Ford has recalled around 85,000 police SUVs due to an issue that could lead to an engine fire, reports Reuters.
The recall applies to Explorer SUVs with the Police Interceptor Utility package, from model years 2020-2022.
These vehicles are equipped with 3.3L hybrid and gas engines, as well as powertrain options, structural reinforcement, and cargo storage superior to that of the base model.
In the case of a motor failure, these vehicles are liable to begin leaking oil and fuel that may leak into the engine compartment, gathering near ignition sources and potentially starting a fire.
According to reporting from The Hill, as of July 9 there have been 13 instances of underhood fires occurring in these SUVs due to an engine block breach.
“Regular and repeated wide open throttle accelerations to maximum engine RPM are far more frequent in police applications which could potentially affect engine durability,” NHTSA stated.
