KANSAS CITY, Mo. -- Ford Motor Company is recalling 2,100 model year 2017-2018 Ford Taurus vehicles with mechanical key ignition systems. According to the automaker, the keys may be able to be removed from the ignition when the gear shift is not in the PARK position.
If the key is removed from the ignition while the vehicle is not in the PARK position, and the parking brake is not applied, the vehicle may roll away, increasing the risk of a crash. Ford said it is not aware of any accidents or injuries associated with this issue.
Affected vehicles include 2017-18 Ford Taurus vehicles with the physical key and non-push button start. The models were built at the Chicago Assembly Plant from July 21, 2017, to February 13, 2018.
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the shifter assembly, free of charge.
The recall is expected to begin March 19, 2018. Owners may contact Ford Customer Service at 1-866-436-7332. Ford's number for this recall is 18C02.
Ford said the Taurus ignition and shifter assembly is different from an ignition switch recall at General Motors Co. in 2014 that was linked to 124 deaths. In those vehicles, the key could be bumped out of the “run” position by a knee or heavy keychain while the vehicle was driving, cutting power to the engine and power steering, and preventing airbag deployment.
