DEARBORN, Mich. -

Ford confirmed details of a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recall announcement for the Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan from the 2010 and 2011 model years.

The recall is connected with units that have 17-inch wheels and were built from April 1–30, 2009 and Dec. 1, 2009 through Nov. 13, 2010.

A total of 128,616 units have wheel studs that may fracture, and Ford and NHTSA officials fear that situation would cause a wheel to separate from the vehicle.

While driving, officials acknowledge multiple stud fractures could occur at the wheel location, and the operator may experience vehicle vibration and/or wheel separation, increasing the risk of a crash.

Ford spokesperson Susan Krusel told Auto Remarketing that the Blue Oval will begin to notify owners on Jan. 24, instructing them that franchised dealers will inspect the rear brake disc surface for flatness and replace discs as necessary.

Furthermore, Krusel indicated dealers have been mandated to replace the lug nuts of all four wheels on the recalled units.

Of the total amount of vehicles included in the recall, Krusel said 8,220 units are in Canada.

“We have parts available for the fix and are committed to resolving this quickly for our customers,” Krusel insisted.

In the meantime, potentially effected owners can contact Ford’s Customer Relationship Center at (866) 436-7332 and reference Recall No. 11S23.