RECALL: Ford is recalling Escape SUVs to fix sticking gas pedals

Ford has issued a recall that covers nearly 485,000 Escape SUVs to fix sticking gas pedals that have been causing crashes. The recall, which is worldwide, covers Escapes from the 2001 through 2004 models that are powered by 3-liter engines with cruise control.

The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has been receiving complaints about the cars. There have been 68 complaints, including 13 crashes, nine injuries and one death. In January 2010, a teenage girl when a Ford Escape crashed in Arizona. The recall was issued after U.S. safety regulators began investigating the SUVs.

Ford previously issued two recalls about 2013 models. Ford recalled 11,500 of the 2012 models with 1.6-liter engines because the fuel lines can crack and leak gasoline, causing fires. Ford also issued another recall for the 2013 Escapes to fix carpet padding that could interfere with braking. On the older Escapes, the recall issued was to fix a problem where the cruise control cables can snag on the plastic cover atop the engine and cause the gas pedals to stick. For the gas pedal to stick the pedal must be pushed to the floor and the cruise control cables must have been bent or moved form their original positions.

Ford dealers will replace the fasteners on the engine cover making more room for the cruise control cable. If you drive one of the recalled Escapes, take your car to a dealer and they will disconnect the cruise control to prevent further accidents.

If you or a loved one have been injured in an accident due to one of the Ford recalls you have legal rights. Our Virginia Auto Accident Lawyers are experienced at helping victims who have been injured to a malfunction in a recalled vehicle. Contact our offices today for a free no obligation consultation toll free at 877-544-5323.