Faulty Cable Prompts Ford Recall

DEARBORN, Mich. — Ford Motor Co., the world’s second-largest auto maker, is recalling 945,000 Ford and Mercury vehicles from the 1998 and 1999 model years because some may be equipped with a faulty cruise-control cable.

Although the faulty cables have not caused any reported injuries or deaths, Ford said the problem could cause the throttle to stick, making it hard for a driver to slow the car.

Until dealers receive replacement parts, Ford is warning drivers not to use their speed-control systems.

The recall affects 567,000 Explorer and Mountaineer sport-utility vehicles; 166,000 Ranger pickups; 99,000 Mustangs; 88,000 Super-Duty F-Series pickups; and 25,000 Super-Duty stripped-chassis trucks. The F-Series recalls affect only 1999 models.

Ford will begin notifying affected owners Monday.