What is the Ford torque converter recall?
In recent years, Ford has issued recalls related to torque converters in certain vehicle models due to safety concerns and mechanical failures. If you own a Ford vehicle, understanding the details of this recall is crucial to ensure your car's safety and performance. In this article, we’ll break down what a torque converter is, why the recall was issued, and what steps you should take if your vehicle is affected.
What is a Torque Converter?
A torque converter is a critical component in automatic transmissions. It transfers power from the engine to the transmission, allowing your car to shift gears smoothly. When functioning properly, it ensures a seamless driving experience. However, if the torque converter fails, it can lead to issues such as stalling, loss of power, or even complete transmission failure.
Why Did Ford Issue a Recall?
The Ford torque converter recall was initiated after reports of torque converter weld failures in certain models. These failures could cause the vehicle to lose power while driving, increasing the risk of accidents. The recall primarily affects vehicles with automatic transmissions manufactured during specific production periods.
Ford identified that the welds on the torque converters in these vehicles could weaken over time, leading to a separation of components. This defect compromises the connection between the engine and transmission, resulting in a sudden loss of propulsion.
Which Ford Models Are Affected?
The recall applies to specific Ford models, typically from certain production years. While the exact list of affected vehicles may vary, some commonly reported models include:
- Ford Fusion (specific years)
- Ford Escape (specific years)
- Ford Edge (specific years)
- Ford Focus (specific years)
It’s important to check with Ford or your local dealership to confirm whether your vehicle is part of the recall.
What Should You Do If Your Vehicle Is Affected?
If you suspect your vehicle is part of the torque converter recall, follow these steps:
- Check Your VIN: Visit Ford’s official recall website or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) website. Enter your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) to see if your car is affected.
- Contact Your Dealership: If your vehicle is included in the recall, contact your local Ford dealership to schedule a repair. The repair is typically free of charge as part of the recall.
- Stay Informed: Keep an eye out for any official communication from Ford regarding updates or additional recalls.
Why Addressing Recalls is Important
Ignoring a recall can lead to serious safety risks for you and others on the road. Additionally, unresolved issues can cause further damage to your vehicle, leading to costly repairs down the line. By addressing the torque converter recall promptly, you ensure your car remains safe and reliable.
Conclusion
The Ford torque converter recall highlights the importance of staying informed about potential issues with your vehicle. If you own a Ford, take the time to check if your car is affected and act quickly to resolve the issue. At Kevin’s Autos, we’re here to help with all your car maintenance and repair needs. Feel free to contact us for assistance or advice on handling recalls and keeping your vehicle in top condition.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the symptoms of a failing torque converter?
How to detect a torque converter failure: Top-6 signs of trouble
- Loss of acceleration.
- Slipping between gears.
- Vehicle refuses to shift.
- Transmission is overheating.
- Transmission fluid is leaking.
- Transmission fluid contamination.
How much does it cost to fix a torque converter shudder?
On average, torque converter shudder repair costs about $187.50.
What Ford trucks are being recalled for transmission problems?
Ford F150 Transmission Recall. On June 14, 2024, Ford issued a significant recall for certain F-150 pickup trucks due to a serious transmission issue that causes sudden gear shifting. The defect, affecting nearly 700,000 vehicles, can lead to dangerous driving conditions and potentially result in serious accidents.
Is it OK to drive with a bad torque converter?
Better not to. Driving with a bad torque converter can worsen the damage over time and potentially lead to complete transmission failure. While you might be able to drive short distances, it's best to have your car inspected by a mechanic as soon as possible to avoid more expensive repairs down the road.
What happens in a Ford Explorer when the torque converter goes bad?
Slipping Between Gears
You can usually feel it to some extent, especially when you accelerate or decelerate quickly. However, you may also feel the vehicle slipping as it shifts between gears or notice that it is having trouble staying in a certain gear.
What year Fords have bad transmissions?
Today, in California alone, there are at least 800 current individual lawsuits against Ford Motor Company for issues with the PowerShift Transmissions on the 2011-2015 Ford Fiesta and 2012-2015 Ford Focus.
What causes Ford torque converter shudder?
A damaged torque converter can cause torque converter shudder. Damage to the torque converter can occur due to overheating, wear, or manufacturing defects. For example, if the impeller, turbine, or stator blades are damaged or bent, the fluid flow inside the torque converter can become disrupted, leading to shuddering.
How much does it cost to replace a torque converter on a Ford?
Replacing the torque converter costs between $600 and $1,000, and the cost of a new part ranges from $150 to $500. It usually takes 4 to 5 hours to replace the torque converter. Avoid driving with a bad torque converter to prevent issues and additional damage.
Can you drive with a bad torque converter?
Better not to. Driving with a bad torque converter can worsen the damage over time and potentially lead to complete transmission failure. While you might be able to drive short distances, it's best to have your car inspected by a mechanic as soon as possible to avoid more expensive repairs down the road.
What models of Ford are being recalled?
Latest Ford Recalls
- 2023-2024 Ford F-150 Lightning Recall.
- 2020-2024 Ford Escape, and 2021-2024 Lincoln Corsair Recall.
- 2019 Ford Flex, Fiesta and Lincoln MKT Recall.
- 2023-2024 Ford F-250, F-350, and F-450 Recall.
- 2022 Ford F-150 Recall.
- Ford Recalls 2022-2024 Maverick over Rear Camera.
- Ford Engine Recall.
