Ford Motor Co. is recalling approximately 550,000 2013 to 2016 Fusion midsize sedans and 2013 to 2014 Escape compact SUVs in North America because the bushing that attaches the shifter cable to the transmission may be degraded and detach from the transmission, which could result in a rollaway.

This scenario may cause the transmission to be in a gear state different than the position selected by the driver. For example, it could allow the driver to move the shift lever to "Park" and remove the ignition key, yet the transmission may not be in "Park," and the driver would be unaware as there will be no warning message or audible chime. If the parking brake is not applied, this could lead to unintended vehicle movement, increasing the risk of injury or a crash.

To fix the problem, dealers will replace the shifter cable bushing at no cost to customers. In addition, Ford recommends owners use their parking brake

Ford is not aware of any accidents of injuries related to this matter.

Affected vehicles include:

• 2014-2016 Ford Fusion vehicles built at Flat Rock Assembly Plant between June 2, 2014 and Aug. 31, 2015

• 2014-2016 Ford Fusion vehicles built at Hermosillo Stamping and Assembly Plant between June 2, 2014 and Aug. 31, 2015

• 2014 Ford Fusion vehicles built at Flat Rock Assembly Plant between June 18, 2013 and Sept. 15, 2013

• 2013-2014 Ford Fusion vehicles built at Hermosillo Stamping and Assembly Plant between May 15, 2013 and Sept. 15, 2013

• 2013-2014 Ford Escape vehicles built at Louisville Assembly Plant between May 15, 2013 and Sept. 15, 2013

The recall involves approximately 504,182 in the U.S. and its territories, 36,887 in Canada, and 8,332 in Mexico. Ford's reference number for this recall is 18S20.

Related: Ford Recalls Stripped Chassis for Front-Wheel Defect