Ford Motor Co. v. Ledesma

In this products liability case, Ford Motor Co. argues that the trial court reversibly erred in charging the jury by giving an incomplete definition of “manufacturing defect.” We agree. Additionally, we hold that a frequently submitted definition of “producing cause” should no longer be used. We remand the case for a new trial under a jury charge that reflects our applicable caselaw, including our decision today.

I. Background

In March 1999, Tiburicio Ledesma, Jr. purchased a new Ford F-350 Super Duty pickup truck for his construction business. The truck had four rear tires, two on each side,…