Ford Recalls Vehicles for Fire Risks and Airbag Defects

Ford has issued a recall for nearly 50,000 vehicles because of potential fire risks and airbag defects. According to a Tech Times report, the airbag recall involves 2015-2016 Ford Transit vehicles that have side-curtain airbag issues, which have to be reassessed and adjusted.

Defective Auto Recalls

The automaker said the airbags are improperly positioned and may not perform their safety functions as expected. This increases the risk of certain traumatic injuries especially in side-impact collisions. Ford says no accident or injury reports have been filed with regard to this defect. These vehicles were produced between March 2014 and March 2016.

The automaker also recalled 5,500 units of the 2016 Ford Explorer and 2015-2016 Lincoln MKC vehicles because the car’s heater parts could pose a fire risk. The current design blocks of the engine and heater may overheat while the car is parked and the block heater is plugged in. This raises risks in the case of under-the-hood fires. So far, two confirmed incidents have been reported in Canada. Ford is uncertain if the fires have caused any injuries. When the recalls begin, Ford dealers will repair the vehicles and make necessary adjustments to fix the problems.

The Impact of Auto Defects

Auto defects can affect the level of safety we experience in our vehicles. For example, airbag defects can put vehicle occupants in serious danger of injury and death. We have come to depend on airbags, especially side curtain airbags, to cushion us in the event of a broadside crash. These types of crashes, which commonly occur at street intersections, have the potential to cause catastrophic injuries or even death. Side-curtain airbags play an important role in protecting vehicle occupants in the event of such a crash.

What Can You Do?

You can check if your vehicle has been recalled by punching your vehicle’s identification number or VIN on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s website. If you are in the market for a used vehicle, you can also check if your vehicle was recalled or if it has been repaired by going to NHTSA’s website.

If your vehicle has been recalled, it is important that you take it to the dealership so the necessary adjustments are made. The law requires manufacturers to make these repairs at no cost to consumers. If you or a loved one has been injured by a defective auto, contact an experienced auto product liability lawyer to obtain more information about pursuing your legal rights.