Ford have announced that they will be recalling certain 2005-2011 Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury sedans because the steering column lower bearing could separate, resulting in loss of steering and an increased risk of an accident. The NHTSA Campaign number is 13V385000. The recall affects approximately 355,000 vehicles, including:
According to the recall report, severe corrosion can seize the lower intermediate shaft which may cause the upper intermediate shaft to collapse and the steering column lower bearing to separate. Separation could result in loss of steering. The affected vehicles are currently registered or were originally sold in Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wisconsin. Customers located in non-corrosion states who have concerns regarding their steering will have a one time option to have their vehicles inspected and, if necessary, repaired. Owners of these vehicles should contact Ford directly about these vehicles.
Ford will notify owners to bring in their vehicles to have the upper intermediate shaft and steering column lower bearing inspected and repaired or replaced any parts as necessary. If the steering column lower bearing has separated, a retainer clip will also be installed. The recall is expected to begin October 21, 2013. Owners may contact Ford at 1-866-436-7332. Ford’s recall number is 13S08.
