NHTSA Recall 12V353000: Cables (vehicle speed control) and engine and engine cooling
FORD MOTOR COMPANY reported this safety recall to NHTSA on , covering an estimated 529,719 vehicles. It affects 2001–2004 Ford Escape.
| NHTSA campaign | 12V353000 |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer campaign | 12S37 |
| Components | VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL › CABLES; ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING |
| Report received | July 26, 2012 |
| Owner notification | August 3, 2012 |
| Initiated by | NHTSA Office of Defects Investigation |
Defect
Ford Motor Company is recalling certain model year 2001 through 2004 Escape vehicles equipped with 3.0L V6 engines and speed control manufactured from October 22, 1999, through January 23, 2004. Inadequate clearance between the engine cover and the speed control cable connector could result in a stuck throttle when the accelerator pedal is fully or almost-fully depressed. This risk exists regardless of whether or not speed control (cruise control) is used.
Safety risk
A stuck throttle may result in very high vehicle speeds and make it difficult to stop or slow the vehicle, which could cause a crash, serious injury or death.
Remedy
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will repair the vehicles by increasing the engine cover clearance, free of charge. The safety recall began August 3, 2012. Remedy parts are expected to be available in mid-August 2012. Until then dealers will disconnect the speed control cable as an interim remedy, if parts are not available at the time of an owner's service appointment. Owners may contact Ford at 1-866-436-7332.
Notes
Ford's recall campaign number is 12S37.Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.
Vehicles covered by recall 12V353000
Being listed here means the campaign covers the model year, not that every car was built with the defect or is still unrepaired. Enter your VIN above to check your specific vehicle. Recall repairs are free at authorised dealers. Source: NHTSA, October 2026.