Dear Michigan Public Transit Providers:
It has come to our attention that problems are occurring with Ford/Navistar 6.0 litre diesel engines manufactured between 2003 and 2007 or later. These engines were used in Ford trucks and E-450 cutaway chassis during this time period. Problems include, but are not limited to, the fuel system, fuel injectors, oil leaks, EGR’s, broken turbochargers, wiring harness troubles, faulty sensors, defective exhaust gas recirculation valves and faulty computers. Several class action lawsuits have come forward against Ford Motor Company claiming the engines have a manufacturer’s defect. Please be advised that because the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) has/had a secured interest in vehicles purchased with state funds the State of Michigan must be the party to initiate any lawsuit, your agency cannot join one of the existing class action suits.
As a result of several complaints from Michigan transit agencies, MDOT is surveying agencies as to the scope of the problem. Attached you will find an “MDOT/OPT Problem Response Form.” Please complete the form for any current or disposed vehicles that meet the above criteria and either e-mail or fax it to Michael Frezell. Responses are due by Friday, March 30, 2012. After we receive the responses, MDOT will determine the appropriate action to take and we will keep everyone with affected vehicles informed of our decision.
Thank you,
Michael Frezell
Vehicle Procurement Analyst
Office of Passenger Transportation
Michigan Department of Transportation
(517) 335-0904Fax
(517) 373-7997
frezellm@michigan.gov