The recall affects certain Kuga PHEV passenger vehicles.
Approximately 336 vehicles in the Republic Ireland have been affected by a Ford recall of certain Kuga PHEV (Plug-In Hybrid Electric Vehicle) models.
Details of the voluntary recall in Ireland were confirmed by the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) after a safety issue was identified that could potentially lead to a vehicle fire.
To explain the technical part, the specific issue occurred during the supplier’s battery cell manufacturing process, resulting in particle contamination in the battery cell(s) that can cause internal short circuiting of high-voltage (HV) battery cell(s) that results in thermal runaway, leading to cell venting. A HV battery cell malfunction or charging fault could result in the HV battery pack venting hot gas.
Essentially, if that hot gas gets in contact with other components, it could potentially result in a vehicle fire.
Additionally, failure of the high-voltage battery cover gasket, after extended exposure to elevated temperatures due to cell venting, results in gases directed toward other components that can exceed their maximum design temperatures.
Approximately 336 Kuga PHEV models, manufactured between 13 January and 24 September 2020, are affected by the voluntary recall in the Republic of Ireland.
Consumers whose vehicles may be affected have been advised that it is very important that they do not plug in their vehicle in to charge the high voltage battery.
Affected customers will be contacted by Ford in writing to request that they get in touch with their local dealer/authorised repairer to have any necessary rectification work completed.
Consumers who believe their vehicle may be impacted by the recall have been asked to contact Ford Ireland on 1800 771 199 (open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm) or use the Dealer Locator to find their nearest Ford service point.
