Recall 04V602000: Liftgate Latch Release Rod Replacement

MAKE/MODELS: MODEL/BUILD YEARS:

Ford/Escape 2001-2005

MANUFACTURER: Ford Motor Company

NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 04V602000 RECALL DATE: Dec 17, 2004

COMPONENT: Latches/Locks/Linkages: Doors: Latch

POTENTIAL NUMBER OF UNITS AFFECTED: 262113

SUMMARY:
Certain 2004-2005 sport utility vehicles and certain 2001-2003 sport utiity vehicles having rear liftgate components serviced with 2004 equivalent components fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard No. 206, "Door Locks and Door Retention Components." The rear liftgate latching system does not meet the inertia load requirement in one direction.

CONSEQUENCE:
If the liftgate is left unlocked, there is the potential that it may open during a crash.

REMEDY:
Dealers will replace the rear liftgate latch release rod, the release rod attachment clip and the door handle return spring. The recall is expected to begin on January 24, 2005. Owners should contact Ford at 1-800-392-3673.

NOTES:
Ford recall No. 04C09. Customers can also contact The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236.
888-327-4236.