Dearborn, Mich., June 28, 2017—Ford Motor Company has recalled about 400,000 of its 2015-17 Transit van or bus vehicles in North America, with 370,630 in the U.S. alone. These models have chassis cab/cutaways with medium wheelbases and medium, long and extended wheelbases.
The Defect
Ford field testing showed that once the affected vehicles reach 30,000 miles, the driveshaft flexible coupling deteriorates. This issue can lead to driveline separation. As a result, the Transit can move while in park without the parking brake applied or lose motive power while driving. Damaged fuel and brake lines are also possible if the driveshaft separates from the transmission.
So far, Ford has not associated any accidents or injuries with the defect, although such incidents are possible.
Timeline of Events
All the recalled vehicles originated from the company’s Kansas City Assembly Plant, with dates of manufacture ranging from Jan. 17, 2014 to June 15, 2017. Ford announced the recall June 28, 2017.
The Solution
Ford recalled the vehicles to replace the driveshaft flexible coupling. This interim repair is not necessary for affected models that have fewer than 30,000 miles. Additionally, the fix is not required for vans or buses with more than 30,000 miles that have had the coupling replaced within that mileage span.
Until a final repair is available and complete, affected vehicles will need a replacement coupling every 30,000 miles. Ford will send mail notifications to owners, who can receive repairs at Ford or Lincoln dealers at no cost. When available, the permanent fix will also come at no cost, and Ford will again send a mail notification instructing owners to schedule a repair appointment for their Transit vehicles.
