Ford has issued a stop-drive warning for vehicles involved in three past safety recalls related to Takata airbags. The recall includes certain 2004–11 Ford Ranger pickups; 2005–14 Mustangs; 2005–06 GTs; 2006–12 Fusion, Mercury Milan, and Lincoln MKZ/ Zephyr cars; and 2007–10 Edge and Lincoln MKX SUVs.
According to Ford, roughly 375,000 vehicles were impacted by the recalls in the United States, with 95% having completed the fix. Ford released a new stop-drive order to nearly 19,000 Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury owners due to three past safety recalls. All three recalls (15S21, 17S42, and 19S01) are related to the use of Takata airbags. The first recall was issued in 2015, with this being Ford’s second “do not drive” advisory pertaining to the matter.
Ford stated that approximately 765,000 airbags in Ford vehicles were part of the global recall, of which 374,300 were in the United States. Following more than 121 million outreach attempts in the U.S. through letters, emails, phone calls, text messages, and more than one million canvassing visits to customers’ homes, Ford says 95% of impacted owners in the U.S. have completed the recall. That leaves 18,715 unfixed vehicles on the road. Affected vehicles include 2004–11 Ford Ranger pickups; 2005–14 Mustangs; 2005–06 GTs; 2006–12 Fusion, Mercury Milan, and Lincoln MKZ/ Zephyrs; and 2007–10 Edge and Lincoln MKX SUVs.
To make the recall as easy on customers as possible, Ford said it has free loaner cars available if they are necessary. Customers also have the option of requesting a mobile service, or dealers will tow vehicles directly to the dealership to complete the free repair. Owners can check Ford’s recall website or use the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration tool to see if their vehicle is involved.
Background on Takata Airbag Recalls
The issue of Takata airbag recalls has been a significant concern in the automotive industry for several years. Takata Corporation, a Japanese automotive parts company, supplied airbags to many car manufacturers worldwide. However, these airbags were found to be defective, leading to the largest automotive recall in history.
The defect in Takata airbags involves the inflator, which can rupture when deployed, sending metal fragments flying into the vehicle’s cabin. These sharp metal pieces can cause serious injuries and even death to the vehicle’s occupants. As a result, car manufacturers have been issuing recalls to replace these faulty airbags and ensure the safety of their customers.
Ford’s Efforts to Ensure Customer Safety
Ford has been proactive in addressing the Takata airbag issue and ensuring the safety of its customers. The company has conducted extensive outreach efforts to reach out to affected owners and encourage them to bring their vehicles in for the necessary repairs. Ford’s commitment to customer safety is evident in its provision of free loaner cars, mobile service options, and towing services to make it as convenient as possible for owners to get their vehicles fixed.
The stop-drive warning issued by Ford for vehicles involved in the Takata airbag recalls is a precautionary measure to prevent any potential injuries or accidents that could result from the defective airbags. By taking this proactive approach, Ford is demonstrating its dedication to putting customer safety first and prioritizing the well-being of those who drive their vehicles.
Importance of Addressing Takata Airbag Recalls
The Takata airbag recalls highlight the importance of addressing safety issues promptly and effectively in the automotive industry. Defective airbags pose a serious risk to the lives of drivers and passengers, and it is crucial for car manufacturers to take swift action to rectify the problem. By issuing recalls and providing free repairs, Ford is taking the necessary steps to protect its customers and prevent any potential harm that could result from the faulty airbags.
In conclusion, Ford’s decision to issue a stop-drive warning for vehicles involved in the Takata airbag recalls is a proactive measure to ensure the safety of its customers. By providing free repairs, loaner cars, and towing services, Ford is making it as convenient as possible for owners to address the issue and protect themselves and their passengers from the potential dangers posed by the defective airbags. The automotive industry as a whole must continue to prioritize safety and take prompt action to address any safety concerns that arise to protect the lives of drivers and passengers on the road.