Ford recalls Fusions, Escapes for fires, offers loaners

Chris Woodyard and Fred Meier, USA TODAY | USATODAY

Ford Motor is recalling two of its biggest-selling and newest models, the 2013 Escape crossover and 2013 Fusion mid-size sedan equipped with 1.6-liter Ecoboost engines, because they can overheat and catch fire.

Ford is urging owners to as soon as possible contact their dealers, who will provide them with loaner cars at no charge until their vehicles can be fixed. Ford still is trying to figure out how to fix the problem.

The Fusion just went on sale this fall — and was just named Green Car of the Year at the Los Angeles Auto Show — but it is the third recall for the new Escapes with this engine for possible overheating and fire dangers.

The first was in July as the new Escape had just gone on sale and was for a problem with a fuel line that could leak under pressure. Owners and dealers were told to park the vehicles until they were fixed. The second in September involved a coolant plug that could allow the engine coolant to leak.

The latest recall applies to the 73,320 2013 Escape and 15,833 Fusion SE and SEL models in North America with the 1.6-liter turbocharged Ecoboost engine. It is the volume-selling engine choice for both vehicles.

Ford says there no injuries reported, but told the Associated Press that it has 12 reports of Escape fires and one for Fusion.

Ford says the trouble starts when engines overheat and a message flashes on the instrument cluster saying, "Engine Power Reduced to Lower Temps" or "Engine over temp, stop safely." Sometimes a chime or red light appears as a warning.

If it happens, Ford says drivers should pull over immediately, turn off the vehicle and get out.

For Ford, the problem hits at two of its most popular new models, both completely redesigned for the 2013 model year. Both have historically been among the top-selling vehicles in the U.S.

Ford says owners unsure of the engine they have can check the Vehicle Identification Number — Fusions with this engine have an R as the eighth character, Escapes have an X in that place. More information is available from Ford at 866-436-7332.