Ford recalls nearly 150,000 vehicles

Recall involves 2005 and 2006 sedans, minivans and SUVs with latch, drivetrain problems.

POSTED: 5:42 p.m. EDT, October 10, 2006

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DETROIT (Reuters) -- Ford Motor Co. is recalling over 145,000 vehicles in the United States for a range of problems from defective latches to faulty drivetrains, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
The recall involves 139,537 2005 model-year Five Hundred and Mercury Montego sedans and 2005-2006 model-year Freestar minivans because the side door latches may let in water, NHTSA said on its Web site on Tuesday.
This may cause the latch mechanism to freeze in cold weather and the door could open while the vehicle is moving, the agency said.
Separately, Ford is also recalling 6,164 Escape hybrid SUVs from 2006 model year because a drivetrain shaft may fracture.
If a fracture occurred, it could cause the vehicle to move, even in the park position, NHTSA said.
Ford dealers will inspect the drivetrain shaft and replace it if necessary.
Ford, like its rivals GM and DaimlerChrysler, has been under competitive pressure from Japan automakers in recent years.