Big-name auto manufacturer Ford is set to recall as much as 433,000 of its vehicles after a defect with a body control module has been detected.
According to reports, vehicles affected include the new 2015 Focus, Escape, and C-MAX models. The issue affecting the cars involve a software bug that leaves the vehicles running even after the ignition is switched off and the key removed. Aside from engine troubles this may cause, the bug also poses security concerns, as the vehicles can roll away or be stolen.
Ford confirmed the recall via a statement. According to the company, the recall is part of its safety compliance protocols. The safety compliance recall will hit "approximately 433,000 vehicles in North America, including certain 2015 Focus, C-MAX and Escape vehicles, for an issue with the body control module. In these vehicles, it could be possible for the engine to continue to run after turning the ignition key to the 'off' position and removing the key, or after pressing the Engine Start/Stop button. This is a compliance issue with FMVSS 114 regarding theft protection and rollaway prevention."
The company then stated the specific models that are affected, including some 2015 Focus models built from June 17, 2014 through June 12, 2015. Also affected are certain 2015 versions of the C-MAX vehicles built from April 22, 2014 through June 12, 2015. Both affected models were built at the company's Michigan Assembly Plant. Meanwhile, a number of this year's Escape vehicles built at the Louisville Assembly Plant from April 1, 2014 through June 12, 2015 are also going to be recalled.
Of the over-all recall, most numbers are concentrated in the United States, with 374,781 owners affected. Meanwhile, 52,180 Ford vehicles in Canada are affected, as well as 5,135 vehicles in Mexico.
Affected vehicle owners can take their cars to their nearest dealer for a software update at no extra charge.
