Ford has initiated a significant recall affecting specific model years of the Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ sedans. This recall includes 1,280,726 vehicles due to the potential failure of a front brake hose. Currently, Ford has no reports of injuries related to this issue, although there is one noted incident.
The recall targets Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ sedans produced between 2013 and 2018, but not all vehicles from those years are included. A recall report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) specifies that only non-hybrid models face this risk. The majority of the recalled vehicles, totaling 1,167,825, are Ford Fusions, with the remaining 112,901 being Lincoln MKZs.
Gallery: 2017 Ford Fusion V6 Sport
The issue specifically pertains to the front brake jounce hoses—rubber hoses that link the metal brake lines to the calipers. The recall states that these hoses may fail over time due to repeated suspension movements and steering actions. In testing, it was found that these hoses were subjected to only 88% of the expected total movement during their lifecycle.
Although some failures have been documented, the recall indicates that a complete failure of the braking system will not happen immediately. The Fusion and MKZ models are designed with multiple circuits in their braking systems, allowing them to remain operational even if a rupture occurs. However, drivers may notice symptoms of a hose failure, including longer braking distances, increased travel in the brake pedal, and the appearance of a warning light on the dashboard.
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The solution is simple: owners of the affected vehicles will have both front jounce hoses replaced along with an inspection of the brakes. The new hoses feature a revised design and improved materials, and as this is a manufacturer recall, the service will be provided at no cost.
This recall adds to a series of recalls from Ford as the company tackles ongoing quality challenges. CEO Jim Farley has frequently addressed these quality concerns, particularly after Ford’s annual earnings report earlier in February. Over the past two years, Ford has recorded more recalls than any other automaker in the U.S.
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