Ford Recalls Tempo, Topaz Models Over Smog Devices

SACRAMENTO — Ford Motor Co. on Friday announced the recall of two models of Tempo and Topaz automobiles sold in California to correct faulty anti-smog systems discovered by the California Air Resources Board.

Ford volunteered to send out notices through October for free repairs on 1984 Tempo and Topaz models with 2.3-liter engines after the cars were found to exceed allowable levels of smog-forming hydrocarbons and oxides of nitrogen during routine tests.

The cars emitted more than twice the allowable amount of carbon monoxide, the Air Resources Board said.

If all the affected car owners respond, the recall will involve 18,000 cars and cost $8.1 million in corrections. Ford dealerships will recalibrate and adjust the air injection systems and install larger, more durable catalytic converters to reduce emissions, the company said.

State and federal regulations require cars to meet emissions standards during assembly-line production and throughout the legally defined road life of five years or 50,000 miles.

The recall will affect only California.