Ford and its Lincoln luxury division have recalled 273,789 SUVs because a brake fluid leak can compromise their front brakes.
Recalled models include some, but not all, examples of the:
Ford tells the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) that factory workers may have inadvertently bent the front brake lines of these vehicles in a way that lets them rub against the engine air cleaner outlet pipe. That can wear a hole in the brake line.
Without enough brake fluid, the front brakes can weaken. The rear brakes alone are strong enough to stop the car. However, the braking distance could be longer than normal, which could contribute to an accident.
Ford says it knows of no accidents or injuries, but at least 45 warranty claims related to the problem.
Dealers will inspect the brake line and, if necessary, replace it and/or the air cleaner outlet pipe 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.