The problem
On certain natural gas vehicles, if a flame from a vehicle interior fire becomes locally directed at the natural gas fuel tank located immediately behind the rear seat, the flame could damage the fiberglass wrap on the tank weakening the tank.
The risk
If the strength of the tank is significantly compromised, it could rupture, increasing the risk of a fire.
The fix
Dealers will install an insulator behind the current seat back. Owner notification began on january 7, 2004. Owners should contact ford at 1-800-392-3673.
Contacts
Ford recall no. 03S08. Customers can also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
What to do
- Check your VIN. Enter it at nhtsa.gov/recalls - it shows whether this recall applies to your vehicle and whether the repair has been done.
- Call a dealer. Any authorized Ford dealer will do the repair free, whether or not you bought the vehicle there. Quote campaign 03V472000.
- Ask about parts and a loaner. If parts aren't available yet, ask what to do in the meantime.
- Keep your paperwork. If you paid for this repair before the recall, you may be able to get reimbursed - here's how.