Ford recalls 450,426 minivans and SUVs - WKOW 27: Madison, WI Breaking News, Weather and Sports

DEARBORN, Mich. (WKOW) -- Ford Motor Co. is recalling nearly half a million minivans and SUVs because of a pair of mechanical issues.

Ford says the recall involves 205,896 Freestar and Mercury Monterey minivans made during the 2004 and 2005 model years, because their torque converter output shaft may fail. If that happens, there could be a sudden loss of power that could cause a crash, Ford said.

The automaker is also recalling 244,530 Escape SUVs made during the 2001 and 2002 model years, because their brake master cylinder reservoir cap could leak brake fluid. If the fluid leaks, it could corrode electrical connectors in the vehicle's breaking system and lead to melting, smoke, or a fire, Ford said.

Ford will inform the affected Escape owners the week of January 23, but because of a parts delay, Ford said it may not be able to fix some of the vehicles right away. In those cases, Ford said it will tell owners to park their SUVs outside until the parts become available and the vehicles can be fixed.

For more information, contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 or visit www.safecar.gov.