Recall 03V-507
FORD MOTOR COMPANY recalled the 2001 Ford Escape: Seat belts (front, buckle assembly).
At a glance
- Campaign number
- 03V-507
- Reported
- December 5, 2003
- Vehicles affected
- 132,243 estimated by the manufacturer
Source: NHTSA recall records
What is wrong
On certain sport utility vehicles, a post within the safety belt buckle covers could fracture, which could affect latch function, resulting in either a "no latch" or "partial latch" condition. In the "partial latch" condition, the buckle tongue can be inserted into the buckle and appear to be engaged, but will release from the buckle without the push button being depressed when a relatively low load is applied, such as when an occupant moves slightly in the seat.
The risk
In the event of a crash, the seat occupant may not be properly restrained, increasing the risk of injury.
The fix
Dealers will have the driver and front passenger safety belt buckle cover removed and replaced with a newly designed service buckle cover. Owner notification began on february 2, 2004. Owners should contact ford at 1-[removed].
Notes from the manufacturer
Ford recall no. 03s10.customers can also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-888-dash-2-DOT (1-[removed]).
Affected vehicles
- Ford Escape 2001