Ford Recall Targets Restraint System Glitch in 850,000 Vehicles

2013 Ford Escape

Ford Motor Co. is recalling 850,000 of its 2013-2014 vehicles in North America to replace restraint system control modules that could short circuit, impairing the operation of the front and side airbags and seatbelt pretensioners.

The campaign covers the C-Max people mover, Fusion small car, Escape small crossover and Lincoln MKZ luxury sedan. The recall is the 12th involving the 2013 Escape.

Ford says short circuits can occur in different parts of the restraints control module, thus producing different effects on the vehicle's various restraint systems. The company notes the problem can affect other systems that rely on data from the module, including stability control.

Dealers will replace the modules on affected cars when the recall begins in November.