Important recall: 1.39 million Ford vehicles

I thought I had gotten away with a new recall-less week, but no luck. This time the the recalls affect more than 900,000 Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner SUVs for a potential problem with the torque sensor in the steering column in 2008 to 2011 vehicles.  Also on the list are 2011 – 2013 Explorers.

In an interesting aside, the company has announced an advanced steering initiative for its adaptive steering technology. Nothing specific related to safety is mentioned, but the information was posted today, the same day that the recall was announced.

The fixes, which will be performed by the dealer, will either update software for the power steering control module, replace the torque sensor or replace the steering column with one that has an upgraded power steering control module software.

Which repair option is done will be the result of a diagnostic test which will indicate a code with the right fix indicated.

Also on Ford’s recall roster are 200,000 2010 – 2014 Taurus sedans for a corrosion issue that can affect the light that illuminates the rear license plate.

On the 2006 – 2011 Fusion sedan, Lincoln MKX and related vehicles, there is also a recall for all-weather floor mats that can become jammed under the gas pedal. This is similar to the problem that Toyota says they experienced relative to a large recall.

If you are the original owner of any of these vehicles, you should be notified by Ford as to how to handle your recall. If you purchased your vehicle used, go to ford.com or lincoln.com and check for more info.

Do not ignore any recall announcement. It is your responsibility to get this handled, and only 1 in 4 or 5 vehicle owners follow up on recall announcement.