Ford has initiated a recall for select model years of the EcoSport compact SUV and Focus midsize sedan due to a potential oil pump failure that could result in engine stalling, as revealed by the NHTSA on Monday.
An arm that maintains the position of the oil pump belt might fracture or detach, or the belt itself could deteriorate. This leads to a decrease in engine oil pressure, ultimately causing engine seizing and power loss. Consequently, a pump crucial for braking could also experience power loss, markedly heightening the probability of an accident.
Drivers may observe warning indications such as a low oil pressure light on the dashboard and/or a check engine signal. Additionally, the driver might experience a reduction in power or the complete loss of it. In the event of engine failure, one can anticipate hearing loud abnormal noises from the engine.
The recall pertains to 139,730 vehicles, inclusive of the 2016-2018 Ford Focus and the 2018-2022 Ford EcoSport. These affordable vehicle models were discontinued in 2018 and 2022, respectively.
The issue specifically concerns Ford’s turbocharged 1.0-liter 3-cylinder engine designed for small vehicles, with the aim of enhancing efficiency without compromising on power. The impacted vehicles solely featured a 6-speed automatic transmission; those with a 6-speed manual gearbox or a larger 4-cylinder engine in the Focus are excluded from the recall.
Between mid-2016 and Oct. 3, 2023, Ford became aware of 2,099 warranty claims related to the oil pump problem. Although Ford stated that there were no fatalities linked to the issue, it did acknowledge “one claim” of a collision that resulted in two injuries.
Authorized Ford and Lincoln service centers will examine and replace the oil pump tension and drive belt at no cost starting in April 2024. Owners can anticipate receiving notification through mail regarding the safety concern by Feb. 13, followed by a subsequent communication specifying the availability of replacement parts. For further details, feel free to reach out to Ford customer support at 1-866-436-7332 or visit Ford’s official recall page.
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