Ford Recalls Over 1 Million Popular Pickups for Gas Tank Problems
Ford Motor Company is recalling 1.1 million of its full-size pickup trucks throughout the United States. There is a possibility that the strap securing the gas tank could rust, causing the tank to detach from the vehicle.
The detachment of the gas tank, according to the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration, could result in a fuel leak, which is a fire hazard.
The recalled trucks include 1997 models through 2003 F-150 trucks, some 1997 through 1999 F-250’s, and some 2002 and 2003 Lincoln Blackwood pickups.
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There are 243 reported incidents of fuel tanks dropping below the vehicle and/or dragging on the ground, reported the Huffington Post. According to the report, 95 Ford truck owners had fuel leakage – nine included sparks.
The recalled models were sold in states with cold climates where road salt can cause the metal straps holding the tanks to rust.
Ford spokesman Wes Sherwood said Ford knows of eight fires – three of which spread to the rest of the truck and only one person was injured as a result of a rusted fuel strap.
In February 2011, Ford recalled nearly 150,000 F-150 pickup trucks to fix a problem with the air bags, which could deploy without warning. The recall was later expanded to a total of 1.2 million vehicles.
Ford has sold over 264,000 F-Series trucks during the first six months of this year.
This current recall is expected to begin September 12, 2011. Ford dealers will replace the fuel tank straps with straps that have stronger corrosion protection.
The service is free of charge and owners may contact Ford at 866-436-7332 for details.
