Approximately 2.15 million model-year 2011-14 Ford Fiesta cars, model-year 2013-14 Fusion sedans, model-year 2015 Mustang coupes, model-year 2013-15 Escape SUVs and C-Max hatchbacks, model-year 2012-15 Focus cars and model-year 2014-16 Transit Connect vans; model-year 2013-14 Lincoln MKZ sedans and model-year 2015 MKC SUVs, all previously recalled, are being recalled again due to potentially faulty door latches. The latches have a part susceptible to cracking that can lead to doors failing to close. If motorists repeatedly attempt to close the door, it may temporarily close but could open during driving, increasing the risk of injury. The recalled vehicles may not have had all door latches replaced or properly replaced when repaired under the previous recalls issued in 2015 and 2016.
Ford will begin notifying owners on July 20. Owners can call the automaker at 866-436-7332 or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s vehicle-safety hotline at 888-327-4236 to learn more.
To fix the problem, dealers will inspect the latch date codes to confirm if the repair was done correctly and replace the side door latches, if necessary. When they are notified of the recall, owners of affected vehicles will also have the option to enter the date codes printed on their vehicle’s door latches into a website to determine if the latches need to be repaired.
Vehicle manufacturers are legally required to repair any recalled issues or replace the defective part for free under the Highway Safety Act of 1970. If the dealership refuses to fix the problem or attempts to charge you for the repair, contact the manufacturer immediately.
Lemon Law Group Partners can assist car owners if they encounter any problems during the recall process with the manufacturer. Our attorneys deal directly with the manufacturer on the client’s behalf to quickly resolve the problem. In many cases, the attorneys get paid directly from the manufacturer so the client does not have to pay any attorneys’ fees to obtain legal counsel. For more information and a free consultation call 888-668-8581.
