Ever since GM’s ignition recall disaster, automakers have been taking no chances when it comes to fixing any potential safety issues with its cars. This has led to massive recalls consisting of hundreds of thousands, and sometimes even millions of vehicles, by virtually every automaker.
Ford is no exception, and it’s most recent recall of more than 800,000 vehicles includes the 2015 Mustang for defective door latches. The recall also includes popular Ford models such as the Focus and Escape, the hybrid C-Max, Transit Connect, and Lincoln MKC.
The regional recall specifically cites that all 2012-2015 Ford Focus, 2013-2015 Ford Escape and C-Max, 2014-2016 Transit Connect, 2015 Lincoln MKC and 2015 Ford Mustang models are part of the Blue Oval’s latest recall. All told, the automaker is recalling about 830,000 vehicles sold in Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico, Nevada, Oklahoma, Oregon, Texas, Utah, and Washington.
According to Ford, higher ambient temperatures and “solar loading” can cause the pawl spring tab in the side-door latch to break. “This condition typically will prevent the door from latching,” Ford said in a statement. “In certain situations where the door is able to be closed, the door may unlatch while driving, increasing the risk of injury.” The recall was brought on by a single accident and injury, giving you a sense of just how serious automakers are taking any potential safety issues.
Owners of the affected vehicles will get a replacement door latch, free of charge, and there is no time limit on the recall. Still, we’d recommend getting this fix sooner rather than later, lest your door open of its own volition.