In late 2023, the NHTSA began investigating defects in Ford's 1.0-liter EcoBoost engine. By January, the automaker recalled nearly 140,000 cars. Recently, a judge allowed the case concerning the potentially defective engines to proceed.
The class action suit in the District Court of Delaware includes 13 plaintiffs, all owning Ford EcoSport models with the 1.0-liter three-cylinder turbocharged engine. The suit claims Ford failed to disclose a defect that could destroy the engine, resulting in repair costs exceeding the engine's value.
The January recall by Ford acknowledged a faulty oil pump belt tensioner could cause engine failure. Ford stated, "The engine oil pump drive belt tensioner arm may fracture, separate from the tensioner backing plate, and/or the oil pump drive belt material may degrade and lose teeth, resulting in a loss of engine oil pressure."
Ford sought to dismiss the suit, arguing that none of the plaintiffs had taken advantage of the 2023 recall. However, the judge ruled this argument insufficient for dismissal as the plaintiffs also seek damages for "diminution in value of their vehicles, towing costs, rental car costs, and other out-of-pocket expenses."
Ford also contested the inclusion of Ford Focus and Ford Fiesta owners with the same engine, even though the current plaintiffs don't own these models. The firm handling the case stated, "We are currently speaking to other class members who purchased or leased a 2016 or later Ford-brand vehicle equipped with a 1.0L EcoBoost engine, including 2016-2017 Ford Fiesta, 2018-2021 Ford EcoSport, and 2016-2018 Ford Focus vehicles, to add their claims to the case."
This situation could become more costly for Ford, potentially involving more than just engine repairs or replacements. However, the judge might still dismiss the case if Ford proves it meets its legal obligations under the recall. The judge has already dismissed the plaintiffs' express warranty claims.
Source: Carscoops
