Ford India recalls over 1.66 lakh Figo, Classic models

Ford India, the Indian subsidiary of American auto giant Ford Motor Company, is recalling 166,021 vehicles of its Figo and Classic car models to inspect and rectify problems in the rear twist beam and the power steering hose, said an official.

"This will be our second and final recall of the Figo and Classic models to set right the problems," a company spokesperson told IANS over phone from New Delhi, Friday.

Ford India, in a statement, said that it will "recall the remaining batches of Ford Figo and Ford Classic models to inspect them for potential issues related to the Rear Twist Beam (RTB) and the Power Assisted Steering (PAS) Hose."

"This is to ensure the safety and satisfaction of our customers by inspecting and replacing any potentially affected parts as required. Ford India will continue to drive this service initiative through its authorized dealers," the company said.

Ford India will be recalling a total of 131,922 cars (Figo 109,469 units, Classic 22,453 units) produced and sold between January 2011-June 2012 for inspection connected with the RTB which may not need any part replacement.

In the case of the PAS Hose, a total of 34,099 units (Figo 30,681 units, Classic 3,418 units) produced and sold in India from January 2010-August 2010 and March 2011-November 2011 will be inspected and then replaced, the official said.

No injuries or accidents related to the RTB or PAS issues have been reported.

The company official declined to comment to queries about the action taken against the vendor.

On Aug 13, 2012, Ford India recalled all Figo and Classic models manufactured between January 2008 and December 2010 for the same problem.

A total of 1,11,000 units for RTB and 17,655 units for the power steering hose problem were recalled then.

At that time Ford India said the issue is a potential crack in the RTB which first manifests itself in the form of an abnormal noise from the rear.

If the vehicle is continued to be driven and the noise symptoms are ignored, it could lead to the unit breaking, resulting in diminished ride and handling and brake performance - potentially rendering the vehicle inoperable.

The company last year said all Figo and Classic petrol-engined vehicles manufactured from September 2010 till February 2011 will have the power steering hose replaced as a precautionary measure and to ensure the long term durability of the vehicle.

The issue identified is the potential for an oil leak to develop in the power steering hose which could result in potential fumes being emitted from the area causing the leak.

It may also be possible for power steering fluid to come into contact with the vehicle's exhaust components creating a potential for smoke and, in extreme cases, fire.

Ford India launched the Figo in 2010.

According to Ford India, it is proactively contacting owners of the potentially affected vehicles via notification letters through its nationwide dealership network. Owners may also contact their local dealers, or call Ford India Customer Relations Group on a toll free number - 1800 419 9889.