NHTSA Investigating Ford’s Cracked Fuel Injector Recall Solution

A recent recall issued by Ford will be investigated by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) over concerns of an inadequate recall repair being issued, reports CBS News.

Last Wednesday, a recall was announced for 42,652 vehicles, comprised of Bronco Sport SUVs from model years 2022 and 2023, and Escape SUVs from model year 2022, all equipped with 1.5-liter engines. The recall was issued due to a cracked fuel injector that could leak gasoline and lead to an engine fire. 

Ford’s fix for the problem was to have a drain tube installed that would transfer the leaking fluids from hot surfaces, as well as a software update that would disable the high-pressure fuel pump, reduce engine power, and cut temperatures in the engine when a pressure drop is detected in the fuel injection system.

Only a couple of days after the recall was issued, however, NHTSA disputed Ford’s solution, which the agency argued would cause fuel to drain from a cylinder head hole to the ground below the vehicle. NHTSA criticized Ford for not prescribing a replacement for the cracked fuel injector.

Ford said in an e-mail last week that it is confident in its solution and doesn’t feel that a replacement of the fuel injector is necessary. Additionally, the automaker will be extending warranty coverage for those affected by the recall.

Michael Brooks, executive director of the nonprofit Center for Auto Safety, joined NHTSA in questioning Ford’s decision, referring to it as a “Band-aid type recall” and describing it as an attempt to cut costs by not paying for replacements.