Embattled Ford SA Recalls two models due to fire risk

FORD South Africa has announced another fire-risk related recall, this time on its entry-level Figo and Ikon models.

Owners of 15 600 petrolengined Figos and Ikons‚ built in India between August 2004 and March 2012 and sold in SA‚ received e-mails from the carmaker on Wednesday, asking them to “immediately” contact a Ford dealership to replace their vehicle’s power-steering, high-pressure hose.

“Ford is voluntarily recalling these vehicles to replace the high pressure power assisted steering hose, which may split, resulting in a power steering fluid leak,” Minesh Bhagaloo, a Ford spokesperson, said yesterday.

Bhagaloo said the power steering fluid leak could result in fumes being emitted from the engine compartment. “It may also be possible for power steering fluid to come into contact with the vehicle’s exhaust system components, creating the potential for smoke and, in extreme cases, fire.”

Globally‚ 16 of the affected vehicles have caught fire. However, none of them have come from South Africa, according to Ford SA. “We aren’t aware of any in South Africa,” said Bhagaloo.

The car manufacturer said it was pro-actively recalling the vehicles to rectify the issue.

“Ford remains committed to delivering world-class quality vehicles to our customers and this voluntary safety recall is part of that commitment.”

Earlier this year, a Ford Figo caught fire outside Nel- spruit Mediclinic, footage of which was widely circulated on social media.

However, Ford said it was unsure as to whether the incident was directly related to the recall.

Ford has faced a backlash in recent months after nearly 50 of their Kuga SUVs caught fire.

Investigations revealed the fires were caused by overheating‚ which led to engine cylinder heads cracking and oil leaking.

In December 2015, Reshall Jimmy was burnt to death when the Kuga he was driving caught alight.

It’s been alleged that the car manufacturer offered his family a free Ford as compensation. However the offer was rejected outright. The family said if Ford didn’t make an acceptable offer, they would resort to litigation.