Ford Australia has issued a recall for the Ford Escape PHEV (plug-in hybrid electric vehicle) due to a fire risk, requesting owners work around the issue until it’s resolved.
“Due to a manufacturing issue, the cell modules installed in the high voltage battery may be defective, which could cause an internal short circuit,” the company says in its recall notice.
“A short circuit could result in a loss of motive power. A short circuit could also result in battery thermal venting while charging leading to a vehicle fire.”
The notice adds: “Do not plug in and charge the high voltage battery to above 80 per cent level and only drive in Auto EV mode”.
“A loss of motive power and/or a vehicle fire could increase the risk of injury or death to vehicle occupants, other road users and bystanders, and/or damage to property.”
It’s the latest recall for a potential fire risk in the Escape PHEV, following recalls issued in 2023 for an engine fault and earlier this year for a battery fault.
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- A total of 477 vehicles are affected, produced between 2019 and 2023
- The Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) list is attached here
- The original recall notice is attached here
Ford Australia will contact affected owners to rectify the issue at no charge.
Owners can contact Ford on 133 673 or their local Ford dealer for additional information.