Escape Recall: Cruise Control Fault

Ford Motor Company is recalling certain 2023-2024 Ford Escape two-wheel drive vehicles equipped with adaptive cruise control due to a misalignment in the cruise control radar module. This misalignment can cause the Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) to incorrectly classify overhead objects as obstacles, leading to unexpected vehicle deceleration. Other safety systems relying on the radar module, such as Pre-Collision Assist (PCA), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), and Auto Emergency Braking (AEB), may also lose functionality. These issues increase the risk of a crash. Affected owners will be notified and repairs will be conducted free of charge.

Key Highlights

NHTSA Campaign Number: 24V440000
Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company
Components Affected: Forward Collision Avoidance
Potential Number of Units Affected: 209

Recall Overview:

Ford is recalling specific 2023-2024 Escape two-wheel drive vehicles with adaptive cruise control. The recall is due to the radar module being misaligned during production, which can result in the ACC misclassifying overhead objects, causing unexpected vehicle deceleration. This misclassification affects other systems relying on the radar module, increasing the crash risk.

Remedy:

Ford dealers will adjust the radar module angle at no cost to the owners. Notification letters are expected to be mailed on July 1, 2024. Owners can contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332, referencing recall number 24S39.

Additional Support:

Owners can also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 or visit www.nhtsa.gov for more information.

Part 573 Safety Recall Report 24V-440:

Submission Date: June 14, 2024
Manufacturer Recall No.: 24S39
Manufacturer Information:
- Name: Ford Motor Company
- Address: 330 Town Center Drive, Suite 500, Dearborn, MI 48126-2738
- Phone: 1-866-436-7332

Vehicle Information:

Models Affected: 2023-2024 Ford Escape
Production Dates: April 19, 2023 – November 9, 2023
VIN Range: Not sequential

Description of Defect and Safety Risk:

The misaligned radar module can cause unexpected vehicle deceleration, increasing the risk of a crash. Additionally, the diminished functionality of PCA, FCW, or AEB further elevates this risk.

Chronology of Events:

On December 5, 2023, Ford’s Critical Concern Group (CCRG) was notified of high ACC failure rates at the Wheel Alignment Headlight Aim (WAHA) station. Investigations revealed that incorrect radar calibration board positions were used. From January to May 2024, Ford reviewed warranty data and alignment angle data, identifying the vehicles affected. By June 3, 2024, no related accidents, injuries, or fires were reported.

Remedy Program:

Owners will be notified by mail to take their vehicles to a Ford or Lincoln dealer for a radar alignment procedure, free of charge. Ford will reimburse owners for costs incurred prior to recall notification.

Recall Schedule:

Dealer Notification Date: June 14, 2024
Owner Notification Date: July 1-5, 2024

Ford’s proactive recall of the 2023-2024 Escape models due to misaligned cruise control radar modules aims to address safety risks associated with unexpected vehicle deceleration and compromised collision avoidance systems. Affected owners will receive free repairs to ensure vehicle safety and functionality.

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