2020–2024 Ford Escape and 2021–2024 Lincoln Corsair PHEVs may experience battery propulsion shutdown
https://www.carscoops.com/author/stephen-rivers/
by Stephen Rivers
34 minutes ago
by Stephen Rivers
- The recall affects 20,558 Ford Escape and Lincoln Corsair PHEVs with 2.5-liter engines.
- Propulsion shutdown and rare thermal venting possible; steering and brakes unaffected.
- Interim owner instructions limit battery charging until a software remedy is available.
The year of the recall continues for Ford today, as the company has just added over 20,500 vehicles to a list that never seems to end. All affected vehicles are plug-in hybrids, and they have a high-voltage battery cell that could experience internal short-circuiting.
That’s the kind of issue that can stop a car in its tracks, or, in rare cases, cause thermal runaway. The recall includes Ford Escapes from 2020-2024 and Lincoln Corsairs from 2021-2024 with the 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine.
Previous Update Proved Insufficient
The recall, number 25V789, is actually a follow-up of a previous recall, 24V954, that intended to mitigate battery issues through an updated Battery Energy Control Module (BECM) software update. According to the company, that update might not catch all battery cell anomalies, so a small percentage of the cars need another update.
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The big issue here is undoubtedly the potential for a short circuit. Any cell that experiences that could literally stop the vehicle while driving, something that, obviously, increases the risk of a crash.
At the same time, a short circuit could trigger what Ford calls “thermal venting.” That isn’t the same as a thermal runaway, but the two are closely connected, and the latter is the type of event that firefighters find extremely hard to stop.
Still Working On A Fix
It’s worth noting that Ford says braking, steering, and lighting are unaffected should a short circuit happen. The automaker is still working on a remedy.
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Between now and whenever it comes up with one, it’s suggesting owners should limit the vehicle’s maximum state of charge and encourages them to drive in “Auto EV” mode. Once a fix is ready, it’ll send out notifications to affected owners about how to get it.
Dealers found out about the issue yesterday, and owners should be notified about it on or around December 1. For now, they can search for their vehicle on NHTSA.gov via the site’s VIN tool or call their local dealer to see if their Escape or Corsair is included in the recall.
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Stephen Rivers
Associate Editor
Stephen, affectionately known as Rivers, has gracefully transitioned from being a repair shop manager and... Read full bio
