THIS IS NOT A SAFETY RECALL IN ACCORDANCE WITH FEDERAL REGULATION 573. HOWEVER, IT IS DEEMED A SAFETY IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN BY THE AGENCY. THE FRONT END ACCESSORY DRIVE (FEAD) SERPENTINE DRIVE BELT CAN DETACH FROM THE ENGINE PULLEYS DURING CERTAIN ENGINE OPERATIONS. THE DIESEL ENGINE CAN CAUSE THE BELTS TO STRETCH IN EXCESS OF THE TENSIONER CAPACITY AND THE BELT DETACHES FROM THE PULLEYS.
BELT FAILURES CAN RESULT IN THE LOSS OF POWER STEERING ASSIST AND THE LOSS OF BRAKE ASSIST ONCE THE VACUUM RESERVOIR IS DEPLETED. ALSO FEAD BELT FAILURE POSES A RISK OF ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRE IN VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS IF IT RESULTS IN THE TRANSMISSION OIL COOLER HOSE RUPTURE.
DEALERS WILL INSTALL A NEW TENSIONER, DRIVE BELT, BELT GUIDE AND AN IMPROVED IDLER PULLEY.
NOTE:FORD HAS DECIDED TO CONDUCT A SAFETY IMPROVEMENT SERVICE CAMPAIGN TO REPLACE THE FEAD SERPENTINE BELT WITHOUT CHARGE.OWNERS CAN CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-285-4545.