Just one month after deliveries of the 2013 Ford Escape started, Ford has made a formal recall of all Ford Escapes fitted with its 1.6-liter EcoBoost engine. 

The recall is to replace an engine compartment fuel line, which is at risk of splitting and leaking fuel in the engine bay, potentially causing an engine fire. 

The fire risk is only present when the engine is running, and not switched off. 

Ford has advised owners of 2013 Ford Escapes with the 1.6-liter engine not to drive their vehicles as an extra precaution until the necessary work has been carried out. 

2013 Ford Escape, launched at the Los Angeles Auto Show, Nov 2011

2013 Ford Escape, launched at the Los Angeles Auto Show, Nov 2011

It says owners of the 2013 Ford Escape with 1.6-liter EcoBoost should contact their dealers immediately to arrange the essential repair and provide a loaner vehicle until the repair work is carried out. 

In addition, Ford has instructed its dealers to not offer any demonstrations of 2013 Escapes fitted with 1.6-liter EcoBoost engines until the issue has been resolved.

“We have identified an issue and are taking quick actions in the best interest of our customers,” said Ray Nevi, assistant director at Ford Automotive Safety Office. “Our intensive investigation and testing has identified the area of concern and we are moving as quickly as possible to repair vehicles for our customers. In the meantime, it is extremely important that affecting customers not ignore this recall and immediately contact their dealer.”

Ford expects the repairs to each vehicle to take no more than an hour. Assuming parts availability, it says the repairs to all 11,500 affected cars could be carried out within two weeks. 

2013 Ford Escape, launched at the Los Angeles Auto Show, Nov 2011

2013 Ford Escape, launched at the Los Angeles Auto Show, Nov 2011

It is worth noting that the recall only affects 2013 Ford Escape models fitted with the 1.6-liter EcoBoost engine, and not 2013 Ford Escape models fitted with the 2.0-liter EcoBoost or 2.5-liter engines. 

If you are unsure of which 2013 Ford Escape you own, or own a 1.6-liter model with EcoBoost, please contact your dealer immediately for assistance. 

+++++++++++

Follow GreenCarReports on Facebook and Twitter.