A 2022 Ford water pump class action lawsuit claims that that Ford and Lincoln vehicles with Cyclone (Duratec) engines, owned by customers in New York, are plagued with defects. According to the allegations, Ford has been unresponsive to the issue by refusing to initiate a water pump recall, neglecting to carry out necessary repairs, and failing to provide compensation to affected vehicle owners.
Notably, Ford encountered a similar lawsuit back in 2019, which accused them of employing faulty and potentially catastrophic water pumps in specific Ford Cyclone Duratec V6 engines. Although the initial lawsuit was eventually dismissed by the court, a renewed class action was filed in January 2022, now presenting the case before both the Supreme Court of Canada and the US district court.
As a well-established automaker, Ford faced unexpected scrutiny, as customers began to question the integrity of their practices. Adding to the mounting concern, Ford has consistently denied any reports or complaints regarding flawed water pumps in their vehicles.
Ford Water Pump Class Action Lawsuit Overview
The 2022 lawsuit alleges that the internal chain-driven water pumps in these engines have a tendency to fail prematurely, well before the expected lifespan of a Ford vehicle.
The lawsuit asserts that Ford’s water pumps should be capable of lasting at least 150,000 miles. The plaintiff in the Ford cyclone engine class action lawsuit says that his vehicle’s Ford Explorer water pump failed prematurely. He claims that Ford has been aware of a longstanding issue with faulty water pumps in their Duratec engines for over a decade.
Why hasn’t there been a Ford Water Pump recall?
Despite receiving numerous complaints, Ford has failed to initiate a recall for the water pumps in Ford Explorer and Ford Flex models. Adding to the frustration, the dismissal of the class action suit against the manufacturer in 2020 further exacerbates the issue. Ford has seemingly turned a blind eye to the problem, despite possibly millions of vehicles being affected.
This lack of responsiveness and accountability has only fueled the determination of affected consumers to seek legal recourse and demand the necessary repairs, compensation, and resolution for the defective water pumps in their vehicles.
What are the symptoms of a defective Ford Water pump?
The following is a list of symptoms you may experience if your Ford vehicle has a defective water pump:
- Fluid leaks
- Engine overheating
- Deposit buildup
- Strange engine noises (growling or whirring sounds)
- Engine failure
A faulty water pump can often result in leaks of coolant or other fluids. Keep an eye out for any puddles or drips beneath your vehicle, especially near the front or under the engine compartment. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is advisable to have your vehicle inspected and serviced by a qualified mechanic to diagnose and address any potential issues with the water pump.
Which vehicles include the affected Ford Cyclone engine?
From 2007 through at least 2020, the lawsuit claims that Ford installed allegedly defective water pumps in thousands of models equipped with their Cyclone engines. The affected models encompass a wide range of vehicles, including:
- Ford Edge
- Ford Explorer
- Ford Flex
- Ford Fusion
- Ford Taurus
- Lincoln Continental
- Lincoln MKT
- Lincoln MKX
- Lincoln MKZ
Should I participate in the Ford water pump class action lawsuit?
Deciding whether to participate in the Ford water pump class action lawsuit depends on various factors and circumstances. While it can be a suitable option for some, considering alternatives like lemon law claims is important.
Participating in a class action lawsuit offers benefits, as joining forces with other affected owners strengthens the case against Ford. Shared legal costs make it more affordable for plaintiffs.
However, class actions have limitations. Settlement terms apply to the entire class, potentially resulting in lower individual compensation. The resolution process can be lengthy, spanning years.
An alternative worth considering, specifically for owners of 2017 or newer Ford vehicles with warranty repair visits related to the water pump issue, is pursuing a lemon law claim.
Lemon laws protect consumers who buy vehicles with recurring defects that substantially impair their use, value, or safety. These claims can provide stronger remedies and individualized compensation.
How should I proceed?
Alternatively, for owners of 2017 or newer Ford vehicles with warranty repair visits specifically related to the water pump issue, exploring lemon law claims could be a more viable option.
The California Lemon Law offers protections to consumers who have purchased or leased vehicles with recurring defects that substantially impair their use, value, or safety. These claims can potentially provide stronger remedies and individualized compensation.
Lemon laws vary by state, but generally, they require the vehicle to undergo a certain number of repair attempts within a specified timeframe. If the defect persists despite reasonable repair attempts, the consumer may be eligible for relief under lemon laws. Remedies can include a refund or replacement of the vehicle, ensuring that the consumer is adequately compensated for their purchase.
Compared to participating in a class action lawsuit, pursuing a lemon law claim has its advantages. Lemon law claims typically focus on the individual consumer’s situation, allowing for tailored remedies that directly address their specific concerns.
This individualized approach can result in more favorable outcomes and compensation that better reflects the impact of the defect on the owner’s vehicle and overall experience.
Before deciding on the best course of action, it is advisable to consult with a qualified attorney experienced in lemon law cases. They can provide personalized guidance based on the specific circumstances of your case and help determine whether pursuing a lemon law claim is a viable option for you.
If you purchased or leased your vehicle in California and are experiencing water pump issues with your Ford or Lincoln vehicle, seeking assistance from the Lemon Law Experts can be beneficial.
Our experienced team has helped numerous Ford and Lincoln drivers achieve outstanding settlement results in their cases against the manufacturers.
We can guide you through the complex lemon law process, working towards obtaining the compensation and justice you rightfully deserve. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you receive a replacement, cash, or refund for your defective vehicle.
