Ford Motor Co. is recalling almost 1.2 million vans, sport utility vehicles and heavy-duty pickup trucks because of a faulty engine sensor that could cause sudden stalling.
The automaker told the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA) that vehicles equipped with a 7.3-liter diesel engine could stall without warning, causing a crash.
NHTSA reported on its Web site that the camshaft position sensor located on the engine could function intermittently and lead to an engine stall and potential crash.
The sensor is an electrical component that helps regulate the fuel going into the engine.
The recall covers vehicles built between 1997 and 2003 including Ford's E-Series full-size van, the Excursion SUV and the F-450 Super Duty pickup truck.
Ford advises that in the event of an engine stall, drivers traveling at speeds greater than 30 miles per hour would have full power steering and power braking, allowing them to pull over to the side of the road.
At speeds less than 30 mph, drivers would lose power steering and braking but would still have the ability to steer and brake.
Ford dealers will inspect the camshaft sensor in the recalled vehicles and replace the part with an updated sensor without charge.
Owners can contact Ford at (866) 436-7332.
