[rondeo]

'She first told me that she'd done some background research and gave a verbal confirmation that it is a "manufacturing defect" (exact words: "I spoke to Rob at <dealership> who confirmed this repair is needed to fix a manufacturing defect").'

This seems upside down.
Ford has to ask dealers what the case is?
Is Ford policy determined by dealers?
Where did the dealer get the information that it is a manufacturing defect?

Rant rant, Alice in Wonderland ....

Same thing happened to me when I enquired about BMS reset. I was told the dealership said. After three dealerships gave different answers I concluded Ford didn't exist\, but has a face at the dealer,
like the Cheshire Cat.