In accordance with protocol from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Ford Motor Company has issued a recall for 355,000 of its vehicles. The NHTSA report states that Ford Crown Victoria, Mercury Grand Marquis, and Lincoln Town Car vehicles from model years 2005 through 2011 have been recalled.
Vehicles that are currently registered or were sold in 22 states including New Jersey are affected by the recall. These automobiles can experience corrosion of the lower intermediate steering shaft when exposed to salt on the roads used for deicing. This corrosion can cause steering column malfunction from which a driver may lose the ability to steer the vehicle, which can lead to an accident.
Beginning October 21, 2013 Ford will notify vehicle owners of the vehicle’s structural defect and the recall. Dealers will replace the lower intermediate steering shaft without cost to the vehicle’s owner. In addition, the upper intermediate shaft and steering column lower bearing will be inspected and repaired or replaced if damaged.
More information can be found by calling Ford at (866) 436-7332 and inquiring about recall number 13S08. Further details are available at http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/owners/SearchResults?searchType=ID&targetCategory=R&searchCriteria.nhtsa_ids=13V385&refurl=email.
Vehicle defects can lead to some of the worst injury-causing accidents when control of the vehicle is lost. If you have been harmed due to an automaker’s negligence, a no-cost consultation with the legal team at Blume Forte can help you to better understand your rights. Call 973-845-4421 to learn more about your potential legal options.