2013 Ford Fusion Recalled for Steering Gear Problem

DEARBORN, Michigan — Ford is recalling 23 2013 Ford Fusions for a steering gear problem that could result in impaired steering or loss of steering control, according to the automaker.

"(The) steering gears may have been built without an internal retaining clip, which could result in impaired steering, including the loss of steering control, potentially increasing the risk of a crash," wrote Kelli Felker, a Ford spokeswoman, in response to an Edmunds query.

Ford is not aware of any accidents or injuries attributed to the recall. Felker said 20 of the vehicles are in the U.S., one is in Canada and two are in Mexico. Of the 20 in the U.S., five have already been repaired.

The recall starts today and is one of three Ford recalls for 2013 models. In other actions, Ford recalled 465,000 vehicles, including the 2013 Ford Explorer, for potentially leaky fuel tanks and 500 2013 Lincoln MKZs with engine block heaters for the risk of electrical shock and corrosion.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration had not posted any information about the Fusion recall as of Monday morning.

Ford dealers will replace the steering gear in the affected Fusions. Owners can contact Ford at 1-866-436-7332.

Edmunds says: If you own one of the affected 2013 Ford Fusions, you should be able to address this problem quickly.