Ford Recalls 200K Older-Model Cars Because Brake Lights Can Stay On

DETROIT – Ford Motor Co. is recalling nearly 200,000 older-model cars because of a potentially separated brake pedal bumper, according to NHTSA documents dated last week. High temperatures and humidity can cause a rubber brake pedal part to disintegrate, keeping the brake lights on, confusing other drivers, and increasing the risk of a crash. 

The malfunction also could lead to drivers in automatic-transmission vehicles being able to shift out of “park” gear without using the brake. This can increase the likelihood of a vehicle rollaway and the risk of an injury.

The recall covers certain 2014 and 2015 Ford Fusion and Lincoln MKZ midsize cars as well as some 2015 Mustangs, with potentially 199,085 vehicles affected. All were sold or registered in Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, and Hawaii.

Owners of the vehicles are expected to receive letters notifying them of the recall on March 3, and Ford dealers will replace the brake pedal bumpers and clutch pedal bumpers free of charge.