Ford and its Lincoln luxury marque have recalled 123,611 trucks and SUVs because they can leak brake fluid, compromising their front brakes. If the front brakes fail, the rear brakes alone are strong enough to stop the vehicle. But stopping will take a longer distance than normal, which could contribute to an accident.
Recalled models include some, but not all, examples of the:
Ford tells the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) that brake fluid contamination can interfere with a seal in the brake master cylinder, causing a leak.
Drivers may get some warning, the company says. “If the brake fluid in the reservoir is depleted to a predetermined level, the driver will receive an audible chime, a message center alert, and a red brake warning indicator in the instrument cluster. If the driver continues to operate the vehicle, the driver may begin to experience a change in brake pedal travel and feel, and increased pedal effort.”
Dealers will replace the brake master cylinder to fix the problem.
Recall repairs are always free. But millions of us miss recall notices every year and unknowingly drive recalled vehicles. Find out if your car needs any free safety repairs at our easy recall center.