Ford to recall 1.3M pickup trucks

WASHINGTON, April 14 (UPI) -- U.S. automaker Ford Motor Co. plans to recall 1.3 million F-150 pickup trucks and some 2006 Lincoln Mark LT vehicles due to problems with air bags.

The driver's side air bags could "inadvertently deploy," the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration said.

The recall is an expansion of a one that began last month. The recall will begin in May for vehicles added to the list, the NHTSA said.

The recall announced Thursday involves the 2006 Lincoln Mark LT and F-150 trucks from model years 2004-2006.

The problem, the NHTSA said, begins with insulation for the "clockspring jumper wire" that could become chafed and, through a short circuit, unexpectedly deploy the air bag.

If chafing occurs, a warning light could go on, indicating the vehicle needs servicing. If the air bag deploys while the car is in motion, however, it would increase risk of an accident.

Ford said it would instruct dealers to install a protective mesh cover to protect the wire free of charge.

Consumers can call 866-436-7332 for information.