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
05V086000FORD MOTOR COMPANYfrom 03/19/1997 V (Vehicle)4362607/15/2005ODIFORD MOTOR COMPANY03/14/200503/14/2005
Defect SummaryOn certain passenger vehicles built with electronic traction control, the rear brake line may chafe due to contact between it and a floor pan stiffening rib, and a brake fluid leak may occur.
Consequence SummaryThe brake pedal may develop a
Corrective SummaryDealers will inspect the subject vehicles for contact between the brake tube and floor pan stiffening rib. if contact is evident, but no abrasion or leaks exist, the brake tube will be repositioned to preclude further contact and potential abrasion. if indication of abrasion or a leak is evident, dealers will repair the brake line. this campaign began on july 15, 2005. owners may contact ford at 1-800-392-3673.
NotesFord campaign no. 04b26.this action is deemed a safety improvement campaign and is not being conducted under the safety act.the company has informed nhtsa that it will provide the modifications described above free of charge.
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 - ANTILOCK
1223012/01/1998615491All vehicles with antilock brake module concerns that require a module replacement, the technician must call for approval before removing and / or replacing the module. *tt01/17/2001
985A303/18/1998601002The anti-lock brake system ( abs ) may activate under false abs conditions. *yc06/17/1998
BC031A49702002/01/199751652Inadvertent abs activation on smooth dry pavement. *tw06/27/1997
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 - 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 - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS - DRUM
98252504/01/1998603549Some vehicles may exhibit brake squeal from the rear when braking. *yc02/24/1999
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS - HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
04B2602/28/200510012945Abrasion of the rear brake tube near the floor pan stiffening rib and the #3 transmission cross member. advance notice-customer satisfaction program 04b26. *tt04/04/2005
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
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.
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
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
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.
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

Consumer Complaints


Fail datemilesoccurencesPurchase date
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
11/10/2010167000
 Tl-the contact owns a 1997 ford crown victoria police interceptor (na). while driving approximately 2-3 mph the brakes failed. she pumped the brakes to stopped the vehicle but the vehicle did not stop. the vehicle stopped in the middle of the street. the vehicle had to be pushed out of the street. the vehicle was towed to her residence. the vehicle was taken to a local mechanic and he advised her of recall 98i001000, service brakes, hydraulic:foundation components:hoses, lines/piping, and fittings. she called the manufacture and the dealer and they advised her that her vehicle was not part of the recall. the vehicle has not been repaired. the vehicle was not driveable. the vehicle was purchased used in january 2005. the failure and current mileage were approximately 167,000. vwb
05/01/20081050001
 Steel brake line on 1997 ford crown victoria rusted out. brake fluid leaked out making the brakes inoperative. had repairs done at local mechanic who said this is a frequent occurrence. this is definitely a safety issue. *tr
 Brake line is not coverer to protect if vehicle is driven on unpaved area.
05/02/1998212/16/1997
 Brake cooster failed to assist the hydraulic brake system, and driver was unable to slow down resulting in a rear-ended crash. driver stated that the pedal was going to the floor.
03/29/1998112/16/1997
 Power assist on the brake system failed while making a u turn and braking at 20mph. the pedal almost went to the floor without slowing the vehicle. the vehicle struck a curb and traversed the side walk.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - ANTILOCK
03/15/20023012/01/1996
 Abs applied brakes with car in cruise control at 65 mph, than brakes were applied to right front which caused the car to pull to the right, left front brakes were applied which caused the car to pull to the left, also lost brake power where you had to really get on the brakes to get the car to stop like the car had no power brakes at all, car right now sets in the driveway as my wife drives the cars and i feel it is a matter of time before this car is involved in a serious crash and i feel it is to dangerous to allow my family to be in the car. *ak
03/05/2001102/01/1999
 While driving my car i applied the brakes and the pedal went to the floor. i had to pump the brakes to stop. i took it to my mechanic who found that the brake line had worn through. it cost me about $81.00 to have repaired.*ak
02/17/2001107/01/1996
 No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak
01/20/2000005/01/1999
 While going down a slight enbankment, brakes applied and locked up. vehicle almost hit a tree. mechanic said it was the abs. *ak *ml
12/18/19971
 Brake failure.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS
04/13/199904/01/1997
 Vehicle suddenly accelerated after leaving gas station. unable to stop vehicle in approximately 200 feet. lost control, resultin gin a crash. 3 passengers were injured. also, brake failure. *ak
2
 Complete brake failure on two crown victoria vehicles.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS - DISC
06/18/2001101/31/2000
 Engine manifold developed a crack and started to spit out anti-freeze and water. consumer stated that dealer replaced engine intake manifold. *ak consumer was told there was a recall on some models, however his was not included, consumer is requesting reimbursement. front brake rotors and front brake pads replaced. *slc
11/20/1999309/01/1996
 Disc brake rotors warping,causing vibration during braking. third incidence in 35,500 miles. *ak
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS - DISC - CALIPER
05/01/1998
 When applying the brakes there is noise. the calipers were not tightened which may cause more wear and tear on the braking system. please provide details. *ak
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS - HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
08/05/200664000110/27/2005
 Tl*- the contact stated that while driving the 1997 ford crown victoria at 45 mph and coming to a stop light the brake pedal was almost to the floor slowing the vehicle down. , then the front brakes engaged and stopped the vehicle. the contact looked into the rearview mirror and noticed fluid on the ground behind the vehicle. the contact drove the vehicle home and later took the vehicle in to be repaired. the mechanic stated that brake line rotted. *ak
06/29/200668500102/11/1997
 Metal hydraulic brake lines corroded and leaking to loss of brake lines to be replaced. *jb
11/30/20031111753
 I experienced the failure of both front hydraulic brake system and rear hydraulic brake system due to corroded(rusted) brake line (piping) within one year. i also experienced fuel tank failure due to rust at tank seam at approximately the same time. tank failed 11/30/03, front brake system failure 03/16/04, rear brake system failure 12/04, both due to piping rust out. *jb
08/15/2001112/15/2000
 Your agency has contacted me twice, concerning a brake failure on my 1997 ford crown victoria. i have located the defective brake line that you inquired about, the piece that was cut out for the repairs. this number may be associated with my compliant ea03012. i just can not remember the gentlemans name that first called me. later an attorney called representing herself as being with your agency. please contact me again.*ak
06/28/20041
 While driving 20-25 mph consumer depressed the brake pedal and it descended to the floorboard, resulting in extended stopping distance. once the vehicle was serviced, and technician determined that the brake line wore out, causing master cylinder to lose brake fluid.*ak
03/04/200467000103/01/1998
 While driving 20-25 mph, the consumer depressed the brake pedal, and the brake pedal descended to the floorboard. afterwards, extended stopping distance was required to stop the vehicle. once the vehicle was serviced technician determined that the brake line wore out, causing the master cylinder to lose brake fluid. *ak recall#98i001000. the consumer's vehicle wasn't included in the recall. both brake lines of the rear wheels were replaced, one was worn completely through and the other was worn but not completely through. *sc *jb
09/19/2003112000107/07/2002
 Brake line forward of rear axle and above fuel filter rubs on car body, resulting in a hole in brake line. *jb
07/25/20031
 Consumer had experienced the same problem as in recall 98i001000 concerning the brake line. the dealer refused to repair because the vehicle identification number was not included in the recall. *ak *scc *jb
07/25/2003103/15/1999
 The consumer stated the brake line had rusted completely. *ak *ph *jb
03/20/20031030001
 The brake line rusted, which caused the rear brakes to fail. *jb referenced in rq03-004
11/05/2002900001
 While driving, driver applied the brakes. they did not hold, which resulted in the vehicle having an extended stopping distance. this almost caused an accident. upon inspection of vehicle, the driver noticed that the brake fluid had leaked out because of a hole in the brake line. mr a recall was issued, but has not been extended to the general public. *jg referenced in rq03-004
03/22/2002107/01/1997
 Consumer state while traveling 60 mph notice anti freeze burning smell inside vehicle. consumer stopped a service station and notice anti freeze all over engine. vehicle was service by technician and replace intake manifold. nlm heater hose leaking coolant, also the brake lines were repaired. *yh referenced in rq03-004
08/26/2001101/01/1999
 Brake line has 1 1/4 long chaffing or rub area causing line to fail. under black rubber pad design to eliminate chaffing problem. area is next to drivers side of transmission cross member. appears black rubber pad did not prevent chaffing. made temperory roadside repair to keep car home. reported to ford motor company customer service on 8/27/2001. assigned reference number 9005812234. i have faied brake line available for investigation.*ak referenced in rq03-004
05/18/20010
 Consumer had experienced problems with brakes just like mentione din recall 98 i 001 000. brake line wore out, this could lead to brake fluid loss for rear brakes. *ak referenced in rq03-004
02/15/20011
 This is a sheriffs' patrol vehicle. the brake line to the rear brakes rubbed the underside of the floor-board on the driver's side until it wore through. the brakes failed at this point. we have confirmed this problem on two more identical patrol units. no injuries have been reported yet but the potential is there. brake loss is reported as spontaneous and fortunatly, in our three incidents, it has occured at relatively low speed.
02/22/20011
 The brake line that goes to the rear brakes, rubbed on the underside of the floor board until it wore through. this caused spontaneous brake failure similar to that described in two other incidents with identical vehiclesin our fleet . *ak
02/07/2001307/01/1996
 Brake lines are rubbing through in two places under the car this is the third crown vic that has done this in past two weeks.i have called ford but they keep giving me the run around.i;m afraid that some one is going to get hurt or killed .can you please let me know whats going on. *ak
01/04/2001106/01/1996
 Cars brake line has rubbed through. *ak
10/18/2000110/01/1997
 Hydraulic brake line(s) rubbed against body parts causing loss of brake fluid. dealer will not consider as a manufacturing defect. there appears to be several many complaints concerning this problem, but dealer says warranty repairs only apply to police vehicles. what about the rest of us? referenced in rq03-004
01/22/20001
 Brake line forward of rear axle and above fuel filter rubs on car body, resulting in a hole in brake line.
01/26/2000106/01/1998
 The hydraulic line between the master cylinder and the rear brakes had a hole rubbed through where it was contacting the frame. this is was verified by the ford dealership that performed the repairs. i have the line itself as evidence. i brought this to the attention of both gregg motors and the ford customer service office and that didn't seem to alarm them. i am a mechanical engineer and feel that the line was either installed too close to the frame at assembly or it was designed without the proper spacers to keep it from rubbing. ford customer service stated that they were unaware of this problem and that they would forward the information to the engineers. i asked if someone could get back to me and they stated this was not possible. i was charged a $100.00 deductible for the work. the vehicle is leased to my employer bergstrom, inc. can you please investigate this problem ? i am concerned about other vehicles that may experience brake failure on the highway. i have never heard of a brake line failing after 3 years due to rubbing on the frame. there was no evidence of damage to the line or to the vehicle. i can send some digital pictures of the brake line if it helps your investigation. *ak referenced in rq03-004
 Notice loss of brake fluid. manfacture has been contacted. please provide further informaton. *ak
06/24/19991
 Brake required replacement due to contamination of brake fluid. mjs
1
 Brake line worn from rubbing against vehicles body parts, resulting in brake failure.
1
 Brake line worn from rubbing against vehicles body parts, resulting in brake failure. referenced in rq03-004
 I am a mechanic for the city and want to report this to you as all of our cars have the line rubbing the frame at the rear and one has rubbed through. ford has a recall for the brake line that rubs at the crossmember in the front. ford factory rep. was contacted and stated he has had other complaints but, the recall only covers the front. as a mechanic for the police dept. we see alot of problems before the public and feel that this is a real danger as the line will fail without warning. thank you.
05/05/199804/01/1997
 The brake line on the left side, midway of the vehicle, rubs against the frame, causing a hole and the brake fluid to leak, which could cause an accident. *ak
03/13/199810/01/1996
 Brake lines mounte under left front rear rubbed through, causing leakage of brake fluid/brake failure.
02/01/1998104/10/1997
 Steel brake fluid line rubbed floor, causing steel line to wear through and leak.
1
 Rear brake lines rub on body on driver's side above transmission cross member due to design location.
01/19/199804/01/1997
 Brake line located near transmission has sheared through, causing total loss of brakes, massive failure. brakes went to floor. driver had to pump brakes ,was able to come to a stop. this defect can result in an accident. *ak
01/09/1998
 The brake line is mounted so close to the floor and the transmission that a hole was rubbed through by the metal on the vehicle. the vehicle has not been repaired. shop unable to find hose to replace. *ak referenced in rq03-004
09/09/199703/31/1997
 (1) out of (10) vehicles in fleet lost brakes completely because the brakes lines crossed the frame, causing a hole to rub in brake line. other (9) vehcle were checked and flat spots were found, but had not worn into holes. all vehicles in the fleet were repaired. *ak
08/01/19971
 Brake line installed too close to floor pan, brake line rubs against floor, causing hole in brakes line, this defect can result in accident. *ak
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS - MASTER CYLINDER
06/12/2007101/01/2007
 Tl*the contact's son owns a 1997 ford crown victoria. the vehicle caught on fire under the hood while parked. the owner of the vehicle noticed smoke filling up inside of the vehicle, then lifted the hood and flames began to rise. the wires to the master cylinder and brakes were damaged. the contact notified ford and they stated that there were no recalls for the vehicle and that it was out of warranty. however, there were recalls for trucks of that line. the vehicle is currently at the ford dealer. the power train and mileage information were unknown.
10/24/20041
 On 10-24-04 our vehicle had this problem as descriped on your website. ford refuses to cover. make: ford model: crown victoria type: any year: 1997 recall number: 98i001000 summary: this 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: this could lead to brake fluid loss for the rear brakes and, potentially, increased stopping distances. remedy: dealers 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. notes: note: 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. http://www-sa.dot.gov/cars/problems/recalls/results.cfm. *ak
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - POWER ASSIST
05/02/1998212/16/1997
 Brake cooster failed to assist the hydraulic brake system, and driver was unable to slow down resulting in a rear-ended crash. driver stated that the pedal was going to the floor.
03/29/1998112/16/1997
 Power assist on the brake system failed while making a u turn and braking at 20mph. the pedal almost went to the floor without slowing the vehicle. the vehicle struck a curb and traversed the side walk.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - POWER ASSIST - HYDRAULIC - HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
10/12/200370000205/23/2001
 When the brakes were applied, there was a delay in braking, which resulted in extended stopping distance. the consumer stated the brake line was worn and caused brake fluid to leak. *ak *cb *jb
07/03/200336820105/17/2000
 Brake failure- 97 crown victoria. brake line rubbed through by transmission crossmember- causing brakes to fail during driving. ford motor company would not stand behind faulty line or reimburse for the repairs. vehicle only has 36,000 miles on and should not have worn through already.*ak
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - SWITCHES - BRAKE LIGHT
12/27/2006136000104/21/2001
 At 1:15 a.m. on december 27, 2006, i drove my 1997 crown victoria for aproximatly 20 miles and parked in my driveway. about an hour and thirty minutes later, i was awaken by a popping sound and the dog barking. i looked out the window to find the car's engine compartment fully engulfed in flames. i then called 911 and ran out to try to extinguish the fire with a garden hose. the heat from the fire burned through the hood on the drivers side in the area of the braking systems master cilinder, then ignited the drivers side tire and all plastic components rendering the hose inefective. by the time the fire truck arrived, the flames had spread to the passenger side of the car and a massive plastic / rubber fire ensued.the firemen doused it with water for about fifteen minutes then used a foaming agent to extinguish what was left of the vehicle. after inspecting the remains, it was obvious that the fire started in the engine compartment because the interior of the car was mostly intact. i had owned this vehicle for a number of years and had it maintained on a regular basis. the only major repair performed on the car was replacing a defective intake manifold (that too should have been recalled, due to the high number of incidents involving that perticular manifold design). after further research into the cause of this fire, i discovered that this was not an isolated incident. it would seem that this is a common problem in several models made by the ford motor company. to research this problem go to www.vehicle-injuries.com and look under ford expedition cruise control switch fires.