Ford Motor Company Southern Africa (FMCSA) has issued three separate recall notices affecting 5,718 vehicles across South Africa and select Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries. The affected models include the EcoSport, Puma, Ranger, and Everest.
Breakdown of the Recall
1. Ford EcoSport
A total of 2,872 EcoSport models including 2,806 in South Africa, 25 in Botswana, and 41 in Namibia are being recalled due to a potential defect in the front half shafts. These shafts, which may have been incorrectly inserted into the transmission, pose a serious safety risk.
FMCSA warns that if the shaft becomes dislodged, it could result in loss of engine power while driving. Additionally, if the vehicle is placed in Park without the handbrake applied, there is a risk of it rolling away, increasing the likelihood of an accident.
2. Ford Puma
The Puma recall affects 1,796 vehicles, including 1,775 in South Africa, six in Botswana, 13 in Namibia, and two in Eswatini. The issue stems from the fuel line potentially rubbing against a bracket, which could lead to a fuel leak.
Such a leak increases the risk of engine stalling or, in more serious cases, a vehicle fire especially in the presence of an ignition source. Owners are advised to watch for warning signs such as a fuel smell, visible leaks, or smoke near hot surfaces.
3. Ford Ranger and Everest
The recall also includes 571 Rangers and 497 Everests. These are equipped with the 3.0-litre Lion V6 turbodiesel engine, and the issue involves the left-side camshaft sprocket, which could fracture and cause the engine to stall. Affected models include:
- Ranger: 571 units (South Africa: 571, Botswana: 10, Namibia: 24, Eswatini: 3)
- Everest: 497 units (South Africa: 479, Botswana: 7, Namibia: 10, Eswatini: 1)
The smaller 2.0-litre bi-turbo and single-turbo Panther engines are not affected.
What Owners Should Do
Ford has committed to contacting all affected owners directly. Customers are advised to:
- Schedule an appointment with their nearest Ford-approved dealer
- The inspection and repairs will be done at no cost to the vehicle owner
To check if your Ford is affected by this or any other recall, visit www.ford.co.za/owner/recalls/ and enter your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).
Summary of Recalled Units
| Model | Total Units Recalled | Countries Affected | Issue |
|---|---|---|---|
| EcoSport | 2,872 | South Africa, Botswana, Namibia | Front half shaft improperly inserted |
| Puma | 1,796 | South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Eswatini | Fuel line rubbing against bracket (fire risk) |
| Ranger | 608 | South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Eswatini | Camshaft sprocket fracture (engine stall risk) |
| Everest | 497 | South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, Eswatini | Same camshaft sprocket issue as Ranger |
| Total | 5,718 |
FMCSA has encouraged all affected vehicle owners to act promptly to ensure their vehicles remain safe to operate.
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