March 12, 2012 – The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration(NHTSA) is reporting that an estimated 360,000 Ford Taurus vehicles may have a potential defect with the throttle in the vehicle getting stuck in the open position. NHSTA announced that its safety regulators began an investigation into this issue after receiving 14 complaints that the cruise control cable in the 2005 and 2006 Ford Taurus models became detached, which caused the throttle to become stuck in the open position. Should NHTSA determine that a recall is warranted, it would mandate that Ford Motor Company recall these potential lemon vehicles.
Some of the complaints detail that the condition made it difficult to slow the vehicle down even after the brakes were applied. One consumer noted that the vehicle could not be stopped until after partially going through a red light. Fortunately, no accidents have been reported regarding the issue to date.
Should your Ford Taurus vehicle experience this condition, you may report it to NHTSA at 800-424-9153, Ford Motor Company at 800-392-3673, or contact your local authorized Ford Motor Company dealer. While NHTSA is currently investigating whether the condition warrants a recall, state and federal lemon laws may also provide you with recourse if the condition cannot be fixed within a reasonable time.