Ford Motor Co. issued a do-not-drive advisory on Tuesday for owners of certain vehicles equipped with Takata air bag inflators who have not yet had their vehicles repaired under three past safety recalls. This advisory applies to all remaining Ford and Lincoln vehicles in the U.S. with Takata air bag inflators that need to be repaired and whose owners have never been in for a repair. Ford spokesperson Maria Buczkowski stated that about 672,600 Ford and Lincoln vehicles with 765,600 total air bag inflators are impacted globally, with 318,700 vehicles and 374,300 total air bag inflators included in the U.S.
This is the second Takata-related do-not-drive recall advisory issued by Ford, following the first recall in 2015. The issue with Takata air bags stems from the inflators‘ metal canisters degrading with age, heat, and humidity, potentially causing them to explode without warning. This defect has led to 27 deaths and hundreds of injuries in the U.S., making it the largest automotive recall in the country’s history.
The do-not-drive advisory specifically applies to drivers who have not completed recalls for driver and passenger air bag inflators in various Ford and Lincoln models, including the 2006-12 Ford Fusion, Mercury Milan, Lincoln MKZ / Zephyr vehicles, 2007-10 Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX vehicles, and 2007-11 Ford Ranger trucks. Ford is also conducting a „recall of a recall,“ re-inspecting over a quarter-million vehicles to ensure that air bags were correctly installed or repaired.
Ford has stated that parts are now available for repairs, and customers can request mobile service or have their vehicles towed directly to the dealership. Dealerships are also offering free interim loaner vehicles to affected customers. This proactive approach by Ford aims to ensure the safety of drivers and passengers in vehicles with potentially dangerous Takata air bag inflators.
Other automakers, including Mazda, Nissan Motor Co., and Toyota Motor Corp., have also taken similar actions in response to the Takata air bag issue. This collective effort within the auto industry highlights the importance of addressing safety recalls promptly to prevent further accidents and injuries.
In conclusion, Ford’s issuance of a do-not-drive advisory for vehicles with Takata air bags underscores the company’s commitment to prioritizing customer safety. By providing repair options and temporary transportation solutions, Ford is taking proactive steps to address a critical safety issue and protect its customers. It is essential for affected vehicle owners to heed the advisory and have their vehicles repaired promptly to avoid potential risks associated with faulty air bag inflators.