Millions Of Ford Models Recalled Due To Defective Steering Wheels
Perhaps the most important aspect of driving a motor vehicle is controlling it and in the instance of a car or a truck the steering wheel is used to ascertain the direction of your vehicle. Therefore it is imperative that in addition to being free of any other defects, the steering wheel should never come loose or fall off entirely. Recently, one of the top vehicle manufacturers in the world; Ford Motor Company attracted national attention for the very problem discussed.
Ford Motor Company on the 14th of March 2018 issued recall throughout the North American region for approximately 1.4 million Fusion and Lincoln MKZ model sedans after increasing complaints of steering detachments due to loose bolts. All variants of Fusion and Lincoln MKZ in the 2014-2018 year range have been affected by the recall. Reports have shown that there have been 2 major accidents, one of which involves injuries that are related to this problem. It has also been reported that NHTSA or National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has been investigating these complaints since October of 2017. A joint study between NHTSA and Ford Motor Company concluded that the bolts attaching the wheel with the steering column can potentially loosen over time and this could cause the steering wheel to simply shake loose or even fall off.
Although Ford only has knowledge of the two aforementioned accidents, the NHTSA is reported to have received dozens of complaints from angry and concerned owners of both models. The complaints generally involve everything from loose or wobbly steering wheels to outright separation from their anchor points. A driver alleges that the steering wheel fell into her lap as she was making a turn into a gas station. Another driver has complained that the steering wheel came loose when he was driving on the interstate, however both these drivers survived their frightening ordeals without any injuries or other damages. Manufacturers tend to deny any defects in their products for fear of negative publicity associated with product recalls. However, defects like the one discussed in this article have a potential for putting the driver in a precarious position.
Earlier, Ford Motors had to recall another model for a series of reported door-latch problems where the affected doors would fly open at every turn the car would make. Both recalls have reportedly affected several million vehicles and have caused losses in excess of $600 million to the Ford Motor Company. If you own either of the affected models it is advisable to take your car to a Ford dealership as it’s best to have a certified technician handle vehicular issues that could potentially cause a wreck if left unchecked. However if someone who owns a Fusion or a Lincoln MKZ model and is unaware of the recall situation continues to drive around and gets hurt because of a wobbly steering wheel they could have grounds to seek damages.
So, if you or a loved one has been injured in a wreck caused by someone’s steering wheel coming loose, it is important to retain the services of an exceptional law firm such as RM Law Group to protect your rights and get the justice that you deserve.
