Ford Automobiles Come Under Fire

A Ford design flaw found in the Ford Explorer can cause carbon monoxide to leak into the cabin while the SUV is in motion, a New Jersey couple claims.  In a May 2015 lawsuit filed in Monmouth County Superior Court, since removed to New Jersey federal court by Ford, the American car maker is accused of knowing about the issue for years but failing to remedy it.  The couple has asked a federal judge to certify their case as a class action, covering all New Jersey residents who bought or leased a Ford Explorer, a Ford Edge or a Lincoln MKX manufactured between 2011 and 2015.

Shortly after entering into their lease of a 2014 Ford Explorer, the New Jersey couple reported back to their dealer an odor of exhaust fumes in the passenger cabin.  Their dealer denied the existence of a carbon monoxide problem, as did Ford.  According to the complaint; however, Ford appeared to acknowledge in two service safety bulletins – issued in 2012 and 2014 – that a pervasive exhaust odor was apparent in certain Ford vehicles.

In a series of tests conducted in March 2015 with the aid of a smoke generation machine, the couple claims their 2014 Ford Explorer – pressurized, and at rest – filled with smoke.  The couple also conducted tests while driving at various speeds, and allege that the results conclusively demonstrate that the rear air conditioning system of their SUV picks up gas entering the rear ejector valve, which is in turn blown into the cabin as recirculated air.  Similar lawsuits have been filed against Ford in Florida, Texas, New York and California.

Carbon monoxide poisoning is serious.  An odorless, invisible gas, the toxic fumes can cause asphyxiation and death in a matter of minutes.  The New Jersey couple’s complaint alleges Ford violated the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Warranty Act, the Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act and the New Jersey Consumer Fraud Act, as well as committed breach of warranties, both implied and express.

Ford Owners May Be at Risk Warn Philadelphia Personal Injury Lawyers at Galfand Berger

If you own or lease a 2011-2015 Ford Explorer, Ford Edge or Lincoln MKX contact the Philadelphia car accident lawyers at Galfand Berger.  We will aggressively pursue compensation on your behalf, if your health has been jeopardized by Ford’s inaction.  At our offices in Philadelphia, Reading and Bethlehem, we proudly serve clients in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Contact us online or call 800-222-8792 to schedule a free consultation today.