Ford recalls 700,000 Escapes, C-Max hybrids to fix air bag software

Ford Motor Co. is recalling more than 700,000 late model Escape sport utility vehicles and C-Max hybrids to fix an air bag software glitch and a door latch problem.

The bigger recall involves a software problem in 692,500 Escapes and C-Max hybrids. The problem can prevent the side curtain air bags from inflating in some crashes, primarily rollovers. The company says it has no reports of crashes or injuries. Dealers will reprogram the air bag control computer, Ford said.

All of the vehicles are 2013 and 2014 models. The Escapes were built between October 2011 and February 2014. The hybrids were built between January 2012 and February 2014.

The second recall involves all of the Escapes involved in the software recall plus 65,000 more that were built in March and April. The SUVs also have a problem with door handles not latching properly. In some instance the doors can open suddenly. Drivers would most likely see door-ajar indicators lights and hear warning chimes if the door wasn’t latched properly

Dealers will inspect the four exterior door handles and reposition them if needed. Ford said there were no crashes or injuries linked to the defect.

Automakers have recalled about 13 million vehicles this year and are on pace to break the industry’s record of 30.8 million set in 2004.