Ford plans to recall several hybrid models including the Maverick, Escape PHEV, and the Lincoln Corsair. The company discovered a glitch after a recent software update that could cause the drivetrain or transmission to suddenly shift into neutral while driving.
The problem happens when a driver in one of these Ford hybrids releases the gas pedal at a stop or while the vehicle is in drive, according to Motor1.com. A wrench light will illuminate the instrument cluster when this happens.
The issue began after Ford updated the same vehicles’ Hybrid Transmission Internal Park Module (HTIPM) diagnostic software in January. This was done through the Hybrid Powertrain Control Module (HPCM). However, the new diagnostic software was found to be overly sensitive to noise in the Park Motor Position Sensor. The diagnostic error code causes the vehicle to shift from drive to neutral. This can be triggered when the driver releases the gas pedal to hit the brakes or while the vehicle is accelerating. The driver will still have the ability to control the vehicle’s power steering and brakes, but won’t be able to accelerate.
The recall covers 8,727 vehicles including 8369 Mavericks (2022 to 2024), 277 Escape PHEVs (2020 to 2022), and 81 Corsairs (2021 and 2022).
“This is a potentially dangerous issue for drivers of these vehicles,” said James Johnson, a California lemon law attorney. “Maverick owners should be especially concerned as the pickup truck has three separate recalls in April 2024.”
Indeed, there are no known accidents or injuries from the Ford hybrids defect, however, Ford has received 315 warranty claims in North America.
As an aside, the Maverick pickup targeted here was the subject of three separate recall campaigns in April alone.
California Lemon Law Attorney James Johnson 1-(800) 558-1087
Do you own a defective Ford Maverick pickup truck, Ford Escape and Lincoln Corsair that is experiencing repeated problems, electrical issues, or a dangerous safety issue? If that sounds familiar, you don’t have to wait for a recall before you reach out to an experienced attorney and get help. California Lemon Law Attorney James Johnson will review your case and let you know if it qualifies as a lemon.
We highly recommend Ford owners with engine or other problems obtain invoices for all repairs and recall visits from the dealership. These documents will support your potential case. Should the vehicle experience repeated issues or become a safety risk, these documents support the Lemon Law Claim. Contact us for a free case review at 1-(800) 558-1087 or read on for answers to frequently asked questions.
Published on May 17, 2024
Disclaimer: This article provides general information about vehicles that may be covered by the California lemon law. However, the lemon law has very specific requirements that must be met for your vehicle to be considered a lemon. Every case has a unique set of circumstances and there are specific criteria that must be met for the lemon law to apply. It is imperative that you take immediate action if you believe your vehicle may qualify.
- Multiple Recalls, Safety Defects Impact 2024 Ford Mustang Owners - November 6, 2024
- What Are the Changes to the California Lemon Law in 2025? - October 25, 2024
- Honda Recalls 720K Vehicles Due to Defective Fuel Pumps - October 23, 2024