Ford is recalling 370,000 cars due to their steering shaft which may result in loss of steering, the Associated Press reported.
There have not been any incidents or injuries reported but the cars, which include the Ford Crown Victoria, Lincoln Town Cars and the Mercury Grand Marquis, the recall will go in effect.
There are about 355,000 in the U.S. and 15,000 in Canada, according to estimates. Dealers intend to inspect the cars, and "may replace the lower intermediate steering shaft and if necessary re-secure a lower steering column bearing and replace the upper intermediate steering shaft," the Associated Press also reported. The recall affects over 20 states in America, news reports said. Owners in other states can also ask for inspections and repairs, news reports said.
Consumer advocates including The Center for Auto Safety have criticized such regional recalls as saving automakers money at the risk of excluding vehicles that may have problems, The New York Times reported.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, which approves regional recalls, and automakers "have defended the practice as safe and practical.Ford said owners in other states could also have their vehicles checked and, if necessary, repaired by dealers at no cost," the report said.
