Ford has announced a significant global recall affecting approximately 768,000 diesel vehicles due to problems identified with the diesel particulate filter (DPF), which could hinder the vehicles' ability to pass emissions tests. This discovery emerges following the implementation of new emissions testing methods mid-2023, which revealed potential faults not visible to the naked eye.
The issue was first recognized in Germany by the Federal Motor Transport Authority (KBA), which confirmed 164,168 vehicles affected within its borders. The recalled models primarily include the Ford Ranger, Fiesta, Focus, EcoSport, B-Max, C-Max, Kuga, Mondeo, Galaxy, Grand C-Max, S-Max, Tourneo Connect, Transit Connect, and Transit Courier. Ford affirmed these vehicles were produced and assembled between 2014 and 2020, mainly equipped with Euro 6 diesel engines.
According to Carscoops, "small cracks appear on the DPF but cannot be seen with the naked eye, leading to failed emissions tests." This finding is concerning as maintaining compliance with emissions regulations is increasingly important for automotive manufacturers worldwide.
Ford announced it would issue notifications to vehicle owners before December 31, 2024, detailing the recall process. Affected owners will be required to present their vehicles to authorized Ford dealerships for inspections and potential replacements of the defective filters.
"The affected vehicles will have to be brought to Ford dealerships for inspection and replacement of the defective diesel particulate filters if necessary," stated Carscoops. This remedy aims to rectify the emissions issues and restore compliance with environmental regulations, ensuring these vehicles can pass future emissions tests without issue.
Beyond Germany, Ford will assess the vehicles under recall across other markets, though specifics about which regions will be impacted have not yet been disclosed. Ford plans to evaluate each case individually to provide refunds for any owners who have previously paid for repairs on these filters.
To restore consumer confidence, Ford will warranty the newly installed DPFs for up to 10 years or 160,000 km, whichever occurs first. The decision to recall such a substantial number of vehicles highlights the automaker's commitment to addressing safety and regulatory compliance vigorously.
This recent initiative follows a turbulent period for the American car manufacturer, as Ford has become well-known for its high number of recalls. Last year, it recorded the highest recall rate of any manufacturer with 2.6 million vehicles recalled. With 62 recalls affecting over 4.37 million vehicles noted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) so far this year, the company is under scrutiny.
Motorists affected by this recall are advised to keep abreast of updates from Ford as the situation continues to develop. Previously, Ford had claimed they were working to minimize disruptions and maintain close communication with affected vehicle owners.
"The new filters will come with warranty of 10 years or 160,000 km, whichever occurs first," as noted earlier, reiterates Ford's dedication to ensuring customer satisfaction and vehicle reliability.
With growing pressures on automotive manufacturers to improve emissions controls and product safety, this recall serves as another reminder of the importance of rigorous compliance with environmental standards. Ford's proactive approach to resolving potential issues with their diesel vehicles may help bolster their reputation as they navigate increasingly turbulent waters.
