Ford Recalls More Than 255,000 Focus Cars Over Risk of Unexpected Engine Stalling

Ford is recalling 255,404 Focus compact cars from the 2012 through 2018 model years because the engine could shut off unexpectedly without warning.

The automaker informed the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) that an earlier recall, identified as 18V735, was designed to address the risk of sudden engine stalls. However, some affected Focus models did not receive the proper software update.

According to Ford, a flaw in the powertrain control module (PCM) software may prevent the system from recognizing when the canister purge valve (CPV) becomes stuck open. As a result, the engine could stall while the vehicle is in motion, increasing the risk of a crash. In some cases, the vehicle may also fail to restart.

Ford explained that a purge valve stuck open during the evaporative leak monitor check can create excessive vacuum pressure inside the fuel system. That excess pressure may cause the plastic fuel tank to deform.

To resolve the problem, Ford dealers will install the correct PCM software update at no cost to owners.

The company also said customers who paid out of pocket for the repair before the original safety recall was issued in May 2023 may qualify for reimbursement. Ford noted that it is not aware of any crashes or injuries connected to the defect.

Owners of affected vehicles will begin receiving notification letters on July 6, 2026. Ford said drivers may see the malfunction indicator light (MIL), commonly known as the check engine light, illuminated on the instrument panel. Some owners may also notice inaccurate fuel gauge readings. Anyone who sees a warning light should contact their local Ford dealer as soon as possible.

Although automakers work to notify all owners affected by safety recalls, some vehicles can be missed. Drivers can check whether their vehicle has any open recalls by using the vehicle identification number (VIN) lookup tool available through recall centers.