Ford is recalling 58,000 Focus vehicles because of fuel tank issues

Ford is recalling select Focus vehicles after discovering an issue that could lead to drivability concerns and even loss of power.

The recall affects select 2012 and 2017 models with 2.0-liter GDI engines and 2013-14 Focus ST vehicles with 2.0-liter GTDI engines. According to Ford’s notice about the recall, the software used to service the recalled vehicles for a previous safety recall was incomplete, which means “the vehicles do not have the intended calibration software that will detect a malfunctioning canister purge valve.”

If the canister purge valve is stuck open on the recalled vehicles, an excessive vacuum can develop, potentially deforming the fuel tank. If this happens, you may notice a “malfunction” indicator light, inaccurate or erratic fuel gauge indication, drivability concerns or loss of power.

The recall affects approximately 58,000 vehicles in North America, including approximately 57,400 in the United States. Affected vehicles are:

• 2012 and 2017 Focus vehicles with 2.0-liter GDI engines built from Oct. 7, 2010, through July 23, 2012, and from Aug. 24, 2016, through April 13, 2017.
• 2013-14 Focus ST vehicles with 2.0-liter GTDI engines built from May 3, 2012, through Dec. 11, 2014.

Ford is not aware of any reports of accidents or injury related to the recall. However if you have one of the recalled models, the company suggests maintaining at least half a tank of fuel in the vehicle until it is serviced at a dealership.

Dealers will reprogram the powertrain control module in affected vehicles with the appropriate software and replace the canister purge valve if your car needs it. If the canister purge valve does end up being replaced on your vehicle, dealers will also inspect and replace the carbon canister, fuel tank and fuel-delivery module if necessary.

This recall is tied to a recall from October 2018, when Ford told the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration there was a problem with the canister purge on select Focus vehicles. The issues could cause the vehicle to stall, increasing the risk of a crash.

If you have questions or want more information, you can call Ford Customer service toll free at 866-436-7332. The Ford reference number for the latest recall is 19S22.