Ford Recalls Focus Hatchback Models for Tailgate Latch Flaw

By Chris Chase

Oct 5, 2016

Summary

Tailgate can be released while the car is in motion

Ford and Transport Canada have recalled nearly 10,000 Focus models to fix hatchback tailgates that can be unlocked while the car is in motion.

Transport Canada says the hatch can be unlatched with a single press of the release button when the car is being driven, which contravenes the Canada Motor Vehicle Safety Standard and could put unrestrained vehicle occupants at greater risk of injury.

So, before you take your next drive with your friends hanging out in the trunk of a 2013 through 2017 Focus hatchback, take it to your Ford dealer to have the service department reprogram the car's body control module.

Test Drive: 2016 Ford Focus RS

Meet the Author

As a child, Chris spent most of his time playing with toy cars in his parents’ basement or making car sounds while riding his bicycle. Now he's an award-winning Algonquin College Journalism grad who has been playing with real cars that make their own noises since the early 2000s.