Bulletins


BulletinBulletin dateReplacement BulletinItem no.SummaryAdded
VISIBILITY - DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER SYSTEM
1276005/01/1999607081Concerns with lack of heat and / or malfunction indicator lamp (mil) on with diagnostic trouble code (dtc) p0125. *tt11/03/2000
732211/01/1999610776Some vehicles built between 12/1/1998 and 8/31/1999 equipped with 5.0l engine may exhibit a lack of heat, exhaust sulphur smell and / or malfunction indicator lamp on with diagnostic trouble code p0125. *tt05/12/2000
1341410/01/1999609677Exhibiting a lack of heat, exhaust sulphur smell and / or malfunction indicator lamp on with diagnostic trouble code p0125. *tt04/06/2000
630906/01/1999606790Exhibiting a lack of heat and / or a malfunction indicator lamp (mil) lamp on with diagnostic trouble code (dtc) p0125. *tt09/02/1999
VISIBILITY - DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER SYSTEM - REAR WINDOW
0418912/13/20040424510014062Rear window defroster grid/integral antenna diagnosis and repair - terminal tab repair. *tt04/27/2005
VISIBILITY - DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER SYSTEM - WINDSHIELD - CONTROLS/WIRING
04151408/09/20040418910011159Rear window defroster grid/integral antenna diagnosis and repair - terminal tab repair. *tt01/04/2005
03150107/12/20040413710009321Inoperative electric rear window defroster (heated backlite) grid lines, integral antenna concerns. *tt09/23/2004
1308408/01/19996091890Information on damaged, scratched, scuffed manual a/c control knobs. *tt11/16/2000
VISIBILITY - DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER SYSTEM - WINDSHIELD - HEATER CORE
0115608/06/2001623944Some vehicles may exhibit heater core leaks. *slc10/31/2001
VISIBILITY - POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS
1221212/01/1998615472Information on vehicles equipped with an optional travel / note digital voice memo recorder. *tt01/16/2001
529712/01/1998615403Information on vehicles equipped with an optional travel / note digital voice memo recorder. *tt01/16/2001
1351211/01/1999614636A condition may exist where the left front power window is inoperative. *tt11/29/2000
1270305/01/19996091674Some vehicles may exhibit a concern with the power window(s) becoming inoperative. *tt11/09/2000
620205/01/1999607023Addressing customers concern of inoperative power windows. *tt11/03/2000
98515211/01/1998613287Some limited vehicles with memory seats built through 10/22/98 may exhibit a concern for power seats, power lumbar, memory seat or power door locks inoperative. *tt06/20/2000
753611/01/1999610862Some vehicles may exhibit the left front power window inoperative. *tt05/16/2000
991270308/01/1999609026Customer may complain that the power window(s) may become inoperative. *tt12/06/1999
1257703/01/1999605304Vehicle may exhibit a squeaking noise from the door(s) power window glass during operation. *tt06/08/1999
1258003/01/1999605309Vehicles may exhibit various noises from the power window regulator during operation. *tt06/08/1999
VISIBILITY - REARVIEW MIRRORS/DEVICES
99680408/01/1999608775Concerns with outside passenger or driver side mirror slightly fulttering / shaking at highway speeds. *tt12/03/1999
VISIBILITY - REARVIEW MIRRORS/DEVICES - EXTERIOR
991307208/01/1999609036Vehicles may exhibit an outside passenger or driver side mirror slight flutter / shake at highway speeds. *tt12/07/1999
VISIBILITY - REAR WINDOW WIPER/WASHER
1540611/01/2001630418Concerns with rear wipers that do not sufficiently clean the back glass. *tt04/17/2002
VISIBILITY - WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER
1515508/01/2001624934On some vehicles the rear wiper arm fails to clean back glass. *et11/15/2001
658207/01/1999614753Some vehicles may exhibit front windshield wiper activation without command. *tt12/13/2000
1331010/01/19996092133The rear wiper blade on some vehicles built through 1/22/99 may flip over when run through soft cloth style car washes. *tt11/27/2000
1310208/01/19996091907Some vehicles may exhibit front windshield wiper activation without command. *tt11/16/2000
1258203/01/19996091819Some vehicles may exhibit front windshield wiper activation without command. *tt11/15/2000
653607/01/1999610676Some vehicles may exhibit front windshield wiper activation without command. *tt05/10/2000
1333710/01/1999609618Some vehicles built prior to 9/15/99 may exhibit front windshield wiper activation without command. *tt04/04/2000
723810/01/19996090816A condition with the rear wiper blade on vehicles built through 1/22/1999 may flip over when run through soft cloth style car washes. *tt03/30/2000
1325109/01/19996090651Information regarding uncommanded front wiper function (continued on 13252 and 13253). *mjs03/22/2000
1325209/01/19996090653Continued from 13251, uncommanded front wiper function . *mjs03/22/2000
9922410/18/19996089685Subject regarding front wipers operating while switch is in off position. *tt02/11/2000
991294208/01/1999609029Concerns with uncommanded front wiper function activating without command. *tt12/07/1999
1290906/01/1999606939Customers may complain of front windshield wiper activation without command. *tt09/08/1999
1282606/01/1999606897Experiencing front wipers activation without command. *tt09/07/1999
640706/01/1999606832Exhibiting front windshield wiper activation without command. *tt09/03/1999
593403/01/1999605262Complaints that the front wipers activate without command. *tt06/07/1999
579903/01/1999605212Complaints that the rear wiper blade flips over. *tt06/04/1999

Investigations


NHTSA IDManufacturerDate openDate closeSubjectRecall campaign
VISIBILITY
PE99049FORD MOTOR COMPANY07/28/199904/24/2000WINDSHIELD WIPER MALFUNCTION00V072000
 Odi has received 35 complaints alleging malfunction of the windshield wipers on certain 1997-1999 ford explorers and mercury mountaineers.the complainants allege that the wiper system is prone to erratic operation including failure to operate consistently during precipitiation as well as inadvertent operation when the control switch is disengaged.of the 35 complaints received,11 allege that the wipers stopped sweeping the windshield without warning, 16 allege inadvertent operation, and 8 allege to have experience both conditions.wipers are a critical automotive safety system without which a vehicle operator is unable to adequately see the road surface and other vehicles during precipitation.this inability to see could result in a crash.a preliminary evaluation is warranted to invetigate the alleged problem.

Consumer Complaints


Fail datemilesoccurencesPurchase date
VISIBILITY
04/21/2011150000
 Tl*the contact owns a 1999 ford explorer. the contact stated while driving approximately 35 mph the windshield wipers began to operate involuntarily two or three times. during the failures, smoke would begin to rise from the top of the steering column. the vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer where the dealer would only diagnose the failure at the owner's expense. the failure was not diagnosed. the manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. the failure mileage was 150,000.
04/21/2011150000
 Tl-the contact owns a 1999 ford explorer. the contact stated while driving 35 mph the windshield wipers comes on while in an off position at least two to three times while driving. this causes smoke to come from the top of the steering column. the vehicle was taken to the dealer who wanted $95 to run a diagnostic tests the manufacturer was not contacted. the failure mileage was 150,000....mw
02/18/20091350001
 Windshield wipers could not be turned on. *tr
05/29/200886000
 Tl*the contact owns 1999 ford explorer. his rear windshield wiper stopped working and his front windshield wipers work intermittently. a local mechanic stated that there was a problem with the gem module and they could not repair it. the contact noticed that there was a recall on the windshield wipers; however, it has not been diagnosed by a ford dealer. the contact does not know when he will have the vehicle repaired. the failure mileage was 86,000 and the current mileage was not available.
01/03/2001103/07/2000
 Consumer states after washing the vehicle, there were water marks on the glass, the rear window hatch was leaking water, the rear window heat grid was inoperative.*jb
08/17/1999
 Summary did not explain the defects in these components.
VISIBILITY - DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER SYSTEM
04/03/20058880011/28/2004
 Blend door on the heat and ac broken, cannot warm up interior of vehicle to defrost windows, it just blows cold air(maybe outside air). has not been fixed yet.
08/17/1999
 Summary did not explain the defects in these components.
07/01/199906/11/1999
 Defogger isn't working which makes all windows fog up. *ak
106/18/1999
 Defrost on the front windshield did not work properly, fogged completely causing poor visibility. mjs
VISIBILITY - DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER SYSTEM - REAR WINDOW
1
 While driving 60 mph consumer heard a loud noise coming from the rear. consumer noticed that the rear window broke. consumer contacted the dealer, and the dealer informed consumer that a new window would to be replaced. *ak
VISIBILITY - DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER SYSTEM - WINDSHIELD - HEATER CORE
10/14/200599000112/01/2000
 Dt: contact owns a 1999 ford explorer. the plastic vent inside the heater control assembly broke. this plastic vent regulates where the air will circulate through out the vehicle. also, it controls the defroster/defogger system. during the winter months it would be difficult to see without the windshield being defrosted. the service dealer stated the entire assembly will need to be replaced, but it has not been determined why the component broke. the manufacturer said that the vehicle was no longer under warranty and not do anything. the manufacturer said that the contact would have to repair the vehicle at his own expense. *ak
2
 While driving consumer noticed that check engine light illuminated and stayed on during the duration of the drive. technician replaced a cracked engine head/heater core/four different sparks plugs/ gaskets, and filled and changed the oil. *ak
VISIBILITY - GLASS, SIDE/REAR
07/29/2009143077
 Tl*the contact owns a 1999 ford explorer. when the contact opened the rear hatch, the glass suddenly exploded everywhere. there were pieces of glass that were eight inches in diameter. the glass shattered with such great force that some of the pieces struck and cracked the front windshield. the contact sustained powder burns to the face and shoulders, as well as small cuts. she has not taken the vehicle to a dealer or a mechanic, but the insurance company stated that they were familiar with this type of failure. the contact believes that a recall should be issued. the current and failure mileages were 143,077.
05/03/20081117261
 Tl*the contact owns a 1999 ford explorer. while the vehicle was parked, the rear glass suddenly shattered into pieces. there were no injuries. the dealer has not been notified. the failure mileage was 111,726. updated 06/02/08 *bf updated 06/02/08 *tr updated 06/03/08
08/16/2001104/01/1999
 Car parked in driveway, in shade for 4 hours. air temp about 80 degrees. rear window completely shattered for no apparent reason. approx. 3/4 of glass fell in a 180 degree arch outside of vehicle out to a distance of about 8 feet. 1/4 of glass fell into the rear of the vehicle. took vehicle to the dealer specified above. service tech said there is a problem with explorer rear windows. said there were two new explorers on their back lot with shattered rear windows. later got a call back from the service dept. saying that they would not repair under warranty, since there is only a recall on 2002 explorers, not on 1999 explorers. sounds like exactly the same problem to me. it cost me $819 to repair at an auto glass shop.*ak
03/01/20011
 Vehicle was parked when consumer noticed back window had completly shattered overnight.*ak *jb
 Rear windshield exploded and shattered while driving with passenger's window down. ford cannot determine the cause. please provide further information.*ak
11/24/199909/01/1999
 Used the rear window defroster (for the 1st time) and within 10 minutes the rear window exploded! it did this all by itself, nothing hit the window. the local dealership & ford cust.srvc. say since they have never heard of this before it is not warrentied!?! something is wrong with this vehicle, nothing hit the window!! i have had several minor electrical oddities (ie: windshield wipers & cig.ligter malfunctioning), wondering now if there is a connection w/rear-defogger?? i did take pictures before removing the glass (it was slowly crumbling, one bump and it would have fallen into bits), but ford doesn't want to see anything they told me to turn it over to my insurance, but it's not an insurance problem, it's a car problem! again, nothing hit the window. ford has simply brushed me off. any assistance or information your office might have would be greatly appreciated.
09/01/1999107/01/1999
 Rear window exploded in my garage. *ak
04/22/1999103/01/1999
 While parked in the carport the rear window shattered. dealer said it was the 4th one they have seen do this. dealer repaired at no charge.
VISIBILITY - POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS
05/27/20055
 Dt: contact states the inside lights, windshield wipers, and the power windows would not work. also, the outside light would not go off when the vehicle was shut off, causing the battery to run down. there was a recall on this vehicle regarding the generic electric module, but this specific vehicle does not fall under this recall campaign.*ak
06/11/200372586105/24/2003
 Rear windshield wiper motor failed. caused loss of visibility through back window. rear power window motor failed. accelerator pedal vibrates on acceleration. (usually while merging on to highways) parking brake indicator light does not always light when parking brake is active. rattle and vibration from catalytic converter cover. *jb
01/08/2001104/15/2000
 Automatic transmission is slipping in any gear. it doesn't shift gears correctly when accelerating. transmission only shifts correctly into 1st gear, and double shifts into 2nd and 3rd gears after letting off gas. transmission shifts sometimes from high to low, causing vehicle to pull. overdrive light intermittently would go on and off. was repaired at dealer. on 1-18-2001. dealer replaced multiple parts in transmission 02-15-2001, transmission locked up and wouldn't move.torque converter and pump with housing were replaced. on 6-29-2001, transmission was still pulling. dealer replaced a stuck evr valve and replaced it. *ak front and rear rotors warped, dealer replaced, abs light illumianted, dealer replaced rear speed sensor, brakes are noisy. passenger window shakes, dealer lubed tracks. motor makes rattling noise when being driven steadily. steering gets stiff and makes a whining noise. air conidtioner was repaired. goodyear tire blewout, this tire was a replacement for firestone recall 00t005. *slc
05/16/2001104/15/2000
 Consumer has complained to dealer that steering wheel shakes out of control. steering makes dashboard rumble like front end has hydraulics. turning vehicle right or left, steering shutters hard. consumer would have to add a quart of power steering once a week. dealer found power steering leaking, and replaced rack and pinion and realigned vehicle. on 6-29-01, vehicle was taken back to dealer for still having the problem. dealer found nothing wrong with vehicle. problem has not been remedied. *ak the brake light switch was inoperative causing the brake lights to be inoperative, the brakes squeak and the dealer treated the pads with an anti squeak solution, the a/c blows out warm air due to a leaky compressor and o-ring, the torque converter failed causing the transmission to lock up, passenger side goodyear tire blewout while driving, the window on the right side shakes when going up or down. nlm
08/16/2000108/01/1999
 Heard tire recall aug. 9. had checked at firestone store aug.11 and told i had the tires. they had none to replace. was 176 on a list of no tires. filled tires to recommended 30. drove slowly, one old person and purse (sometimes groceries)in car. was extremely lucky in circumstances. tire blew and did not have to stop quickly and was on outside lane of freeway in traffic which had thined out. rolled into service lane and stopped gradually. ford's roadside assistance came and changed the tire. ford replaced all 5 with goodyears next day. cost only a days work as ford not go for rent car.could have easily been worse..a grandmother with 6 little grandchildren and new safe car for them.i really resent that they sold me a safe car and knew about the tires. ford said that tires were not part of my warranty but they would replace anyway. good of them. they told me that they only had 30 tires to replace on their cars and i told them that 5 of them were mine!!!( dot number: tire size: p235/75r15 )
08/21/20002
 Vehicile started on with ignition switch. his grandson was inside of vehicle, and rear back window came up, and grandson stuck his head outside of the window and the window came up. owner came out just in time to release the window.*ak the dealer replaced the electric start system. the main problem was the automatic start system which starts spontaneously without using the key pad. the vehicle started several times without notice. *yh
VISIBILITY - REARVIEW MIRRORS/DEVICES
303/01/1999
 The rear view mirror vibrates excessively. i have been to the dealer to address this problem and am currently on my third rear view mirror assembly, and the problem still exists. this is the upgraded auto-dimming mirror. the vibration gets so bad that i can't see any details out of it, and prolonged driving results in headaches. the problem exists at speeds above 25 mph.
06/10/19995012/01/1998
 No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak
VISIBILITY - REARVIEW MIRRORS/DEVICES - EXTERIOR
1
 Side view mirror film is warped causing it hard to see out of side view mirror equipment.*mr consumer could no longer use the side view mirrors. she had to result to looking behind her and didn't feel safe doing this. one guy she spoke with at a ford body shop had the same problem with his explorer. consumer thought the repair would be approx. $200. dollars but he informed her it would be more like $250. dollars. consumer noted she would pay for the repairs but feel she shouldn't have to because this is a safety issue. *ph
06/01/1999
 When driving at highway speeds (65-70mph) the interior electrochromic rearview mirror begins to vibrate. the vibratation causes reduced visibilty as the images are blurred. this problem is compounded when driving at night as a result of rear traffic headlights. the resulting decreased rear visibility creates a hazardous condition which could result in an accident. the vehicle has been taken to the dealership numerous times and ford motor company has been contacted directly regarding this problem. the dealership has tried tightening the mirror, replacing the mirror, balancing the tires, and changing the tires. the final conclusion as determined by the dealership and ford engineers is that the agressive tread on the tires is causing the vibration. i have been told to replace the tires with a tire having a highway tread. i find this explanation difficult to accept because the tires that are on the vehicle are brand new as a result of the firestone recall.*ak
04/18/2000108/01/1999
 Passenger sideview mirror motor forced side panel to bend which cause mirror to crack under force pressure, contacted dealer but refuse to admit its a defected problem. please try to resolve this matter. thanks. *ak
04/24/2000106/01/1999
 Passenger side rearview mirror switch got stuck, caused mirror to crack under tension.*ak
06/01/199905/01/1999
 The rearview mirror vibrates at highway speeds reducing driver visibility and causing visual distraction potentially resulting in an accident and possible personal injury. at highway speed, the electrochromic interior rearview mirror begins to vibrate rendering images unclear. this condition makes it difficult to impossible for the driver to discern traffic conditions behind the vehicle including distance, rate of closure, etc. in addition, this problem is compounded during nighttime driving when the rear traffic headlight image oscillates, creating a visual distraction for the driver. both these hazardous safety conditions could result in an accident and possible potential personal injury. this chronic safety problem has occurred since the purchase date 05/31/99 and has been repeatedly escalated to the dealership and ford motor corporation for resolution. while the dealership in conjunction with ford has tried to identify and repair the problem, including replacing the mirror, adjusting the mirror, balancing tires, balancing the drive train, and replacing 1 wheel, they have yet to resolve the issue and identify the vibration source. *ak
 When driving vehicle at 70 mph it began to shake vigorously, it shook so badly that when trying to look out the rear view mirrior, driver could not see. dealer has been contacted. *ak
VISIBILITY - REARVIEW MIRRORS/DEVICES - INTERIOR
03/02/1999602/25/1999
 Brake lights do not stay on when brakes are applied. lights come on, but go back out while brakes are still being applied. dealer has seen vehicle, and said that it is normal. *ak brake switch has been replaced 6 times and power booster has been replaced with no remedies, brake pedal makes a popping noise when released. message center, miles per gallon, is inaccurate and has been replaced, however consumer states it still does not work. rear suspension squeaks and groans over bumps, consumer states there is too much roll stiffness built into suspension, alignment checked and toe set due to vehicle wandering. water leaks inside door frames. automatic transmission is reluctant to downshift unless the accelerator is pressed flat to the floor. inside rear view mirrow mounted too low. consumer states squeaks and rattles show up all the time in the interior of the vehicle, rattles in dash, drivers door area, and b pillar. cd changer jammed twice. limited emblem replaced twice. speedometer reads too fast. *slc
VISIBILITY - REAR WINDOW WIPER/WASHER
06/13/2011
 Tl- the contact owns a 1999 ford explorer. the contact stated the windshield wipers come on without being set and sometimes they will not come on at all. the contact stated they used to able to bump the switch and it would work, but know the windshields wipers are not responding at all. the contact had their mechanic look at the vehicle and they said the clock spring had failed and that
08/05/200565000704/20/1999
 Normal, light usage (11,000mi/y); scheduled maintenances performed. 1. rear axle seal(s) leaking. 2. front pinion gear seal leaking. 3. parking brake flooded with fluid from 1 or 2, not sure. 4. evaporative unit for ac defective, needs replacement. 5. lcd for clock/audio system defective. 6. rear window wiper motor failed twice. ------- manufacturer admits not usual wear/tear, but won't cover any portion of approx. $2000.00+ repair cost, nor even provide loaner. *nm
05/27/20055
 Dt: contact states the inside lights, windshield wipers, and the power windows would not work. also, the outside light would not go off when the vehicle was shut off, causing the battery to run down. there was a recall on this vehicle regarding the generic electric module, but this specific vehicle does not fall under this recall campaign.*ak
08/19/2004830001
 The rear windshield wiper does not clear the entire window, the left turn signal did not wait until the turn was made before going off. the consumer believes something may have come loose which caused a gas leak while driving. the dealer refused to repair the wiper and turn signal under warranty. *jb *nm
108/20/1999
 The rear windshield wiper does not work properly. *mjs
02/01/2000802/14/1999
 Pe00020, orginial equipment with 1999 ford explorer, tire size p23575r15. while driving the front end shakes very hard, and on all tires there are lumps forming and making a whistling noise. *ak there was a constant noise in the front of the vehicle, dealer has replaced the following to remedy the problem: drivesahft, lower control arms, left upper ball joint, lower steering shaft on two occasions, front shaft, lower ball joints, outer tie rod ends, power steering pump and rack, left upper ball joint and finally the arm bushing that was hitting the frame. brakes were pulsating, dealer machined the front rotors. there was a delay in starting the vehicle, dealer stated this was normal. radio had no display lights, dealer installed a new radio. the rear brake light burnt out, dealer replaced the bulb. the parking brake sometimes would not release, dealer could not duplicate the problem. the check engine light illuminated. the rear wiper was not cleaning, dealer replaced the wiper arm and blade. *slc
VISIBILITY - REAR WINDOW WIPER/WASHER - MOTOR
06/26/20066800010012/18/2003
 The rear window wiper on my 1999 ford explorer fails to work. i've replaced the motor, and there is power to the motor itself. if i turn the wiper on and get out and force the wiper up, it will begin to work. unfortunately, this is not an option when driving down the highway and it begins to rain. with the wiper not working, it is very difficult to see out the back. *jb
04/25/2004610/01/2002
 While driving in inclement weather windshield wipers failed. this caused poor visibility to the driver. consumer was able to maintain control of the vehicle ,and drove it to a private mechanic, who determined that a gem module needed to be replaced. *ak the vehicle's power windows, 4 wheel drive and dome light have also stopped working. *nm
01/01/20032
 The rear windshield wiper motor failed twice within the last year. the motor started working intermittently and then completely failed.*jb
VISIBILITY - SUN ROOF ASSEMBLY
12/01/19984
 Reporting ongoing problem with sun roof leaking inside vehicle. vehicle been in / out of dealer shop on four occasions, and problems still unresolved. can nhtsa provide informayion on this matter. *ak
VISIBILITY - WINDSHIELD
04/11/2004776001
 The windshield in my 1999 ford explorer came loose. although it did not come completely out, it would not have remained intact in a minor accident. i hads to have it replaced. *ak
02/01/2000102/12/1999
 The vehicle windows fogs up right after the engine was turned off and left a film on them. *yh
08/23/200004/01/1999
 Driving on highway at normal speed when there was a loud explosion. after the explosion we realized the rear window had blown out. the dealer was contacted and the replacement was completed and covered by the dealer with no questions asked.
06/20/2000104/01/1999
 The front windshield cracked from the roof section down while the vehicle was stationary. the only object that came into contact with the windshield was water from a garden hose while washing the vehicle. the dealer was contacted and shown the damage but responded there is nothing we can do it must be defective glass.
08/04/1999
 The rear left side window exploded unexpectedly which may have caused injuries. dealer claimed it may be the heat. please provide further information and vin#. *ak
101/10/1999
 Winshhield glass broken. nlm
03/16/1999112/01/1998
 During decelaration at an intersection, the rear windshield exploded. upon inspection driver found glass inside and outside the vehicle area. windshield defroster was not engaged at the time. outside air temperature @70 degrees. some burn marks found on surrounding frame area after arrival at dealership. no flying objects observed hitting the windshield by driver following affected vehicle.
VISIBILITY - WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER
06/13/2011
 Tl* the contact owns a 1999 ford explorer. the contact stated that the windshield wipers would sporadically operate without activation and when activated, would not operate at all. the failure progressed until the wipers were completely inoperable. the contact's personal mechanic inspected vehicle and advised that the clock spring had failed and was causing the problem. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage and current mileage was unknown.
05/16/2000190004
 Intermittently windshield wipers did not work or started working on their own. also, while driving at any speed vehicle stalled on the road. air bag and check engine light intermittently came on and off.*ak
370001
 Consumer states that rear windshield wiper operated poorly after a part was replaced.*ak
700001
 The windshield wipers turned on by themselves which obstructed the drivers view. *nlm
04/15/20001
 While driving in the rain, the windshield wipers failed to work. *jb
 Windshield wipers will come on, engaging without owner touching controls. please describe details. *ak
11/27/20001
 The rear wiper did not clean window, dealer replaced wiper arm. *slc
11/01/2001108/01/2001
 No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak
05/15/20022507/01/2099
 The windshield wipers (front) intermittently have not been working for 2 years. we have taken the explorer in 5 times to hav this problem fixed, but they still aren't working periodically. this is a dangerous safety issue, especially when on the highway and a sudden rainstorm occurs. someone can be fatally injured with wipers that only work when they feel like it!*ak
03/21/2002
 While driving windshield wipers would come on intermittently while switch is still off. dealer notified. feel free to provide any further information.*ak
09/01/2001
 Windshield wipers involuntarily come on. windshield wipers are a distraction to driver when they come on unexpectedly. *ak
 While driving and without warning windshield wipers will turn on without switching wipers on. *ak
02/14/1999102/01/1999
 Consumer stated there have been numerous problems with the drive train, consumer began hearing an odd n oise in august 2000, and in april 2001, at that time dealer could not duplicate the problem, the dealership however did replace the driveshaft assembly, and the joint assembly spindle-arm, several months later the outer tie-rod ends were replaced, lower steering shaft which was leaking power steering fluid, the power steering pump and the rack and pinion, also parking brake does not release, and the cruise control cable was replaced, the check engine light illuminated.*ak *slc
10/19/2001203/01/2000
 Gem module replaced twice! wipers only work on high speed. dealer wants to replace wiper motor at my expense! my wipers worked when i took them in for this recall. they did come on when i didn't need them to but i would rather have them come on when i don't need them than to not come on when i do need them! i asked for the original switch to be put back on but they said they had already sent it back to ford motor company. in my research on this problem, i can see that several other people are having the same problem i am having.
0
 When you turning vehicle to right windshield wipers comes on without prior warning. dealership is aware of problem. *ak
12/29/200012/01/2000
 No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak
01/01/2000
 Windshield wipers will come on intermittently while vehicle is in operation, causing a distraction. dealership has not examined vehicle for this problem yet. please provide any additional information/attachments.*ak
06/10/20012005/01/2001
 I have let the dealership know. and they are going to check the wipers and cruise control when i go in for my new tires through the tire recall for firestones wildnerness at. *ak
03/01/2001
 Windshield wiper operated from very slow to fast when the setting was on fast. *ak
05/01/2000104/01/1999
 We have had a hood latch recall, cruise control recall, questions about a tire recall (firestone), power steering fluid leak, cv boot rip, wipers turning on with the turn signal, 1 engine replaced due to 0 psi oil at idle (did they really replace it or just say they did?) several independent re-evaluations after the new engine had even more noises, fuel injectors replaced, a mysterious clunking sound on the right side during left turns, ~5000mi after 1st engine replacement another ford repair center is now saying that the engine has 0psi at and we need another engine. we feel like this 99 explorer (with currently <35,000mi)is a lemon and we are tired of recalls, repairs, waiting for engines. we want a dependable car! we have taken immaculate care of the car, have had professionals do the work on it (usually ford dealerships) and yet we are afraid that the warrentee will run out and we will have an expensive problem or, worse, the car will fail and someone will get hurt! does this car qualify as a lemon. if not what does? if so, what are our options? p.s. all of the mentioned problems are documented by ford dealership records that are in our possession.
03/15/2000
 Erratic operation of windshield wipers operating intermittently while switch is in off position. dealer notified, and informed consumer that vehicle was not cover under a manufacturer's recall. feel free to provide any further details on this matter. *ak
08/08/2000104/07/1999
 After seeing information about recalls, inspected the tires and found out that left rear tire had three cuts on it. consumer was concerned. firestone, wilderness, p235/75 r15, dot vd. *ak cruise control malfunctioned. hood latch was loose. windshield wiper malfunctioned. *yh
111/01/1998
 The front end noise persists even after both front hubs and front seals were replaced during two seperate service calls. the wiper sensor/motor was replaced before windshield wipers started coming on without warning since the dealer told me that would happen..the dealer has been very helpful and upfront, but the front end noise still persists and it is quite annoying to have to keep going back for the same symptoms. i have heard this has been a common complaint in this area. *ak
04/01/1999604/09/1999
 While driving on highway traveling 65mph all of sudden the vehicle cuts off. no warning. no nothing. interior lights went out, and also the rear wipers work intermittently. contacted dealer they are aware of the problem, but not able to find whats causing the problem. problem still exists. *ak *ml
05/05/2000
 Manufacturer recall 00b40; parts were not available. consumer has been in constant contact with dealer and manufacturer since receipt of recall.*ak
05/10/20001
 Rim cracked, rear winshield wipers failed for the 2nd time. *ak( dot number: 274 )
02/01/20005007/09/1999
 Windshield wipers come on spontaneously without turning them on, expecially if turn signal system is used, very distracting.
10/15/1999208/01/1999
 Windshield wipers replaced once. also, two different descriptions of engine noise. *ak
12/01/199906/01/1999
 Winshield wipers sometimes go on when turn signal is used. this is distracting and could potentially cause an accident. *ak
01/15/20002502/01/1999
 Anytime when driving windshield wipers works intermittently. the only way to stop it is to turn blinkers on, and then turn them off.*ak
111/01/1998
 Windshield wipers fail in the front and back. *mjs
 While using windshield wipers, they would work intermittently, causing poor visibility to consumer. please provide further informaton. *ak
12/06/199908/01/1999
 Wipers will come on with switch in off postion. washers will not work when wipers are on but will slow wiper speed. wiper speed will not change from slow to fast without jiggling the switch. wipers will change speed when using turn signal. i am concerned they will fail completely and am aware of others with the same problem.
01/23/1999
 Windshield wipers would go on or off on by themselves. would sometimes stop in middle of operation. vehicle would fail to start if steering wheel is not in correct position. the signal lever will not operate properly if the wheels are slightly turned. *ak
 The windshield wipers come on without manual opreration or when the signal lights are operated. please give any further details. *ak
05/15/199910001/01/1999
 Windshield wipers come on without turning the switch on and when you need them working they work only in low speed. they come on while driving over small bumps, or just come on intermittently. dealer seen car in jun-1999, 4 monts later problem stil exist.dealer can't fix the problem.
03/01/199912/01/1998
 Since march the windshield wipers have repeatedly gone on whenever they felt like it. the safety issue comes into play when you have them on regular speed and want to have them go faster and they do not sometimes work faster or they are going faster and slow down to regular speed. they have at times not gone on at all. we contacted the dealer and they said thay were waiting for a replacement gem module. i also contacted ford motor and they said they were waiting for a fix. this seems to be a very long wait for something that is a safety issue.
09/15/1999504/01/1999
 The front windshield wipers will suddenly turn on without being activated by the user. they will make one pass across the glass. i know that there have already been several reports of this problem previously.
09/09/1999109/01/1999
 Windshield wipers continually fail during use in the rain, poor visibility. mjs
 Windshield wipers come on when in on/off position, and when using the turn signals. they don't activate when turned on, cause unknown. please give any further details. *ak
09/09/1999303/01/1999
 Wipers will work for no reason!
05/14/199904/01/1999
 I have complained a few times about the problem, the dealer keeps telling me the part is still on back order (4 months)
03/01/1999
 Windshield wipers are out of control. they have a mind of their own. have been waiting for a gem module for 6 weeks and dealer states he does not have the part and it is on back order. when i hit a bump, the windshield wipers go out of control. when i use my turn signal the windshield wipers go out of control. saw a report on channel 7 news that states the problem may not even be the gem module. when is ford going to address and correct the problem. this is a definate safety hazard when the wipers go out of control unexpectedly. please reply. channel 7 advised viewers to notify your organization.
09/19/19991009/01/1999
 Wipers will come on when driving straightaway or activating turn signal lever and stop during rain
07/05/1999
 While driving windshield wipers work intermittently. *ak
09/21/199906/01/1999
 I have had multiply problems with this vehicle -who can i turn to for help?
04/01/199910010/01/1998
 We are one of the apparent 1.5 million vechicle owners effected by the random operation of our windshield wipers (front). the problem seems to occur while using or just after using the left turn signal.
30011/01/1998
 I brought the truck in for this problem on many occasions,and was told they are working on it.i have kept a record of the times i brought it to dealerships,and have filed with the attorney general in the state in which i bought it.i wish they would have told me this problem in the beginning,which they new about since 1996.i have a 6 month old and am afraid to put her in our new truck which i purchased and take on long trips for fear the wipers may not work when i need them.i spend $26,000 on something i don't want my wife to drive alone in to visit her parents.i think they should give us a loaner car unitl ford fixes the problem. i know it isnt in the contract,but i contracted for a vehicle that works 100% also,and they decieved me and many others,so ford broke the contract.
01/01/1999
 The wipers are what the television referred to as phantom....i have contacted the dealer and they say there is nothing they can do about it
1301/01/1999
 Receive a static shock upon steppimg out of vehicle and touching door to close it. ford has a special service message #03373 which confirms this but states this is a normal condition. i owned a 1992 ford explorer and never had this happen. in addition, no one spends $28,000 for a vehicle and receives a static discharge and finds that acceptable. problem #2 is the windshield wipers come on by themself periodically.
 The wiper come on when they want, and work on one speed when they do activate. the washers don't work, causing problem with visability in rainy weather. the dealer has been contacted. mjs
01/19/1999
 Windshield wipers will either become inoperative or will turn by themselves on with switch turned off. dealer claims no solution available . *ak
 While driving vehicle & no rain, windshiel wipers came on for no reason. when they are in use, they would fail to work at high or intermittent. the turn signal is erratic. been to dealer & mechanic repaired problem. since then, problem with wipers have reappeared. the parts are on back order. *ak
02/01/1999
 Wipers go on by themselves very often, startling the driver. they do not attain top speed on demand, though they do occasionally by themselves and then drop to the lower speed by themselves. washer does not work on demand, although very occasionally it does work.
 The windshield wipers are completely non-functional, making it impossible to see the road in inclement weather. *ak
04/01/1999101/01/1999
 The wipers go on at will; stop at will; raining or not raining. intermittent. have no fast wiper speed or windshield washer. dealer ordered part (stick for wipers/turn signal). it just came in. i'll see if that fixes the problem.
07/01/1999
 Intermittently windshield wipers became inoperable. dealer has inspected the vehicle . *ak
03/19/1999
 Windshield wipers would not work properly. very erratic. come on/off by themselves. the problem is getting worse. causing the driver to have poor visibility in the rain. had wipers repaired by dealer once. now informed manufacturer is redesigning wiper part & will not repair. *ak
08/24/19992001/01/1999
 Winshield wipers work intermittently even though they are turned off. dealer was contacted but informed me they could not fix the problem pending additional information from ford. this is a significant annoyance.
05/01/199901/01/1999
 Part on order for 6 weeks
104/01/1999
 Windshield wipers fail sometimes, causing poor visibility. *yc
06/20/1999205/01/1999
 All problems are electrical:wipers/washer failed-transmission shifted erratically-4wd failed to engage. after connector repairs, replacing 3 wire harnesses and pcm, problem has apparently been fixed--for now. wiper/4wd problems appear related to gem (general electronics module) and wiring harnesses. transmission shifting problems associated with pcm (powertrain control module). this problem occurred at 1150 and 2500 miles including 3 different visits to service dept. vehicle out of service nearly 3 weeks in 2 1/2 months of ownership.
06/01/19997511/01/1998
 Wipers will not work at times
07/29/199999907/01/1999
 Turn signal/windshield washer - washer fluid sometimes fail when pushed-in . no high speed on wipers. wipers go on when using turn signal & they also start without turning them on.
08/21/19991511/01/1998
 Windshield wipers turn on without touching the switch on numerous occassions.
08/19/19995001/01/1999
 Windshild wipers sometimes come on by themselves. wipers do not always work in continuous mode. washer does not always work(immagine driving through dirty snow when this happens) seems many explorers have this problem. dealer doesn't know when parts will be deliverd. i quess ford is waiting for a major accident to occur. this is a very serious problem. imagine driving through a heavy rain and being able to use wipers in continous mode or having dirty snow on the windshield and not being able to wash it off while on a superhighway.
05/01/199904/01/1999
 Wipers cycle when turn signal actuated. wipers cycle for no reason. wipers work on high speed only intermittently if at all. wipers always work on low and intermittent speeds.
10
 Persistent problem with the windshield wipers turning on and off by themselves indicating a problem and questioning their realiability. both the dealer and ford motor corp. indicated they knew of problems of this nature with this model vechicle but said they would not have a solution till maybe the end of the year.
02/01/1999500002/01/1999
 Windshield wipers operate erratically, and unreliably.......turning on by themselves and when turn signals activated, turning off/changing speeds by themselves when turned on.
 Windshield wipers do not work properly, they come on when the turn signal not is activated, and when they are needed they do not activate. dealer has been contacted. *ak
02/01/199912/01/1998
 Windshield wipers stay on. consumer has the switch set at off, and the windshield wipers still come on. *yc
06/01/19992001/01/1999
 Windshield wipers come on when in off position and do not always work properly when in on position. we had our explorer into dealer on july 24 for multiple problems, one being the windshield wipers. the part was ordered and still has not come in. it is very dangerous when you are driving down the road when the wipers start working when they don't need to or stop working properly when you need them.
 Windshield wipers will turn on by themselves with switch turned off and will not go into in fast speed, causing poor visibility. wipers also turn on by themselves when vehicle hits a bump and sometimes when vehicle is started. parts on back order for 2 weeks. *ak
 Windshield wipers come on when hitting a bump or when turning on the turn signals. also the wipers will cut off when turn signals are applied if already on. happens intermittently. *ak
11/01/1998
 Front windshield wipers turn on at times and can not be stopped. also at times will not go to high speed wiping, seems to usually happen immediately after wipers come on by themselves. i just returned from a trip and determined that this usually happens near traffic lights or in valleys, so it may be radio frequency related.
06/01/1999101/01/1999
 The windshield wipers do not function in the high speed. also, the wipers turn off and on at will. we have repeatedly called the ford dealer and have been told ford motor is aware of the problem but as of today, have not come up with a solution. the windshild wipers failure to work in the high spead put us as risk on july 31 while traveling on the ohio turnpike in a severe thunderstorm. we were unable to see through the windshield and had to pull to the side of the road until the rain subsided. this problem is more than an inconvenience, it is a safety hazard! our local ford dealership is unable to give me a date that replacement parts will be available to fix this problem.
05/15/199950
 Windshield wipers come on at will, and high speed won't operate. twice have been caught in very heavy rain and unable to see safely without high speed wipers. dealer has seen vehicle twice, and still not fixed. second part on order, and no call from dealer within promised time period. second defect first occurred on the date of this complaint---rear wiper/washer would not operate at all. after vehicle turned off and sat approximately one hour, rear wiper then worked. seems to be an electrical problem, like the front wipers. third defect is noisy front passenger seat seat belt anchor.
 Windsheild wipers work intermittently. now the wipers do not come on at all. dealer says parts are on back order. *ak
 Windhshield wipers will turn on by themselves with switch turned off, causing distraction to driver. *ak
06/10/1999110/01/1998
 Windshield wipers failed. mjs
06/01/1999
 While making a right or left turn the windshield wipers would turn on. while traveling in hard rain wipers have difficult time keping up. please provide further informaton.
 Windshield wipers will come on unexpectedly, causing distraction to driver. also, brakes keep squeaking. *ak
12/01/1998
 Windshield wipers come on unexpectedly and cycle once; will stop when operating at normal speed; will not operate on high speed. repair part (module) (xl2z-14b05-bb) is not available from ford motor co.
 The windshield wipers cut off without application. dealer can't find the soulution for problem. *ak
 Windshield washer intermittently comes on its own. airbag and seatbelt lights stay on. *ak *ml
 Windsheild wipers cut off every 5 minutes without warning. dealer is aware of problem, but has no solution. *ak
 Intermittently windshield wipers will come on by themselves. owner had to remove the fuse. the dealer has been notified. *ak
 Windshield wipers will turn on by themselves, distracting consumer and scratching windshield . *ak
06/01/1999
 Windsheild wipers come on whenever consumer starts vehicle. the dealer has been notified about the problem. however, problem has not been corrected. *ak
 The windshield wipers will start up and intermittently cut off. dealer does not know the solution for it. *ak
 Windshield wipers come on without turning the switch on. this problem occurs intermittently. dealer has seen vehicle. problem still exists. *ak
 Windshield wipers operate erratically.they just come on whenever they feel like without being activated.. dealer has been contacted. *ak
05/30/199901/01/1999
 Windshield wipers are going on when not turned on. getting worse. also, speeds are not correct when are turned on. have already also had to have gear shift mechanism replaced do to failure, still sticks trying to take key out sometimes.
 When making a right or left turn or just turning the steering wheel, windshield wipers come on due to a defective module. consumer has been waiting five months for parts. *ak
06/10/19995012/01/1998
 No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak
05/21/199912/01/1998
 Windshield wipers keep getting worse. they activate on their own every 2 to 30 sec. dealer cannot fix the problem. *ak
07/01/199901/01/1999
 Front wipers come on by themselves - cannot be turned off also rear wiper blade flips over so it is perpendicular to the rear hatch causing damge to paint - dealer and ford say there is no design flaw w/rear wiper - waiting for parts for front wiper but it is a safety issue
06/18/199912/01/1998
 Multi-turn function turn signal/ windshield washer, intermittent wiper and high-beam malfunctions. washers fails to activate when stalk is pushed in for washer request (eventually washer will function after several pushes washer pump not broken), activating turn signal(s) activates windshield wiper (activating turn signal should not turn your wipers on), wipers turn on without user intervention (wipers turn on by themself) *ak
 Windshield wipers come on by themselves. when it rains, windshield wipers slow down to almost a non-operating mode. dealer has not seen vehicle. *ak
06/01/1999
 Intermittently the windshield wipers are inoperable on high. dealer has not been able to repair the problem. *ak *ml
 Windshield wipers sporadically come on without being turned on, sometimes as much as 10 times in a half hour. dealer has seen vehicle and can't fix it. *ak
06/01/1999502/01/1999
 Windshield wipers go on for no reason, sometimes when signaling. *ak
02/24/1999102/01/1999
 I purchased this 99 explorer in february and already it has been in the shop several times for different defects including on the first day i bought the truck and took in home with 6 miles on it the transmission began slipping and eventually went out on the truck. since it was a saturday that this happened the truck sat till monday when the dealer had it towed back (i did notice transmission fluid on the ground).the dealer said this problem was due to a connector on the transmission fluid line not being sealed or tightened. i asked if there was damage to the transmission which they said it wouldn't be but this leads me to my next problem. the truck does not accelerate through the gears properly but ford says there is nothing wrong with after looking at it again. next it was in for the speed control cable which they sent a letter to me for but did not have the cable in stock and were suppose to disable the speed control until one came in. they did not disable it which was very hazardous safety wise. next the truck has been in because one of the speakers was blown and in fact after getting that one replaced the others sound just as bad as the blown one and the radio has never been turned past halfway. my latest problem is that my windshield wipers will come on sporactically at any time and stay on for about 30 seconds and i cannot turn them off seeing as i didn't turn them on. this happens about every 45 minutes to an hour. i have not been to the dealer about this because one i am very unhappy about the vehicle and am tired of finding another means for transportation while they fix my truck. i even asked for another truck but was told that there shouldn't be moe problems with the truck, this was after the transmission went on the first day i bought it. *ak
05/28/199912/01/1998
 The windshield wiper starts up when the controls are not activated. 30 - 60 seconds later it will start again. *ak
05/25/1999501/01/1999
 Windshield wipers randomly activate, cycle once, then return to parked position. this could easily distract a driver and this lapse of attention could cause an accident. *ak
101/10/1999
 Passenger side winshield arm broken. nlm
VISIBILITY - WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER - MOTOR
06/26/20027000
 Tl*the contact owns a 1999 ford explorer. while driving at speeds of 60 mph in intense rainy weather conditions, the windshield wipers failed. the contact stated that when the failure occurred, the interior lights, power locks and 4-wheel drive system failed intermittently. the vehicle was taken to an authorized dealer, where the windshield motor was replaced. the failure mileage was 7,000 and the current mileage was 11,000.
09/01/20024
 Dt: noticed problems with vehicle on september 1, 2002. there was an electrical problem because the light for the air bags was always on. the windshield wipers turned on and off by themselves. this happened so often that it could cause an accident. took vehicle to the mechanic for the brakes because they were making noise, and had to pump the brakes in order to get the vehicle to stop. *ak the driver's side power door lock does not lock. the rear passenger side door cannot be opened from the inside. *nm
09/15/2003310001
 While driving at various speeds windshield wipers work intermittently, making it hard for the consumer to see during rainy weather. *ak
06/11/200372586105/24/2003
 Rear windshield wiper motor failed. caused loss of visibility through back window. rear power window motor failed. accelerator pedal vibrates on acceleration. (usually while merging on to highways) parking brake indicator light does not always light when parking brake is active. rattle and vibration from catalytic converter cover. *jb
11/10/2002
 While driving in the rain the windshield wiper went out causing low visability. ph
11/10/2002
 Consumer states while driving at highway speed in the rain the windsield wiper motor went out causing low visability. ph
06/30/2002204/01/2099
 The rear wiper motor failed on this vehicle at 46,000 miles. the dealer replaced the defective motor for a nominal charge even though the vehicle was out of warranty. the reason for this consideration was the high frequency of failure of this component. the date of this replacement was july 26, 2001. the replacement motor failed today, june 30, 2002, at 64,000 miles. i was in a heavy thunderstorm at the time and was unable to view traffic to the rear of my vehicle. i consider this a serious safety defect and request that the problem be investigated and that ford inititate a recall to repair all affected vehicles.*ak
06/01/200001/01/1999
 Windshield wipers operate intermittently while driving. windshield wipers turned on and off at will. *ak
07/01/19992003/01/1999
 Windshield wiper comes on without warning. activator asy was replaced at 11990, three months after purchase, but the problem still occurs to this day. rear wiper would not work and the motor was replaced at 23493 miles, opprox. 6 months after purchase. i still have problems to this day. the reason the vehicle has not returned for repairs is the great inconvenience that takes place anytime a ford repair shop is involved. can you bring it back tomorrow, can you leave it with us all day, we are waiting for the part, we are not finished can you leave it overnight or bring it back, sorry we do not provide loners but we can give you a ride. i travel out of town almost everyday and someone giving me a ride just doesn't work. these repairs are on top of 5 recalls that i can think of. i have past the point of feeling safe in this vehicle with all the repairs and recalls, but what can be done without having to deal with the cost of buying a new vehicle, and when will the dealer stop paying for the same repairs. it seems that they hold all the cards in determing how long a part should last and who is responsible for the cost.*ak
03/01/2000103/01/1999
 Windshield wipers would turn on even in off position or when turn signal was being used. dealer notified, and informed consumer that vehicle was not covered under manufacturer's recall. *ak
 Driver side rear seat belt will not extend from the housing mechanism, causing seat belt to be inoperable. also, driver and passenger side seat belts do not latch in the buckle housing mechanism, causing belt to become inoperable. also, experienced a problem with windshield wipers; when driving in rainy weather conditions, windshield wipers stop working, causing poor driver's visibility. consumer has contacted the dealer. please provide any further details. *ak
12/01/19997511/01/1999
 The rear wiper repeatedly fails to operate at random intervals. turning on the rear wiper simply results in the wiper doing absolutely nothing. it doesn't move or anything. one minute it will work and the next minute it won't. (note also that there was a recall issued by ford for the front windshield wiper which is not listed in your list of recalls on your website.) thank you. *ak
04/24/20000
 While driving windshield wipers could come on unexpectedly. windshield wiper motor had been replaced before, but problem still occurs. *ak
09/08/1999112/01/1998
 Part has been on order to correct this problem for several months. dealer says ford has not shipped them. with the rainy weather coming i need windshield wipers that will work when needed. at this time they do not work consistantly. they turn on when going over a bump, when signaling to change lanes, and on 9/8/99 i needed the fast speed and the fast speed did not work. a module is needed on this car and 20 others according to the dealer and ford has not yet shipped them. *ak
06/12/1999101/12/1999
 Windshield wiper self activate continually, the gem module replacement is not available to rectify problems at this time. mjs
01/20/1999
 Windshield wipers would intermittently operate while in a off mode. dealer notified, and informed consumerthat they are waiting for the parts. *ak
01/24/20000
 Windshield wipers will come on intermittently by themselves with switch in off position, causing a distraction to driver. *ak
11/15/19995007/01/1999
 Windshield wipers start autonomously, run for a few cycles and stop. *ak
 When driving under normal dry weather conditions the windshield wipers will activate on their own, without the switch being turned on. dealer has not been notified. *ak
10012/01/1998
 Ford needs to do a recall on the windshield wipers. i finally got mine fixed so that they don't turn on sparadically. *ak
07/16/1999101/01/1999
 Windshield wipers fail continually in rain, no replacement part (module) available at this time to rectify. mjs
01/15/1999
 Ongoing problem with windshield wipers intermittently coming on while in off mode. also, wipers would work only in a slow speed or intermittently work. *ak
07/20/1999212/17/1998
 Several months after purchase the vehicle's windshield wipers would commerce to operate without the switch being activated. however, on july 20, 1999 the windshield wiper module was replaced, on august 16, 1999 the windshield wipers failure almost resulting in collision. problem was never corrected, problem still exist. *yc
02/28/1999
 While driving windshield wipers work intermittently. dealer was contacted and fixed the problem. *ak
 Intermittently windshield wipers will come on automatically or will become inoperable, causing poor visibility. dealer has been notified. *ak
12/01/1998
 The airbag light comes on indicating a problem with airbag system which won't deploy in event of a crash so it wont protect the occupant. also problems with windshield wiper malfunction which may cause visual diffculty and crash. problem still exists. please provide further information. mjs
06/20/1999
 Would be driving vehicle when the windshield wipers would fail to work properly. would come on by themselves. whenever its raining, wipers would stay in low position & not high. this caused the driver to have very poor visibility. been to dealer & mechanic could not correct problem. * ak
 The computer chip module has caused windshield wipers to come on & off on their own continuously. this can occur even if it's not raining. when making left or right turns wipers come on without being turned on. causing havoc with driver's visibility. will be taking to dealer to check. *ak
111/12/1998
 Windshield wipers come on by themselves and will not operate at high speed. dealer can't find the problem. *ak
02/28/1999
 Windshield wipers fails to work properly when in use. would come on/off by themselves. the problem is intermittent. this causes poor visibility to the driver. will be taking vehicle to dealer. *ak
09/09/1999
 Intermittently windshield wipers automatically operate. when the blinkers are applied the windshield wipers operate. will not operate on high unless the blinkers are on. the dealer has been notified. *ak
 While driving in a rain storm, without warning, the windshield wipers went completely out. owner had to wait on the side of the road until the wipers started back up. dlr has seen vehicle, and is waiting for part. *ak
 Windhshield wipers are totally inoperative, causing loss of visiblity.dealer has replaced computer module .please privide further information. *ak
05/17/1999
 Windshield wipers comes on/off on its own. when turned on will not go fast. would slow down or speed up on its own. took to dealer & was informed a module is needed. manufacturer has parts on back order.*ak
04/05/1999
 Windshield wipers intermittently come on and off. consumer contacted dealer. *ak
08/20/1999
 Windshield wipers will not work.ealer has been contacted, and stated that the part needed a gem module that controlvarious electronic parts. *ak
 Windshield wipers come on without application and when turned on they do not come on high speeds. dealer does not have a solution. *ak
 Windshield wipers come on without application and sometimes they do not come on at high speeds. only functions on intermediate speed. dealer says needs new module. *ak
 Windshield wipers come on without application. sometimes they stop during performance or do not come on at all. dealer can't fix them. *ak
1
 Wipers go on automatically while driving when you hit a bump in road or when you use your turn signal and stop intermittently when raining causing poor visibility. nlm
06/23/1999
 Windshield wipers come on without application, sometimes the wipers stop working in the middle of operation. and sometimes the wipers will not come on at all. manufacturer/dealer have been notified about the problem. part has been ordered to correct problem. *ak
02/28/1999
 Windshield wipers would operate while switch is off, causing poor visibility which may lead to an automobile crash. can nhtsa help in this matter. *ak
05/01/1999
 Ongoing problem with windshield wipers coming on intermittently with the wiper switch in and off position. wipers would come on for a few seconds, stop and resume again. dealer has inspected vehicle and informed consumer that they did not have the parts to fix the problem. can nhtsa help in this matter. *ak
06/01/199903/01/1999
 Windshield wipers only work on low speed, and come on without warning. dealer can't fix problem. *ak
07/29/1999
 Windshield wpiers are not working. *ak
05/01/1999
 Windshield wipers malfunctioned, causing the windshield wipers to activate unexpectedly. also, using the turn signal wipers will activated. during heavy rainstorm, the wiper high mode is inoperative which causes poor visibility and may result in a crash. ford is aware of the problem, and is investigating the problem, but has no remedy for this problem. ford instructed the dealer not to repair the wipers. please provide further information. *ak *yc
 Windshield wiper motor is inoperable, causing a short in the electrical system. the part is on back order and the owner has been waiting 2 months for it. *ak *ml
03/01/1999
 Windshield wipers malfunctioned, causing wipers not to work in the high mode, affecting visibilit which may result in a crash. also upon turning on turn signal, the windshield wiper will come on unexpectedly. common problem. parts on back order. please provide further information. *ak
04/10/1999
 Windshield wiper motor is defective which is causing wipers to come on intermittently resutling in a big distraction. consumer has been waiting for the part for two weeks, maunfacturer will not sent parts. *ak *yc
05/01/1999
 The windshield wipers malfunctioned, causing the wipers to come on unexpectedly. won't work in the high mode which affects visibility, and may result in a crash. common problem. ford does not know what to do yet but is aware of the problem. *ak
06/21/1999
 Windshield wipers working with switch in the off position. dealer notified and informed consume rthat the manufacturer is aware the problem, but they do not know how to correct the problem at this time. *ak
03/15/1999
 Ongoing problem with windshield wipers intermittently coming on without being turned on. dealer notified, and informed consumer that they are aware of the problem. seeking help from nhtsa in this matter. *ak
04/01/1999100011/01/1998
 Windshield wipers randomly come on and also randomly turn off when in use. no high speed. very dangerous. gem module replaced- to no avail. *ak
05/07/1999
 Windshield wipers come on unexpectedly, and windshield wiper switch does not go on the high mode, which may cause visibility problems while drivng and may result in a crash. manufacturer is aware of the problem,, but has no solution. please provide further information. *ak
05/01/1999
 While in use windshield wipers malfunction which may cause visibility problems and could result in a crash. also while driving, without windshield wipers in use, wipers may activate unexpectedly. dealer cannot determine the problem. please provide further information. *ak
VISIBILITY - WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER - SWITCH/WIRING
06/15/20072126942509/19/2000
 The windshield wipers will start on their own. when it happens, they will continue intermittently until i turn the wipers on high then turn them back off. it is extremely intermittent, sometimes going months before it will do it. has been doing this for about a year. *tr
05/17/20042011/16/2003
 This is an intermittent problem where the windshield wipers engage without being prompted to do so and for no apparent reason. *ak
07/16/20031
 Rear windshield wiper switch/motor failed from time to time.*ak
08/07/1999101/01/2000
 Pe00020, original equipment; while driving on interstate at 60 mph suddenly it felt like car lifted, and then heard a pop. when car landed, consumer lost control, car swerved, and used a cement divider to help slow the vehicle down and to keep it from rolling over. *ak the consumer feels the accident was due to faulty firestone wilderness xt tires and 2 people were injured. the wiper switch was replaced. *slc
08/01/20001010/01/1999
 After using window washer, wipers come on when using signals. happens all the time. *ak
1
 Consumer upset because the recall (00s04) letter stated that a free loaner would be provided while the repair of the jumper harness installation and wiper switch were being done, unfortunately that was not the case and the dealer stated that if consumer wanted a loaner car he would have to pay the difference because ford will only reimburse dealer for $25.00 and they cannot rent a car for that amount.
05/01/1999
 Windshield wipers randomly activate when switch is in off position. *ak
07/20/1999
 While driving windshield wipers are inadvertently working.this also happens when trying to use turn signals. *ak
 While driving in rainy weather conditions windshield wipers become inoperable. dealer states that the problem occures due a malfunction within the module switch. ford unable to repair problem and will not allow dealer to replace the switch. *ak