Ford is recalling roughly 20,000 plug-in hybrid SUVs resulting from a producing defect that will lead to battery cells short-circuiting.
The recall impacts 2020-2024 Ford Escape Plug-In Hybrids and 2021-2024 Lincoln Corsair Grand Touring plug-in hybrids, with 16,480 Ford automobiles and 4,004 Lincoln automobiles concerned. Based on the Nationwide Freeway Visitors Security Administration (NHTSA), these automobiles might have battery packs with cells designed in a manner that makes the separator layer between the cathode and anode susceptible to break.
Such harm might result in a brief circuit, leading to a lack of propulsion and, in extreme circumstances, doubtlessly inflicting a fireplace. The NHTSA clarified that any such quick circuit wouldn’t have an effect on different automobile capabilities like steering, braking, or lights. A “Cease Safely Now” message would seem on the dashboard if a brief circuit happens.
Ford has reported to the NHTSA that it’s conscious of 4 cases of “battery thermal venting” linked to this situation, three of which occurred in automobiles bought in Europe, though there have been no reported accidents or accidents associated to those incidents. An investigation into these circumstances indicated that alterations within the cell manufacturing course of permitted small defects within the cathode and elevated stress on the separator layer, resulting in potential harm.
Initially, sellers will set up a software program replace for the battery power management module, however they might additionally exchange battery packs if mandatory, all at no cost to the homeowners. Ford plans to ship out proprietor notification letters by January 20. Car homeowners can attain out to Ford’s customer support at 1-866-436-7332, utilizing recall reference quantity 24S79.
The Ford Escape and Lincoln Corsair share comparable plug-in hybrid powertrains, that includes a 2.5-liter inline-4 engine and a 14.4-kWh battery pack. Nevertheless, the Ford Escape is on the market solely with front-wheel drive, whereas the Lincoln Corsair comes with all-wheel drive, leading to a 10-mile distinction in EPA-rated electrical vary—37 miles for the Escape and 27 miles for the Corsair. The Corsair can be the one Lincoln mannequin at present provided with a plug-in hybrid possibility, following the discontinuation of the Aviator Grand Touring plug-in hybrid.
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