Ford is extending its recall on its Windstar minivans, this time because the vehicle’s subframe could break in cold weather, causing the driver to close control and crash, according to news reports .
Approximately 425,288 minivans from the 1999-2003 model years are being recalled. Previously, Ford recalled more than 600,000 of the minivans for breakable rear axles.
“The recall affects brackets and mounts connected to the front subframe, which carries the engine, transaxle, steering rack and front suspension. NHTSA said in a posting on its website that if the mounts separated from the frame, a driver could experience reduced steering control,” according to news reports.
The minivans in states that use road salt on icy roads during the winter are more prone to breaking, making the recall only necessary in: Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Utah, Vermont, West Virginia and Wisconsin.
One man has already died when his Windstar’s rear axle cracked in half, making him lose control of his vehicle and crash into a building.
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 mid-February. Consumers with additional questions can contact their local dealers or call Ford at 1-866-436-7332.
If you have been injured in a car accident related to a vehicle recall, contact a personal injury lawyer in North Charleston .