Focus hatchbacks recalled for latch software fix

Ford Motor Co. is recalling 64,038 Ford Focus hatchbacks in the U.S. to fix potentially faulty interior latch release software.The recall covers certain 2013-17 Ford Focus hatchbacks with manual transmissions built at the Michigan Assembly plant between Feb. 12, 2012, and Aug. 26, 2016, as well as 2016-17 Ford Focus RS hatchbacks built at the Saarlouis Assembly plant in Germany between Aug. 3, 2015, and Aug. 26, 2016, Ford said in a statement today.“In affected vehicles, the rear hatchback can be unlocked and unlatched with a single press of the interior latch release when the vehicle is traveling under 4 mph,” Ford said. “The latch release button is located on the left side of the steering column.”Also, 9,877 of the Ford Focus hatchbacks are being recalled in Canada, Ford said.The automaker said it is unaware of any accidents or injuries associated with the issue.Dealerships will reprogram the body control module with updated software free of charge, Ford said.Ford has recalled 4 million vehicles in North America for various door-latch problems since 2014.Separately, Ford is recalling 887 2014 Ford Transit Connect vans in the U.S. to reinstall panoramic roofs. There are 28 affected vehicles in Canada.The recall covers certain 2014 Transit Connect vans built at the Valencia Assembly plant in Spain between Oct. 4, 2013, and July 14, 2014.“In the affected vehicles, an improper bond may exist between the panoramic roof and the vehicle body, resulting in wind noise, water leaks and, in some cases, separation from the vehicle,” Ford said. “If the entire panoramic roof separates from the vehicle while driving, it can increase the risk of crash or injury.”Ford said it is not aware of any accidents or injuries related to the recall. Dealerships will remove, clean and reinstall the panoramic roof at no charge.

Focus hatchbacks recalled for latch software fix

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