For more than a century, Ford Motor Company has stood as a symbol of American industry, providing steady work for generations of factory workers. But behind that legacy is a lesser-known truth: for decades, many Ford workers were routinely exposed to asbestos.
Asbestos was widely used in Ford plants in insulation, brakes, gaskets, machinery, and protective equipment. Workers often handled these materials daily, unaware that the dust they breathed could remain in their lungs for years. Many former Ford employees have since been diagnosed with mesothelioma, lung cancer, asbestosis, and other asbestos-related illnesses long after their time on the job.
At The Lyon Firm, we represent factory workers and families across the country who were harmed by asbestos exposure, and we take that responsibility seriously. Our goal is not only to explain your legal options and pursue fair compensation, but also to hold the companies fully accountable.
We know that contacting a law firm can feel intimidating, especially while dealing with a serious illness, which is why we focus on building real, trusting relationships with our clients from the very first conversation. Contact The Lyon Firm for a confidential, no-obligation consultation at (513) 381-2333 or fill out our online form.
I have nothing but positive things to say about this law firm and Mr. Lyon. I am the kinda person who has tons of questions, and they were amazing at answering them all. I am very grateful for all the hard work they have done and consider them a trusted resource at this point. If I could give 10 stars, I would!
– Michael H. | Client
The Disturbing History of Ford Motor Company and Asbestos
Founded in 1903 by Henry Ford, Ford Motor Company grew into one of the largest and most influential vehicle manufacturers in the world. From the very beginning of production, Ford relied on asbestos in its vehicles and factories. As early as the Model T in 1908, asbestos was used because it was strong, inexpensive, and resistant to heat and chemicals.
Ford continued using asbestos-containing parts for decades, until it finally started phasing out asbestos in the 1980s. However, the company continued to sell asbestos replacement parts for vehicles until at least 2001.
Internal company documents show that Ford was aware of the health dangers of asbestos long before it stopped using the material. Records indicate that by at least 1968, Ford knew asbestos exposure could lead to severe illness, including mesothelioma.
In a 1971 internal memo, company officials discussed switching to non-asbestos brake systems but complained about the cost, estimated at just $1.25 more per vehicle.
Even after publicly reducing its use of asbestos, Ford has faced ongoing scrutiny. Beginning in the early 2000s, the company reportedly spent tens of millions of dollars funding private research that questioned the link between asbestos exposure and asbestos-related diseases.
What Ford Parts Contained Asbestos?
Asbestos was woven into many key vehicle components because of its ability to withstand intense heat and friction. When these parts were new, they might not have been a major risk.
The danger came when they were worn down, repaired, or replaced, releasing tiny, invisible asbestos fibers into the air. These fibers, once inhaled, can become lodged in the body and lead to serious disease years later.
Products containing Ford asbestos included:
- Brake Linings and Pads: Often 40% to 60% asbestos by weight. Replacing or grinding these parts was a major source of dust.
- Clutch Facings: Like brakes, the friction materials in clutches used high amounts of asbestos.
- Gaskets: Used in engines and transmissions for sealing.
- Engine and Transmission Components: Including insulation around the engine and transmission.
- Firewalls and Hood Liners: Used for heat and fire resistance.
ABOUT THE LYON FIRM
Joseph Lyon has 20 years of experience representing individuals in complex litigation matters. He has represented individuals in every state against many of the largest companies in the world.
The Firm focuses on single-event civil cases and class actions involving corporate neglect & fraud, toxic exposure, product defects & recalls, medical malpractice, and invasion of privacy.
NO COST UNLESS WE WIN
The Firm offers contingency fees, advancing all costs of the litigation, and accepting the full financial risk, allowing our clients full access to the legal system while reducing the financial stress while they focus on their healthcare and financial needs.
Why Hire The Lyon Firm: Fighting Back Against Corporate Negligence
For decades, Ford allegedly knew the deadly risks of asbestos exposure and continued to put workers and their families in harm’s way. The suffering caused by these decisions is real, widespread, and generational, affecting not just factory workers but the spouses, children, and loved ones they brought home each day.
At The Lyon Firm, we fight tirelessly to hold corporations like Ford accountable for this blatant negligence. Our team combines nearly two decades of experience in toxic exposure cases, meticulous investigation, and collaboration with top experts to build strong claims for our clients. If you or a loved one were exposed to Ford asbestos, call us today at (513) 381-2333 or fill out our quick online form for a confidential consultation.