Ford Motor Company is recalling some 3,000 2007 model year Ford Five Hundred and Mercury Montego sedans to replace the fuel tanks.
A notice on the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) lists the potential number of affected units at 2,945. The 2007 Ford Five Hundred and Mercury Montego sedans were manufactured from September 5, 2006 through September 11, 2006. The NHTSA notice says that the fuel tanks may not have consistent welds between the fuel tank and fuel filler neck spud which can affect the strength of the joint.
Further, the notice says that some fuel tank spud welds may not provide the expected strength in the event of a severe rear impact. An improper weld could result in a crack in the joint which could cause the emissions malfunction indicator to light, cause a fuel odor, or allow fuel to leak out.
The automaker said there have been no reports of crashes, injuries or fires resulting from the condition, although there have been minor fuel leaks reported in a small number of warranty claims.
Ford will begin to notify owners on August 15 to bring their vehicles to Ford dealers where the fuel tanks will be replaced free of charge. And the automaker, according to The Detroit News, told its dealers they must replace fuel tanks in recalled vehicles even if owners have previously replaced them. Owners who have previously replaced their fuel tank for the same reason will have until August 31 to file for reimbursement. They can also file for reimbursement through their dealer.
In the meantime, owners of 2007 Ford Five Hundred or Mercury Montego with questions or concerns may contact Ford’s customer relationship center at 866-436-7332 and refer to Ford Safety Recall No. 11S20.
Alternatively, owners may also contact the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 888-327-4236 or go to http://www.safercar.gov. Refer to the NHTSA Campaign ID No. 11V355000.
2007 Ford Five Hundred, Mercury Montego: Recall Alert
