2013 Ford Escape 1.6 EcoBoost Recalled Again Over Engine Fire Risks
Fire Hazard Lower than First Recall, Defective Cooling System Plug at Fault
Ford is issuing a second recall on 2013 Escape models equipped with the 1.6-liter EcoBoost engine. Ford recalled 11,500 Escapes with the 1.6 EcoBoost engine in July for a defective fuel line. For that recall, Ford instructed owners not to drive their vehicles at all, and transported all models covered by that recall to dealerships by tow truck.
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| 2013 Ford Escape Titanium Engine
Ford is not taking such drastic measures with this recall because the fire danger is reportedly much lower. Glycol-based coolant, while flammable under certain circumstances, is much less flammable than gasoline. As with the first recall, Escapes equipped with the 2.0-liter EcoBoost and 2.5-liter naturally-aspirated engines are not affected.
The Problem: The freeze plug in the cylinder head of some 1.6-liter EcoBoost-equipped Escapes could dislodge, resulting in a significant loss of engine coolant. The leaking coolant evaporating on a hot engine could ignite, resulting in an engine compartment fire.
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| 2013 Ford Escape Rear Three Quarters In Motion
The Fix: Ford will notify affected owners, and seal the existing plug and install a secondary plug free of charge. The recall will begin September 10, 2012. Affected owners can contact Ford at 866-436-7332, or call NHTSA's Vehicle Safety Hotline at 888-327-4236.
Number of Vehicles Affected: 6146 2013 Ford Escape models equipped with the 1.6-liter EcoBoost engine built between October 5, 2011 through August 31, 2012.
Source: NHTSA
