Ford Recalls 58K Focus Cars

DEARBORN, MI — Ford has recalled some 58,000 Focus cars. The recall affects some 2012 and 2017 Focus models and some 2013-14 Focus ST models in North America. The powertrain software in some of these cars may not work properly, which could deform the fuel tank.

"The powertrain control module software used to service these vehicles in accordance with safety recall 18S32 was incomplete," Ford said in the announcement. "Affected vehicles did not receive the intended 18S32 calibration software that will detect a malfunctioning canister purge valve. When the canister purge valve is stuck open in these vehicles, an excessive vacuum can develop in the fuel vapor management system, potentially deforming the fuel tank. If this occurs, the customer may observe a malfunction indicator light, inaccurate or erratic fuel gauge indication, drivability concerns or loss of motive power."

No accidents or injuries have been reported relating to this issue, Ford said.

According to Ford, vehicles that have not yet had safety recall 18S32 service performed are not affected by this action and will receive updated software when they are serviced under the existing 18S32 program.

Affected vehicles were built at Michigan Assembly Plant in Wayne, Michigan:

• 2012 and 2017 Focus vehicles with 2.0-liter GDI engines built from Oct. 7, 2010 to July 23, 2012 and from Aug. 24, 2016 to April 13, 2017
• 2013-14 Focus ST vehicles with 2.0-liter GTDI engines built from May 3, 2012 to Dec. 11, 2014

Dealers will reprogram the powertrain control module in affected vehicles with the appropriate software calibration and replace the canister purge valve, as necessary. If the canister purge valve is replaced, dealers will inspect and replace the carbon canister, fuel tank and fuel delivery module, as necessary.

Owners are advised to maintain at least a half tank of fuel until their vehicle is serviced for this issue.