(January 11, 2024) WASHINGTON — Ford is recalling nearly 140,000 Focus sedans and EcoSport crossovers in the U.S. for faulty engine oil pumps that are linked to a federal investigation and an alleged crash with two injuries. The recall covers certain 2016-18 Focus and 2018-22 EcoSport vehicles with 1.0-liter engines and 6F15 automatic transmissions, according to an Automotive News report.

The oil pump drive belt or drive belt tensioner on those vehicles could fail, resulting in a loss of engine oil pressure that might trigger an engine stall and a loss of power braking assist, according to a recall report submitted Dec. 22 to NHTSA. Dayco Europe SRL in Italy makes the oil pump drive belt and tensioner assembly, according to the report.

Ford told NHTSA it received 2,099 warranty claims related to the issue between June 2016 and October 2023. It was not aware of any deaths related to the concern.

"There are warning signs and alerts that precede this issue including a low oil pressure warning message, a check engine light and loud noises," Ford spokesperson Maria Buczkowski said in a statement to Automotive News.

"Ford will provide repair instructions to dealers when parts are available. In the meantime, if a customer experiences any of the warning signs they should safely bring their vehicle to a stop and reach out to their local dealer."