On Wednesday, April 29, Ford Motor Co. announced that approximately 600,000 vehicles would be recalled due to steering defects caused by rusty bolts. The vehicles that were included in the recall are the 2013-15 Ford Fusion, 2013-15 Lincoln MKZ, and the 2015 Ford Edge. The bolts in the steering systems of those vehicles are prone to rusting and fracturing, thereby increasing the likelihood of auto accidents once drivers lose the capacity to steer their cars.

The auto company specified that the recall was limited to cars located in states that rely on the use of road salt in the winter. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) permits auto companies to limit their recalls if they can demonstrate that a geographically limited recall will not negatively impact public safety. In announcing the regional recall, Ford has stated that the corrosion of the bolts and the steering system is caused by the heavy use of road salt in states such as Connecticut, Washington, D.C., and Maryland.

For Ford car owners in states outside the regional recall, the company is offering an extended warranty. The warranty is unlimited and will be transferred upon sale of the vehicle to the new owners. Under the terms of the extended warranty, affected Ford owners outside of the regional recall who experience rusted bolts will be permitted to bring their vehicles in for free repairs indefinitely.

In addition to the steering system defects, Ford has recalled the Ford Fusion for defects in the latch of the car doors. Consumers have reported that the doors can swing open on their own. Consumers who have complained to NHTSA about the doors prompted a recall and safety notice from both the NHTSA and Ford.

While no one has yet to be seriously injured in accidents related to the multiple recalls, Ford has announced that some of the safety defects may have caused accidents. Consumers have reported some issues with steering and it is likely that Ford wants to initiate repairs before individuals are injured and the company finds itself in the same financial and recall debacle still haunting General Motors.

Consumers who drive Ford vehicles that have been recalled are urged to bring their vehicles in for repair as soon as possible. To see if your specific Ford vehicle has been recalled, consult the Ford Recall website.