Ford recalling 3.6 million vehicles

Ford Motor Co. said yesterday (Aug. 3, 2007) that it is recalling 3.6 million passenger cars, trucks, sport utility vehicles and vans because of concerns about a cruise control switch that has led to previous recalls based on reports of fires. The recall covers more than a dozen vehicle models built from 1992-2004. The company said it was responding to concerns from owners about the safety of their cars and questions about the speed control deactivation switch in the vehicles that is powered at all times.

The only RVs covered in the recall are 1995-2002 Ford F53 motorhomes.

The recall involves the following vehicles: 1998-2002 Ford Ranger, 1992-1997 Lincoln Town Car, 1992-1997 Ford Crown Victoria, 1992-1997 Mercury Grand Marquis, 1993-1998 Lincoln Mark VIII, 1993-1995 Taurus SHO, 1999-2001 Ford Explorer and Mercury Mountaineer, 2001-2002 Ford Explorer Sport, 2001-2002 Ford Explorer Sport Trac, 1992-1993 E150-350 vans, 1997-2002 E150-350 vans, 1993 Ford F-Series pickups, 1993 Ford Bronco, 1994 Mercury Capri, and 2003-2004 Ford F-150 Lightning.

An additional 177,000 vehicles in Canada, Mexico and Europe are covered by the recall.

Owners will begin receiving recall notices on Aug. 13 but a Ford spokespeson said parts for passenger cars would not be available until early October. In the meantime, owners can take their vehicle to a dealer to have their cruise control deactivated. Parts are available for trucks.

Owners with questions can contact Ford at (888) 222-2751.