Ford has issued a significant recall affecting over 768,000 diesel vehicles worldwide, casting a shadow on the automaker's efforts to enhance quality and minimize recalls. This unwelcome holiday surprise for numerous Ford owners stems from a critical issue with diesel particulate filters (DPFs) in a range of models, including popular vehicles like the Fiesta, Focus, and Kuga.
The recall first surfaced in Germany, where a staggering 164,168 vehicles were identified as potentially affected. This broad recall encompasses a diverse range of models, including the EcoSport, Fiesta, Focus, B-Max, C-Max, Galaxy, Kuga, Mondeo, Grand C-Max, Ranger, S-Max, Tourneo Connect, Transit Connect, and Transit Courier, all manufactured between 2014 and 2020.
The root cause of the issue lies in the development of hairline cracks within the DPFs, potentially leading to failed emissions tests. Ford reportedly became aware of this potential problem in mid-2023 through the implementation of more rigorous testing procedures.
While the recall specifically impacts 164,168 vehicles in Germany, the total number of affected vehicles worldwide reaches a substantial 768,927. However, the specific markets where these vehicles are located have not yet been fully disclosed.
Ford has initiated a proactive approach to address this issue. Owners of affected vehicles will receive official recall notifications before the end of the year. In Germany, owners are instructed to bring their vehicles to authorized Ford dealerships for inspection. During the service visit, technicians will thoroughly examine the DPF and replace it if necessary. Ford has committed to a comprehensive resolution, offering a 10-year/160,000 km warranty on all newly installed DPFs.
Furthermore, Ford has pledged to consider reimbursement for owners who have already incurred costs for DPF repairs or replacements. Each case will be evaluated individually to determine eligibility for reimbursement.
For owners of affected vehicles residing outside of Germany, it is crucial to stay informed by regularly checking for updates from local safety agencies and regulatory bodies. These agencies will provide specific details regarding the recall process and necessary actions for owners in their respective regions.
This significant recall serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by automakers in ensuring the quality and reliability of their vehicles, particularly in the context of increasingly stringent emissions regulations. Ford's proactive approach to address this issue and its commitment to customer satisfaction will be crucial in mitigating the impact of this recall and maintaining consumer confidence.