DETROIT (AP) - The Ford Motor Company has issued a recall for its latest 2024 Mustang muscle cars equipped with manual transmissions due to a potential fire risk. Approximately 8,161 vehicles are affected in the United States. The 2024 manual Mustang recall comes just weeks after the model was released to consumers with much pomp and show. According to the recall notice from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the issue stems from an improperly secured clutch pressure line that could potentially come loose and leak brake fluid into the engine bay. "The clutch pressure line may not be properly retained to the firewall, allowing the line to come into contact with hot underhood components over time," the NHTSA notice states. "This could cause the line to melt and leak brake fluid into the engine compartment, resulting in an engine compartment fire or transmission shift failure." Ford says it is not aware of any crashes or injuries related to this defect at this time. However, the company did investigate three reports of underhood fires or smoke on 2024 Mustangs with manual gearboxes, prompting the 2024 manual Mustang recall. The root cause was found to be a missing or improperly installed barrel nut meant to secure the clutch line to the firewall. If this component is loose or absent, the line can gradually come into contact with hot engine components and potentially melt, spilling brake fluid that could ignite. "While the vehicle's brake system has a separate fluid reservoir, meaning brake performance is unaffected, the leaking clutch fluid presents a fire hazard," explained Ford spokesperson Mark Becker. "Owners should get this fixed promptly once they receive the 2024 manual Mustang recall notice." The remedy is relatively straightforward - Ford dealers will inspect the affected clutch line barrel nut and properly reinstall it if needed at no cost to customers. Notification letters are set to be mailed to owners on June 17. Owners can also contact Ford customer service about the 2024 manual Mustang recall at 1-866-436-7332 or the NHTSA Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 with any questions, using recall reference number 24V394000. Source: Ford
