Ford and Subaru issue vehicle recalls due to brake, fuel line leaks

Subaru is recalling thousands of Legacy and Outback all-wheel-drive vehicles because the brake lines can rust and leak fluid. The recall affects cars from the 2005 through 2009 model years sold in states where salt is used to clear roads in the winter. Subaru says in documents filed with the U.S. government that salt can cause the brake lines to rust and leak. If fluid leaks, it could cause longer stopping distances, increasing the risk of a crash.

Documents released to date do not address whether the problem has caused any crashes. Subaru says it is still totaling the number of vehicles affected. The company sold more than 316,000 Legacys and Outbacks from 2006 through 2009, according to Autodata Corp. Subaru will check the cars for leaks and replace brake lines if necessary.

Ford is recalling some 2013 Ford Explorers, as well as some 2012 models of the Ford Taurus and Lincoln MKS, because of concerns that leaks in the fuel tank pose a fire risk.

Ford has had warranty claims for some fuel tanks that had either odor or fuel leaks, both in the U.S. and Saudi Arabia. The action involves about 3,037 cars and utility vehicles that were manufactured from July 19, 2011 to March 15, 2012. All the vehicles are made at the Chicago auto plant.

Ford will notify owners by letter the week of April 22. Owners will be instructed to take their vehicle to a dealer to have the fuel tank inspected and perhaps replaced if the seal is not adequate to provide the strength needed in the case of an impact.

Car and truck manufacturers have a duty to build a car that is as safe as is reasonably possible under the present state of mechanical technology, vehicle design, and safety. Manufacturers are obligated to design vehicles so that they are safe for any reasonably foreseeable use.

If you or a loved one have been seriously injured in a car accident, it may well be that the injuries were caused or made worse because the vehicle was not properly designed or manufactured. In order to determine whether you may have a case, you need to retain experienced, qualified legal counsel at the earliest opportunity.

At Heygood, Orr & Pearson, we have the experience, knowledge and expertise to pursue a product liability or personal injury claim against any of the major auto manufacturers.

To speak with a lawyer about your case, contact Heygood, Orr & Pearson by calling toll-free at 1-877-446-9001, or by filling out our free case evaluation form.