Ford has recently issued its 46th recall of the year, affecting 90,736 vehicles with 2.7-liter or 3.0-liter EcoBoost V-6 engines. The recall is due to faulty intake valves that could break off and cause catastrophic engine failure. This issue affects a range of Ford vehicles from the 2021-2022 model years, including the F-150, Bronco, Explorer, Edge, Lincoln Nautilus, and Lincoln Aviator.
### Investigation and Cause of the Issue
An investigation found that the defective valves were manufactured using an alloy called Silchrome Lite, which can become brittle if exposed to high temperatures during the machining process. Ford switched to a different alloy in October 2021 to address this issue. Despite believing that most of the faulty valves have already failed, Ford has proceeded with the recall to ensure the safety of its customers.
### Recall Process and Fix
Ford dealers will inspect affected vehicles to determine their engine cycles and may replace engines that do not pass the necessary thresholds. However, there is no mention of replacing potentially defective valves as part of the recall. The company is focused on addressing the root cause of the issue to prevent further failures in the future.
### NHTSA Investigation and Bronco Recall
This recall has its roots in an NHTSA investigation in 2022 regarding engine failures in the Ford Bronco. A total of 15,835 Broncos with the 2.7L and 3.0L engines are included in the recall, with the F-150 being the most impacted model with 47,719 vehicles affected.
### Notification and Resolution
Dealer notification of the recall began on September 30, with individual owner notification following on October 7. Ford is working diligently to address this issue and ensure that affected vehicles are repaired promptly to prevent any further incidents of engine failure. Customers are urged to contact their local Ford dealership for more information and to schedule an inspection if their vehicle is included in the recall.
### Conclusion
In conclusion, Ford’s latest recall is a concerning issue that highlights the importance of addressing potential defects in vehicle components promptly. The safety and satisfaction of customers should always be a top priority for automotive manufacturers, and Ford’s efforts to address this issue are commendable. By taking proactive steps to inspect and potentially replace engines in affected vehicles, Ford is demonstrating its commitment to ensuring the continued reliability and safety of its vehicles on the road. Customers are encouraged to stay informed about recalls and to take action promptly if their vehicle is affected to ensure their safety and the longevity of their vehicle.