Ford Motor Company is recalling 65 units of its 2024 Ranger midsize pickup trucks equipped with the 2.7L EcoBoost® V6 engine due to a potential issue with the fuel vapor line bracket. The recall affects vehicles that may have been incorrectly installed with a bracket that could cause the fuel vapor line to become damaged. This damage could result in a fuel vapor leak, increasing the risk of a fire if there’s an ignition source present.
What’s the Problem? –
The issue lies with the fuel vapor line bracket, which may have insufficient clearance to the fuel vapor line on the affected trucks. If the bracket is in contact with the fuel vapor line, it could cause friction, resulting in damage over time. This damage can lead to a fuel vapor leak.
In the presence of an ignition source, such as heat from the engine or exhaust, this leak could potentially lead to a fire, posing a significant safety risk for drivers and passengers.
Details of the Recall –
The recall applies to 2024 Ranger vehicles equipped with the 2.7L EcoBoost® V6 engine. Ford discovered that some of these vehicles were fitted with a fuel vapor line bracket designed for other engine variants, specifically the 2.3L and 3.0L engines. The incorrect installation of the bracket on the 2.7L engine resulted in inadequate clearance between the bracket and the fuel vapor line.
Ford’s Critical Concern Review Group initiated an investigation in early September 2024 after noticing the error at their Michigan Assembly Plant. Their investigation revealed that the clearance issue, if left unresolved, could lead to damage on the fuel vapor line, which could eventually cause a fuel vapor leak.
Recall Chronology –
- September 5, 2024: Ford’s Critical Concern Review Group (CCRG) opened an investigation after noticing that the fuel vapor line bracket, intended only for 2.3L and 3.0L engine variants, was being installed on certain 2024 Ranger vehicles equipped with the 2.7L engine.
- August 11, 2023: A pick light system was implemented at Ford’s Michigan Assembly Plant to signal the proper installation of the bracket for 2.3L and 3.0L engine variants. However, the system did not account for the 2.7L engine introduced for the 2024.5 model year.
- October 2024: After a review of the affected vehicles, Ford determined that the clearance between the fuel vapor line and the bracket was insufficient, creating the risk of damage to the fuel vapor line.
- October 13, 2024: Ford confirmed that there had been no warranty claims, field reports, or customer complaints related to this issue.
- November 1, 2024: After further evaluation, Ford’s Field Review Committee approved the field action to begin addressing the concern. As of this date, Ford reported no accidents or injuries related to this issue.
What’s the Fix? –
To remedy the situation, Ford will inspect the affected vehicles and install a tie strap to secure the fuel vapor line to the bracket, ensuring it’s properly positioned and prevents any further damage. This repair will be done free of charge for all affected customers.
Ford expects to begin sending out owner notification letters by November 25, 2024. In the meantime, affected owners are encouraged to contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332 for more information.
Safety First: Ford’s Commitment to Vehicle Safety –
This recall follows a rigorous internal investigation by Ford, and although no accidents, injuries, or warranty claims have been reported in connection with this issue, the company is acting swiftly to address it. The automaker’s commitment to vehicle safety is evident as they work to rectify this issue for the affected customers.
How to Get Your Vehicle Fixed –
Owners of the affected 2024 Ranger pickups will be notified by mail and instructed to bring their vehicles to a Ford or Lincoln dealer. Once at the dealership, the vehicle will be inspected to determine whether the fuel vapor line bracket needs to be addressed. If necessary, the repair will be completed at no cost.
Ford has also outlined a reimbursement plan for owners who have already paid to address this issue at their own expense prior to receiving the recall notification.
