Ford Recalls 500,000 Vehicles, Citing Brake Problem
» Posted September 14, 2020 • Resources | Share This Post
When you get behind the wheel - or in a passenger seat - of a motor vehicle, you want to be pretty confident that the brakes are working.
Ford is recalling some 500,000 crossover vehicles, citing defective brake joint hoses that could cause fluid leaks and make it harder to slow or stop the vehicles. The defect could also increase the risk of a crash, according to the company.
“A ruptured front brake jounce hose will cause a progressive brake fluid leak,” Ford said in a notice filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. “The driver may experience an increase in pedal travel together with a reduction in the rate of deceleration, increasing the risk of a crash.”
The recall covers certain 2015-2018 Ford Edge sport utility vehicles and Lincoln MKX SUVs. Ford said owners of recalled cars can bring their vehicles to a local dealer for a hose replacement.
Ford said it is not aware of any accidents caused as a result of the defect. The company pointed out that a dashboard warning light will illuminate when brake fluid is low.
Vehicle Defects and Legal Rights for Car Owners
The brake fluid recall is not the first for Ford, one of several major car manufacturers that seems to issue a steady stream of callbacks for vehicles with serious defects.
Last year, for example, Ford said it was recalling some 1.5 million Focus cars because of a fuel tank problem that could cause them to unexpectedly stall. The company said the defect, like the fuel hose problem, increased in risk of a crash.
The good news for California car owners is that the state’s lemon law gives them some important rights and protections. The Song-Beverly Consumer Warranty Act requires car manufacturers to perform various repairs on automobiles while they are under warranty. The law also obligates manufacturers to buy back covered vehicles they are unable or unwilling to fix.
In some cases, the manufacturer can offer to replace the vehicle instead. It is up to the car owner to decide whether to accept this alternative in lieu of a buyback. A seasoned Los Angeles lemon law attorney can help you understand your rights and options.
How a Los Angeles Lemon Law Attorney Can Help
If you have been stuck with a lemon or are locked in a dispute with your car’s manufacturer over repairs, it is vital to have an experienced lawyer by your side.
Los Angeles lemon law attorney Brian Bickel and his team at the Bickel Law Firm have represented hundreds of clients in defective vehicle cases across the state. Our lawyers work aggressively to resolve these cases for the people that we represent.
Our offices are conveniently located in Los Angeles, San Diego and San Francisco. Call us at (888) 800-1983 or contact us online to speak with a Los Angeles lemon law attorney.
