DETROIT, MICHIGAN: Ford has announced that due to an engine defect that could cause fires, it will expand and issue a new recall for 142,000 sport utility vehicles and trucks.

In a filing with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, Ford, the second leading car-maker in the US, said the recall covers various Escape and Lincoln Corsair SUVs, and Maverick compact pickup trucks, from the 2020-2023 model years with 2.5L hybrid or plug-in hybrid engines.

Isolated engine manufacturing issues can cause the engine to fail, which could cause the release of engine oil or fuel vapor, increasing the risk of fire and injury, the company added.

After identifying 23 reports around the world of a fire or smoke after a suspected block or oil pan breach, in July 2022 Ford recalled 100,000 Escape, Corsair and Maverick models in the US.

Meanwhile, Ford said at least three vehicles were reported to have suffered fires, even after the 2022 recall. The new recall fix is under development, it added.

Ford and NHTSA told owners that if they hear unexpected engine noises, notice a reduction in vehicle power or see smoke, they should park their vehicle and turn off the engine.

Last week, Ford said that due to fire risks, it was recalling 142,000 Lincoln MKC SUVs in the US, and advised owners to park outside and away from structures until the completion of the recall repair.

Last week, the company said that, as part of the repair, dealers will add an in-line fuse to the battery monitor sensor power circuit.