Ford Fusion Hybrid Regenerative Brake System Update

Update on the Customer Satisfaction Program announced by Ford to update the software of the regenerative brake system of some 2010-model Ford Fusion Hybrids and Mercury Milan Hybrids

Notes:

• While the vehicles maintain full braking, capability, we have received reports that some drivers have experienced a different brake feel when the hybrid’s unique regenerative brakes switch to conventional hydraulic braking. While the vehicle maintains full braking capability, they may initially perceive the condition as loss of brakes.
• To be clear, the Fusion and Milan Hybrids’ brake system maintains full conventional brakes and full ABS function even as the customer sees visual indicator and hears a chime. The software threshold to transition from regenerative brakes to conventional brakes can cause the system to transition to conventional brakes unnecessarily.
• This software upgrade will reduce unnecessary occurrences of the vehicle switching from regenerative braking to conventional hydraulic brakes. Customers with affected vehicles will receive a notice in the mail. We are asking owners of affected vehicles to have vehicle software reprogrammed at dealers at no charge.
• There have been no injuries related to this condition.

Q- Is this the same issue as the Toyota Prius that is in the news?
A- No. Ford uses a different regenerative braking system, based on conventional braking technology with different suppliers from Toyota.

Q- Should customers stop driving their vehicles?
A- No. The vehicle has full braking capability. What is happening is that drivers are sometimes experiencing a different brake pedal feel than they are used to when a hybrid’s unique regenerative brakes switch to conventional hydraulic braking, which initially may be perceived as loss of brakes.

Q- How did we learn of this condition?
A- We identified this condition through our monitoring of warranty and we saw a trend of reports.

Q- Does the Escape Hybrid have the same system and issues?
A- We have not seen this same issue with Escape Hybrid vehicle.

Q- When can customers bring their vehicles in for repair? Do they need to wait for a letter or when they experience this condition?
A- Customers can contact their Ford or Lincoln Mercury dealers right now to arrange updates. It involves a reprogramming of the hybrid’s control software. The upgrade should take less than 30 minutes.

Q- Which hybrid models does this program cover?
A- The 2010 Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan hybrids built on or before Oct. 17, 2009. Approximately 17,600 units are affected.

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