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The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration today issued a reminder to consumers about the hazards posed by a number of previously recalled Ford vehicles that are beginning to show up in used car markets.

The recall specifically targets vehicles that were found to have defective cruise control switches that can rapidly overheat and cause car fires – even if the car's engine has since been turned off, NHTSA said.

In order to stay safe and avoid having to make an unwanted car insurance claim, the government agency urges drivers to "watch for potential warning signs of an imminent fire. Possible warning symptoms include a cruise control system that can’t be activated or stops working; brake lights that stop working; low brake fluid; ABS and brake warning lights that are illuminated on the dashboard; or the inability to get a vehicle out of park."

NHTSA has also provided a website consumers can use to check if their vehicle is the subject of the recall, since it covers a number of models and production years. Users can input their vehicle identification number into the site – located at www.safercar.gov – and be apprised of any safety recalls that apply to their car.

The danger from this safety problem cannot be overemphasized, according to statistics from NHTSA. The agency's numbers indicate that there may be up to several million vehicles still on the road in private hands, despite the public recall. Motorists are encouraged to make certain that their cars are not subject to the recall, and if they are, to immediately have the problem corrected by a certified mechanic. Some who bought their vehicles used may need to verify that the necessary repairs were completed.