'Avoid charging': Ford issues warning to Kuga PHEV drivers amid potential fire risk

Owners of the Ford Kuga plug-in hybrid (PHEV) cars have been warned not to charge their vehicles until a desperately-needed software update is installed. 

Following a recall issued by Ford in regard to these cars, engineers have confirmed they are 10-15 days away from a software update being available.

This news comes after it was reported that there was a potential fire hazard related to the vehicles' high-voltage battery. 

The recall, which came in early March, also warned drivers of this model to not charge the battery due to risks that it may short-circuit when on the road, which could cause a fire or loss of power. 

Now, weeks on from the original notice, the Chair and Managing Director of Ford of Britain and Ireland has issued a statement regarding the much-needed software update. 

Lisa Brankin said, “To all of our affected customers, we’re really sorry that an issue has occurred with the Ford Kuga PHEV battery. Our engineers are working closely with the supplier of the affected part, and are putting all of their resources into perfecting a software update to remedy the issue. This software update will be available within 10-15 days and will give the Battery Energy Control Module enhanced capability to detect cell anomalies indicative of separator damage, providing advance warning to owners of a high-voltage battery issue before thermal venting occurs. In the event of anomaly  detection, dealers will replace the vehicle’s high voltage battery pack.

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"Until the software update has been installed by your Ford dealer, we ask all Kuga PHEV drivers to use their cars in 'Auto EV' mode and avoid charging until the software update is complete. We are committed to resolving this issue as quickly as possible for our customers and thank you for your patience and trust in us," Ms Brankin concluded.

The Managing Director went on to say that only a "very small number of vehicles" on the road worldwide have reported an issue with battery thermal venting, confirming that zero issues have been reported in Ireland.

If customers still do have any concerns about their Kuga PHEV, they can contact their local dealership for reassurance and even book in for a complimentary 'Kuga PHEV Check-Up' to ensure them that their vehicle is safe and road-worthy when in Auto EV mode. 

The leading car manufacturer confirmed that they are also extending the warranty for high voltage components to 10 year/ 240,000km (whichever comes first), covering the high-voltage battery for all affected Kuga PHEV's in Europe. 

If customers require further assistance or would like to discuss how they are being affected by this recall notification, they can contact the customer relationship team on 1800 771 199 between 9am and 5pm from Monday to Friday.