It's not quite the unintended acceleration issues that landed Toyota in hot water with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, but Ford finds itself in a similar boat due to a new investigation into unintended "lunging" on one of the company's discontinued models.

The Ford Freestyle was a crossover made between 2005 and 2007, which was later redesigned as the "Taurus X" (which itself was discontinued two years later). Ford is likely looking to forget all about the low-selling vehicle, but the Freestyle is rearing its ugly head once again. After receiving more than 200 complaints, the NHTSA has launched an investigation into the Freestyle for reports that the car may "lunge" forward at low speeds.

A reported 18 crashes have been attributed to the issue, according to Reuters, with one resulting in minor injuries. The issue is not as serious as the unintended acceleration that Toyota was accused of, as it does not happen at high speeds, and brakes can immediately slow the car. Still, a car unexpectedly "lunging" ten feet is not to be taken lightly.

Ford and the NHTSA have had a close working relationship lately, likely to the automaker's chagrin. The bureau has also launched an investigation into Ford's F-150 pickup trucks for a separate issue.

Drivers interested in purchasing a used Ford Freestyle may want to hold off for the time being. Fortunately, New Jersey State Auto Auction offers a wide range of other models at affordable prices.