Ford Recalling 465000 Vehicles for Defective fuel tanks

Ford Motor Company is issuing a vehicle defect recall for 465,000 2013 models to check for fuel tank leaks that could result in a fire. According to a Reuters news report, recalled models include the 2013 Ford Fusion, Flex, Explorer, Taurus, Interceptor Sedan and Interceptor Utility. Ford officials said a fuel delivery module in the tank could leak and that it had received 600 consumer complaints as of March 31. Ford released a statement that a fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source may result in a fire. But, they say that so far, no fires, accidents or injuries have been reported.

The recall involves 420,000 vehicles in the United States, Canada and Mexico. The automaker recalled about 80,000 Fusion vehicles in December to check for engine leaks that could result in a fire. Also, another 19,000 Fusions were recalled in November to fix issues with the lighting system. A small number of 2013 Fusions are also being recalled to fix steering gears that do not have an internal retaining clip, which could increase the risk of a crash. Ford has also said that they will not have the necessary parts to fix these auto defects until September.

The Danger of Vehicle Fires

Vehicle fires are a serious problem in the United States. A number of these are fires caused by auto defects and mechanical malfunctions. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that there were 184,500 passenger vehicle fires including 285 deaths and 1,440 injuries nationwide in 2010. The cost of damages due to these fires was estimated at $1 billion. Vehicle fires can result in catastrophic burn injuries, smoke inhalation injuries or even fatalities.

Auto Product Liability Issues

Fuel leaks have the potential to cause catastrophic fires as well as significant property damage. Anyone who has been injured in a vehicle fire caused by a defective auto or vehicle part would be well advised to contact an auto product liability attorney who has successfully handled cases against large automakers. Victims can file a product liability claim against the automaker seeking compensation for injuries, damages and losses. The best auto defect law firms will always offer a free consultation and comprehensive case evaluation to injured victims and their families.