Ford Recalling 355,000 Vehicles For Steering Concerns

Report Receipt Date: AUG 29, 2013

NHTSA Campaign Number: 13V385000

Component(s): STEERING

Potential Number of Units Affected: 355,000 

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company

Summary:

Ford is recalling certain model year 2005-2011 Ford Crown Victoria (including Crown Victoria Police Interceptors), Mercury Grand Marquis, and Lincoln Town Car vehicles. The affected vehicles are currently registered or were originally sold in Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wisconsin. Severe corrosion can seize the lower intermediate shaft which may cause the upper intermediate shaft to collapse and the steering column lower bearing to separate.

Consequence:

If the lower bearing separates, the vehicle may experience a loss of steering, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy:

Ford will notify owners and dealers will replace the lower intermediate shaft, free of charge. The upper intermediate shaft and steering column lower bearing will be inspected to identify any damage that may have occurred as a result of lower intermediate shaft corrosion, and repaired or replaced as necessary. If the steering column lower bearing has separated, a retainer clip will be installed. The recall is expected to begin October 21, 2013. Owners may contact Ford at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's recall number is 13S08.

Notes:

Customers located in non-corrosion states who have concerns regarding their steering will have a one-time option to have their vehicles inspected and, if necessary, repaired. Owners of these vehicles should contact Ford directly about these vehicles. Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.