Ford Motor Company is currently facing a class-action lawsuit from three customers who claim that the fuel injector recall will not fix 2020-2023 Ford Escapes and 2021-2023 Ford Bronco Sports equipped with 1.5L engines.
The recall was issued due to cracked ford fuel injectors, which can cause fuel leaks and pose a fire risk. Ford initially recalled the vehicles in March 2022, but continued to investigate the issue after engineers determined that the oil separators were not the problem.
The three customers who filed the class-action lawsuit claim that Ford knew about the cracked injectors and the associated fire risk but failed to disclose the information to customers at the time of purchase. They argue that Ford’s failure to disclose this information puts drivers and passengers in danger and reduces the value of their vehicles.
Overview of Ford Oil Leak Recalls
In November 2022, Ford announced a fuel injector recall affecting over 500,000 vehicles, following reports of at least 20 fires, three of which caused nearby buildings to catch on fire. The American automaker issued the recall after four injuries were reported by Ford customers.
Over 300,000 Ford Escape and Ford Bronco Sports vehicles with 1.5L engines were previously recalled in April 2022. In documents provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) filed by Ford, the auto manufacturer said that is knew of 15 cases of engine oil leaks and or fires at that point in time.
What causes the leak?
Ford says that affected vehicles may have cracked fuel injectors which can leak fuel into the engine compartment. Certain vehicles with 1.5L engines may have vulnerable engine oil separator housing that can crack and allow oil to leak. A fire can occur if fuel manages to leak onto an ignition source at high temperatures. Ford states that at least four drivers experienced car fires within five minutes of shutting down the engines in their vehicles.
Which models are included in the 2022 Ford oil leak recall?
The following vehicles are included in the cracked fuel injector recall:
- 2020-2023 Ford Escape
- 2021-2023 Ford Bronco Sport
Affected vehicles are equipped with 3-cylinder 1.5L engines. Certain Ford Bronco Sport and Ford Escape vehicles were recalled for oil leak problems in April 2022, just months prior to the November recall.
Does Ford have a solution for the Ford Bronco Recall or Ford Escape Recall?
Despite several recall-related repairs and months of investigation, Ford says that the primary cause of these engine problems is currently “still under investigation.” Ford drivers with affected vehicles were not instructed to stop driving their cars, however, they were warned to take notice of any strange symptoms like fuel odors, fluid leaks, or smoke coming from the engine compartment. Fuel injector recall letters were mailed on December 19, 2022.
Is it OK to drive with an oil leak or cracked ford fuel injector?
You should avoid driving with an oil leak since oil serves a vital role in lubricating and keeping the engine running smoothly. An oil leak can cause the engine to operate with insufficient oil, resulting in severe damage to the engine, car fire, car accident, burn injury, or even death. If you detect an oil leak, it is advisable to address it immediately by taking your vehicle to a certified mechanic. A mechanic can diagnose and repair the problem, preventing further damage to the engine and reducing the risk of accidents.
Can I file a lemon law claim?
If you purchased or leased a Ford vehicle and are experiencing engine oil leak issues that have not been fixed after repeat repair attempts by an authorized Ford dealer, you may have grounds for a lemon law claim. A California lemon law claim can be made if a new or used vehicle has a defect that impairs its safety, value, or use, and the dealership and manufacturer is unable to repair the issue after a reasonable number of attempts.
To determine if you have a case, it is recommended to seek the advice of an experienced lemon law attorney. They can provide you with legal guidance, assess your situation, and help you file a claim. It is vital to note that there are strict deadlines for filing a lemon law claim, so it is essential to act quickly if you believe you have a case.
What should I do if my Ford has oil leak issues?
If your Ford is experiencing oil leak issues, you should take action to address the problem as soon as possible. Here are some steps you can take:
- Check your oil level: If you suspect that your Ford has an oil leak, check the oil level to see if it is low. If the oil level is low, it is likely that there is a leak. Make sure to top up the oil to the recommended level.
- Inspect the engine: Look under the hood and inspect the engine for any signs of oil leaks. Look for oil spots or stains on the engine, on the ground under the vehicle, and on the oil filter or oil pan.
- Take your vehicle to a certified mechanic: If you are unsure about how to inspect your vehicle or if you have identified an oil leak, take your Ford to a certified mechanic. They can diagnose the issue, identify the source of the leak, and provide you with an estimate for repairs.
- Keep a record of repairs: If your vehicle needs repairs, make sure to keep a record of all repairs performed. This information may be useful if you need to file a warranty claim or lemon law claim in the future.
If your Ford is still under warranty, contact your dealership to discuss your options. They may be able to repair the issue at no cost to you. If you have concerns about the quality of the repairs or the dealership’s response, consider contacting a lemon law attorney for guidance.
How the Lemon Law Experts can help
If you purchased or leased a 2020-2023 Ford Escape or Ford Bronco Sport that has experienced engine oil leak issues, and an authorized Ford dealer has been unable to repair the issue after a reasonable number of attempts, you may have a valid lemon law claim. The Lemon Law Experts– considered one of the best consumer protection firms in California–can help you navigate the process of filing a claim and fighting for your rights as a consumer.
Our team of experienced lemon law attorneys can evaluate your situation, gather evidence, and negotiate with the manufacturer or dealership on your behalf. We understand the complexities of lemon law cases and have a deep understanding of the California Lemon Law to help you receive the compensation you deserve.
As a prevailing party, Ford will be responsible to pay for your attorneys fees and costs. This means that our representation is at no out of pocket expense to you.
Call us today for free consultation to discuss your potential case and guidance on the next steps you can take. With our expertise, we can help you make an informed decision about pursuing a lemon law claim and will work tirelessly to ensure that you receive the best outcome possible. If you have any questions about your situation, let us know by calling us at 877.885.5366 or by filling out a form on our site today.
