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Ford is recalling more than 255,000 Ford Focus vehicles in the United States after discovering that a previous repair may not have been completed correctly, leaving drivers vulnerable to an issue that can cause the engine to stall while the vehicle is in motion.
What is the problem?
The recall affects Ford Focus sedans and hatchbacks from model years 2012 through 2018, and involves the canister purge valve, which may malfunction, leading to an unexpected loss of engine power. Having an engine stall while driving is incredibly dangerous and significantly increases the risk of a crash, making it a major issue for drivers.
This is not the first time Ford has issued a recall for this concern, but the manufacturer has now determined that some vehicles may not have received the proper software update and may remain susceptible to the defect. Drivers may notice warning signs before a failure occurs. The check engine light could illuminate, and some owners may experience inaccurate fuel gauge readings. In some cases, the vehicle may hesitate, stall, or fail to restart after losing power.
The automaker has assigned this campaign recall number 26S40, while the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has designated it as recall number 26V369.
What owners should do
To address the issue, Ford dealers will update the powertrain control module software at no cost to owners. Letters are already beginning to be mailed out to owners, while affected vehicle identification numbers can also be searched through the NHTSA recall database.
Any drivers who receive a letter or who find their vehicle listed on the NHTSA database should schedule the repair as swiftly as possible and ensure they do not ignore any warning lights or changes in vehicle performance.
How Ford owners can take back control
While Ford is providing a free software update to address this recall, some drivers may continue to experience ongoing issues or feel unhappy with the solutions being offered. If your Ford has spent more time in the repair shop than on the road, exploring your legal options can make a significant difference when dealing with persistent vehicle defects.
If you’re struggling with ongoing vehicle problems and feel overwhelmed by the process, The Lemon Firm is here to help. With years of experience representing consumers against major automakers, our team understands what it takes to protect your rights and pursue the compensation you may be entitled to, so get in touch today and speak with one of our case analysts!