On October 13, the largest recall in the history of Ford was announced. Four and a half million vehicles are being recalled because of a problem with a faulty cruise control deactivation switch. Made by Texas instruments, the cruise control deactivation switch may leak hydraulic fluid. This may cause the cars to overheat and smoke. Even if the car's ignition is turned off, it may still catch fire. This is the eighth recall involving 16 million Fords being recalled due to a defective cruise control switch. Ford Windstar Minivans account for 1.1 million of these cars while the rest of the the 3.4 million cars are Ford, Lincoln, and Mercury vehicles with the same cruise control switch installed. All of these cars range from 1992 through 2003 model years. However, in this latter group of cars, there were no reports of of associated fire due to the switch. According to a company spokesman, this the seventh recall because of faulty cruise control switches.

 The recalled models and years are:

• 1995 - 2003 Windstars
• 2000 - 2003 Excursion diesels
• 1993 -1997 and 1999 - 2003 F Super Duty Diesels
• 1992 -2003 Econolines
• 1995 - 2002 Explorers and Mecury Mountaineers
• 1995 - 1997 and 2001 - 2003 Rangers
• 1994 F35 motorhomes

According to the company's spokesman, the vehicles will be repaired not replaced. Vehicle owners will be notified by mail. Once you recieve your letter, you can call the Ford Dealer to set up an appointment. Supposedly, the repair is a quick one. If you want more information you can contact:

• Ford @ 1-800-392-3673
• NTHSA's vehicle saftey hotline @ 1-888-327-4236
• Visit http://www.safecar.gov