Ford recalls unsafe top selling pick-up trucks (BDCI) –Ford announced Monday, the recall of more than one million pick-up trucks in the U.S and Canada because of danger that their fuel tanks could fall off and cause fires. The recall comes after three months after the National Highway Safety Administration announced its plan to expand investigation of 2.7 million Ford F-150 models for corroding gas tank straps. The straps holding the tanks can be consumed gradually by road salt. The company said the recall applies to pick-up trucks such as one of the top selling U.S. vehicle, F-150’s from model years 1997 to 2004, F-250’s from model years 1997 to 1999 and Lincoln Black woods from model years 2002 to 2003 in certain cold weather states. Ford Spokesman Wesley Sherwood said these vehicle affects have caused 3 fires and one injury. “The Trucks being recalled are “older, higher, mileage” cars and have fuel-tank straps that “can corrode after operation for extended periods of time in high-corrosion areas, Ford is committed to safety and responding quickly to vehicle concerns for our customers.” Sherwood said. Ford owners of these trucks are being advised to take affected trucks to dealer to have the straps replaced.
The company has confirmed it will make repairs for free after it announces to truck owners of affected vehicles in mid-September.
By: Shayla Selva Editing by: Janete Weinstein Source: BBC, MSN August 2, 2011
11:30 p.m. PDT