Ford Engine Failures Prompt Expanded Investigation
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has announced an expanded investigation into Ford Motor Co. engine failures, including nearly 709,000 vehicles. This move comes after the agency received multiple reports of engine failures and upgraded the investigation to an engineering analysis, an indication that a recall may be imminent.
The investigation now encompasses several Ford models from the 2021 and 2022 model years, including the F-150 pickup, Explorer, Bronco, and Edge SUVs, as well as the Lincoln Nautilus and Aviator SUVs. The vehicles in question are equipped with 2.7-liter or 3.0-liter V6 turbocharged engines, which are alleged to experience catastrophic engine failure due to faulty valves under normal driving conditions.
Initially, the agency’s investigation focused on the failure of the 2.7-liter engine specifically on Broncos, following three letters of complaint from owners. However, since then, Ford has reported a staggering 861 customer complaints, warranty claims, and engine replacements across multiple models. It is important to note that no crashes or injuries have been reported related to this issue.
Ford has stated that the defective intake valves tend to fail early in a vehicle’s life, and that most of the failures have already occurred. The company made a valve design change in October 2021 to address the issue. Ford is cooperating with the safety agency in its investigation, and the NHTSA plans to evaluate the frequency of these engine failures and the effectiveness of Ford’s manufacturing improvements.
In the interest of public safety, it is crucial for the NHTSA to thoroughly investigate and address this issue. A recall may be necessary to rectify the potentially dangerous engine failures experienced by Ford owners. The agency will continue to closely monitor the situation, and Ford will be expected to implement any necessary measures to ensure the safety and reliability of their vehicles.
As this investigation unfolds, Ford owners are advised to remain vigilant and promptly report any concerns or issues related to engine performance to their nearest dealership. Safety should always be the top priority, and manufacturers must take swift action to address any design flaws or manufacturing defects that compromise the well-being of their customers.
For now, drivers of the affected Ford vehicles must exercise caution and adhere to regular maintenance schedules to minimize the risk of engine failure. The forthcoming findings of the investigation will shed further light on the extent of the problem and determine the appropriate course of action to rectify the issue.
