Ford · Canada · Crit
Ford Fairmont: Engine
Affects Ford Fairmont · 1978 — about 16K vehicles.
The hazard
On certain vehicles, the pulse air reed valve (which permits flow of air from the air cleaner to the exhaust manifold) can fail in cold temperatures, resulting in a backflow of exhaust gas into the air cleaner and fuel induction system that causes a rich air/fuel mixture. This condition could ultimately result in spark plug misfire, or engine stalling.
What to do
Contact your dealer; the remedy details were not included in the filing.
Critical — crash/injury risk now
High — injury risk; see remedy
Moderate — fix at next service
Low — minor / informational