Automotive Fleet
MenuMENU
SearchSEARCH

Ford Recalls Fusion, Escape for Possible Rollaway

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.

July 19, 2018
Ford Recalls Fusion, Escape for Possible Rollaway

Ford is recalling 550,000 Fusion midsize sedans (2016 model shown) and Escape compact SUVs for possible rollaway.

Photo courtesy of Ford.

2 min to read


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.

Ad Loading...

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

More Safety

Chris Brown sits across from safety experft at Lifesaver mobile in an interview about distracted driving and phone use tech.
Safetyby Chris BrownMay 1, 2026

Reducing Risk by Eliminating Phone Use Behind the Wheel

Distracted driving remains one of the most persistent risks in fleet operations. New approaches focus on removing mobile device use entirely while adding real-time safety support.

Read More →
Safetyby Jeanny RoaApril 15, 2026

Distracted Driving in the Age of Smart Tech – Part 2

As distraction risks evolve, fleets are turning to smarter, more connected technologies to better understand what’s happening behind the wheel. Part 2 explores how these tools are helping identify risky behaviors and improve visibility across operations.

Read More →
Safetyby Jeanny RoaApril 11, 2026

 Data Rights, Risks, and Responsibilities After a Crash

What fleets capture to improve safety can also expose them in litigation, forcing leaders to rethink how data is managed, stored, and shared.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Driver holding a phone while steering, illustrating distracted driving and the importance of mental awareness and attention on the road for fleet safety.
Safetyby Judie NuskeyApril 10, 2026

From Distraction to Detection: Strengthening Awareness in Fleet Drivers

Distracted driving is often measured by what we can see—phones in hand, eyes off the road. But what about the distractions we can’t? A recent incident raises a bigger question about awareness, attention, and why subtle risks so often go unnoticed.

Read More →
Safetyby StaffApril 8, 2026

Lytx 2026 Road Safety Report

While serious crashes are declining, a rise in minor incidents and ongoing risk hotspots underscore the need for continued fleet safety investment.

Read More →
Driver’s hands on steering wheel in a sunlit vehicle, representing real-world driver behavior and the shift from data monitoring to hands-on training in fleet safety programs.
Safetyby Judie NuskeyApril 7, 2026

Behind-the-Wheel vs. Classroom Training: What Actually Changes Driver Behavior?

Fleets have more driver data than ever, so why isn't behavior changing? Training requires more than reports and coaching — it requires real-world practice.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
A person in a car on their phone behind the steering wheel.
Safetyby Jeanny RoaApril 1, 2026

Distracted Driving in the Age of Smart Tech – Part 1

A two-part conversation with Stefan Heck on how AI is transforming the fight against distracted driving. As fleets adopt smarter tools, the focus shifts from reacting to preventing risk. In Part 1, we look at where AI is making an impact for fleets today.

Read More →
Pedestrians crossing a busy street, highlighting the importance of driver awareness and caution to prevent pedestrian accidents.
Safetyby StaffMarch 30, 2026

Pedestrian Safety Starts With the Driver

More people on foot means more risk for drivers. These pedestrian safety tips can help prevent serious injuries and keep everyone safer on the road.

Read More →
SponsoredMarch 30, 2026

Safety by Design: Power and Protection in the Freightliner 114SD Plus

Safer crews. Fewer incidents. Better uptime. Learn how driver-assist technology is changing the way vocational fleets operate.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Safetyby StaffMarch 26, 2026

Pedestrian Deaths Drop in First Half of 2025, Marking Largest Decline in Years

An 11% drop in pedestrian fatalities in early 2025 signals progress in U.S. road safety, but elevated death rates and ongoing risks underscore the need for continued action from fleets and policymakers.

Read More →