- Ford is recalling 128,616 2010-'11 Ford Fusions and Mercury Milans equipped with 17-inch steel wheels because of a risk of wheel separation, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
- The wheel studs may fracture, potentially causing a wheel to separate.
- Ford said as of September 30, it was aware of one front wheel separation and five rear wheel separations.
WASHINGTON — Ford is recalling 128,616 2010-'11 Ford Fusions and Mercury Milans equipped with 17-inch steel wheels because of a risk of wheel separation, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
"The wheel studs may fracture, potentially causing a wheel to separate," said NHTSA in its recalls summary of the problem. "While driving, multiple stud fractures could occur at the wheel location, and the operator may experience vehicle vibration and/or wheel separation, increasing the risk of a crash."
Ford Fusions and Mercury Milans equipped with alloy wheels are not affected.
The recall also includes 2,940 service steel wheels sold to dealers.
Ford said as of September 30, it was aware of one front wheel separation and five rear wheel separations, according to documents filed with the federal government.
The affected vehicles were built from April 1, 2009 through April 30, 2009 and from December 1, 2009 through November 13, 2010.
Ford dealers will inspect the rear brake disc surface for flatness and replace the discs. In addition, the wheel lug nuts will be replaced on all four wheels. The recall is expected to begin on January 24. Owners can contact Ford at 1-866-436-7332.
Inside Line says: If you own a 2010 or 2011 Ford Fusion or Mercury Milan, be aware that a recall is in the works.
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jdubbs19 says:
09:53 PM, 12/10/2011
What does Mexican quality have anything to do with the recall? The quality of the parts are in question, not the car. Even if it was, this is one of Fords most reliable vehicles. So I guess you're right, it goes to show that Mexican assembled vehicles can be just as reliable as Japanese unless the quality of parts is crappy.
tbone85 says:
10:34 AM, 12/09/2011
As opposed to the recalls of cars made in Japan, Germany, South Korea, and every other nation on this planet that builds cars?
blueprint1 says:
08:34 AM, 12/09/2011
This one is going to be expensive...new wheels, new studs, new disc brakes. If the recall stretches to Canada, most car owners have a separate set of steel wheels for winter use, so nearly 100% of Fusion owners will be affected.
partsguru says:
07:52 AM, 12/09/2011
Brings the song "Ride Till the Wheels Fall Off" to reality.