The recent recall of the 2016-2022 Ford EcoSport and Focus 1.0L engines has left many owners in a difficult situation. The defective parts in these vehicles could potentially lead to engine failure, posing a serious safety hazard for drivers. The replacement parts, however, will not be available for at least six months, leaving owners with limited options.
According to the recall notice, the oil-drive belt tensioner arm in these vehicles may fracture or separate, resulting in a loss of vehicle power and power braking assist. This increases the risk of a crash, making it imperative for affected owners to address the issue promptly.
In response to the recall, several plaintiffs have filed a class action lawsuit alleging that the defect poses a significant safety risk and can lead to catastrophic engine failure without warning. The lawsuit also claims that Ford is unfairly shifting the cost of warranty repairs onto unsuspecting consumers, particularly those driving economy vehicles equipped with these engines.
One such affected owner is Venessa Stevens, who experienced the consequences of the defect firsthand. While driving her 2019 Ford EcoSport, warning lights illuminated, signaling a problem with the vehicle. After confirming that the parts listed in the recall had failed, Stevens was informed that replacement parts would not be available until early 2025.
Stevens faced challenges in finding alternative transportation while her car was out of commission. Despite seeking assistance from the dealership, she was unable to secure a loaner car due to the uncertainty surrounding the availability of replacement parts. This left her relying on friends, coworkers, ridesharing services, and rental cars to get around, incurring significant expenses in the process.
The situation was further complicated by Stevens‘ inability to visit her elderly mother, who lives 300 miles away in South Carolina and relies on her for support. The financial strain of maintaining a car that could not be sold or traded in due to its depreciated value added to Stevens‘ difficulties, as she continued to make monthly payments and insurance payments for a vehicle that was unusable.
After reaching out to Ford Motor Company for assistance, Stevens received a call from a company representative offering to authorize a replacement engine for her vehicle. The dealership confirmed that Ford had approved the replacement, and Stevens was provided with a loaner car while the repairs were completed. Ford has since updated the recall to include a replacement engine as an alternative solution for affected owners.
In response to the situation, Ford Motor Company has taken steps to address the issue and provide support to affected owners. The company updated the recall to offer engine replacements as an interim repair, free of charge for parts and labor. Additionally, Ford has requested receipts from owners like Stevens for rideshares and rentals, indicating a willingness to reimburse them for their expenses incurred during the recall process.
Overall, the Ford EcoSport and Focus engine recall highlights the challenges faced by owners of affected vehicles and the importance of prompt action in addressing safety concerns. While the situation has caused inconvenience and financial strain for many, the response from Ford Motor Company and dealerships like Five Star Ford of Stone Mountain demonstrates a commitment to resolving the issue and supporting affected customers.