(July 12, 2023) WASHINGTON — U.S. auto safety regulators have opened an investigation into older model Ford Escape compact crossovers after reports of an alleged safety defect that could cause the front doors to inadvertently open while driving, according to Automotive News. About 346,000 Ford Escape vehicles from the 2020-21 model years could be affected.

NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation said it received 118 reports from U.S. vehicle owners alleging "a failure of the spot welds in the check arm bracket for the front doors" on 2020-21 Ford Escape vehicles, according to a federal document released Tuesday.

There have been 25 reports of minor injuries and one report of minor property damage related to the issue, the agency said.

Many of the owners reported hearing a "popping noise" when opening the front doors. NHTSA said continued use of the doors could result in a dislodged door check, potentially causing a failure to latch when closed, a failure to open or inadvertently opening while driving.

Source: Automotive News