Ford Windstar minivans are being recalled, and the automaker wants you to know this time.
Ford Motor Co., the second largest auto manufacture in the U.S., is expanding the August recall of 575,000 older-model Windstar minivans, adding 37,000 more minivans.
“The original recall included vans sold in the 1998 to 2003 model years in 21 U.S. states and Canada where heavy road salt can cause the axles to rust. The corrosion can lead to cracks that can cause the axles to break, according to news reports.
“The recall expansion includes 2003 model-year vans with heat-treated axles. It also includes vans registered in Utah, where road salt is used in some areas.”
The axle problem has resulted in at least one fatal accident, according to news reports. The death of a Massachusetts man was caused by the defect and family members said they received the recall notification a week after the crash.
As of September, Ford said it had received reports of seven accidents, three injuries and 950 complaints with the Windstar.
As a North Charleston personal injury attorney, I think it’s extremely important for drivers to pay attention to this recall. Ford said it began notifying consumers about the recall Dec. 6. Consumers with additional questions can contact their local dealers or call Ford at 1-866-436-7332.
