Ford is recalling certain 2014-2015 Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ sedans and 2015 Mustang coupes and convertibles, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Nearly 200,000 vehicles are included.
The recall was issued due to a potential faulty brake pedal bumper. When a driver presses down on the brake pedal, the brake pedal bumper contacts a switch that turns the brake lights on. A faulty, or separated, brake pedal bumper could cause the brake lights to stay on even when the driver isn't braking, confusing other drivers and increasing the risk of a crash.
The malfunction could also lead to drivers being able to shift out of park without using the brake, risking the vehicle to rollaway as a result.
Ford is recalling only cars that have been originally sold or ever registered in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, Texas, and Virginia. Exposure to certain environmental conditions, such as high temperatures, high humidity, and salt air can cause the brake pedal bumper to corrode and separate from the brake pedal.
Ford will begin sending out recall notices in the mail in early March. Dealers will replace the brake pedal bumpers and clutch pedal bumpers, free of charge.
To check to see if a vehicle has an open recall, visit NHTSA's website and enter the vehicle's 17-digit vehicle identification number.
