The evaporative emissions canister in your Focus helps control gas fumes. In some 2012-2018 models, the valve that regulates the canister might not work right, causing a problem.
Risk if Unfixed
If the valve fails, your engine could stall while you're driving, which could increase your risk of a crash.
Free Fix
Your Ford dealer will update the computer system that controls your engine at no cost to you. You should schedule the update as soon as you get your recall notice, and you can contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332 for more information.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2012-2018 Focus vehicles previously repaired incorrectly under recall number 18V735. The Canister Purge Valve (CPV) may malfunction, causing the engine to stall unexpectedly while driving.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
An engine that stalls while driving increases the risk of a crash.
Original — Remedy
Dealers will update the powertrain control module (PCM) software, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed July 6, 2026. Owners may contact Ford customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 26S40. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will become searchable on NHTSA.gov on July 6,2026.
The Canister Purge Valve in your 2012-2018 Ford Focus is like a valve that helps remove bad fumes from your fuel tank. It might not work properly, causing problems with the fuel system.
Risk if Unfixed
If the valve malfunctions, your engine could stall while driving without warning, and you might not be able to restart it. This could make it hard to control your vehicle and increase the risk of a crash.
Free Fix
Your Ford dealer will update the computer system that controls your engine and check for any damage to the Canister Purge Valve. If it needs to be replaced, they'll also inspect and replace other related parts to ensure everything is working correctly – all at no cost to you.
Show original NHTSA language
Original — What Happened
Ford Motor Company (Ford) is recalling certain 2012-2018 Ford Focus vehicles with a 2.0L GDI or 2.0L GTDI engine. The Canister Purge Valve (CPV) may malfunction, possibly causing excessive vacuum in fuel vapor management system.
Original — Risk if Unfixed
The excessive vaccuum may result in an engine stall while driving, without warning and without the ability to restart the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.
Original — Remedy
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will reprogram the Powertrain Control Module. Dealers will also check for fault codes and replace the CPV as needed. If the CPV is replaced, dealers will inspect and replace the carbon canister, fuel tank and fuel delivery module as necessary. The recall began August 19, 2019. Owners may contact Ford Customer service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 18S32. Note: Until the vehicle is serviced for this concern, owners are advised to keep the fuel tank at least halfway full.