Washington, D.C. – July 29, 2023 – The U.S. government’s auto safety regulator is investigating Ford (NYSE:F) over allegations that welds on some of their vehicles’ doors may break, preventing them from closing or opening properly. They may also open while driving, increasing the risk of a crash.
The investigation comes on the back of multiple injuries and one report of property damage.
If it leads to a recall, it could affect an estimated 350,000 vehicles, including:
- 2020 – 2021 Ford Escape
- 2020 – 2021 Ford Escape Hybrid
Investigation summary
The regulator, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), opened an investigation on July 7, 2023, following multiple complaints of the front doors on said SUVs suddenly opening on their own while driving. Drivers also had a hard time opening and closing the doors and reported that some of the windows would also not open.
Based on initial findings, this is caused by the door hinge separating from the pillar to which it is welded. Consequently, the doors are not aligned correctly against the body and will not latch when closed.
Risks
Doors that open suddenly while the car is moving may hit and injure pedestrians, cause property damage or startle the driver, leading to an accident.
In fact, leading up to the investigation, NHTSA received 118 complaints about the issue, as well as reports of 25 “minor injuries” and one of property damage.
Warning signs
Many owners heard “loud popping noises” when opening and closing the doors before the hinges separated completely.
Other Ford recalls
Earlier this month, Ford recalled a batch of Fusion hybrids with battery issues that may cause them to stall or even catch fire.
In December of last year, over half a million of Escape and Bronco Sport SUVs were recalled due to a fuel leak that had a potential to cause a vehicle fire, as reported.
Is your vehicle part of a recall?
This investigation may eventually lead to a Ford broken doors’ recall, potentially affecting almost 350,000 SUVs. To do a Ford recall check and see if your car might be a part of it, please use MotorSafety’s free vehicle lookup tool.
