Ford Recall 2013: 465,000 Vehicles For Possible Fuel Leaks That Could Cause Fires

Ford Motor Corp. (NYSE: F) is recalling 465,000 globally due to potential fuel leaks. Of the recalled vehicles, more than 390,000 are in the United States.

The recall concerns the 2013 Ford Explorer, 2013 Ford Flex, 2013 Ford Fusion, 2013 Ford Police Interceptor and 2013 Ford Taurus. Ford also issued a recall for the 2013 Lincoln MKS, 2013 Lincoln MKT and 2013 Lincoln MKZ. According to the recall notice, “In the affected vehicles, the fuel delivery module may develop a crack, allowing fuel to leak,” the recall states. “A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source may result in a fire.”

Ford will begin notifying affected owners beginning on July 15, and dealers will replace the fuel delivery system at no cost to the customer. The Detroit News reports Ford has received 600 complaints in regard to fuel leaks as of March 31. A Ford spokesperson said there have been no reported fires as a result of the fuel leak.

In addition to the larger recall, Ford announced two smaller recalls concerning the 2013 Lincoln MKZ and 2013 Ford Fusion. Ford is recalling 500 2013 Lincoln MKZs -- 400 in Canada and 100 in the United States -- that are equipped with engine block heaters. The electrical cord’s insulation could crack in extremely cold conditions, causing corrosion or the risk of electrical shock. The third recall involves 23 2013 Ford Fusions -- 20 in the U.S. and three in Canada -- that may have been built without an internal retaining clip. The lack of an internal retaining clip in the car’s steering wheel could lead to loss of control while driving.

More than 2 million Ford vehicles have been recalled since 2012, 1.4 million in 2012 and 700,000 so far in 2013, the Detroit News notes. For the 2013 Ford Fusion, this is the second recall the company has issued for the vehicle. In 2012, Ford recalled the vehicle due to engine overheating and fuel leak concerns.