- Ford is recalling many 2001 and 2002 Escape models due to a brake system issue that could pose a fire hazard.
- The automaker will begin the recall on January 23, but notes not all dealers will have parts to complete the repairs by that date.
- Ford says affected customers will be getting recall notices shortly, and are advised to call 866-436-7332 with any questions.
Ford recently announced it will recall more than 244,000 units of its 2001 and 2002 Escape SUV due to a problem with its brake system that could pose a fire hazard.
According to the automaker and the government's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 244,530 units of the popular compact SUV are being recalled due to a brake master cylinder reservoir cap that could leak brake fluid. The NHTSA says brake fluid leaking from the cap could come in contact with a wiring harness connector for the SUV's anti-lock braking system, which could cause corrosion and ultimately lead to melting, smoke, or even a fire.
While Ford announced it hasn't received any reports of injuries due to the problem, the automaker says it is aware of property damage stemming from fires caused by the leaking brake fluid making contact with the wiring harness connector. According to the NHTSA, the recall follows a similar issue from April 2007, when Ford recalled the model to replace missing seals in the same wiring harness connector. The automaker says that during that recall, some of the repaired vehicles may not have received a complete inspection or application of electrical grease, leaving them susceptible to the fires.
According to Ford, dealers will remedy the problem by replacing the brake master cylinder reservoir cap and modifying the electrical system for the SUV's anti-lock brakes. Ford says the recall will begin on January 23, but notes that some dealers may not have parts available immediately. In that case, Ford urges consumers affected by the recall to minimize the risk of fire damage by parking their vehicles outside until parts become available.
The NHTSA says concerned owners of 2001 and 2002 Escape models can contact Ford at 866-436-7332. The automaker says it will begin sending out recall notices shortly.
What it means to you: Owners of 2001 and 2002 Escapes should be aware they're likely to receive a recall notice.
