Ford to recall 3,305 vehicles in the UAE

Ford Middle East has confirmed an estimated 3,305 vehicles in the UAE are to be recalled for servicing as part of a global move to check certain 2013 models for fuel tank leaks that could result in a fire.

The UAE-based dealers for the US carmaker said the models included in the service campaign include the 2013 Ford Fusion, Flex, Explorer, Taurus, Interceptor Sedan and Interceptor Utility, as well as the 2013 Lincoln MKZ, MKS and MKT.

The move is part of concerns over the fuel delivery module that may leak and around 465,000 have been recalled worldwide.

“The condition could result in customers detecting an odour of fuel, or in some cases, observe evidence of a fuel leak on the ground. There have been no reports of fires, accidents or injuries attributed to this condition,” Ford Middle East said in a statement.

There are 3,305 vehicles estimated to be affected in the UAE and dealers will replace the fuel delivery module according to the approved repair procedure for each vehicle, at no cost to the customer, the statement added.

The global recall involves 420,000 vehicles in the US, Canada and Mexico and the rest will be overseas, Reuters said. It represents another blow for the midsize Fusion sedan, which was redesigned last fall and is one of Ford's best-selling models, but has been the subject of several recalls since its launch.

About 80,000 2013 Fusions were recalled in December to check for engine leaks that could result in a fire. Another 19,000 Fusions were recalled in November to correct problems with the lighting system.

Ford's announcement on Monday said a small number of 2013 Fusions also was being recalled to fix steering gears that lack an internal retaining clip, thus increasing the risk of a crash.

A separate recall was announced for about 500 Lincoln MKZ 2013 sedans with engine block heaters. The cords on the heaters could crack and expose the wiring. The MKZ is a companion model to the Fusion.

While engine block heater cords on the MKZ and steering gears on the Fusion are being replaced free at dealers this month, Ford’s global HQ said it has only a limited supply of new fuel delivery modules, so some owners won't be notified about replacement parts until September.