Component
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY:CABLES
Manufacturer
FORD MOTOR COMPANY
What Happened
The battery cables in your vehicle are the electrical highways that power your engine. In certain models, these cables might be loose or damaged, which could cause the insulation to wear down.
Risk if Unfixed
If the insulation is damaged, your cables could short circuit, causing heat damage, a flickering 'check engine' light, trouble starting your car, or even a fire.
Free Fix
Your Ford dealer will inspect and fix the battery cables by rerouting them, tightening the terminal ends, and replacing any damaged cables – all for free. If you haven't received the repair notice, call Ford at 1-866-436-7332 to schedule the work.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH ZETEC ENGINES, LOOSE OR BROKEN ATTACHMENTS AND MISROUTED BATTERY CABLES COULD LEAD TO CABLE INSULATION DAMAGE.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
THIS, IN TURN, COULD CAUSE THE BATTERY CABLES TO SHORT RESULTING IN HEAT DAMAGE TO THE CABLES. BESIDES HEAT DAMAGE, THE "CHECK ENGINE" LIGHT MAY ILLUMINATE, THE VEHICLE MAY FAIL TO START, OR SMOKE, MELTING, OR FIRE COULD ALSO OCCUR.
Original — Remedy
DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE BATTERY CABLES FOR THE CONDITION OF THE CABLE INSULATION AND PROPER TIGHTENING OF THE TERMINAL ENDS. AS NECESSARY, CABLES WILL BE REROUTED, RETAINING CLIPS INSTALLED, AND DAMAGED BATTERY CABLES REPLACED. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN FEBRUARY 10, 2003. OWNERS WHO DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-866-436-7332.
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Repairs are free at any authorized dealer. Find a dealer →