Ford Australia has announced a critical safety recall affecting 480 Escape plug-in hybrid (PHEV) SUVs manufactured between 2019 and 2023. The recall stems from a potentially dangerous defect in the vehicles' high-voltage battery system that could result in sudden power loss or fire risks.
The manufacturing flaw, identified in recall notice REC-006261, can cause internal short circuits in one or more high-voltage battery cells. This defect presents two significant safety concerns: vehicles may unexpectedly lose power while in motion, or the battery could experience thermal venting, potentially leading to fires. Drivers may receive a "Stop Safely Now" warning on their instrument cluster before experiencing power loss.
To address these safety risks, Ford Australia will provide affected owners with a free software update through their authorized dealership network. The company plans to contact eligible vehicle owners directly once the update becomes available. Owners can verify if their vehicle is affected by checking their 17-character Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) through the government's Vehicle Recalls website.
Concerned owners can take immediate action by contacting Ford's Customer Relationship Centre at 133 673 or visiting their local Ford dealer to schedule the necessary repairs.
This latest recall adds to Ford Australia's recent safety actions in 2024-2025, which have included recalls for 1,100 EcoSport SUVs due to hood insulator fire risks and 300 Ranger/Everest vehicles for awning-related issues. The battery system concerns mirror similar challenges faced by other manufacturers in the electric vehicle sector, including recent recalls by BYD and Toyota for thermal management issues.
For the most current information about this recall, owners are encouraged to visit vehiclerecalls.gov.au. The company emphasizes the importance of promptly addressing recall notices, as unresolved defects could potentially affect insurance coverage.
Dylan Anderson
Dylan Gow
