Ford Motor Company (NYSE:F) has initiated a recall of approximately 140,000 units of the Focus and the EcoSport from model years 2016 to 2022 in the United States. The recall is due to a defect in the engine oil pump drive belt tensioner arm, which has the potential to damage the engine.
The recall, as reported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), covers 26,041 units of the Focus manufactured from March 24, 2015, to May 4, 2018, and 113,689 units of the EcoSport manufactured from April 3, 2017, to October 12, 2021. All vehicles covered by the recall are powered by the turbocharged, 1-liter, three-cylinder EcoBoost engine and are equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission. The defect has been identified in 100% of the recalled vehicles.
According to Ford, the issue lies with the engine oil pump drive belt tensioner arm, which may rupture due to the retention caulk joint not being strong enough to withstand engine vibrations. This rupture could lead to the arm detaching from the tensioner backing plate, causing degradation of the oil pump drive belt material and loss of teeth. If the pump stops spinning, it results in a loss of oil pressure in the engine, leading to significant damage. In the event of engine seizure, the vehicle may lose its power-operated brakes.
Ford has received a report of a crash and two injuries possibly related to this issue, but no fatalities have been registered. As of October 2023, the automaker has received 2,099 warranty claims.
The recall follows the NHTSA investigation into nearly 250,000 EcoSport crossovers in September. Ford notes that low oil pressure or a check engine light indication can be signs of an imminent oil pump-related failure, and engine failure can produce audible noises for occupants.
Affected vehicle owners will be notified by mail in February 2024. Once replacement parts are available, owners are advised to visit a Ford or Lincoln dealership, where technicians will replace the oil pump drive belt tensioner assembly with an updated and durable part at no cost. Owners who have incurred expenses for fixing the issue before May 2023 will be eligible to claim a refund.
Featured Image: Megapixl
