The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is investigating a report from a metropolitan police department that its fleet of 2013 model-year Ford Police Interceptor Utility SUVs is prone to front brake hose failure that can increase stopping distance.

According to NHTSA’s website, the agency’s Office of Defects Investigation has opened a preliminary probe into the matter. The unnamed police department reported 13 brake hose failures involving 11 vehicles from a fleet of 46 2013-MY Ford P.I. Utility vehicles. Inspection of the damaged hoses revealed small splits near the body side ferrule of the hose assembly.

During ODI’s initial evaluation, the NHTSA investigative unit will assess the scope, frequency and safety-related consequences of the alleged defect. Chris Lash will head the investigation.

There are an estimated 20,000 2013-MY Ford P.I. Utility vehicles in the U.S.