Following closely on the heels of the news of Toyota ’s pending 2010 Prius recall, Ford has announced it will update the braking software on its popular hybrid models. The software upgrade was prompted by several reports of a “different brake feel” by owners.
Although not technically a recall, the Technical Service Bulletin covers about 18,000 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid and Mercury Milan Hybrid models. Ford will be notifying owners of affected vehicles by mail in the coming days.
According to Ford , the current regenerative braking software on its 2010 mid-size sedan hybrids can cause the sensation of decreased braking power during rare instances when the vehicle fails to properly engage regenerative braking. Under normal operations the hybrid Fusion or Milan would immediately engage regenerative braking once the driver stopped accelerating – which causes drag on the vehicle, giving the sensation of braking. The sensation given from the regenerative braking is similar to that of applying brakes – thus when the driver goes to apply hydraulic brakes they will feel as if they have reduced braking power, due to the lack of the combination of regenerative and hydraulic brakes traditionally experienced.
In speaking directly with Ford product specialist Said Deep, Deep told Leftlane, “Some folks may experience the sensation of a loss in braking power, but we have determined that the vehicle maintains full functionality of both the hydraulic and ABS brakes at all times.”
Deep also explained that what may add to the confusion is the fact that the brake pedal may travel an additional few millimeters before the hydraulic brakes are able to apply their full pressure – contributing to the sensation of a lack of brakes.
The software problem only affects the 2010 hybrid Fusion and Milans produced before October 17, 2009.
“While the vehicles maintain full braking capability, customers may initially perceive the condition as loss of brakes,” Ford said in a statement.
No crashes or injuries have been linked to the defect – and one formal complaint was filed with NHTSA.
