Federal investigators have launched a probe into Ford crossover SUVs after receiving dozens of reports of sudden braking loss.
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The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has initiated a Preliminary Evaluation into complaints of braking issues in 2015-2017 Ford Edge vehicles.
The NHTSA said in documents posted Thursday that the probe will "fully assess the potential safety-related consequences" of the issue, which could affect an estimated 368,309 vehicles.
The Office of Defects Investigation has received 36 complaints alleging a loss of braking ability in certain Edge vehicles.
According to the complaints, the loss of braking occurs while the vehicle is in motion and without any prior warning, resulting in an increase in stopping distance and elevating the risk of a crash.
The NHTSA said the issue is the apparent result of a rear brake hose failure.
The documents note that some complaints also indicate the vehicles underwent previous brake repairs prior to the failure, including as part of an Aug. 2020 recall that addressed front brake hoses rupturing prematurely.
At this point, officials have received no reports of crashes or injuries related to the issue.
The automaker is said to be working with the NHTSA to support its investigation.
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