door. This noise would be caused by the breakage of a support weld in the door of the SUVs. Once broken, this weld would make the door loose and cause it to open unexpectedly, which would also compromise the door locking system.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said Tuesday it had received reports of 25 minor injuries to occupants. In total, 346,000 Ford Escapes are the subject of the investigation in the United States. In Canada, it is impossible, at the time of this writing, to know how many vehicles could be affected by this situation, but Ford says it is working with NHTSA.
A recall issued on hybrid and plug-in hybrid versions
In May, Ford issued a new recall on the Ford Escape HEV and PHEV over an issue with the Escape’s 2.5-litre engine. The advisory states that a manufacturing issue could lead to the compact SUV experiencing engine failure. In some cases, this failure could cause a fire.
Obviously, this situation increases the risk of accidents or injuries. Ford should have notified affected owners by mail. The corrective measures in the context of this recall are being worked out, since the manufacturer has still not found a solution to the phenomenon. To reduce risk, Ford recommends shutting down the engine as soon as possible if owners hear unusual noises, see smoke coming from the engine compartment, or notice a reduction in vehicle power.
We will have to wait for the outcome of the investigation before knowing if a recall will be issued on the 2020 and 2021 Ford Escape in Canada. We will continue to monitor the situation.
