Ford recalls Escape, Fusion

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DEARBORN, Mich., Dec. 1 (UPI) -- Ford Motor Co. issued a fourth recall for its 2013 Ford Escape sport utility vehicle, citing a fire risk, the U.S. automaker said.

The recall affects 73,320 Escapes and 15,833 2013 Ford Fusions in the United States and Canada, The New York Times reported Saturday.

More than a dozen fires have been reported in the Escape, with no injuries, a Ford spokesman said.

Ford said it is "developing a fix to address the fire risk."

The recall is for Escape and Fusion SE and SEL models with a 1.6-liter engine, The Detroit News reported.

"We have identified an issue and are taking actions in the best interest of our customers," Steve Kenner, director of Ford's automotive safety office, said in a statement. "It is important that affected customers not ignore this recall and contact their dealer as soon as possible. While we recognize the inconvenience recalls cause our customers, we are taking these actions on their behalf to help ensure their safety."

Ford issued its first 2013 Escape recall in July over incorrectly positioned carpet padding that may have interfered with braking. That recall affected more than 10,000 vehicles.

Also in July, Ford recalled 11,500 2013 Escapes because of fire dangers. The third recall, of 7,600 1.6-liter Escapes, came in September when Ford said an improperly installed part could lead to a fire risk.