The problem
Ford is recalling certain model year 2012 Taurus, Lincoln MKS, and model year 2013 Explorer vehicles manufactured July 19, 2011, through March 15, 2012. In the affected vehicles, the fuel tanks may have a marginally sealed seam in the side of the tank. As a result, the fuel tanks may not provide the expected strength in the event of an impact. The tanks may also leak.
The risk
A fuel leak in the presence of an ignition source may result in a fire.
The fix
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the fuel tanks and replace them as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on May 9, 2013. Ford's recall campaign number is 13S03. Owners may contact Ford Motor Company Customer Relationship Center at 1-866-436-7332.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 13V-109 (13V109000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | 13S03 |
| Manufacturer | Ford Motor Company |
| Component | Fuel system, gasoline › Storage › Tank assembly |
| Report date | March 27, 2013 |
| Owners notified | May 9, 2013 |
| Vehicles affected | 3,037 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the fuel & propulsion system
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 13V-109 repair free?
Yes. Ford dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Ford will notify owners, and dealers will inspect the fuel tanks and replace them as necessary, free of charge. The recall began on May 9, 2013. Ford's recall campaign number is 13S03.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 3,037 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.