Fire Threat Prompts Recall of Ford Escapes, Fusions

Ford Motor Co. is recalling 89,000 2013 Ford Escape and Fusion models because of a potential fluid leak that can cause fires.

The recall involves Escapes and Fusions with the 1.6-liter engine. The voluntary recall is being done because the engines can overheat and leak fluids onto hot parts, the company said.

The company said there have been reports of 12 fires in Escapes and one in a Fusion. No injuries have been reported.

The recall affects Fusions and Escapes with “SE” and “SEL” packages. Models with different engines don’t have the problem and are not involved in the recall. About 73,000 Escapes and 16,000 Fusions are affected.

The company’s recall notice advises owners of the vehicles involved to contact their dealers which will arrange for a loaner car. A repair procedure is being worked out, Ford said.

The vehicles can still be driven but drivers who see dashboard messages involving engine temperatures are advised to pull over, turn off the engine and leave the vehicle.

Ford said it will compensate owners for costs tied to overheating.

It said Ford dealers will stop delivering or conducting demonstration drives of the vehicles involved in the recall until the issue has been resolved.

Escape and Fusion owners can find out more about the recall by going to Ford’s website, www.ford.com , and clicking “View Notices and Recalls” in the “Support” tab. Owners can type in the 17-digit vehicle identification number to see if their vehicles are included. They can also call Ford at (866) 436-7332 in the U.S. or (888) 222-7814 in Canada, Ford said in a statement.