Lemon Law News – Cracking Couplings Force Ford Van Recall
A widespread driveshaft problem forced Ford Motor Company to recall more than 350,000 vans in June 2017.
The manufacturer notified the National Highway Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA) on June 26, 2017 they would recall 372,991 2015-2017 Ford Transit vans built between Jan. 17, 2015 and June 15, 2017. The recall affects all of the above vehicles except those with the 156-inch and 178-inch wheel base Chassis Cabs and Cut-Away bodies.
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The recall involves a flexible coupling between the vans’ transmissions and driveshafts. The coupling can prematurely deteriorate and crack over time. A cracked coupling will create a loud moaning noise and vibration from beneath the van. Continued driving with a cracked coupling can make the driveshaft separate from the vehicle, causing power loss in motion or unintended movement when parked without the parking brake applied. Sudden driveshaft separation can also damage surrounding components including brake and fuel lines.
Ford’s recall chronology states their engineers first learned about the cracking driveshafts in October 2016. After evaluating two vehicles replaced because of coupling noise complaints, they found the vehicles get noisier at speeds above 40 mph.
Data analysis showed 95% of all flexible coupling replacements were noise and vibration related complaints. Ford said while they found few driveshaft separation reports, they found no brake function loss reports. The manufacturer did determine deterioration did not occur until after 30,000 miles driven.
Field monitoring continued throughout 2017 and in May 2017 Ford received two reports alleging separating driveshafts caused brake failures. Inspection confirmed one report, and the company’s Field Review Committee approved a recall.
Ford will notify owners and as an interim repair, dealers will replace the flexible coupling on any vehicle with more than 30,000 miles. A redesigned flexible coupling or a revised driveshaft equipped with a universal joint is being developed. These repairs will be made free of charge. The recall is expected to begin July 17, 2017. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford’s number for this recall is 17S15. Ford owners can call Ford’s toll-free line at 1-866-436-7332 or contact their local Ford dealer.
The manufacturer of your vehicle is legally compelled to fix any recalled problems for free. If the dealership refuses to fix the part or tries to charge you for the repair, contact the manufacturer immediately. The Highway Safety Act of 1970, which created the NHTSA, requires car manufacturers to pay for the recall and replacement of a defective part.
If the manufacturer fails to repair, replace, repurchase, or provide your recalled vehicle’s loss value, they are violating the warranty and a lawyer may be able to assist you. Lemon law attorneys help their clients by dealing directly with the manufacturer on the clients’ behalf, working to promptly resolve the issue and get their clients back on the road. Thanks to the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act, attorneys can seek their fees directly from the manufacturer, meaning a client can obtain legal counsel without having to pay attorneys’ fees directly out of pocket.