Ford is recalling nearly 275,000 SUVs because their brakes can malfunction.
The Detroit-area automaker estimates just 1% of the full-size SUV population has the flaw, whose origin lies in the engine installation process at Ford’s final assembly plant.
Affected units are 2022 through 2024 Lincoln Navigators and Ford Expeditions.
The flaw was introduced when in some cases the radiator hose caught on the front brake line during engine installation, misrouting the line, where it could rub against the air cleaner outlet pipe and become damaged, according to documents filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Affected vehicles can take longer to bring to a stop. A red brake warning indicator will light up if a vehicle’s brake fluid level falls to the low mark.
Ford said it’s unaware of any crashes or injuries related to the problem.
Dealers will inspect the brake line and replace it or the air cleaner outlet pipe as needed.
Ford is scheduled to mail recall notices to owners on May 26.
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