Ford recalls 7,000 Focus, EcoSport vehicles amid probe, alleged crash

WASHINGTON — Ford Motor Co. is recalling more than 7,000 Focus sedans and EcoSport crossovers in and nearly 140,000 of the same two vehicles in the United States for faulty engine oil pumps that are linked to a U.S. federal investigation and an alleged crash with two injuries.

The recall covers certain 2016-18 Focus and 2018-22 EcoSport vehicles with 1.0-litre engines and 6F15 automatic transmissions.

The oil pump drive belt or drive belt tensioner on those vehicles could fail, resulting in a loss of engine oil pressure that might trigger an engine stall and a loss of power braking assist, according to a recall report submitted Dec. 22 to the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

A similar recall notice is posted on Transport Canada's online motor vehicle recall database.

Dayco Europe SRL in Italy makes the oil pump drive belt and tensioner assembly, according to the U.S. report.

Ford told NHTSA it received 2,099 warranty claims related to the issue between June 2016 and October 2023. It was not aware of any deaths related to the concern.

"There are warning signs and alerts that precede this issue including a low oil pressure warning message, a check engine light and loud noises," Ford spokesperson Maria Buczkowski said in a statement to sibling publication Automotive News.

"Ford will provide repair instructions to dealers when parts are available. In the meantime, if a customer experiences any of the warning signs they should safely bring their vehicle to a stop and reach out to their local dealer."

Once parts are available, dealers will replace the oil pump drive belt tensioner assembly and drive belt.

Dealers were notified Jan. 3. Ford expects to notify vehicle owners of the safety risk starting Feb. 13.

In Canada, Ford will notify owners by mail and advise owners to take their vehicle to a dealership to inspect and, if necessary, replace the oil pump drive belt tensioner assembly. The dealer will also replace the oil pump drive belt.

NHTSA in September opened an investigation into more than 241,000 EcoSport crossovers after reports alleging engine failure. The agency said it had received 95 consumer complaints alleging engine failure because of a loss of oil pressure in 2018-21 Ford EcoSport vehicles.

As of Jan. 9, the U.S. investigation was still open.