Automotive manufacturers occasionally recall vehicles when a component fails to meet federal safety standards or has a manufacturing defect. Beginning Aug. 30, 2007, the Ford Motor company issued a recall affecting the 2008 Ford Explorer because of problems with the automatic transmission.
Ford Motor Company recalled Explorers and other sport utility vehicles (SUVs) with a 4.6-liter engine and six-speed automatic transmission. During assembly, the bolt fastening the transmission oil cooler line fittings may not have been properly torqued. Improperly torqued bolts may loosen, allowing the oil cooler line to disengage and causing the leak of transmission fluid.
If transmission fluid leaks and comes in contact with the catalytic converter, a fire may occur. Engine fires pose a serious risk to the safety of the vehicle's driver and passengers.
Authorized Ford dealers will inspect the bolt and, if necessary, tighten it at no cost. To find an authorized Ford dealer, contact Ford at 1-800-392-3673. Owners also may contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) at 1-888-327-4236.
