Ford is recalling 2012 Taurus, Lincoln MKS, and 2013 Explorer vehicles because the fuel tanks may have a “marginally sealed seam” in the side. As a result, the fuel tanks may not provide the expected strength during a crash. The tanks may also leak. The problem was originally discovered in Saudi Arabia through warranty claims. Dealers have been instructed to stop the sale or lease of vehicles in inventory.
In the required NHTSA filing just released, Ford said the fuel tanks may have been manufactured with the molds for the plastic tank to partially open during the molding cycle. In a small number of warranty claims, fuel leaks have been reported. Ford is not aware of any accidents, injuries, or fires.
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the fuel tanks and replace them as necessary, free of charge as is required by U.S. law. The recall is expected to begin 22April 2013. Ford’s recall campaign number is 13S03. Owners may contact Ford Motor Company Customer Relationship Center at 1-866-436-7332. Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 or go to www.safercar.gov.
