In a startling announcement from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), owners of the 2024 Ford Mustang equipped with manual transmissions are being urged to check their vehicles. A recent safety recall report highlights a significant fire hazard involving the clutch line that has already led to under-hood fire incidents.
The Potential Danger Under the Hood
The issue stems from a faulty hydraulic clutch line, which, if not properly secured to a locating stud on the dash panel, may come into contact with hot exhaust components. This could lead to the melting of the clutch line, causing a hydraulic fluid leak. According to Ford’s chief recall engineer, Dan Wilyard, while this issue does not directly impact brake function, it does pose a serious risk as it can affect gear shifting and potentially cause the vehicle to stall. The stalling of a car, especially in traffic, significantly increases the risk of crashes.
In light of these concerns, Ford is calling back 8,161 vehicles, though the company estimates that only about 1% of these cars are affected. Notably, both the Mustang GT and the more performance-focused Dark Horse models are involved in this recall, though the EcoBoost models are not affected due to their exclusive pairing with a 10-speed automatic transmission.
Ford is recalling 8000 stick-shift Mustangs because of a fire risk: https://t.co/6AN4kGeGOb
via @roadandtrack #ford #mustang #recall #safety #autosafety pic.twitter.com/fKaS3vYXrt— Titan Auto Glass (@MyTitanGlass) June 7, 2024
Immediate Steps for Mustang Owners
Ford is taking this issue seriously and has already made repairs available. Owners of the affected models are advised to visit their nearest Ford or Lincoln dealership for a clutch line inspection and replacement if needed. Additionally, Mustang owners can contact Ford directly through their toll-free number to check if their vehicle is included in the recall.
Expert Insights on the Recall
Kristin Shaw, a seasoned automotive journalist and car enthusiast, provides her perspective on the situation: “Recalls like this underscore the importance of rigorous safety checks during the manufacturing process. For Mustang owners, it’s crucial to address these issues promptly to ensure both their safety and the performance integrity of their vehicles.”
Ford Urges Mustang Owners: Ensure Safety Compliance
As Ford works to rectify this problem, Mustang owners are encouraged to take proactive steps to ensure their vehicles are safe and compliant with all safety standards. This recall serves as a reminder of the intricacies and potential issues in modern automotive design and the continuous need for vigilance in vehicle maintenance and safety.
