Ford recalls 40000 big vans; cracked coupling can cause power loss
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Ford is recalling more than 400,000 Transit vans and buses to fix cracked drive shaft couplings that can cause the vehicles to lose power.
The company says the recall covers North American vans, buses and chassis cabs with medium, long and extended wheelbases from 2015 to 2017.
The coupling can separate from the drive shaft, causing loss of power or unintended movement when shifted into park. It also can damage surrounding parts including brake and fuel lines.
The company says it’s not aware of any crashes or injuries from the problem.
Ford says in a statement Wednesday that its data show the couplings won’t deteriorate enough to cause separation in vehicles with fewer than 30,000 miles. So drivers should schedule an appointment to get the coupling replaced after the vans hit that threshold. The company is still developing a permanent fix, and until that happens, drivers should have the couplings replaced every 30,000 miles.
“We are working quickly to make it available as soon as we can,” spokeswoman Elizabeth Weigandt said.
Owners will be notified by mail and will get another letter once the permanent repair is available.
Questions & Answers
Q.Which specific Ford Transit models are affected by this recall?
Which specific Ford Transit models are affected by this recall?
The recall covers North American Transit vans, buses, and chassis cabs. These include models with medium, long, and extended wheelbases, manufactured between 2015 and 2017. The issue involves a cracked drive shaft coupling.
Q.What is the immediate advice for owners whose vans have already exceeded 30,000 miles?
What is the immediate advice for owners whose vans have already exceeded 30,000 miles?
Owners whose vans have passed 30,000 miles should schedule an appointment to have the drive shaft coupling replaced. Until a permanent fix is available, this replacement should be done every 30,000 miles.
Q.How will owners be informed about the recall and the availability of a permanent repair?
How will owners be informed about the recall and the availability of a permanent repair?
Owners will receive an initial notification by mail regarding the recall. A second letter will be sent to them once Ford has developed and made available the permanent repair for the drive shaft coupling issue.
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