Ford recalls 342000 minivans twice for axle problem

The multiple recalls were announced by Ford Wednesday morning. The largest portion, approximately 340,000 vehicles, are Windstar minivans manufactured between 1998 and 2003. Corrosion and stress can lead to cracks that could grow and result in a complete fracture, Ford said.

Ford says a few of the reinforcement brackets may have been installed incorrectly. A number of accidents have already occurred due to the issue.

Dealers will inspect the vans and, if the brackets weren’t installed right, replace the axles. If they were correctly installed, customers will be offered a discounted price for axle replacements.

Ford is not aware of any accidents or injuries associated with this issue.

A few Ford F-150’s could hit the brakes when they’re not supposed to, possibly causing an accident, the manufacturer said Wednesday.

The company said that when passing a large truck, the radar could incorrectly determine that it’s in the F-150’s travel lane when it is not. The unexpected braking could increase the risk of a crash involving a vehicle traveling behind the F-150. That can trigger warnings and illuminate the brake lights.

The company said it is aware of one accident that could be the result of this problem and that it is not aware of any injuries.

Affected vehicles include certain 2015 Ford F-150 vehicles built at Dearborn Truck Plant, March 18, 2014 through Aug. 5, 2015, and at Kansas City Assembly Plant, Aug. 11, 2014 through Aug. 6, 2015. Dealers will update software to fix the problem.

Similarly the Ford Taurus, Lincoln MKS and Ford Explorer have also been recalled.

The issue could prove deadly if the tank catches fire. The cars have been found to contain an issue in the fuel tank attachment bolts. The other four affect fewer than 1,500 vehicles each. The system could apply the brakes until it senses that the truck is no longer in the way.