Ford re-recalls Focus to prevent fuel tank damage

A stuck purge valve can cause the fuel tank to deform.

Ford has issued a recall for approximately 58,000 Focus vehicles that were already repaired in a previous campaign.

Certain vehicles with a 2.0-liter GDI or GDTI engine were initially recalled to install new powertrain control software, recalibrated to detect if the fuel canister purge valve becomes stuck. If the valve is stuck open, an excessive vacuum can deform the fuel tank and cause inaccurate fuel gauge indication or loss of power.

Some vehicles did not receive the recalibrated software, leaving the defect unaddressed. Ford recommends keeping the tank at least half full until the cars are brought back in a second time for new software.

The latest campaign affects the 2012 and 2017 Focus, along with the 2013-2014 Focus ST. Dealers will install the appropriate software and replace the canister purge valve, fuel tank, and fuel delivery module if necessary.

"Ford is not aware of any reports of accident or injury related to this condition," the company says.