Ford recalls 451,865 Fusions, Mercury Milans

Ford has ordered a massive recall of 2010 and 2011 Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan sedans to fix faulty fuel-tank valves that can cause leaks and lead to increased fire risk.

The recall involves 451,865 vehicles in North America, Ford says.

Some of the popular midsize sedans have a "purge valve" that can cause the pressure to change inside the gas tank. As the pressure increases and decreases, a crack can develop in the top of the tank, allowing fuel to leak.

Though leaking gas can cause a fire if it comes in contact with a spark or flame, Ford says it has not received any reports of accidents, injuries or fires because of the defect.

To fix the problem, dealers will update the powertrain control module software, inspect the valve and check the fuel tank for leaks.

All of the affected vehicles were built at a Ford plant in Hermosillo, Mexico.

Of all the vehicles, 411,205 are believed to be in the U.S., 33,605 in Canada and 7,055 in Mexico.