Ford Recalling 145,000 Vehicles

Ford Motor Co. launches a series of recalls in the U.S. affecting Ford Five Hundred and Mercury Montego sedans, Ford Freestyle cross/utility vehicles and the Ford Escape Hybrid CUV.

In total, 145,000 vehicles are affected by the recalls, including 139,537 ’05 Five Hundreds and Montegos and ’05-’06 Freestyles due to side door latches that may let in water, the National Highway Traffic Safety Admin. says. The faulty latches could freeze in cold weather, which could lead to the doors opening while the vehicle is in motion.

Ford also is recalling 6,164 ’06 Escape Hybrids because a driveline shaft may fracture causing the vehicle to move, even in the park position, NHTSA says.