1.4 Million Ford Cars Recalled for Defective Steering Wheels

Ford Motor Company has issued a safety recall for 1.38 million Ford and Lincoln cars in North America because the steering wheels in these vehicles were not properly affixed and could come loose. According to a USA Today news report, the recall includes 2014 through 2018 model-year Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ sedans. This move comes after officials discovered that the cars have potentially loose steering wheel bolts that could result in a steering wheel detaching from a steering column.

This recall adds to Ford’s quality control problems. The company was recently hit by a series of door-latch recalls now affecting several million vehicles and costing more than $600 million. This latest recall affects 1.3 million vehicles in the U.S., about 62,000 in Canada and about 14,000 in Mexico. When the recall begins, Ford dealers will do the repairs free of charge for consumers. Customers will be notified when they can get their vehicles repaired. Ford has said it knows of two accidents and one injury potentially connected to the defect.

How to Identify Steering Problems

Steering problems usually give drivers some amount of warning if something is wrong, unlike other mechanical problems. There are a number of symptoms you’ll see if your steering is faulty or malfunctioning. One of the first signs you may see is difficulty turning the wheel. If you have power steering, this could mean that the system has the problem. If your steering wheel vibrates, it could mean that your wheel alignment is off or that there is an issue with the power steering.

When your steering wheel slips as you attempt to turn it or hold it in a turned position, that’s also another indication that your power steering is failing. When your steering wheel is loose, that is a sign of a defect or malfunction. You should also be aware of whether your vehicle is pulling to one side. This could be indicative of worn steering gear. Any type of noise you may hear as you are turning the steering wheel such as grinding or screeching could also signal a problem.

Liability and Compensation

If you or a loved one has been injured as the result of a defective steering or any other auto defect, it would be in your best interest to contact an experienced auto defect lawyer who can help protect your rights and assist you with securing maximum compensation for your losses. Injured victims of defective autos can seek compensation for damages including medical expenses, lost income, hospitalization, rehabilitation, pain and suffering and emotional distress.