Recall 11V355000: Fuel Tank Replacement

VEHICLE MAKE/MODEL: MODEL YEAR(S):

Ford/Five Hundred 2007

Mercury/Montego 2007

MANUFACTURER: Ford Motor Company

MFR'S REPORT DATE: July 07, 2011

NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 11V355000

NHTSA ACTION NUMBER: N/A

COMPONENT: Fuel System, Gasoline: Storage: Tank Assembly: Filler Pipe and cap

POTENTIAL NUMBER OF UNITS AFFECTED: 2,945

SUMMARY:
Ford is recalling certain model year 2007 Ford Five Hundred and Mercury Montego vehicles manufactured from September 5, 2006, through September 11, 2006. The fuel tanks may not have consistent welds between the fuel tank and fuel filler neck spud which can affect the strength of the joint. Some fuel tank spud welds may not provide the expected strength in the event of a severe rear impact to the vehicle. An improper weld can result in a crack in the joint which could illuminate the emissions malfunction indicator light, cause a fuel odor, or allow fuel to leak out.

CONSEQUENCE:
Fuel leakage, in the presence of an ignition source, could result in a fire.

REMEDY:
Dealers will replace the fuel tank free of charge. The safety recall is expected to begin on or about August 15, 2011. Owners may contact Ford Motor Company Customer Relationship Center at 1-866-436-7332.

NOTES:
Ford's safety recall No. 11S20. Owners may also contact The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to http://www.safercar.gov.