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Recalled 2000-2001 Ford Focus Wagon and Hatchback

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) today released a list of auto safety recalls announced in November and December 2000 and urged consumers to have the problems fixed promptly

Ford Motor Company

Models: Ford Focus Years: 2000-2001

Number Involved: 95,000

Dates of Manufacture: March 1999 - October 2000

Defect: Certain station wagons and 3-door vehicles have a folding 60/40 second seat that becomes a load floor in the folded position. When the 60 percent portion of the seat is folded down and a load is applied to the front edge of the load floor, the outboard hinge pivot could disengage from the hinge. If the seat is then returned to the upright position without re-engaging the hinge pivot, the seat and seat belts may not provide the intended level of protection in the event of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will install a revised seat back hinge pivot. The manufacturer has reported that owner notification began Jan. 2, 2001. Owners who do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Ford at 1-800-392-3673.

[NHTSA Recall No. 00V418/Ford Recall No. 00S55]