Ford is recalling approximately 450,000 2010-2011 Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan midsize sedans for a defect in the fuel tank valve that can cause a fire.
The canister purge valve that keeps fuel vapors from escaping may not work properly in some of these cars, causing internal pressure changes in the fuel tank, Ford said in a statement. Over time, the pressure changes can cause a crack in the top of the tank, causing fuel to leak and possibly catch on fire.
No accidents, injuries or fires have thus far been associated with this defect, according to Ford.
Affected vehicles include certain 2010-2011 Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan vehicles built at Hermosillo (Mexico) Assembly Plant from July 21, 2008 through March 4, 2011. Ford estimates that 450,000 vehicles are affected in North America, including more than 410,000 in the United States, 33,000 in Canada and 7,000 in Mexico.
Dealers will update the powertrain control module software and inspect the canister purge valve and fuel tank for leaks, replacing if necessary.
