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Aiming squarely at recent complaints and investigations surrounding the brake system on Toyota’s Prius, Ford announced it is offering a proactive Customer Satisfaction Program that will update the software used in the regenerative brake systems of some 2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid and Mercury Milan Hybrid vehicles.
“We have received reports that some drivers have experienced a different brake feel when the hybrid’s unique regenerative brakes switch to conventional hydraulic braking,” Ford said in a release today. “While the vehicles maintain full braking capability, customers may initially perceive the condition as loss of brakes.”
According to Ford, the software that determines whether the brakes are operating in regenerative or conventional mode can sometimes switch to conventional mode unnecessarily. The software update is said to resolve the issue.
“The software upgrade will reduce unnecessary occurrences of the vehicle switching from regenerative braking to conventional hydraulic brakes,” the Ford statement said.
Ford has made clear that no injuries have been related to its regenerative braking systems, though it did not mention if any customer reports had been filed or if the system was noted in any accidents.
Ford will be mailing notices to owners of the vehicles that fall into the program with instructions to have local dealers perform software updates free of charge.
There is not yet a conclusive finding regarding Toyota Prius braking system investigations, nor has a fix or recall been announced.
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