Hybrid SUVs Undergo Safety Recall: High-Voltage Battery Concerns Unveiled

"Urgent safety recall sign in bold letters."

Ford recently issued a significant recall, impacting thousands of hybrid SUVs, due to serious safety concerns posed by defective high-voltage batteries.

At a Glance

Recall affects 20,484 Ford Escape and Lincoln Corsair hybrid SUVs from 2020 to 2024.
Defect involves high-voltage battery cells, with risks of internal short circuits and fires.
Ford offers no-cost software updates and battery replacements.
No reported accidents, injuries, or fires related to the defect.
Affected owners will be notified starting January 20, 2025.

Details of the Recall

Ford Motor Co. is recalling 20,484 hybrid crossover SUVs over safety concerns due to a flaw in high-voltage batteries. The models affected include the 2020-2024 Ford Escape and 2021-2024 Lincoln Corsair. Defects in the microfabrication process have created weaknesses in the battery cell separators, risking internal short circuits and potential fires.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) noted, “A manufacturing defect in one or more of the high-voltage battery cells may result in an internal short circuit and battery failure.” Affected vehicles are prone to propulsion system shutdown, posing increased risks of crashes and injuries. Owners are advised to heed the “Stop Safely Now” warning, prominently displayed on vehicle dashboards.

Select Ford Escape PHEV and Lincoln Corsair Grand Touring models are being recalled over an issue with the high voltage battery caused by a defect.https://t.co/eBKbFCimkG

— Ford Authority (@FordAuthority) January 1, 2025

Ford’s Response and Remedial Actions

Ford is addressing the battery issue by offering a complimentary battery energy control module software update. If the defects are severe, the high-voltage battery pack will be replaced at no additional cost. Owners will begin receiving notifications from January 20, 2025, to ensure timely corrective action. Ford underscores its commitment to safety, emphasizing that no related accidents, injuries, or fires have been reported.

This recall demonstrates Ford’s proactive measures to preclude incidents before they manifest harm. Ford has coordinated with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration to disseminate recall information, enabling vehicle owners to access pivotal details via official channels.

Ford Recalling 20,000 Escape, Lincoln Corsair SUVs for Battery Issue https://t.co/KeTypG8DAq

— Car and Driver (@CARandDRIVER) January 1, 2025

Additional Support and Contact Information

For further assistance, affected vehicle owners can contact Ford Customer Service at 1-866-436-7332, referencing the Ford recall number 24S79. Assistance is also available through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration at 1-888-327-4236, the NHTSA (TTY) number 1-800-424-9153, or by visiting www.nhtsa.gov. These resources can provide more detailed guidance and reassurance to those impacted by the recall.

This recall underscores the ongoing challenges automakers face with embracing advanced hybrid technology while maintaining stringent safety standards.