Report Receipt Date: MAR 27, 2013
NHTSA Campaign Number: 13V109000
Component(s): FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Potential Number of Units Affected: 3,037

Manufacturer: Ford Motor Company

SUMMARY:
Ford is recalling certain model year 2012 Taurus, Lincoln MKS, and model year 2013 Explorer vehicles manufactured July 19, 2011, through March 15, 2012. In the affected vehicles, the fuel tanks may have a marginally sealed seam in the side of the tank. As a result, the fuel tanks may not provide the expected strength in the event of an impact. The tanks may also leak.
CONSEQUENCE:
A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source may result in a fire.
REMEDY:
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the fuel tanks and replace them as necessary, free of charge. The recall is expected to begin April 22, 2013. Ford's recall campaign number is 13S03. Owners may contact Ford Motor Company Customer Relationship Center at 1-866-436-7332.
NOTES:
Owners may also contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov.