Recalls
| Campaign | Manufacturer | Manufacturing date | Type | # of units affected | Date Owner notified Mfg | Recall Initiated by | Manufacturers of recalled vehicles/products | Report Recieved Date | Record Creation Date | Regulation Part Number | FMVSS Number | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SEATS | ||||||||||||||||
| 13V081000 | Ford Motor Company | from 03/24/2003 to 11/07/2006 | V (Vehicle) | 196667 | ODI | Ford Motor Company | 03/07/2013 | 03/08/2013 | ||||||||
| Defect Summary | Ford is recalling certain model year 2004-2007 freestar and mercury monterey vehicles manufactured from march 24, 2003, through november 7, 2006, equipped with a third row seat and originally sold in, or currently registered in, connecticut, delaware, illinois, indiana, iowa, maine, maryland, massachusetts, michigan, minnesota, missouri, new hampshire, new jersey, new york, ohio, pennsylvania, rhode island, vermont, west virginia, wisconsin and the district of columbia. the third row stowable seat can experience corrosion and structural degradation at the seat anchor mechanism mounted to the rear wheel wells. as a result of the corrosion, the third row seat may not fully latch into its seating position. | |||||||||||||||
| Consequence Summary | In the event that the vehicle is crashed into from the rear, an unlatched seat may increase the risk of personal injury. | |||||||||||||||
| Corrective Summary | Ford will notify owners, and dealers will install new third row seat latch striker mounting brackets, free of charge. the recall is expected to begin on march 27, 2013. owners may contact ford motor company customer relationship center at 1-866-436-7332. | |||||||||||||||
| Notes | Ford's recall campaign number is 13s01.owners may also contact the national highway traffic safety administration vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty 1-800-424-9153), or go to www.safercar.gov. | |||||||||||||||
Bulletins
| Bulletin | Bulletin date | Replacement Bulletin | Item no. | Summary | Added |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SEATS - MID/REAR ASSEMBLY | |||||
| 042117 | 11/01/2004 | 10013390 | 3rd row seat strap breaking. *eh | 04/18/2005 | |
| 18135 | 09/01/2004 | 10011336 | 3rd row seat strap breaking (strap used for stowing or accessing the rear seat). *tt | 01/18/2005 | |
Investigations
| NHTSA ID | Manufacturer | Date open | Date close | Subject | Recall campaign | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SEATS | ||||||
| PE11039 | FORD MOTOR COMPANY | 12/21/2011 | 04/27/2012 | Corrosion of Third-Row Seat Attachment | ||
| Odi has received 18 complaints on the subject vehicles from the salt belt states that allege severe corrosion at the rear wheel wells.additionally, odi identified 4 similar reports from ford's response to the investigation.ford submitted a total of 10 reports to odi (6 of 10 ford reports are duplicates of odi reports).the complaints indicated difficulty or inability to latch the rear seat as some of the complaints reported the entire anchor plate completely detached from the vehicle (rear wheel well).the first report of this condition was received in march 2011 and subsequent reporting frequency indicates a potentially increasing trend over time.odi seeks to evaluate the potential occupant safety risks resulting from structurally degraded seat anchorages.in addition to the subject vehicles, odi also will collect and review information on my 2005-2007 freestar/monterey vehicles that appear to have a seat design identical to the subject vehicles.to date, odi is not aware of any similar complaints on the my 2005-2007 vehicles.odi also will collect and review information on freestar/monterey vehicles used outside of the salt belt states.this preliminary evaluation has been upgraded to an engineering analysis (ea12-003) to further assess whether a safety defect exists in the subject vehicles.the odi reports cited above can be reviewed online at www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/complaints under the following identification (odi) numbers: 10454977, 10453826, 10452933, 10450587, 10450559, 10450295, 10446564, 10442809, 10441641, 10441489, 10440616, 10438529, 10436592, 10433928, 10424850, 10420028, 10410491 and 10399896. | ||||||
| EA12003 | FORD MOTOR COMPANY | 04/23/2012 | Corrosion of Third-Row Seat Attachment | |||
| Odi has received 18 complaints on the subject vehicles from the salt belt states that allege severe corrosion at the rear wheel wells. additionally, odi identified 4 similar reports from ford's response to the investigation.ford submitted a total of 10 reports to odi (6 of 10 ford reports are duplicates of odi reports).the complaints indicated difficulty or inability to latch the rear seat as some of the complaints reported the entire anchor plate completely detached from the vehicle (rear wheel well). the first report of this condition was received in march 2011 and subsequent reporting frequency indicates a potentially increasing trend over timeodi seeks to evaluate the potential occupant safety risks resulting from structurally degraded seat anchorages.in addition to the subject vehicles, odi also will collect and review information on my 2005-2007 freestar/monterey vehicles that appear to have a seat design identical to the subject vehicles.to date, odi is not aware of any similar complaints on the my 2005-2007 vehicles.odi also will collect and review information on freestar/monterey vehicles used outside of the salt belt states.an engineering analysis has been opened to further assess whether a safety defect exists in the subject vehicles.the odi reports cited above can be reviewed online at www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/complaints under the following identification (odi) numbers: 10454977, 10453826, 10452933, 10450587, 10450559, 10450295, 10446564, 10442809, 10441641, 10441489, 10440616, 10438529, 10436592, 10433928, 10424850, 10420028, 10410491 and 10399896. | ||||||
| PE11039 | FORD MOTOR COMPANY | 12/21/2011 | Corrosion of the Third-Row Seat Mounting | |||
| The stowable third-row seat is secured to the vehicle by two latches or anchors on each side of the seat cushion and also by two hinges/supports on the rear face of the seat cushion.the side anchors are mounted to the rear wheel wells.odi has received seven complaints on model year 2004 ford freestar and mercury monterey vehicles which were in use in salt-belt states.the complaints allege that the rear wheel wells were severely corroded with some complaints indicating that an anchor mount completely detached from the vehicle.an investigation has been opened to assess the alleged defect in the subject vehicles. | ||||||
| SEATS - MID/REAR ASSEMBLY | ||||||
| PE11039 | FORD MOTOR COMPANY | 12/21/2011 | 04/27/2012 | Corrosion of Third-Row Seat Attachment | ||
| Odi has received 18 complaints on the subject vehicles from the salt belt states that allege severe corrosion at the rear wheel wells.additionally, odi identified 4 similar reports from ford's response to the investigation.ford submitted a total of 10 reports to odi (6 of 10 ford reports are duplicates of odi reports).the complaints indicated difficulty or inability to latch the rear seat as some of the complaints reported the entire anchor plate completely detached from the vehicle (rear wheel well).the first report of this condition was received in march 2011 and subsequent reporting frequency indicates a potentially increasing trend over time.odi seeks to evaluate the potential occupant safety risks resulting from structurally degraded seat anchorages.in addition to the subject vehicles, odi also will collect and review information on my 2005-2007 freestar/monterey vehicles that appear to have a seat design identical to the subject vehicles.to date, odi is not aware of any similar complaints on the my 2005-2007 vehicles.odi also will collect and review information on freestar/monterey vehicles used outside of the salt belt states.this preliminary evaluation has been upgraded to an engineering analysis (ea12-003) to further assess whether a safety defect exists in the subject vehicles.the odi reports cited above can be reviewed online at www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/complaints under the following identification (odi) numbers: 10454977, 10453826, 10452933, 10450587, 10450559, 10450295, 10446564, 10442809, 10441641, 10441489, 10440616, 10438529, 10436592, 10433928, 10424850, 10420028, 10410491 and 10399896. | ||||||
| EA12003 | FORD MOTOR COMPANY | 04/23/2012 | Corrosion of Third-Row Seat Attachment | |||
| Odi has received 18 complaints on the subject vehicles from the salt belt states that allege severe corrosion at the rear wheel wells. additionally, odi identified 4 similar reports from ford's response to the investigation.ford submitted a total of 10 reports to odi (6 of 10 ford reports are duplicates of odi reports).the complaints indicated difficulty or inability to latch the rear seat as some of the complaints reported the entire anchor plate completely detached from the vehicle (rear wheel well). the first report of this condition was received in march 2011 and subsequent reporting frequency indicates a potentially increasing trend over timeodi seeks to evaluate the potential occupant safety risks resulting from structurally degraded seat anchorages.in addition to the subject vehicles, odi also will collect and review information on my 2005-2007 freestar/monterey vehicles that appear to have a seat design identical to the subject vehicles.to date, odi is not aware of any similar complaints on the my 2005-2007 vehicles.odi also will collect and review information on freestar/monterey vehicles used outside of the salt belt states.an engineering analysis has been opened to further assess whether a safety defect exists in the subject vehicles.the odi reports cited above can be reviewed online at www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/complaints under the following identification (odi) numbers: 10454977, 10453826, 10452933, 10450587, 10450559, 10450295, 10446564, 10442809, 10441641, 10441489, 10440616, 10438529, 10436592, 10433928, 10424850, 10420028, 10410491 and 10399896. | ||||||
| PE11039 | FORD MOTOR COMPANY | 12/21/2011 | Corrosion of the Third-Row Seat Mounting | |||
| The stowable third-row seat is secured to the vehicle by two latches or anchors on each side of the seat cushion and also by two hinges/supports on the rear face of the seat cushion.the side anchors are mounted to the rear wheel wells.odi has received seven complaints on model year 2004 ford freestar and mercury monterey vehicles which were in use in salt-belt states.the complaints allege that the rear wheel wells were severely corroded with some complaints indicating that an anchor mount completely detached from the vehicle.an investigation has been opened to assess the alleged defect in the subject vehicles. | ||||||
Consumer Complaints
| Fail date | miles | occurences | Purchase date |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEATS | |||
| 01/15/2013 | 144000 | ||
| Tl- the contact owns a 2004 ford freestar. the contact stated that water was building up in the wheel well brackets for the third row seats. as a result, the seat exhibited rust and corrosion. in addition, the rear seat anchor plate was completely detached from the vehicle. the manufacturer was notified of the failure, who advised the contact that the vehicle was not included in any recalls. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was 144,000. kmj | |||
| 01/15/2013 | 144000 | ||
| Tl-the contact owns a 2004 ford freestar. the contact stated the third row seat wheel well brackets water and moisture has build causing the seat to have rust and corrison. the latch on the rear seat entire anchor plate completely detached from the rear wheel well. the dealer was notified who stated there was no recall for this failure only an investigation nhtsa action number: ea12003 (seats, structure). date investigation opened: apr 23, 2012. date investigation closed: open. the manufacturer was notified who stated there was no recall only an investigation for the failure. the contact filed a complaint. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was 144,000. mw | |||
| 02/01/2013 | 130000 | ||
| The problem is the same that is described in ea12003. the attaching bracket for the rear seat fell out while the seat was folded into the floor. it became lodged in the inner portion of the rear wheel assembly. if this would have happened at high speeds, somebody could have easily been killed, by the rear wheel becoming restricted or this heavy plate bouncing down the road at another vehicle. the bracket is a u bracket attached to a plate that is welded flush to comprise part of the wheel well. to temporarily keep from losing the bracket, i held the bracket in place while setting the seats upright again so that the seat itself is holding the bracket in. there is now water from the road getting up into the passenger compartment. i hope that ford issues a recall or offers a bolt on replacement soon. i've been mostly happy with this vehicle otherwise. (there are no other prices rusting or falling off obviously) | |||
| 02/15/2013 | 160000 | 1 | |
| As stated with other 2004 ford freestars, rear rust on driverside rear, rear seat will not lock because the safety lock is rusted away, not safe to any passenger to sit there. *tr | |||
| 02/09/2013 | 120000 | 1 | |
| The panel that the latch is bolted to was corroded and came of leaving no place for the latch on the drive's side to attach to. *tr | |||
| 02/09/2013 | 120000 | ||
| The panel that the latch is bolted to was corroded and came of leaving no place for the latch on the drive's side to attach to | |||
| 01/28/2013 | 140000 | ||
| Tl* the contact owns a 2004 freestar. the contact stated that while driving approximately 25 mph, a loud grinding sound was heard coming from the rear tires. the contact also stated that the wheel mount and wheel well were rusted. in addition, the third row latch failed and the seats were unable to stay folded. the vehicle was taken to the dealer for diagnostics. the technician stated that the wheel well and latches needed to be replaced. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure but did not offer any further assistance due to the vehicle not being included in any recalls. the vehicle was not repaired. the approximate failure mileage and current mileage was 140,000. | |||
| 01/18/2013 | 100800 | 1 | |
| The left rear 3rd row seat anchor plate, mounted normally to the left rear inner wheelhouse as an integrated part of the wheelhouse, has rusted around the plate edges and the entire plate is separating from the wheelhouse assembly. currently it is rusted thru on the left , right, and bottom edges of the mounting plate, remaining attached only along its top edge. this is letting road moisture into the interior regions of the van, soiling carpet and jute, causing odor and possible mold development. the 3rd row seat can no longer be safely attached. *tr | |||
| 01/18/2013 | 100800 | ||
| The left rear 3rd row seat anchor plate, mounted normally to the left rear inner wheelhouse as an integrated part of the wheelhouse, has rusted around the plate edges and the entire plate is separating from the wheelhouse assembly. currently it is rusted thru on the left , right, and bottom edges of the mounting plate, remaining attached only along its top edge. this is letting road moisture into the interior regions of the van, soiling carpet and jute, causing odor and possible mold development. the 3rd row seat can no longer be safely attached. | |||
| 12/26/2012 | 119000 | ||
| Tl* the contact owns a 2004 ford freestar. the contact stated that the left side of the rear seat was not bolted to the floor. the plate that was holding the seat in place was covered with rust and disconnected leaving a hole near the left rear wheel well which caused the seat to move. the plate on the right side of the seat was also covered with rust, but had not broken away from the structure of the vehicle. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was 119,000 and the current mileage was 119,300. | |||
| 12/26/2012 | 119000 | ||
| Tl- the contact owns a 2004 ford freestar. the contact stated that the left side of the rear seat was not bolted to the floor. the plate that was holding the seat in place was covered with rust and disconnected leaving a hole near the left rear wheel well which caused the seat to move. the plate on the right side of the seat was also covered with rust, but had not broken away from the structure of the vehicle. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was 119,000 and the current mileage was 119,300. rvk | |||
| 12/26/2012 | 119000 | ||
| Tl- the contact owns a 2004 ford freestar. the contact stated that the left side of the rear seat is not bolted to the floor. the contact stated that the plate that holds the seat in place rusted and broke away from the vehicle leaving a hole near the left rear wheel well. this caused the seat to move. the contact stated that the place on the right side is rusted, but had not broken away from the structure of the vehicle. the vehicle had not been repaired. the failure mileage was 119,000 and the current mileage was 119,300.rl | |||
| 12/12/2012 | 99750 | 1 | |
| I own 2004 ford freestar. while attempting to latch the third row rear seat, the latch failed due to severe corrosion on the floor panel ,side panel and attachments which holds the third seat latch bracket the third row seat latch bracket slides out and extrudes to rear driver side wheel which is very dangerous and can burst the rear driver side tire while running car. i am entering this complaint in relation to other complaints that have been filed. there is a defect investigation taking place (ea12003 and pe11039) for this issue already. i attempted to put my 3rd row seat back up and lock it into place. on the drive side i noticed that it would not lock into place. after further review, i know noticed that the whole latch had broken off because of rusted panel. the whole plate rusted thru . *tr | |||
| 12/12/2012 | 99750 | ||
| I own 2004 ford freestar. while attempting to latch the third row rear seat, the latch failed due to severe corrosion on the floor panel ,side panel and attachments which holds the third seat latch bracket the third row seat latch bracket slides out and extrudes to rear driver side wheel which is very dangerous and can burst the rear driver side tire while running car. i am entering this complaint in relation to other complaints that have been filed. there is a defect investigation taking place (ea12003 and pe11039) for this issue already. i attempted to put my 3rd row seat back up and lock it into place. on the drive side i noticed that it would not lock into place. after further review, i know noticed that the whole latch had broken off because of rusted panel. the whole plate rusted thru . | |||
| 12/31/2012 | 130600 | 1 | |
| Returning from a 'dump run', i noticed the plastic cover for the 3rd row passenger seat, driver side, had been dislodged and was lying on the floor. i went to reconnect it and i found the latch 'floating'. it was no longer part of the vehicle. i could see out through the wheel well. after further inspection, i saw that the welded plate, that should be part of the van was no longer attached. i haven't looked at the tire for damage, yet. this is a design and manufacturing error, as the latch bracket used to secure the passenger seat in place, needs to be a permanent part of the vehicle. the van isn't too old, and should last many more years/miles and for this piece to come loose, is a safety issue as well as a quality issue. i'm afraid to take it to the local ford dealer for fear of being gouged on the cost to repair, which should be at ford's cost. if this was a pick up truck with exposure to the elements all the time, i could see a rust issue. this vehicle is lightly used and garaged nightly, so it shouldn't happen - ever. the other comments on this page are all similar to my experience with this part. right now, i'm using a strap to hold the piece in place, stretching to the latch on the passenger side. comment: this van has had too many quality issues since we purchased it in 2006 - torque converter replaced, driver seat heater replaced, transmission replaced, cruise control switch mech. replaced, ignition replaced. *tr | |||
| 12/01/2012 | 116000 | 1 | |
| The driver-side wall bracket that locks the third row seat into the upright (usable) position is loose. it appears that it is welded to the inner shell sheet metal of the vehicle and that the inner shell around the bracket has rusted sufficiently to cause the bracket to be loose. we have discontinued use of the back seat, fearing insufficient protection during a potential crash. *tr | |||
| 11/10/2012 | 112000 | 1 | |
| During sts tire servicing, mechanic showed me a large section of structural steel hanging from the rear driver side wheel well and a michelin tire that contained abrasive ripping caused by the section of steel that had been dangling and rubbing against the tire. the large section of steel contained an anchor at the center which was manufactured to hold the third row row in place. this steel plate with the anchor for holding the third row seat in place is no longer attached to the vehicle due to a manufacturing defect which allowed the welds holding it in place to fail creating dangers of: unsecured seating, hole exposing passengers to exterior of vehicle and moving parts, opening for rodents or other dangers to enter vehicle, knowledge of prior may cause fear and panic of driver or passengers which may cause accident or mental anguise. i brought the vehicle to smith ford dealership in washington, n.j. requesting an inspection and warranty repair of the above stated structural steel. smith ford inspected the vehicle and said that the manufacturing defect would not be repaired by ford and that ford does not accept financial responsibility even though the problem was the result of a manufacturing defect. reported this to ford headquarters on november 30, 2012 and was informed that the dealership was correct in stating that ford will not repair this serious problem. my wife is increasingly having terrifying visions of mice jumping on her while driving, having snakes crawling into the car, rain snow mud etc entering vehicle, or having the children put their hands or other things into the hole in the vehicle. *tr | |||
| 12/31/2012 | 130600 | ||
| Returning from a 'dump run', i noticed the plastic cover for the 3rd row passenger seat, driver side, had been dislogged and was lying on the floor. i went to reconnect it and i found the latch 'floating'. it was no longer part of the vehicle. i could see out through the wheel well. after further inspection, i saw that the welded plate, that should be part of the van was no longer attached. i haven't looked at the tire for damage, yet. this is a design and manufacturing error, as the latch bracket used to secure the passenger seat in place, needs to be a permanent part of the vehicle. the van isn't too old, and should last many more years/miles and for this piece to come loose, is a safety issue as well as a quality issue. i'm afraid to take it to the local ford dealer for fear of being gouged on the cost to repair, which should be at ford's cost. if this was a pick up truck with exposure to the elements all the time, i could see a rust issue. this vehicle is lightly used and garaged nightly, so it shouldn't happen - ever. the other comments on this page are all similar to my experience with this part. right now, i'm using a strap to hold the piece in place, stretching to the latch on the passenger side. comment: this van has had too many quality issues since we purchased it in 2006 - torgue converter replaced, driver seat heater replaced, transmission replaced, cruise control switch mech. replaced, ignition replaced, | |||
| 12/01/2012 | 116000 | ||
| The driver-side wall bracket that locks the third row seat into the upright (usable) position is loose. it appears that it is welded to the inner shell sheet metal of the vehicle and that the inner shell around the bracket has rusted sufficiently to cause the bracket to be loose. we have discontinued use of the back seat, fearing insufficient protection during a potential crash. | |||
| 11/10/2012 | 112000 | ||
| During sts tire servicing, mechanic showed me a large section of structural steel hanging from the rear driver side wheel well and a michelin tire that contained abrasive ripping caused by the section of steel that had been dangling and rubbing against the tire. the large section of steel contained an anchor at the center which was manufactured to hold the third row row in place. this steel plate with the anchor for holding the third row seat in place is no longer attached to the vehicle due to a manufacturing defect which allowed the welds holding it in place to fail creating dangers of: unsecured seating, hole exposing passengers to exterior of vehicle and moving parts, opening for rodents or other dangers to enter vehicle, knowledge of prior may cause fear and panic of driver or passengers which may cause accident or mental anguise. i brought the vehicle to smith ford dealership in washington, n.j. requesting an inspection and warranty repair of the above stated structural steel. smith ford inspected the vehicle and said that the manufacturing defect would not be repaired by ford and that ford does not accept financial responsibility even though the problem was the result of a manufacturing defect. reported this to ford headquarters on november 30, 2012 and was informed that the dealership was correct in stating that ford will not repair this serious problem. my wife is increasingly having terrifying visions of mice jumping on her while driving, havings snakes crawling into the car, rain snow mud etc entering vehicle, or having the children put their hands or other things into the hole in the vehicle. | |||
| 12/31/2012 | 130600 | ||
| Returning from a 'dump run', i noticed the plastic cover for the 3rd row passenger seat, driver side, had been dislogged and was lying on the floor. i went to reconnect it and i found the latch 'floating'. it was no longer part of the vehicle. i could see out through the wheel well. after further inspection, i saw that the welded plate, that should be part of the van was no longer attached. i haven't looked at the tire for damage, yet. this is a design and manufacturing error, as the latch bracket used to secure the passenger seat in place, needs to be a permanent part of the vehicle. the van isn't too old, and should last many more years/miles and for this piece to come loose, is a safety issue as well as a quality issue. i'm afraid to take it to the local ford dealer for fear of being gouged on the cost to repair, which should be at ford's cost. if this was a pick up truck with exposure to the elements all the time, i could see a rust issue. this vehicle is lightly used and garaged nightly, so it shouldn't happen - ever. the other comments on this page are all similar to my experience with this part. right now, i'm using a strap to hold the piece in place, stretching to the latch on the passenger side. comment: this van has had too many quality issues since we purchased it in 2006 - torgue converter replaced, driver seat heater replaced, transmission replaced, cruise control switch mech. replaced, ignition replaced, | |||
| 12/01/2012 | 116000 | ||
| The driver-side wall bracket that locks the third row seat into the upright (usable) position is loose. it appears that it is welded to the inner shell sheet metal of the vehicle and that the inner shell around the bracket has rusted sufficiently to cause the bracket to be loose. we have discontinued use of the back seat, fearing insufficient protection during a potential crash. | |||
| 11/10/2012 | 112000 | ||
| During sts tire servicing, mechanic showed me a large section of structural steel hanging from the rear driver side wheel well and a michelin tire that contained abrasive ripping caused by the section of steel that had been dangling and rubbing against the tire. the large section of steel contained an anchor at the center which was manufactured to hold the third row row in place. this steel plate with the anchor for holding the third row seat in place is no longer attached to the vehicle due to a manufacturing defect which allowed the welds holding it in place to fail creating dangers of: unsecured seating, hole exposing passengers to exterior of vehicle and moving parts, opening for rodents or other dangers to enter vehicle, knowledge of prior may cause fear and panic of driver or passengers which may cause accident or mental anguise. i brought the vehicle to smith ford dealership in washington, n.j. requesting an inspection and warranty repair of the above stated structural steel. smith ford inspected the vehicle and said that the manufacturing defect would not be repaired by ford and that ford does not accept financial responsibility even though the problem was the result of a manufacturing defect. reported this to ford headquarters on november 30, 2012 and was informed that the dealership was correct in stating that ford will not repair this serious problem. my wife is increasingly having terrifying visions of mice jumping on her while driving, havings snakes crawling into the car, rain snow mud etc entering vehicle, or having the children put their hands or other things into the hole in the vehicle. | |||
| 10/13/2012 | 116000 | 1 | |
| Noticed a panel loose in the rear driver's side wheel well while removing the wheel. the panel was completely rusted and separated from the wheel well, with only something attached to it on the interior keeping it from falling off. took it to a body shop, where it was determined that this panel is the rear seat anchor and the seat latch was the only thing keeping it from falling off. the estimate for repair is $906.99. the rear seat anchor was removed and the hole temporarily taped closed, and the rear seat is not safe and cannot be used. contacted the dealer to see if any recalls exist for this condition and was told there are none. currently trying to decide whether or not to repair the vehicle. the vehicle is well maintained and the condition of this panel/anchor is unusual when compared to the rest of the vehicle. *tr | |||
| 08/24/2012 | 142000 | 1 | |
| Drivers side rear passenger seat bracket failure. the bracket is mounted through the wheel well. the weld around the bracket had severe rusting, no where similar to other parts of the car. the plate holding the bracket rusted through completely dropping the seat. the plate and bracket began rubbing against the tire. if i had not stopped and found the problem and secured the bracket, the tire could have blown causing an accident. accident was prevented, but serious body failure occurred. this needs to be addressed. as is this seat should no longer be used until it can be fixed, there is no cost effective fix. *tr | |||
| 10/13/2012 | 116000 | 1 | |
| Noticed a panel loose in the rear driver's side wheel well while removing the wheel. the panel was completely rusted and separated from the wheel well, with only something attached to it on the interior keeping it from falling off. took it to a body shop, where it was determined that this panel is the rear seat anchor and the seat latch was the only thing keeping it from falling off. the estimate for repair is $906.99. the rear seat anchor was removed and the hole temporarily taped closed, and the rear seat is not safe and cannot be used. contacted the dealer to see if any recalls exist for this condition and was told there are none. currently trying to decide whether or not to repair the vehicle. the vehicle is well maintained and the condition of this panel/anchor is unusual when compared to the rest of the vehicle. *tr | |||
| 08/24/2012 | 142000 | ||
| Drivers side rear passenger seat bracket failure. the bracket is mounted through the weel well. the weld around the bracket had severe rusting, no where similar to other parts of the car. the plate holding the bracket rusted through completely dropping the seat. the plate and bracket began rubbing against the tire. if i had not stopped and found the problem and secured the bracket, the tire could have blown causing an accident. accident was prevented, but serious body failure occurred. this needs to be addressed. as is this seat should no longer be used until it can be fixed, there is no cost effective fix. | |||
| 10/13/2012 | 116000 | ||
| Noticed a panel loose in the rear driver's side wheel well while removing the wheel. the panel was completely rusted and separated from the wheel well, with only something attached to it on the interior keeping it from falling off. took it to a body shop, where it was determined that this panel is the rear seat anchor and the seat latch was the only thing keeping it from falling off. the estitamate for repair is $906.99. the rear seat anchor was removed and the hole temporarily taped closed, and the rear seat is not safe and cannot be used. contacted the dealer to see if any recalls exist for this condition and was told there are none. currently trying to decide whether or not to repair the vehicle. the vehicle is well maintained and the condition of this panel/anchor is unusual when compared to the rest of the vehicle. | |||
| 10/13/2012 | 169000 | 1 | |
| The 3rd row rear seat on my 2004 freestar does not latch into seated position properly. upon further inspection, i realized that the driver's side support ring which the 3rd row seat latches into was pushed back into the trim. i looked underneath the driver's side rear wheel well and noticed that a steel plate which the support ring is mounted has completely rusted through the body of the vehicle. also, when it is not latched it has a tendency to interfere with the rear driver's side tire. while there is a small amount of metal holding the mounting plate in place, it requires two people to latch the seat in order to keep the metal plate from scoring the sidewall of my tire. the passenger's side mounting plate continues to be secure, yet there is a noticeable amount of rust on that side as well. if someone stows the 3rd row seat and tries to flip it back into seating position without knowing that the support ring is loose, they could end up scoring the sidewall on the rear tire and causing a complete failure. further, the proper function of the seat belt in the third row seat could be compromised during an accident; the seat could pitch forward or flip back because it is not solidly secured to the van's structure. *tr | |||
| 10/13/2012 | 169000 | ||
| The 3rd row rear seat on my 2004 freestar does not latch into seated position properly. upon further inspection, i realized that the driver's side support ring which the 3rd row seat latches into was pushed back into the trim. i looked underneath the driver's side rear wheel well and noticed that a steel plate which the support ring is mounted has completely rusted through the body of the vehicle. also, when it is not latched it has a tendency to interfere with the rear driver's side tire. while there is a small amount of metal holding the mounting plate in place, it requires two people to latch the seat in order to keep the metal plate from scoring the sidewall of my tire. the passenger's side mounting plate continues to be secure, yet there is a noticeable amount of rust on that side as well. if someone stows the 3rd row seat and tries to flip it back into seating position without knowing that the support ring is loose, they could end up scoring the sidewall on the rear tire and causing a complete failure. further, the proper function of the seat belt in the third row seat could be compromised during an accident; the seat could pitch forward or flip back because it is not solidly secured to the van's structure. | |||
| 10/04/2012 | 125682 | 1 | |
| Our two daughters where in the rear seat and complained of a bad smell as if something burning. at about that same time i noticed hearing a rubbing noise every time we turned left. when we got home shortly after i looked up under the inner fender of the rear left wheel and found a large steel plate loose and rubbing the tire. it was so rusty you could see the interior plastic panels and insulation. at that time i put away the rear seat and noticed the left side anchor was totally loose and when i asked the girls if they noticed that the seat moved they stated that they did notice it move but never said anything about it. there is now a hole in the car wheel well and we cannot use the back seat. we have a bungee cord latched to the two seat anchors holding them inward to keep the metal plate from rubbing the tire. the van is now limited to four passengers and i am concerned about carbon monoxide entering the car. *tr | |||
| 06/12/2012 | 143000 | ||
| Inability to latch the rear seat, entire driver side anchor plate completely detached from the vehicle, | |||
| 10/10/2012 | 153850 | 1 | |
| The left rear seat anchor has detached from the body due to excessive rust in the rear quarter panel by the left rear wheel well. the third seat is no longer usable and there is a hole through the body that lets air and water into the passenger compartment. the right side wheel well area shows rust as well but the seat anchor has not yet detached from the quarter panel. two ford dealers have said they are not aware of this problem occurring and do not know if it can be fixed. my concern is safety while driving the vehicle, noise and water entering the passenger compartment, and the loss of use of the third seat. this vehicle is too young and useful to be scrapped. *tr | |||
| 10/04/2012 | 125682 | ||
| Our two daughters where in the rear seat and companied of a bad smell as if something burning. at about that same time i noticed hearing a rubbing noise every time we turned left. when we got home shortly after i looked up under the inner fender of the rear left wheel and found a large steel plate loose and rubbing the tire. it was so rusty you could see the interior plastic panels and insulation. at that time i put away the rear seat and noticed the left side anchor was totally loose and when i asked the girls if they noticed that the seat moved they stated that they did notice it move but never said anything about it. there is now a hole in the car wheel well and we cannot use the back seat. we have a bungee cord latched to the two seat anchors holding them inward to keep the metal plate from rubbing the tire. the van is now limited to four passengers and i am concerned about carbon monoxide entering the car. | |||
| 06/12/2012 | 143000 | ||
| Inability to latch the rear seat, entire driver side anchor plate completely detached from the vehicle, | |||
| 10/10/2012 | 153850 | 1 | |
| The left rear seat anchor has detached from the body due to excessive rust in the rear quarter panel by the left rear wheel well. the third seat is no longer usable and there is a hole through the body that lets air and water into the passenger compartment. the right side wheel well area shows rust as well but the seat anchor has not yet detached from the quarter panel. two ford dealers have said they are not aware of this problem occurring and do not know if it can be fixed. my concern is safety while driving the vehicle, noise and water entering the passenger compartment, and the loss of use of the third seat. this vehicle is too young and useful to be scrapped. *tr | |||
| 10/04/2012 | 125682 | ||
| Our two daughters where in the rear seat and companied of a bad smell as if something burning. at about that same time i noticed hearing a rubbing noise every time we turned left. when we got home shortly after i looked up under the inner fender of the rear left wheel and found a large steel plate loose and rubbing the tire. it was so rusty you could see the interior plastic panels and insulation. at that time i put away the rear seat and noticed the left side anchor was totally loose and when i asked the girls if they noticed that the seat moved they stated that they did notice it move but never said anything about it. there is now a hole in the car wheel well and we cannot use the back seat. we have a bungee cord latched to the two seat anchors holding them inward to keep the metal plate from rubbing the tire. the van is now limited to four passengers and i am concerned about carbon monoxide entering the car. | |||
| 06/12/2012 | 143000 | ||
| Inability to latch the rear seat, entire driver side anchor plate completely detached from the vehicle, | |||
| 10/10/2012 | 153850 | ||
| The left rear seat anchor has detached from the body due to excessive rust in the rear quarter panel by the left rear wheel well. the third seat is no longer usable and there is a hole through the body that lets air and water into the passenger compartment. the right side wheel well area shows rust as well but the seat anchor has not yet detached from the quarter panel. two ford dealers have said they are not aware of this problem occuring and do not know if it can be fixed. my concern is safety while driving the vehicle, noise and water entering the passenger compartment, and the loss of use of the third seat. this vehicle is too young and useful to be scrapped. | |||
| 06/12/2012 | 143000 | ||
| Inability to latch the rear seat, entire driver side anchor plate completely detached from the vehicle, | |||
| 10/10/2012 | 153850 | ||
| The left rear seat anchor has detached from the body due to excessive rust in the rear quarter panel by the left rear wheel well. the third seat is no longer usable and there is a hole through the body that lets air and water into the passenger compartment. the right side wheel well area shows rust as well but the seat anchor has not yet detached from the quarter panel. two ford dealers have said they are not aware of this problem occuring and do not know if it can be fixed. my concern is safety while driving the vehicle, noise and water entering the passenger compartment, and the loss of use of the third seat. this vehicle is too young and useful to be scrapped. | |||
| 06/12/2012 | 143000 | ||
| Inability to latch the rear seat, entire driver side anchor plate completely detached from the vehicle, | |||
| 10/10/2012 | 153850 | ||
| The left rear seat anchor has detached from the body due to excessive rust in the rear quarter panel by the left rear wheel well. the third seat is no longer usable and there is a hole through the body that lets air and water into the passenger compartment. the right side wheel well area shows rust as well but the seat anchor has not yet detached from the quarter panel. two ford dealers have said they are not aware of this problem occuring and do not know if it can be fixed. my concern is safety while driving the vehicle, noise and water entering the passenger compartment, and the loss of use of the third seat. this vehicle is too young and useful to be scrapped. | |||
| 10/07/2012 | 156000 | 1 | |
| Our son was in the rear seat and complained that as we turned corners, his seat moved. he said it felts as if it were not latched. upon investigation, we found the seat did not latch on the drivers side. we tried without success to relatch it and found the latch anchor was loose. being dark and 30 miles from home, we drove on. we then heard loud noise coming from that wheel well and began to smell burning rubber. having no other option, we pulled to the side of the dark highway and saw a piece of metal hanging out of the van, onto the tire. we pulled it the rest of the way out and found that it was the seat latch anchor. the area seems to be completely rusted...from the inside. the metal did not look rusted from the outside. we now have a hole in the side of the van (in the wheel well) and a van which is incapable of hauling our family of five. even using it as a four-passenger van, we have concerns about exhaust entering the interior of the van. (mileage noted is approximate). *tr | |||
| 09/05/2012 | 105000 | 1 | |
| The third row drivers side seat anchor no longer holds the seat in the upright position. the plate in the wheel well that the anchor attaches to has rusted loose. i brought the van to my dealer and they said they could not repair the problem. *tr | |||
| 10/07/2012 | 156000 | 1 | |
| Our son was in the rear seat and complained that as we turned corners, his seat moved. he said it felts as if it were not latched. upon investigation, we found the seat did not latch on the drivers side. we tried without success to relatch it and found the latch anchor was loose. being dark and 30 miles from home, we drove on. we then heard loud noise coming from that wheel well and began to smell burning rubber. having no other option, we pulled to the side of the dark highway and saw a piece of metal hanging out of the van, onto the tire. we pulled it the rest of the way out and found that it was the seat latch anchor. the area seems to be completely rusted...from the inside. the metal did not look rusted from the outside. we now have a hole in the side of the van (in the wheel well) and a van which is incapable of hauling our family of five. even using it as a four-passenger van, we have concerns about exhaust entering the interior of the van. (mileage noted is approximate). *tr | |||
| 09/05/2012 | 105000 | ||
| The third row drivers side seat anchor no longer holds the seat in the upright position. the plate in the wheel well that the anchor ataches to has rusted loose. i brought the van to my dealer and they said they could not repair the problem. | |||
| 10/07/2012 | 156000 | ||
| Our son was in the rear seat and complained that as we turned corners, his seat moved. he said it felts as if it were not latched. upon investigation, we found the seat did not latch on the drivers side. we tried without success to relatch it and found the latch anchor was loose. being dark and 30 miles from home, we drove on. we then heard loud noise coming from that wheel well and began to smell burning rubber. having no other option, we pulled to the side of the dark highway and saw a piece of metal hanging out of the van, onto the tire. we pulled it the rest of the way out and found that it was the seat latch anchor. the area seems to be completely rusted...from the inside. the metal did not look rusted from the outside. we now have a hole in the side of the van (in the wheel well) and a van which is incapable of hauling our family of five. even using it as a four-passenger van, we have concerns about exhaust entering the interior of the van. (mileage noted is approximate) | |||
| 09/05/2012 | 105000 | ||
| The third row drivers side seat anchor no longer holds the seat in the upright position. the plate in the wheel well that the anchor ataches to has rusted loose. i brought the van to my dealer and they said they could not repair the problem. | |||
| 10/07/2012 | 156000 | ||
| Our son was in the rear seat and complained that as we turned corners, his seat moved. he said it felts as if it were not latched. upon investigation, we found the seat did not latch on the drivers side. we tried without success to relatch it and found the latch anchor was loose. being dark and 30 miles from home, we drove on. we then heard loud noise coming from that wheel well and began to smell burning rubber. having no other option, we pulled to the side of the dark highway and saw a piece of metal hanging out of the van, onto the tire. we pulled it the rest of the way out and found that it was the seat latch anchor. the area seems to be completely rusted...from the inside. the metal did not look rusted from the outside. we now have a hole in the side of the van (in the wheel well) and a van which is incapable of hauling our family of five. even using it as a four-passenger van, we have concerns about exhaust entering the interior of the van. (mileage noted is approximate) | |||
| 09/05/2012 | 105000 | ||
| The third row drivers side seat anchor no longer holds the seat in the upright position. the plate in the wheel well that the anchor ataches to has rusted loose. i brought the van to my dealer and they said they could not repair the problem. | |||
| 10/07/2012 | 156000 | ||
| Our son was in the rear seat and complained that as we turned corners, his seat moved. he said it felts as if it were not latched. upon investigation, we found the seat did not latch on the drivers side. we tried without success to relatch it and found the latch anchor was loose. being dark and 30 miles from home, we drove on. we then heard loud noise coming from that wheel well and began to smell burning rubber. having no other option, we pulled to the side of the dark highway and saw a piece of metal hanging out of the van, onto the tire. we pulled it the rest of the way out and found that it was the seat latch anchor. the area seems to be completely rusted...from the inside. the metal did not look rusted from the outside. we now have a hole in the side of the van (in the wheel well) and a van which is incapable of hauling our family of five. even using it as a four-passenger van, we have concerns about exhaust entering the interior of the van. (mileage noted is approximate) | |||
| 09/25/2012 | 113000 | ||
| Tl-the contact owns a 2004 ford freestar. the contact stated the rear seat support corroded causing the seat to fall forward and also push pieces of metal into the rear tire. the vehicle was taken to the dealer who did not offer any assistance. the manufacturer was notified who did not offer any assistance since the vehicle was not included in any recalls. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was 113,000. pmb | |||
| 09/29/2012 | 87000 | 1 | |
| I am entering this complaint in relation to other complaints that have been filed. there is a defect investigation taking place (ea12003 and pe11039) for this issue already. i attempted to put my 3rd row seat back up and lock it into place. on the drive side i noticed that it would not lock into place. after further review, i know noticed that the whole latch had fallen off and was laying on the back driver side wheel. the whole plate rusted thru and fell off into the wheel well. i've had this car since 2004. yes i live in a snow state that uses salt, but this car has been in the garage its entire life. i would like to understand what stance, if any, ford is taking with this issue. *tr | |||
| 09/25/2012 | 113000 | ||
| Tl-the contact owns a 2004 ford freestar. the contact stated the rear seat support rusted out and causes the seat to fall forward and also push pieces of metal into the rear tire. the vehicle was taken to the dealer who offered no assistance. they informed him there was no recall. the manufacturer was notified who offered no assistance. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was 113,000. mw | |||
| 09/29/2012 | 87000 | 1 | |
| I am entering this complaint in relation to other complaints that have been filed. there is a defect investigation taking place (ea12003 and pe11039) for this issue already. i attempted to put my 3rd row seat back up and lock it into place. on the drive side i noticed that it would not lock into place. after further review, i know noticed that the whole latch had fallen off and was laying on the back driver side wheel. the whole plate rusted thru and fell off into the wheel well. i've had this car since 2004. yes i live in a snow state that uses salt, but this car has been in the garage its entire life. i would like to understand what stance, if any, ford is taking with this issue. *tr | |||
| 08/16/2012 | 147965 | 1 | |
| The third row seat was loose when locked in the upright position. when i looked underneath from the driver side rear tire i noticed the metal plate was loose. i put down the third row seat and looked through the plastic to see that all around the metal plate rotted away. since the third row seat was not locked in place when i touched the bracket on the metal plate, the entire plate fell out onto the rear tire. the metal all around the plate inside the rear quarter panel is rotted and there is nothing to weld the plate back to. there is also a large opening into the vehicle because that plate is no longer there. my seven seat van can only hold four people safely. *tr | |||
| 09/29/2012 | 87000 | ||
| I am entering this complaint in relation to other complaints that have been filed. there is a defect investigation taking place (ea12003 and pe11039) for this issue already. i attempted to put my 3rd row seat back up and lock it into place. on the drive side i noticed that it would not lock into place. after further review, i know noticed that the whole latch had fallen off and was laying on the back driver side wheel. the whole plate rusted thru and fell off into the wheel well. i've had this car since 2004. yes i live in a snow state that uses salt, but this car has been in the garage its entire life. i would like to understand what stance, if any, ford is taking with this issue. | |||
| 08/16/2012 | 147965 | ||
| The third row seat was loose when locked in the upright position. when i looked underneath from the driver side rear tire i noticed the metal plate was loose. i put down the third row seat and looked through the plastic to see that all around the metal plate rotted away. since the third row seat was not locked in place when i touched the bracket on the metal plate, the entire plate fell out onto the rear tire. the metal all around the plate inside the rear quarter panel is rotted and there is nothing to weld the plate back to. there is also a large opening into the vehicle because that plate is no longer there. my seven seat van can only hold four people safely. | |||
| 09/29/2012 | 87000 | ||
| I am entering this complaint in relation to other complaints that have been filed. there is a defect investigation taking place (ea12003 and pe11039) for this issue already. i attempted to put my 3rd row seat back up and lock it into place. on the drive side i noticed that it would not lock into place. after further review, i know noticed that the whole latch had fallen off and was laying on the back driver side wheel. the whole plate rusted thru and fell off into the wheel well. i've had this car since 2004. yes i live in a snow state that uses salt, but this car has been in the garage its entire life. i would like to understand what stance, if any, ford is taking with this issue. | |||
| 08/16/2012 | 147965 | ||
| The third row seat was loose when locked in the upright position. when i looked underneath from the driver side rear tire i noticed the metal plate was loose. i put down the third row seat and looked through the plastic to see that all around the metal plate rotted away. since the third row seat was not locked in place when i touched the bracket on the metal plate, the entire plate fell out onto the rear tire. the metal all around the plate inside the rear quarter panel is rotted and there is nothing to weld the plate back to. there is also a large opening into the vehicle because that plate is no longer there. my seven seat van can only hold four people safely. | |||
| 09/23/2012 | 72938 | ||
| Severe rust in the driver side rear wheel well caused the third row seat to detach from the vehicle. the third row seat is now unsafe and cannot be used. the seat can no longer be securely latched in place. this vehicle was garage kept and only has 72,938 miles on it. | |||
| 09/29/2012 | 87000 | ||
| I am entering this complaint in relation to other complaints that have been filed. there is a defect investigation taking place (ea12003 and pe11039) for this issue already. i attempted to put my 3rd row seat back up and lock it into place. on the drive side i noticed that it would not lock into place. after further review, i know noticed that the whole latch had fallen off and was laying on the back driver side wheel. the whole plate rusted thru and fell off into the wheel well. i've had this car since 2004. yes i live in a snow state that uses salt, but this car has been in the garage its entire life. i would like to understand what stance, if any, ford is taking with this issue. | |||
| 08/16/2012 | 147965 | ||
| The third row seat was loose when locked in the upright position. when i looked underneath from the driver side rear tire i noticed the metal plate was loose. i put down the third row seat and looked through the plastic to see that all around the metal plate rotted away. since the third row seat was not locked in place when i touched the bracket on the metal plate, the entire plate fell out onto the rear tire. the metal all around the plate inside the rear quarter panel is rotted and there is nothing to weld the plate back to. there is also a large opening into the vehicle because that plate is no longer there. my seven seat van can only hold four people safely. | |||
| 09/23/2012 | 72938 | ||
| Severe rust in the driver side rear wheel well caused the third row seat to detach from the vehicle. the third row seat is now unsafe and cannot be used. the seat can no longer be securely latched in place. this vehicle was garage kept and only has 72,938 miles on it. | |||
| 08/31/2012 | 164900 | 1 | |
| I was rotating my tires and noticed that inside each rear wheel well there was a panel patched in from the factory that was rusting terribly, with the drivers side being much worse and almost completely falling off the body. with some further investigation i discovered that the panel actually holds the anchors for the rearmost folding seat. as i stated, the drivers side is almost rusted off the car and there is a giant hole that is letting water and snow inside the van and ruining the carpet and padding. i frequently carry multiple children,some in child safety seats, and could not imagine what would happen during a collision if the rear seat anchor were to separate from the van. i seriously hope that there is some kind of recall, as this vehicle is not yet 10 years old and the rest of the body is still in great shape. this is not just a surface rust issue, it is a safety hazard to anyone owning this type of van and the manufacturer should be held responsible for fixing it as i'm sure the repair is not easy or cheap. *tr | |||
| 08/31/2012 | 164900 | ||
| I was rotating my tires and noticed that inside each rear wheel well there was a panel patched in from the factory that was rusting terribly, with the drivers side being much worse and almost completely falling off the body. with some further investigation i discovered that the panel actually holds the anchors for the rearmost folding seat. as i stated, the drivers side is almost rusted off the car and there is a giant hole that is letting water and snow inside the van and ruining the carpet and padding. i frequently carry multiple children,some in child safety seats, and could not imagine what would happen during a collision if the rear seat anchor were to separate from the van. i seriously hope that there is some kind of recall, as this vehicle is not yet 10 years old and the rest of the body is still in great shape. this is not just a surface rust issue, it is a safety hazard to anyone owning this type of van and the manufacturer should be held responsible for fixing it as i'm sure the repair is not easy or cheap. | |||
| 08/26/2012 | 116542 | 1 | |
| Left rear seat anchor was loose, so we looked. a large hole had rusted out of the inner fender causing the anchor to completely detach from the body. we took it in to get checked out and they agreed it had completely rusted through and the right side is also rusting out, although not the point of completely rusting through, yet. we are just thankful this was noticed when we were parked and not driving 65 mph causing an accident. *tr | |||
| 08/15/2012 | 105000 | 1 | |
| The drivers side rear (third row) seat anchor will no longer hold the seat in place. it appears the metal plate the anchor attaches to has rusted free from the car, due to excessive corrosion in the drivers side rear wheel well creating an opening to the outside. the seat cannot be properly latched to the van when in the upright position. *tr | |||
| 08/26/2012 | 116542 | ||
| Left rear seat anchor was loose, so we looked. a large hole had rusted out of the inner fender causing the anchor to completely detach from the body. we took it in to get checked out and they agreed it had completely rusted through and the right side is also rusting out, although not the the point of completely rusting through, yet. we are just thankful this was noticed when we were parked and not driving 65 mph causing an accident. | |||
| 08/15/2012 | 105000 | 1 | |
| The drivers side rear (third row) seat anchor will no longer hold the seat in place. it appears the metal plate the anchor attaches to has rusted free from the car, due to excessive corrosion in the drivers side rear wheel well creating an opening to the outside. the seat cannot be properly latched to the van when in the upright position. *tr | |||
| 08/26/2012 | 116542 | ||
| Left rear seat anchor was loose, so we looked. a large hole had rusted out of the inner fender causing the anchor to completely detach from the body. we took it in to get checked out and they agreed it had completely rusted through and the right side is also rusting out, although not the the point of completely rusting through, yet. we are just thankful this was noticed when we were parked and not driving 65 mph causing an accident. | |||
| 07/25/2012 | 74000 | 1 | |
| The rear left metal u-shaped post that is used to secure the front of the rear bench seat and is attached through the body by a metal plate in the rear wheel well fell out of the vehicle as the vehicle was moving at a speed of 10 miles per hour. the rear seat was folded into the floor at the time of the incident. the post and the attached plate fell out into the wheel well and then fell to the roadway. upon inspection, the edge of the metal plate, and much of the surrounding wheel well had rusted away causing the incident. the incident resulted in a large hole in the wheel well that goes clear though to the interior of the van. we brought the van to a local ford dealer for repair. they acknowledged seeing this issue recently in the same make, model, and year of van. they said they were unable to make a repair. they suggested taking the issue to a body shop. two local body shops were unable to make the repair. as it stands, the rear bench seat is unusable as it can't be secured in the upright position, and there is a hole near the exhaust system that makes the van unsafe to drive. it is frustrating that the same issue has been seen by ford, yet no suitable repair or solution has been provided. *tr | |||
| 08/15/2012 | 105000 | 1 | |
| The drivers side rear (third row) seat anchor will no longer hold the seat in place. it appears the metal plate the anchor attaches to has rusted free from the car, due to excessive corrosion in the drivers side rear wheel well creating an opening to the outside. the seat cannot be properly latched to the van when in the upright position. *tr | |||
| 07/29/2012 | 109000 | 1 | |
| Driver's side seat mount on third row seat failed side panel in wheel well corroded and failed displacing panel into tire sidewall. passenger side panel showing signs of failure. ford dealership bodyshop refuses to work on issue for fear of future liability. dealership states that corrosion issues beyond normal. *tr | |||
| 08/15/2012 | 105000 | ||
| The drivers side rear (third row) seat anchor will no longer hold the seat in place. it appears the metal plate the anchor attaches to has rusted free from the car, due to excessive corrision in the drivers side rear wheel well creating an opening to the outside. the seat cannot be properly latched to the van when in the upright position. | |||
| 07/25/2012 | 74000 | 1 | |
| The rear left metal u-shaped post that is used to secure the front of the rear bench seat and is attached through the body by a metal plate in the rear wheel well fell out of the vehicle as the vehicle was moving at a speed of 10 miles per hour. the rear seat was folded into the floor at the time of the incident. the post and the attached plate fell out into the wheel well and then fell to the roadway. upon inspection, the edge of the metal plate, and much of the surrounding wheel well had rusted away causing the incident. the incident resulted in a large hole in the wheel well that goes clear though to the interior of the van. we brought the van to a local ford dealer for repair. they acknowledged seeing this issue recently in the same make, model, and year of van. they said they were unable to make a repair. they suggested taking the issue to a body shop. two local body shops were unable to make the repair. as it stands, the rear bench seat is unusable as it can't be secured in the upright position, and there is a hole near the exhaust system that makes the van unsafe to drive. it is frustrating that the same issue has been seen by ford, yet no suitable repair or solution has been provided. *tr | |||
| 07/29/2012 | 109000 | 1 | |
| Driver's side seat mount on third row seat failed side panel in wheel well corroded and failed displacing panel into tire sidewall. passenger side panel showing signs of failure. ford dealership bodyshop refuses to work on issue for fear of future liability. dealership states that corrosion issues beyond normal. *tr | |||
| 07/25/2012 | 74000 | 1 | |
| The rear left metal u-shaped post that is used to secure the front of the rear bench seat and is attached through the body by a metal plate in the rear wheel well fell out of the vehicle as the vehicle was moving at a speed of 10 miles per hour. the rear seat was folded into the floor at the time of the incident. the post and the attached plate fell out into the wheel well and then fell to the roadway. upon inspection, the edge of the metal plate, and much of the surrounding wheel well had rusted away causing the incident. the incident resulted in a large hole in the wheel well that goes clear though to the interior of the van. we brought the van to a local ford dealer for repair. they acknowledged seeing this issue recently in the same make, model, and year of van. they said they were unable to make a repair. they suggested taking the issue to a body shop. two local body shops were unable to make the repair. as it stands, the rear bench seat is unusable as it can't be secured in the upright position, and there is a hole near the exhaust system that makes the van unsafe to drive. it is frustrating that the same issue has been seen by ford, yet no suitable repair or solution has been provided. *tr | |||
| 07/29/2012 | 109000 | 1 | |
| Driver's side seat mount on third row seat failed side panel in wheel well corroded and failed displacing panel into tire sidewall. passenger side panel showing signs of failure. ford dealership bodyshop refuses to work on issue for fear of future liability. dealership states that corrosion issues beyond normal. *tr | |||
| 07/25/2012 | 74000 | ||
| The rear left metal u-shaped post that is used to secure the front of the rear bench seat and is attached through the body by a metal plate in the rear wheel well fell out of the vehicle as the vehicle was moving at a speed of 10 miles per hour. the rear seat was folded into the floor at the time of the incident. the post and the attached plate fell out into the wheel well and then fell to the roadway. upon inspection, the edge of the metal plate, and much of the surrounding wheel well had rusted away causing the incident. the incident resulted in a large hole in the wheel well that goes clear though to the interior of the van. we brought the van to a local ford dealer for repair. they acknowledged seeing this issue recently in the same make, model, and year of van. they said they were unable to make a repair. they suggested taking the issue to a body shop. two local body shops were unable to make the repair. as it stands, the rear bench seat is unusable as it can't be secured in the upright position, and there is a hole near the exhaust system that makes the van unsafe to drive. it is frustrating that the same issue has been seen by ford, yet no suitable repair or solution has been provided. | |||
| 07/29/2012 | 109000 | ||
| Diver's side seat mount on third row seat failed side panel in wheel well corroded and failed displacing panel into tire sidewall. passenger side panel showing signs of failure. ford dealership bodyshop refuses to work on issue for fear of future liabilty. dealership states that corrosion issues beyond normal. | |||
| 07/02/2012 | 104000 | 1 | |
| The rearmost seat in my minivan will not latch down on the rear drivers side. the rear axle 'moans' at times and makes a rotational shimming sound. upon inspection, i am told there is severe rust in the wheel well where it locates to the seat attachment. the dealership says it is unusual, although i understand your agency is investigating just this thing in 2004 freestars. *tr | |||
| 07/29/2012 | 109000 | ||
| Diver's side seat mount on third row seat failed side panel in wheel well corroded and failed displacing panel into tire sidewall. passenger side panel showing signs of failure. ford dealership bodyshop refuses to work on issue for fear of future liabilty. dealership states that corrosion issues beyond normal. | |||
| 07/02/2012 | 104000 | 1 | |
| The rearmost seat in my minivan will not latch down on the rear drivers side. the rear axle 'moans' at times and makes a rotational shimming sound. upon inspection, i am told there is severe rust in the wheel well where it locates to the seat attachment. the dealership says it is unusual, although i understand your agency is investigating just this thing in 2004 freestars. *tr | |||
| 08/13/2012 | 97603 | 1 | |
| On 08/13/2012 tried to engage the third row folding seat to the full upright position. the drivers side latch for the third row seat would not engage. after further inspection i found the seat anchor to be loose. after i looked at the outside of the wheel well the plate that the anchor mounts to was completely corroded all the way around and the plate and anchor is detached from the vehicle and falling into the wheel well. there is now a big hole from the outside of the wheel well directly into the interior of the rear of the vehicle. the interior of the vehicle becomes soaked when driven in the rain. safety issue as our kids ride in the third row seat and there is no way to latch the seat safely now. *tr | |||
| 07/02/2012 | 104000 | ||
| The rearmost seat in my minivan will not latch down on the rear drivers side. the rear axle 'moans' at times and makes a rotational shimiing sound. upon inspection, i am told there is severe rust in the wheel well where it locates to the seat attachment. the dealership says it is unusual, although i understand your agency is investigating just this thing in 2004 freestars. | |||
| 08/13/2012 | 97603 | 1 | |
| On 08/13/2012 tried to engage the third row folding seat to the full upright position. the drivers side latch for the third row seat would not engage. after further inspection i found the seat anchor to be loose. after i looked at the outside of the wheel well the plate that the anchor mounts to was completely corroded all the way around and the plate and anchor is detached from the vehicle and falling into the wheel well. there is now a big hole from the outside of the wheel well directly into the interior of the rear of the vehicle. the interior of the vehicle becomes soaked when driven in the rain. safety issue as our kids ride in the third row seat and there is no way to latch the seat safely now. *tr | |||
| 08/13/2012 | 97603 | ||
| On 08/13/2012 tried to engage the third row folding seat to the full upright position. the drivers side latch for the third row seat would not engage. after further inspection i found the seat anchor to be loose. after i looked at the outside of the wheel well the plate that the anchor mounts to was completely corroded all the way around and the plate and anchor is detached from the vehicle and falling into the wheel well. there is now a big hole from the outside of the wheel well directly into the interior of the rear of the vehicle. the interior of the vheicle becomes soaked when driven in the rain. safety issue as our kids ride in the third row seat and there is no way to latch the seat safely now. | |||
| 07/27/2012 | 147838 | 1 | |
| We had the 3rd row seat folded down for cargo space. upon pulling the seat back up, the left side of the seat wouldn't latch and the seat moved when someone was sitting on it. when my husband tried to secure the latch by folding the seat back down and then back up again - the entire left side latch and plate it's attached to fell into the wheel well. he had to reach up over the left rear wheel to remove the part and saw that there is now a hole in the wheel well that goes right into the van - you can literally see in the van! the latch unit: the plate it's bolted to and the metal section of the wheel well that the plate is welded to were completely rusted out. we can no longer use the back seat due to safety reasons. we are having a hard time finding someone to repair it. one person said we'd have to replace the entire wheel well. we read on line that ford has responded that there are no replacement parts for this issue because it wasn't manufactured to be replaced. now we have a van we can't get fixed, we can't use the 3rd row seats (we haul the neighbor's 2 kids in addition to our 2 kids to and from school), and gets wet on the inside when it's raining because of the open hole in the wheel well. *tr | |||
| 07/27/2012 | 147838 | ||
| We had the 3rd row seat folded down for cargo space. upon pulling the seat back up, the left side of the seat wouldn't latch and the seat moved when someone was sitting on it. when my husband tried to secure the latch by folding the seat back down and then back up again - the entire left side latch and plate it's attached to fell into the wheel well. he had to reach up over the left rear wheel to remove the part and saw that there is now a hole in the wheel well that goes right into the van - you can literally see in the van! the latch unit: the plate it's bolted to and the metal section of the wheel well that the plate is welded to were completely rusted out. we can no longer use the back seat due to safety reasons. we are having a hard time finding someone to repair it. one person said we'd have to replace the entire wheel well. we read on line that ford has responded that there are no replacement parts for this issue because it wasn't manufactured to be replaced. now we have a van we can't get fixed, we can't use the 3rd row seats (we haul the neighbor's 2 kids in addition to our 2 kids to and from school), and gets wet on the inside when it's raining because of the open hole in the wheel well. | |||
| 07/07/2012 | 78507 | ||
| Tl* the contact owns a 2004 ford freestar. the contact stated that the third row seating anchor failed due to corrosion penetrating the rear wheel well on the driver | |||
| 07/25/2012 | 145000 | 1 | |
| Third row seat no longer latches securely, caused by corrosion from left rear wheel well area ruining body latching holding seat in place. *tr | |||
| 07/22/2012 | 123000 | 1 | |
| When attempting to reattach the third-row seat from the flat position, the driver's side latch on third-row seat popped off - the part was rusted at the attachment point on the interior and it fell onto the ground through a hole above the rear left tire. *tr | |||
| 07/25/2012 | 145000 | 1 | |
| Third row seat no longer latches securely, caused by corrosion from left rear wheel well area ruining body latching holding seat in place. *tr | |||
| 07/25/2012 | 145000 | ||
| Third row seat no longer latches securely, caused by corrosion from left rear wheel well area ruining body latching holding seat in place. | |||
| 07/22/2012 | 123000 | 1 | |
| When attempting to reattach the third-row seat from the flat position, the driver's side latch on third-row seat popped off - the part was rusted at the attachment point on the interior and it fell onto the ground through a hole above the rear left tire. *tr | |||
| 07/22/2012 | 123000 | ||
| When attempting to reattach the third-row seat from the flat position, the driver's side latch on third-row seat popped off - the part was rusted at the attachment point on the interior and it fell onto the ground through a hole above the rear left tire. | |||
| 05/27/2012 | 161250 | ||
| We were returning home from weekend trip when i noticed rubbing noise and hot rubber smell coming from rear of van. two children in rear seat said seat was vibrating badly. i am a state certified master mechanic so i pulled over to investigate. i found that both rear seat strikers had rusted loose and the seat pushed the metal and striker against the left rear tire. i feel this could have been a very dangerous situation if the metal rubbing on the tire had caused a blowout. the children in the rear seat could have been seriously injured from the tire and from the seat not being secured. | |||
| 06/23/2012 | 85000 | ||
| 3rd row seat would not latch on the driver side of the vehicle. upon inspection, it was determined that the anchor used to attach the seat has completely rusted and is no longer functioning. the rust is from the tire well and the tire is visible from inside the vehicle. the 3rd row seat is now unusable and unsafe. | |||
| 05/27/2012 | 161250 | ||
| We were returning home from weekend trip when i noticed rubbing noise and hot rubber smell coming from rear of van. two children in rear seat said seat was vibrating badly. i am a state certified master mechanic so i pulled over to investigate. i found that both rear seat strikers had rusted loose and the seat pushed the metal and striker against the left rear tire. i feel this could have been a very dangerous situation if the metal rubbing on the tire had caused a blowout. the children in the rear seat could have been seriously injured from the tire and from the seat not being secured. | |||
| 06/23/2012 | 85000 | ||
| 3rd row seat would not latch on the driver side of the vehicle. upon inspection, it was determined that the anchor used to attach the seat has completely rusted and is no longer functioning. the rust is from the tire well and the tire is visible from inside the vehicle. the 3rd row seat is now unusable and unsafe. | |||
| 05/27/2012 | 161250 | ||
| We were returning home from weekend trip when i noticed rubbing noise and hot rubber smell coming from rear of van. two children in rear seat said seat was vibrating badly. i am a state certified master mechanic so i pulled over to investigate. i found that both rear seat strikers had rusted loose and the seat pushed the metal and striker against the left rear tire. i feel this could have been a very dangerous situation if the metal rubbing on the tire had caused a blowout. the children in the rear seat could have been seriously injured from the tire and from the seat not being secured. | |||
| 06/23/2012 | 85000 | ||
| 3rd row seat would not latch on the driver side of the vehicle. upon inspection, it was determined that the anchor used to attach the seat has completely rusted and is no longer functioning. the rust is from the tire well and the tire is visible from inside the vehicle. the 3rd row seat is now unusable and unsafe. | |||
| 05/19/2012 | 71065 | ||
| While turning a corner we heard a loud noise coming from the left rear tire. after getting home we pulled the left rear tire off to inspect the brakes, which were fine. we did notice that the wheel well was rusting out around the third row seat latch. the latch was loose and upon further inspection did not lock the third row seat into place. when carrying passengers in the back seat the latch is pushed out far enough that it actually rubs on the rear tire, which could result in tire failure. | |||
| 04/17/2012 | 92865 | ||
| Tl-the contact owns a 2004 ford freestar. the contact stated that the vehicle was being examined by an independent repair shop when the contact was informed that third row seating was detached from the floor mounts. the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure and offered no assistance. the failure mileage was 92,865. kmj | |||
| 04/17/2012 | 92865 | ||
| Tl-the contact owns a 2004 ford freestar. the contact stated that the vehicle was being examined by an independent repair shop when the contact was informed that third row seating was detached from its floor mounts. the vehicle was not repaired. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure and offered no assistance. the failure mileage was 92,865. sm. | |||
| 04/08/2012 | 89000 | ||
| Tl-the contact owns a 2004 ford freestar. the contact stated that the floor mounts for the rear seating rusted and rendered the rear seating inoperable. the dealer was not notified. the manufacturer was not notified. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was 89,000. sm. | |||
| 04/08/2012 | 89000 | ||
| Tl-the contact owns a 2004 ford freestar. the contact stated the latch seat frame that holds the seat in place rusted out causing the seat to be inoperable. this is the seat in the rear. the dealer was not notified. the manufacturer was not notified. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure mileage was 89,000. mw | |||
| 04/02/2012 | |||
| Open investigation pe11039. the third row front seat anchor is secured to the rear wheel well. on the driver side, the area of the wheel well where the seat anchor is located completely rusted out of our van and detached, leaving a gaping hole in the wheel well. on the passenger side, rust is apparent in the same area, though the anchor has not yet separated. | |||
| 03/25/2012 | 75600 | ||
| Rear 3rd row seat latch is completely rusted through making the rear seat completely unsafe and unusable. could cause serious injuries in a accident if rust goes undetected, vehicle is kept in garages and well maintained. | |||
| 02/07/2012 | 97000 | ||
| Tl* the contact owns a 2004 ford freestar. while parked, the contact noticed that the third row rear seat would not latch in place. the contact inspected the vehicle and discovered that the seat anchor in the third row seat was corroded and bore a hole into the seat anchor. the vehicle was taken to the dealer for diagnostics where the technician advised that there was not a repair available for the failure. the vehicle was not repaired. the approximate failure mileage was 97,000. | |||
| 04/01/2011 | 115000 | ||
| Left rear seat no longer latches making it unsafe. the seat no longer latches because latch that was fastened to the left rear wheel well has rusted completely off the wheel well. | |||
| 02/07/2012 | 97000 | ||
| Tl* the contact owns a 2004 ford freestar. while parked, the contact noticed that the third row rear seat would not latch in place. the contact inspected the vehicle and discovered that the seat anchor in the third row seat was corroded and bore a hole into the seat anchor. the vehicle was taken to the dealer for diagnostics where the technician advised that there was not a repair available for the failure. the vehicle was not repaired. the approximate failure mileage was 97,000. | |||
| 04/01/2011 | 115000 | ||
| Left rear seat no longer latches making it unsafe. the seat no longer latches because latch that was fastened to the left rear wheel well has rusted completely off the wheel well. | |||
| 03/05/2012 | 128641 | ||
| Noticed inside carpet was wet on the rear left side, removed the inside rear wheel panel and found the third row seat latch had completely rusted through to the outside of the car allowing water to enter the cab space and now the third row seat is unsafe due to the seat not being able to latch. | |||
| 04/01/2011 | 115000 | ||
| Left rear seat no longer latches making it unsafe. the seat no longer latches because latch that was fastened to the left rear wheel well has rusted completely off the wheel well. | |||
| 03/05/2012 | 128641 | ||
| Noticed inside carpet was wet on the rear left side, removed the inside rear wheel panel and found the third row seat latch had completely rusted through to the outside of the car allowing water to enter the cab space and now the third row seat is unsafe due to the seat not being able to latch. | |||
| 04/01/2011 | 115000 | ||
| Left rear seat no longer latches making it unsafe. the seat no longer latches because latch that was fastened to the left rear wheel well has rusted completely off the wheel well. | |||
| 03/05/2012 | 128641 | ||
| Noticed inside carpet was wet on the rear left side, removed the inside rear wheel panel and found the third row seat latch had completely rusted through to the outside of the car allowing water to enter the cab space and now the third row seat is unsafe due to the seat not being able to latch. | |||
| 04/01/2011 | 115000 | ||
| Left rear seat no longer latches making it unsafe. the seat no longer latches because latch that was fastened to the left rear wheel well has rusted completely off the wheel well. | |||
| 03/05/2012 | 128641 | ||
| Noticed inside carpet was wet on the rear left side, removed the inside rear wheel panel and found the third row seat latch had completely rusted through to the outside of the car allowing water to enter the cab space and now the third row seat is unsafe due to the seat not being able to latch. | |||
| 01/07/2012 | 169000 | ||
| Son commented that rear seat was not properly latched down. inspection showed that driver-side rear seat anchor was latched to the seat, but the anchor was no longer attached to the vehicle body. had also been noticing that during right hand turns, driver side rear wheel makes loud rubbing sound. had son shift weight to the right (to push seat away from loose anchor) and sound stopped. | |||
| 12/26/2011 | 137000 | ||
| Tl - the contact owns a 2004 ford freestar. the contact stated that the hook that held the rear driver side convertible bench seat in place was completely corroded. the contact mentioned that the damage was so severe that it rusted through the body of the vehicle. the vehicle was not taken to the dealer. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure who did not offer any assistance since the vehicle was no longer under warranty. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure and the current mileage was 137,000. kmj | |||
| 12/26/2011 | 137000 | ||
| Tl - the contact owns a 2004 ford freestar. the contact stated that the hook that holds the rear driver side convertible bench seat in place was completely corroded. the contact mentioned that the damage was so severe it rusted through the body of the vehicle. the vehicle was not taken to the dealer. the manufacturer was made aware of the failure who did not offer any assistance since the vehicle was no longer under warranty and referred him to nhtsa. the vehicle was not repaired. the failure and current mileage was 137,000. pm | |||
| 12/04/2011 | 92300 | ||
| Upon opening the folding third row seat, the bottom latch failed to engage with the seat. further inspection showed that the entire latch panel had rusted away from the body of the car and was sitting in the wheel well. there is now a hole in the side of the van and the third row seat is unusable. at 7 years old, this level of rust is very premature. | |||
| 09/01/2011 | 1 | ||
| Letter from senator grassley on behalf of constituent problem with the locking mechanism for rear seat of his 2004 ford freestar *tgw the locking mechanism for the rear seat rusted from the inside.*jb | |||
| 02/26/2008 | 102000 | ||
| Bought van in june 2007 nothing but problems since. replaced battery within 2 months of purchase. replace o2 sensors 3 times and need done again. replaced transmission, radiator, egr valve, brakes 4 times, tie rod 2 times, calibers 2 times, rotors 3 times, fuel line, you name it, we have had to fix it. nothing but problems. we have spent close to 8k since feb 2008 on this vehicle and we can not get ford to help us at all. now the axles need replaced as well as sensors again. the dvd player quit working after 4 months, driver side heated seats quit working after 4 months. back passenger door sometimes won't open or unlock and sometimes it won't close when you try to close it. this vehicle has put my family in serious harm and we almost got into major accident do to most of the issues ie transmission stalled on interstate and had no warning at all. worst vehicle of all times. i can not trade in becasue i owe over 11k on this piece of crap. ford needs to refund me all of my money and suffering as well. i have thought about suing them for damages and selling this crap to us especially with 3 small children and having to travel to see family due to husband being a marine and always being deployed. almost missed seeing my grandpa for the last time before he did back in sept because of the transmission. this vehicle needs to be off of the roads forever. all of them. everyone that we know that has these vehicles have the same problems as us. | |||
| SEATS - FRONT ASSEMBLY - RECLINER | |||
| 04/15/2005 | 29456 | 0 | 07/08/2004 |
| Was cleaning my 2005 ford freestar and pulled the lever that releases the back of the bench seat directly behind the drivers seat. the back of the seat came down so hard that it cut the end of my thumb off, including the entire nail. i had to go to the emergency room for treatment and followup with an orthopedic surgeon. so far, to my knowledge, nothing to date has been done to correct this. | |||