Ford recalls 1.28 million sedans over brake fluid leaks

Ford is recalling about 1.28 million Fusion and Lincoln MKZ sedans over concerns that collapsed fluid hoses might slow the rate of deceleration when braking, increasing the risk of an accident.

The recall covers about 1,167,000 Fusions and almost 113,000 Lincoln MKZs made between 2013 and 2018, about 2% of which are affected by the braking issue, according to a recall document made public by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Owners of the affected vehicles are to be notified by mail from mid- to late April and instructed to find a Ford or Lincoln dealer for repairs, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

The agency stated that the problem stems from “suspect” front brake jounce hoses, the rubber pieces that connect the metal brake line to the brake caliper. They can bend over time, which poses the risk of rupturing and leaking braking fluid, according to NHTSA. When this happens, drivers may notice a change in how a braking system feels. A brake fluid warning light should also illuminate.

It is not the first Ford recall involving problems with a front brake jounce hose. In August 2020, the automaker recalled nearly half a million Ford Edge and Lincoln MKX vehicles over a similar issue.