The Ford Motor Co. is recalling over 128,000 Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan sedans over problems that could cause the wheels to separate, a media report said.
The company said it was concerned that the wheel studs that hold the wheels onto the vehicle could crack and ultimately lead to separation of the wheels, Xinhua reported citing Detroit News.
There has been at least six wheel separation incidents. The recall includes 128,616 2010 Ford Fusion and Mercury Milans, built from April 1 to April 30, 2009, and Dec 1, 2009 to Nov 13, 2010, with 17-inch steel wheels.
According to National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, wheel stud fractures could occur while driving, and the driver may experience vehicle vibration and wheel separation, increasing the risk of a crash.
Ford has paid at least 128 warranty claims for wheel stud repairs and NHTSA has received 29 complaints.