NHTSA Complaint #11578841 — 2021 FORD ECOSPORT

This is the second time this has happened resulting in loss of my reliable transportation to/work, major repair while still in warrenty, WITHOUT vehicle loaner, rental or replacement during that time. I was again at the top of a steep hill- this time heading onto the highway- but midway into one of the busiest intersections in town. I heard a loud sound followed by mechanical spinning/winding when I try to accelerate on the green light. When I tried to drive or remove my food from the break, my car went backward down the hill and into oncoming traffic. Restarting my car didn’t help as park and drive didn’t engage. The only control I now had was the steering wheel and brake system. There were no warning signs before, during or after the ordeal. I’m not certain my lighting system worked on the outside of my vehicle as cars continued to approach the line I was in to turn left despite my hazard lights. My lights and electrical system did however work internally. I called Ford’s roadside helpline and told them I was trapped on a hill with limited control, with piles of cars behind me and I was afraid my brakes were also at risk of failing. I emphasized the emergency I was in. However, Ford Roadside was only allowed to dispatched a tow truck from 73 minutes away because the company located just 10 minutes away was not in contract with them. I also called the police to assist with traffic build up behind me as I was blocking traffic and in serious danger because I couldn’t exit the car without it rolling. I also called the out of contract tow company and paid the $200 out of pocket. I spent over an hour holding my foot on the break before help arrived.