Urgent Safety Notice for Ford and Lincoln Owners
Ford Motor Company has issued a critical safety recall affecting approximately 600,000 vehicles due to potentially defective seat belt pretensioners that may compromise passenger safety during collisions.
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Affected Vehicle Models and Production Details
The recall impacts specific model years manufactured across two production facilities:
Hermosillo Stamping and Assembly Plant (Mexico)
- 2013-2015 Ford Fusion (November 2, 2012 - July 31, 2014 production)
- 2013 Ford Fusion (early production) (August 13, 2012 - November 1, 2012)
- 2015-2016 Ford Fusion (August 1, 2014 - April 2, 2016)
- 2013-2015 Lincoln MKZ (November 14, 2012 - July 31, 2014)
Flat Rock Assembly Plant (Michigan)
- 2015-2016 Ford Fusion (August 1, 2014 - February 22, 2016)
- 2014-2015 Ford Fusion (April 12, 2013 - July 31, 2014)
The Safety Risk Explained
The recall addresses a potentially dangerous flaw in the seat belt anchor pretensioner system. During crash deployment, excessive heat generation may cause:
- Cable separation in the pretensioner mechanism
- Reduced restraint system effectiveness
- Increased risk of occupant injury during collisions
This defect could prevent the seat belts from properly restraining passengers during sudden stops or accidents.
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Ford's Recommended Solution
Authorized Ford dealerships will perform the following repair at no cost to vehicle owners:
- Application of specialized conformal coating to insulate pretensioner cables
- Thorough inspection of restraint system components
- Verification of proper seat belt functionality
What Affected Owners Should Do
- Verify your VIN: Check if your vehicle is included using Ford's official recall lookup tool
- Schedule service: Contact your local Ford/Lincoln dealer when notifications are sent
- Prioritize repair: This safety-critical fix should be completed as soon as possible
Important Contact Information
Ford has established dedicated channels for recall assistance:
- Ford Recall Hotline: 866-436-7332
- NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline: 888-327-4236
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Finding Authorized Repair Centers
MotorVero makes it easy to locate certified service centers for your recall repair:
Find a Recall Repair Center Near YouUnderstanding Seat Belt Pretensioners
Pretensioners are critical safety components that:
- Automatically tighten seat belts during collisions
- Work with airbags to properly position occupants
- Reduce forward movement during sudden stops
A properly functioning pretensioner can mean the difference between minor and severe injuries in accidents.
Recall Timeline and Updates
While Ford hasn't yet announced specific notification dates, recall campaigns typically follow this pattern:
- Initial NHTSA recall filing
- Parts preparation and technician training
- Owner notification mailing (usually within 60 days)
- Ongoing repair availability
Check back with MotorVero for the latest updates on this developing recall.
Additional Safety Recommendations
While awaiting your recall repair, consider these safety precautions:
- Ensure all passengers properly buckle up before driving
- Adjust headrests to properly support occupants' heads
- Maintain safe following distances to reduce collision risk
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Why This Recall Matters
Seat belt systems are your vehicle's primary safety feature, responsible for:
- Preventing ejection during crashes (40% of ejections are fatal)
- Reducing impact with interior surfaces
- Working with airbags for optimal protection
NHTSA estimates seat belts save nearly 15,000 lives annually in the U.S.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long will the repair take?
Most pretensioner insulation procedures can be completed in under 2 hours.
Is my vehicle safe to drive before the repair?
While the risk exists primarily during collisions, Ford recommends scheduling the repair promptly.
What if I already paid for this repair?
You may be eligible for reimbursement - contact Ford Customer Service with documentation.
Stay Informed About Vehicle Recalls
MotorVero provides ongoing coverage of important vehicle safety recalls. Bookmark our recall center for the latest updates affecting your vehicle's safety and value.
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