Ford Focus Models Recalled Over Stalling Risk

Ford Focus sedans and hatchbacks are the latest cars to be called back by the massive auto manufacturer.

Ford is recalling more than 250,000 Focus vehicles, warning that they could stall without warning. This is not the first time: The recalled cars were incorrectly labeled as having received a software update required under an earlier recall for the same problem.

The original issue is in the cars’ canister purge valves, part of their emissions control systems. The valves can become stuck open during evaporative-leak monitor checks, Ford recently told federal regulators. 

“An engine stall while driving without warning or without the ability to restart can increase the risk of a crash,” Ford said in a recall notice, filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

The vehicles were first recalled back in 2019. They were supposed to have the powertrain control module software updated to better detect problems with the canister purge valves. Sadly, they were never fixed. 

“Owners will be notified by mail and instructed to take their vehicle to a Ford or Lincoln dealer to have the PCM software updated,” the automaker said in the latest recall notice. 

Ford plans to notify owners of recalled vehicles by July 10. Focus drivers also can check the NHTSA website to see if their vehicles are included in the recall.

Ford Bungles Basic Safety

The Focus recall underscores long-running safety issues for Ford and anyone who drives its cars or shares roads with them. Even when the company spots problems and recalls affected vehicles, it cannot ensure that they are properly fixed.

And this is far from the only recall. Ford has issued more recalls than any other car manufacturer for several years in a row, announcing more than 150 separate recalls last year alone. 

Ford recently called back some 16,000 Bronco sport utility vehicles over problems with their removable roofs, for example. The roofs may crack and fall apart, Ford said, posing a safety hazard and increasing the risk of a crash.

Know Your Lemon Law Rights

Car owners and lessors in California have strong rights and protections under the state’s lemon law.

The lemon law forces carmakers to perform a wide range of repairs on vehicles while they are under warranty. It also obligates the companies to buy back (or replace, in some situations) vehicles that they cannot or simply refuse to fix.

The buyback requirement includes compensating the owner for any down payment on the vehicle, as well as monthly loan payments and the outstanding balance on any loan. The automaker is also responsible for towing, rental car and other related expenses. 

There is no specific number of repair requests or attempts that must happen before the buyback or replace requirement kicks in. An experienced California lemon law attorney at our firm can help you understand your rights and take action.

Speak with a California Lemon Law Attorney

If you have been stuck with a defective or malfunctioning vehicle, a California lemon law attorney at Bickel Sannipoli APC can help you fight back.  

Call us at (888) 800-1983 or contact us online to speak with a California lemon law attorney.