Ignition fault forces Ford to recall Falcon and Territory

FORD has issued a recall for more than 17,000 vehicles to correct a potential ignition switch fault, which under certain circumstances could cause the engine to cut out while driving.

The fault effects FGII Falcon and SZ Territory models built from November 12, 2013 through October 13, 2014 and in isolated cases could cause an electrical connector to disengage.

A disconnected terminal will cause the vehicle's engine to stall with the loss of associated electrical functions, which could cause an accident hazard to vehicle occupants and other road users says the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission.

Ford is requesting owners of affected vehicles to visit an authorised dealership where the ignition electrics can be inspected and rectified.

In the meantime Ford is asking drivers of potentially faulty component-equipped vehicles to avoid adjusting the steering column where possible, as the movement may aggravate the problem if present.

According to the product safety recall, the problem affects 17,875 vehicles sold nationwide.

Customers with affected vehicles can contact their local Ford dealership to arrange an inspection, or Ford's Customer Relationship Centre on 1800 503 672.