The problem
The involved vehicles were equipped with automatic transmissions in which the parking pawl was not heat-treated. During normal vehicle operation, a parking pawl that has not been heat-treated could become deformed or worn to the point that the transmission will not lock in "park". As a result, the vehicle could roll free if the driver does not set the parking brake when parking or leaving vehicle unattended.
The fix
Dealer will inspect and, if necessary, replace the parking pawl with one that has been heat-treated.
Contacts
Vehicle description: light trucks.System: power train; transmission, automatic.Consequences of defect: this condition could result in vehicle damage, propertydamage, and personal injury.Note: owner is advised to engage the parking brake when leaving the vehicleparked or unattended.
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, Lincoln dealer will do the repair free, whether or not you bought the vehicle there. Quote campaign 78V256000.
- 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.