Ford (F) has issued two recalls that cover over 700,000 vehicles within its lineup over safety issues that will require owners to get repairs.

The first affects certain 2020 to 2022 Escape and 2021 to 2022 Bronco Sport models that are equipped with 1.5 L engines.

In these SUVs, the engine oil separator housing may crack and develop an oil leak. If the oil leak is in the presence of an ignition source such as a hot engine or exhaust components, it could lead to a fire risk.

Ford said that customers may smell or see oil smoke coming from under the hood area.

To remedy the engine oil leak problem, Ford dealers will inspect the oil separator for damage or oil leaks. Dealers will replace the oil separator and seals as necessary, free of charge.

Impacted vehicle owners are expected to be notified by mail beginning on April 18.

The automaker said it was aware of eight fires that may be linked to the issue but was not aware of any reports of accidents or injuries related to the recall.

Also being recalled from Ford are certain 2021 to 2022 F-150 trucks, 2022 Maverick, Expedition, Lincoln Navigator, F-250, F-350, F-450, and F-550 vehicle models.

Ford has recalled the SUVs and trucks because they may have trailer brakes that could fail due to a software error.

According to the recall notice, the software error could cause a towed trailer equipped with an electric or electric over hydraulic brake system to not brake. The trailer may not have brake functionality and could require extended stopping distance, which may increase the risk of a crash.

To repair the trailer brake issue, Ford dealers will update the integrated trailer brake control module software at no charge to the vehicle owner.

Ford said it has received 67 reports of improper function related to the trailer brake issue but has not received any reports of accidents or injuries due to the recall.

Affected vehicle owners are expected to be notified about the recall beginning on April 18.

Questions about either recall can be directed to Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332.

2015 Ford F-150
The aluminum-body 2015 Ford F-150 went on sale in late November. Ford is betting loyalists who have helped make the F-150 the best-selling motor vehicle in America for 32 years won’t flinch at the profound change in the way the car is built. Ford Motor Co.
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