Dearborn, MI – February 7, 2024 – Ford (NYSE:F) is recalling 139,730 cars that may stall because of engine failure. This greatly augments the risk of a crash and injury. 

 Vehicles affected by this recall include: 

• 2018  –  2022 Ford Ecosport
• 2016  –  2018 Ford Focus 

The recall comes on the heels of an ongoing U.S. government investigation, thousands of warranty claims and at least one crash.  Replacement parts are currently not available.

Recall summary  

The engine’s internal parts are lubricated with oil, which is circulated under pressure by an oil pump. In the affected vehicles, parts of the pump may “fracture” and “degrade,” leaving the engine without sufficient lubrication and consequently causing its failure and a vehicle shutdown. 

The car may also lose power brake assist.

Only vehicles with a 1.0-liter gasoline engine are affected by this issue.   

Recall risks

For the risks of stall, please refer to this article about a Chevrolet Volt investigation due to a similar issue. For the risks pertaining to the loss of power brake assist, please see this article about a related Nissan recall.

Warning signs

Leading up to the failure, the driver may notice “low oil pressure” and check engine warnings on the dashboard, accompanied by deceleration.  If the engine does fail, the driver should hear “loud noises” coming from the engine bay. 

Background of the recall

The recall comes on the back of an ongoing investigation conducted by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the U.S. government auto safety regulator.

The investigation was spurred by 95 complaints drivers alleging engine failure. Leading up to the recall, the manufacturer also received over 2,000 warranty claims and became aware of one crash that resulted in two injuries. 

Other Ford recalls 

In December 2023, several compact Ford and Lincoln models were recalled because their doors would open while driving. 

Earlier this month, Ford recalled close to 200,000 Maverick pickup trucks over faulty turn signals, as reported.

The repair

Dealers will replace the faulty parts of the pump free of charge.

Owners will receive letters acknowledging the recall in mid-February and will be notified once again once the remedy is available between April and June of 2024.

Is your vehicle a part of this recall?

This Ford oil pump recall affects more than 130,000 cars. To do a Ford recall check and see if your vehicle is one of them, use MotorSafety’s free vehicle lookup tool.