Ford has issued a recall for 140,310 units of the 2012 Ford Focus sedans and hatchbacks over defective windshield wiper wiring harness connector.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has explained the issue on its website in detail. According to the NHTSA, “A seal in the wiring harness connector to the passenger side wiper motor may be missing. Water or other contaminants may accumulate in the connector, resulting in an intermittent or inoperative passenger side wiper motor, reducing visibility and increasing the risk of a crash.” The Michigan based automaker said that the problem only affects the passenger side motor.

As a remedy, the owners of the affected vehicles will need to take their car to the dealerships where it will be inspected and if required cleaned as well have the the passenger side wiper connector properly sealed. Also if any wiper motor is inoperative, it will be replaced. There will be no charges for either of the services

The cars said to be affected by the recall were manufactured from August 1, 2010 through October 18, 2011. Ford has asked its dealers to place a delivery hold on the 2012 Focus until the issue is resolved. According to the NHTSA report, the recall is expected to commence from May 21. For any other information, owners of the defective 2012 Ford Focus cars may contact Ford at 1-866-436-7332.