It's not just in Denmark that Ford is having problems with plug-in hybrids. The English importer is now recalling 26,000 cars without a solution in place.
Ford in the UK is recalling 26,000 petrol-powered plug-in hybrid cars due to a fire risk. The problem has been found in the otherwise popular Kuga model.
But even though the problem has been localized, the local importer does not yet have a solution in place. It is not expected to be ready until the end of the second quarter.
In the meantime, owners are urged to immediately stop charging the batteries. There is a risk of short circuiting, which could ultimately cause a fire.
"Customers can always contact our customer service if they have any further questions," a Ford spokesperson told Auto Express.
All Kuga plug-in hybrids with a 2.5-liter gasoline engine of the current generation are affected by the problem, the media outlet says.
Problems with Ford's plug-in hybrids in several places around the world
Although the model shares a powertrain with the Ford Transit PHEV, the charging error applies exclusively to the Kuga. Owners are advised to drive the vehicle in "Auto EV" mode. In this mode, the petrol engine takes over all operation.
Should a short circuit occur, Ford believes that owners will be warned about it by the car's instrumentation.
The car's steering and brakes are not affected, but the drivetrain may lose traction while driving.
Ford is expected to have a solution ready in the second quarter. Until then, owners will just have to be patient and avoid charging their cars.
The update, which the brand believes will fix the problem, will be free. However, Ford does not plan to offer owners any kind of compensation.
This is not the first time that the Kuga plug-in hybrid model has been linked to a fire hazard. In fact, the model has been recalled several times due to problems with the battery pack.
In Denmark, the Ford importer that was sold from the American parent company last year has also recalled 17,000 hybrid cars. This is also happening in Denmark due to a fire risk.
