Dearborn, MI – August 18, 2026 – Ford (NYSE:F) is recalling 5,252 hatchbacks and sedans over the risk of fire caused by a transmission fluid leak. The defect augments the risk of a crash and injury.
The following models are affected:
- 2015 – 2018 Ford Focus
- 2013 – 2016 Ford Fusion
These vehicles were already recalled over the same issue in March 2018 and November 2018, but the repairs were not performed.
Recall summary
When the driver presses the clutch pedal, the clutch separates the transmission from the engine, allowing smooth gear changes. In the affected vehicles, the clutch may slip under load instead of fully engaging when the pedal is released.
Over time, this would create excessive friction and heat, causing a part of the clutch to crack or break apart. The pieces can subsequently breach transmission housing, resulting in a transmission fluid leak.
Recall risks
If the leaking transmission fluid comes in contact with the hot clutch components, it may ignite and set the vehicle on fire.
For tips on what to do in the event of a fire, please visit the following article.
Warning signs
Apart from the burning clutch smell and smoke, the driver may notice a drop in the vehicle performance.
Background of the recall
Ford already addressed the clutch slippage by recalling a batch of Focuses and Fusions in March 2018, followed by an expanded recall in November 2018. On both occasions, the dealer inspected the clutch and, if needed, replaced it, while also updating the vehicle’s software to warn the driver if excessive clutch slippage occurs.
The software update, however, was not successfully installed on all cars due to an internal issue.
Other Ford recalls
In May 2026, Ford expanded its loose front seat recall, affecting nearly 180,000 Bronco SUVs and Ranger pickups.
In April 2026, more than 420,000 Fords and Lincolns were recalled over malfunctioning windshield wipers, also reported.
The repair
The dealers will update the vehicle’s software free of charge.
Notifications to the owners were set to be mailed between July 6, 2026 and July 10, 2026.
Is your vehicle a part of this recall?
This repeated Ford fire recall affects more than 5,200 cars. To do a Ford recall check and see if yours is one of them, please use MotorSafety’s free vehicle lookup tool.
