Recalls


CampaignManufacturerManufacturing dateType# of units affectedDate Owner notified MfgRecall Initiated byManufacturers of recalled vehicles/productsReport Recieved DateRecord Creation DateRegulation Part NumberFMVSS Number
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS - HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
98I001000FORD MOTOR COMPANY I16774205/01/1998ODIFORD MOTOR COMPANY04/07/199806/05/1998
Defect SummaryThis is not a safety recall in accordance with federal regulation 573. however, it is deemed a safety improvement campaign by the agency. ford is initiating an owner notification program for owners of certain 1995-1997 crown victoria model vehicles with police, taxi, and commercial fleet packages and town car vehicles with the livery package. these vehicles may have insufficient clearance between the brake line and the underbody front floor pan assembly which could cause wear of the brake lines.
Consequence SummaryThis could lead to brake fluid loss for the rear brakes and, potentially, increased stopping distances.
Corrective SummaryDealers will inspect the brake lines for wear, install two new tube bundle clips, and check the brake lines for proper clearances. if the brake lines are worn, the damaged section of the brake line will be replaced.
NotesNote:ford has decided to conduct a safety improvement service campaign to inspect the brake lines without charge.owners can contact ford at 1-800-392-3673.

Bulletins


BulletinBulletin dateReplacement BulletinItem no.SummaryAdded
SERVICE BRAKES, AIR - DISC - ROTOR
984503/02/1998601264Availability of hub-mount brake rotor machining equipment. *yc07/15/1998
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
981201/19/1998605557Experiencing squealing and / or moaning noise from the rear brakes during light to medium brake applications. *tt07/08/1999
985A203/18/1998601001A squealing and / or moaning noise may be heard from the rear brakes during light to medium brake applications. *tt06/17/1998
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - ANTILOCK
985A603/18/1998601004Some vehicles may cycle when brakes are applied on rough roads or on an incline while making a sharp turn. *yc12/14/2000
985A303/18/1998601002The anti-lock brake system ( abs ) may activate under false abs conditions. *yc06/17/1998
BC031497230101/23/199751423Inadvertent abs activation on smooth dry pavement. *jd06/27/1997
BC031497020101/02/199751113Inadvertent abs activation on smooth dry pavement. *jd06/27/1997
BC031A49702002/01/199751652Inadvertent abs activation on smooth dry pavement. *tw06/27/1997
9521210/01/199546478The use of petroleum-based grease as a lubricant in servicing disc brakes is no longer acceptable because it may be incompatible with the rubber material used in the disc brake system. if petroleum-based grease is used to lubricate any par04/25/1996
BC341295020102/01/199539140Incorrect cycling of abs or hear/feel abs cycling in light decel. *tw03/17/1995
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - ANTILOCK - ABS WARNING LIGHT
9991005/17/1999606432Addressing concerns with the brake lamp inadvertently disabling the brake shift interlock on police vehicles. *tt08/20/1999
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS
9919409/20/19996090082Information for servicing and diagnosing brake vibration, brake inspection, and brake friction material replacement. *tt03/06/2000
985A1103/18/1998601009Service tip information regarding elimination of sanding rotors and drums. *yc06/17/1998
9622210/21/199650941Brakes - elimination of sanding rotors and drums - service tip. *tw06/17/1997
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS - DISC
985A1303/18/1998601012The use of petroleum-based grease as a lubricant in servicing disc brakes is no longer acceptable. *yc06/17/1998
BC894395050305/01/199541003Vehicles may exhibit brake squeal from the rear brakes and may appear to be from the front brakes. *tw11/01/1995
956203/01/199539900Roughness concern during brake application. *tw11/01/1995
BC303295040104/01/19953012100Unknown11/01/1995
BC249095050305/01/199540074Brake squeal from rear brakes and squeal may appear to come from front brakes. *tw11/01/1995
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS - DISC - ROTOR
981401/19/1998605562Subject regarding the availability of hub-mount brake rotor machining equipment. *tt07/09/1999
985A503/18/1998601003Hub-mount brake rotor machining equipment from rotunda is now approved for warranty and service use. *yc06/17/1998
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - POWER ASSIST - VACUUM - HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
98B19S108/01/1998609562Owner notification program 98b19-s1 - brake line wear on certain vehicles. correction to original technical instructions regarding diameter of replacement brake lines. yd04/04/2000
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - SWITCHES - BRAKE LIGHT
0217609/02/200210008580Lamp-brake-invadvertent disabling of brake shift interlock. *mj08/05/2004

Investigations


NHTSA IDManufacturerDate openDate closeSubjectRecall campaign
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
EA03012FORD MOTOR COMPANY07/25/200304/11/2005REAR BRAKE LINE FAILURE05V086000
 In a letter dated february 25, 2005, ford motor company (ford) notified odi that it would be conducting a customer satisfaction program (ford no. 04b26) to correct a rear brake line chafing concern in approximately 44,000 model year (my) 1997 ford crown victoria and grand marquis non-fleet vehicles equipped with electronic traction control that werebuilt after march 19, 1997.these vehicles have an additional rear brake line and a mastic patch causing reduced clearance from a stiffening rib in the floor pan.odi
RQ03004FORD MOTOR COMPANY03/11/200307/25/2003REAR BRAKE LINE FAILURE
 Odi has received 40 complaints alleging rear brake line failure in the subject vehicles, including 8 that have been received this year.an additional 192 reports and 478 warranty claims have been received from ford.a leak in the rear brake line can cause extended stopping distance.a search of odi's complaint database for peer vehicle complaints, using the same brake line failure criteria as for the subject vehicles and the same model years (1995-97), identified only 1 complaint involving general motors caprice/implala/88/98/regal vehicles and only 2 complaints involving chrysler lh-cars.the investigation has been upgraded to an engineering analysis to further evaluate the frequency, scope, and causal factors related to rear brake line failures in the subject vehicle population.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FLUID
EA03012FORD MOTOR COMPANY07/25/200304/11/2005REAR BRAKE LINE FAILURE05V086000
 In a letter dated february 25, 2005, ford motor company (ford) notified odi that it would be conducting a customer satisfaction program (ford no. 04b26) to correct a rear brake line chafing concern in approximately 44,000 model year (my) 1997 ford crown victoria and grand marquis non-fleet vehicles equipped with electronic traction control that werebuilt after march 19, 1997.these vehicles have an additional rear brake line and a mastic patch causing reduced clearance from a stiffening rib in the floor pan.odi
RQ03004FORD MOTOR COMPANY03/11/200307/25/2003REAR BRAKE LINE FAILURE
 Odi has received 40 complaints alleging rear brake line failure in the subject vehicles, including 8 that have been received this year.an additional 192 reports and 478 warranty claims have been received from ford.a leak in the rear brake line can cause extended stopping distance.a search of odi's complaint database for peer vehicle complaints, using the same brake line failure criteria as for the subject vehicles and the same model years (1995-97), identified only 1 complaint involving general motors caprice/implala/88/98/regal vehicles and only 2 complaints involving chrysler lh-cars.the investigation has been upgraded to an engineering analysis to further evaluate the frequency, scope, and causal factors related to rear brake line failures in the subject vehicle population.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS
RQ03004FORD MOTOR COMPANY03/11/200307/25/2003REAR BRAKE LINE FAILURE
 Odi has received 40 complaints alleging rear brake line failure in the subject vehicles, including 8 that have been received this year.an additional 192 reports and 478 warranty claims have been received from ford.a leak in the rear brake line can cause extended stopping distance.a search of odi's complaint database for peer vehicle complaints, using the same brake line failure criteria as for the subject vehicles and the same model years (1995-97), identified only 1 complaint involving general motors caprice/implala/88/98/regal vehicles and only 2 complaints involving chrysler lh-cars.the investigation has been upgraded to an engineering analysis to further evaluate the frequency, scope, and causal factors related to rear brake line failures in the subject vehicle population.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS - HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
EA03012FORD MOTOR COMPANY07/25/200304/11/2005REAR BRAKE LINE FAILURE05V086000
 In a letter dated february 25, 2005, ford motor company (ford) notified odi that it would be conducting a customer satisfaction program (ford no. 04b26) to correct a rear brake line chafing concern in approximately 44,000 model year (my) 1997 ford crown victoria and grand marquis non-fleet vehicles equipped with electronic traction control that werebuilt after march 19, 1997.these vehicles have an additional rear brake line and a mastic patch causing reduced clearance from a stiffening rib in the floor pan.odi
RQ03004FORD MOTOR COMPANY03/11/200307/25/2003REAR BRAKE LINE FAILURE
 Odi has received 40 complaints alleging rear brake line failure in the subject vehicles, including 8 that have been received this year.an additional 192 reports and 478 warranty claims have been received from ford.a leak in the rear brake line can cause extended stopping distance.a search of odi's complaint database for peer vehicle complaints, using the same brake line failure criteria as for the subject vehicles and the same model years (1995-97), identified only 1 complaint involving general motors caprice/implala/88/98/regal vehicles and only 2 complaints involving chrysler lh-cars.the investigation has been upgraded to an engineering analysis to further evaluate the frequency, scope, and causal factors related to rear brake line failures in the subject vehicle population.

Consumer Complaints


Fail datemilesoccurencesPurchase date
SERVICE BRAKES, AIR - ANTILOCK
10/01/2004800001
 Anti-lock brake system constantly cycles and ceates a hazardous condition by reducing braking power on smooth dry roads.
SERVICE BRAKES, AIR - ANTILOCK - WHEEL SPEED SENSOR
04/30/200598007104/09/1995
 Constant abs failure caused by sensor and steel ring rust in brake system. problem causes activation of abs system without regard to speed, conditions or any braking effectiveness. abs pump may run at any time the brakes are applied causing increased stopping distance on smooth dry roads.
SERVICE BRAKES, AIR - DISC - ROTOR
07/01/199612/12/1995
 Rotors warped causing vehicle to vibrate when braking.
SERVICE BRAKES, AIR - SUPPLY - HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
03/15/200414500002/02/1995
 Steel brake lines to both rear brake cylinders developed leaks causing almost total loss of breaking. both leaks occurred along the frame member at the midpoint of the chassis.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
09/01/2010118000
 Tl-the contact owns a 1995 ford crown victoria. the contact stated that while driving 25 mph and trying to decelerate the brakes had failed. the vehicle was put in neutral in order for it to stop. this has occurred on a intermittent basis. the vehicle was inspected by a dealer who informed the contact that the brakeline was corroded. the vehicles brakeline was repaired. the failure mileage was approximately 118,000. tb
12/26/20081300001
 First related symptom: few years ago brake lines rusted under the hood. original remedy: i have painted them to protect them from further rust. current issue: 12/26/2008 brake light switched on during drive to work. 12/26/2008 brake pedal got soft on the way back to home. 12/27/2008 i have checked the brake fluid. it was low. i have bought and add more fluid (car was not moved this day). while fluid was added i started the engine and in park gear i have pumped the brake pedal. it remained soft. fluid got low again... there was a fluid on the pavement between rear axle and the fuel tank in the middle of the car. speed of break deterioration and speed at which car is loosing fluid might lead to an accident. this is definitely a safety issue. vehicle: crown victoria 1995, with abs and traction assist. break lines have corroded several years ago, now first has developed large leak. i will have to repair the car in the next few days, this is first time i will repair the lines. the vehicle has 130k miles. i have never seen other vehicle with such brake line corrosion. *tr
07/24/2008125000
 Tl*the contact owns a 1995 ford crown victoria. while pulling out of the driveway at an unknown speed, the brake line exploded. the manufacturer stated that his vin was not included in nhtsa campaign id number 98i001000 (service brakes, hydraulic:foundation components:hoses, lines/piping, and fittings). the vehicle has not been repaired. the failure and current mileages were 125,000.
200002
 Driver side seat belt is inoperative. belt will either, not fasten or will release while fastened. cause of the failure is undetermined. also hile driving and brake pedal depressed, the pedal will surge against driver's feet. when this occurs vehicle fails to stop, causing extended stopping distance.*ak
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - ANTILOCK
04/04/2000
 Consumer has had this abs problem for over 3 years. when the brakes are applied they make a horrifying grinding & rubbing sound. dealer says the only remedy is to replace the brake line. *ak
806/01/1998
 Anti-lock brakes come on when ever they feel like it. been serviced many times, still having same problem. *ak
09/17/1998
 Abs light sensor keeps coming on. vehicle has been in/out of dealer's shop, and the condition would return within a day or as much as four days. dealer keeps charging consumer every time he brings the vehicle back. *ak
05/28/1997705/05/1997
 Anti lock brakes grind in wet weather.
01/12/19971
 (four wheel disc brakes). during inclement weather total loss of abs capabilities. resulting in vehicle crash. *akthe vehicle does not stop properly when the weather is damp or wet, and the responce time from initial brake depression to actual braking is too long. *nlm
10/01/1996
 Abs brake failure, overheating, replacement of rotors and pads, and causing a vibration in the front end and makes a grinding noise, a loss of effectiveness. *ak
01/01/1995
 The abs is engaging unexpectedly and the brakes don't work. this happens on normal road conditions. one minor accident already happened. *ak
03/28/1996
 Officer turning corner in vehicle, brakes started pulsating (abs), vehicle hit a home. *ak
10/11/19941
 Anti-lock brake system failed.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - ANTILOCK - ABS WARNING LIGHT
06/20/19950
 Other: air bag readiness light comes on/stays on intermittently. *dsh
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS
12/27/1996
 While coming to a stop the emergency brake and the hydraulic brake went out and the owner could not stop the car. *ak
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS - DISC
03/08/2000103/01/1995
 Front brake rotors are worn out, and the pads are not on the spring plate. originally incorrectly installed. ford was told about the problem. but is not interested in hearing the problem. *ak.et.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS - DISC - CALIPER
10/01/1997301/16/1996
 Front disc brake calipers failed. also replaced emergency brake.
07/31/1996
 (police car), failure on the front brake caliper bracket bolts. *ak
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS - DISC - PADS
1
 Linings fall off of shoes causing loss of emergency braking.
10/01/1996
 Abs brake failure, overheating, replacement of rotors and pads, and causing a vibration in the front end and makes a grinding noise, a loss of effectiveness. *ak
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS - DISC - ROTOR
06/01/1995
 The brakes on this vehicle wear excessively.
10/01/1996
 Abs brake failure, overheating, replacement of rotors and pads, and causing a vibration in the front end and makes a grinding noise, a loss of effectiveness. *ak
03/20/19960
 Brake rotors warped/noisey. *sd
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS - HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
03/22/200793402201/01/1995
 Ford crown victoria rusted oil pan and brake failure. customer states the brakes failed while backing out of a parking space. the oil pan rusted and was removed and replaced on a maintenance service. *kb updated 12/12/07 *bf when the brakes failed, fluid was dripping from under the left/center body. the dealer informed the consumer the brake line was enclosed in the frame channel and the body would have to be lifted in order to make the repair. *jb updated 12/12/07 *tr
01/17/2007117200111/30/2006
 The brake fluid in my 1995 ford crown victoria had to be topped off last week. the red brake light came on indicating the fluid was low. after filling the fluid and driving the car, the pedal felt a little on the soft side, but no light. on my way to work today, i was 2 miles from home and went to apply the brakes. i had no brakes whatsoever. the pedal did have some feel to it, but there was absolutely no brakes. luckily, i veered off the road avoiding a collision with a car, and had to downshift the car to get it to slow down. after getting the car to 5 or so mph, i shifted into reverse to stop the car, then park. the red brake light never came on and i had no warning of the failed brakes. after inspection, i found both brake lines to be rusted out on the drivers side frame rail. all brake lines on the car were inspected and are extremely rusty. the car is inoperable and has not been repaired as of yet. *jb
02/02/2006138288104/21/1995
 Brake line rusted through causing rear brakes to fail. the brake line piping should either be made of stainless steel, or coated with a rust preventative, or shielded in some way so water/snow/road salt can not get between it and the frame of the car, causing it to rust through. this isn't rocket science !!!!!!!! *nm
01/26/200678000112/07/1994
 Dt*: the contact stated while driving the vehicle at 8 mph, the brake light illuminated. the contact depressed the brake pedal. there were no brakes; the vehicle was driven home without any brakes. upon inspection of the master cylinder the brake fluid was 3/4 empty. the vehicle was inspected further and the problem was the tubing that holds the brake fluid was corroded and cracked, causing the fluid to leak out. the manufacturer was alerted. updated 2/13/2006 - *nm
02/23/200543700109/01/1996
 1995 crown victoria right rear brake line failed and resulted in fluid leakage because of corrosion on line and line fitting. *ts *nm (12/01/05) *sc
02/23/200582990109/06/1996
 While the vehicle was in the repair shop to have its tires rotated the mechanic informed and showed the consumer that all the metal brake lines were corroded, and needed to be replaced.*ak
07/07/20021
 Consumer applied brakes at 35 mph and the pedal went to the floor, no braking action. mechanic (friesmill auto repair) determined that the rear brake line had ruptured. rear brake lines were repaired. *ak *scc referenced in rq03-004
04/04/2000
 Consumer has had this abs problem for over 3 years. when the brakes are applied they make a horrifying grinding & rubbing sound. dealer says the only remedy is to replace the brake line. *ak
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - PEDALS AND LINKAGES
03/20/19960
 Erratic brake pedal when abs light is on. *sd