The problem
Certain passenger vehicles equipped with zetec engines, loose or broken attachments and misrouted battery cables could lead to cable insulation damage.
The risk
This, in turn, could cause the battery cables to short resulting in heat damage to the cables. Besides heat damage, the "check engine" light May illuminate, the vehicle May fail to start, or smoke, melting, or fire could also occur.
The fix
Dealers will inspect the battery cables for the condition of the cable insulation and proper tightening of the terminal ends. As necessary, cables will be rerouted, retaining clips installed, and damaged battery cables replaced. Owner notification began February 10, 2003. Owners who do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Ford at 1-866-436-7332.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 02V-288 (02V288000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | 02S41 |
| Manufacturer | Ford Motor Company |
| Component | Electrical system › 12V/24V/48V battery › Cables |
| Report date | November 6, 2002 |
| Owners notified | February 10, 2003 |
| Vehicles affected | 291,854 |
| Initiated by | NHTSA investigation |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the electrical system
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 02V-288 repair free?
Yes. Ford dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will inspect the battery cables for the condition of the cable insulation and proper tightening of the terminal ends. As necessary, cables will be rerouted, retaining clips installed, and damaged battery cables replaced.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 291,854 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.