Ford Motor Co. is recalling 5,675 2013 model-year Ford Focus, C-MAX and Escape vehicles to address a potential problem involving the left rear-door child lock, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported.

The recall involves 2013 Focus and C-MAX vehicles built Nov. 16-21 in 2012, as well as 2013 Escape vehicles built Nov. 14-21 in 2012. Because of a manufacturing flaw, the child lock may not engage properly.

To remedy the problem, Ford dealers will inspect the affected rear-door latches and replace them if necessary. There will be no charge for this service. The recall is expected to get under way March 25. Owners can reach Ford at 1-866-436-7332.

In a separate action, Ford is also recalling 196,667 2004-2007 model-year Freestar and Mercury vehicles equipped with a third-row seat and originally sold or registered in a state that uses corrosive road materials during snow removal efforts.

According to NHTSA, the third-row stowable seat can experience corrosion and structural degradation at the seat anchor mechanism mounted to the rear wheel wells. As a result of the corrosion, the third-row seat may not latch fully into its seating position. This condition poses a safety risk if the vehicle is crashed into from the rear.

To remedy the problem, Ford dealers will install new third-row seat latch striker mounting brackets, free of charge. This recall, due to begin March 27, covers 2004-2007 Freestar and Mercury vehicles originally sold or registered in Washington, D.C., and the following states:

  • Connecticut
  • Delaware
  • Illinois
  • Indiana
  • Iowa
  • Maine
  • Maryland
  • Massachusetts
  • Michigan
  • Minnesota
  • Missouri
  • New Hampshire
  • New Jersey
  • New York
  • Ohio
  • Pennsylvania
  • Rhode Island
  • Vermont
  • West Virginia
  • Wisconsin.
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