Recalls


CampaignManufacturerManufacturing dateType# of units affectedDate Owner notified MfgRecall Initiated byManufacturers of recalled vehicles/productsReport Recieved DateRecord Creation DateRegulation Part NumberFMVSS Number
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - COOLING SYSTEM - FAN
97V019000FORD MOTOR COMPANYfrom 07/22/1991 to 11/18/1994V (Vehicle)7520003/31/1997ODIFORD MOTOR COMPANY02/25/199702/26/1997
Defect SummaryThese vehicles are originally sold or currently registered in the following states: alaska, iowa, minnesota, nebraska, north dakota, and south dakota. the vehicles involved are 1992-1994 tempo/topaz vehicles with 3.0l engines; 1994 tempo/topaz with 2.3l engines; 1992-1995 taurus/sable with 3.8l engines; 1994-1995 taurus/sable with 3.0l engines and 1992-1994 lincoln continental vehicles with 3.8l engines. during high winds, heavy, blowing and drifting snow, and low temperatures, the engine cooling fan can become blocked or frozen with snow. the fan motor may not rotate and could overheat.
Consequence SummaryThis condition can cause smoke or flames from the fan and/or shroud, the fan electrical wiring, or the fan motor resulting in a vehicle fire.
Corrective SummaryDealers will install an electrical jumper harness containing an automatic resetting circuit breaker to protect the fan motor low speed circuitry from overheating.
NotesOwner notification:owner notification is expected to begin april 15, 1997.notes:owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact ford at 1-800-392-3673.also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-800-424-9393.

Bulletins


BulletinBulletin dateReplacement BulletinItem no.SummaryAdded
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - COOLING SYSTEM
984903/02/1998601270Concerns with coolant may leak from the head gaskets and / or the vehicle may overheat. *yc07/16/1998
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - COOLING SYSTEM - RADIATOR ASSEMBLY
9515307/01/199545934Temperature gauge - fluctuating and /or inaccurate high readings. *sd04/25/1996
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - ENGINE
0112406/25/2001622665On some vehicles, engine oil may continue to leak from the engine oil pan gasket area after an engine oil pan gasket repair has been performed. *tt10/22/2001
981132902/01/1998607497Information regarding the the availability of the revised headgasket for coolant loss conditions on some engines. *tt09/24/1999
987404/13/1998601343A new silicone gasket and sealant. *yc07/24/1998
9761003/17/199751990Blower motor- chirping or squeaking from blower motor at low speeds. *jd07/17/1997
974302/17/199751682Blower motor- chirp or squeak from blower motor at low speeds. *jd06/27/1997
ONP92M7706/01/199545051Supplement to onp92m77 - program expanded to include 1992/93 ford taurus and mercury sables. *tw11/01/1995
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - ENGINE - GASOLINE
021401/21/2002630001Some engine assemblies with aluminum cylinder heads repaired in-vehile have been found to leak coolant and/or oil from the cylinder head gasket area. *tt04/11/2002
9918309/06/19996090051Service tip information on revised oil pan gasket replacement procedure. *tt03/06/2000
9981605/03/1999606420Ford motor company now recommends sae 5w-30 viscosity grade for servicing any ford gasoline-powered vehicle regardless of model year. *tt08/19/1999
9510505/01/199542090Knocking noise from the lower front of the engine. *tw11/01/1995
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - EXHAUST SYSTEM
986403/30/1998601312Information on a buzzing or rattle noise from the exhaust system. *tt07/21/1998
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - EXHAUST SYSTEM - EMISSION CONTROL
98231011/23/1998603724Mass air flow (maf)- sensor contamination- service tip. *ak03/03/1999

Investigations


NHTSA IDManufacturerDate openDate closeSubjectRecall campaign
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
EA93022FORD MOTOR COMPANY07/30/199308/31/1994IDLE AIR SPD CTRL VLV MALF
 There is no summary currently available
EA96024FORD MOTOR COMPANY09/30/199604/15/1997ENGINE COOLING FAN FIRES97V019000
 Accumulation of ice, snow, or slush could cause the engine cooling fan to freeze to the fan shroud.automatic or manual actuation of the cooling fan motor when the fan is frozen to the shroud may cause the fan motor and wiring to overheat and cause a fire in the engine compartment.
PE96033FORD MOTOR COMPANY05/02/199609/30/1996ENGINE COOLING FAN FIRES97V019000
 Bad weather may cause the engine cooling fan to freeze the fan shroud.
PE93010FORD MOTOR COMPANY03/02/199307/30/1993IDLE AIR SPD CTRL VLV MALF
 There is no summary currently available

Consumer Complaints


Fail datemilesoccurencesPurchase date
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
04/13/2008137000
 Tl*the contact owns a 1992 ford taurus. while driving 45 mph, the rear mounting attachment for the engine cradle deteriorated on both sides of the vehicle. the failure was caused by road salt, debris, and other natural materials. the contact noticed that the failure could cause major safety hazards. if the engine cradle is not supported, a loss of steering and a crash may occur. he was able to successfully drive the vehicle to his residence. the vehicle has not been repaired. the dealer provided him with a reassembly kit, as if the failure were common. the failure mileage was 137,000. updated 5/19/08 *cn
12/15/20020
 Coolant leaking into head gasket and piston/cylinders causing engine to vapor lock and freeze. we bought a $900 extended warranty on this vehicle, and we had to pay a $95.00 diagnostic fee to see what was wrong, hansel ford in santa rosa, california says that warranty will now only cover specific parts of the engine and not all of the engine as described in extended warranty, we bought the estate warranty from the dealership in case something like this happened. we have now no money to pay for the cost of the repair that we thought was covered under the extended warranty, and basically have no recourse except to either tow the vehicle from hansel ford in santa rosa to our place of residence in santa rosa, and or sell/ot towed to a junk yard because said warranty is of no use. we have had the vehicle a little more than 1 year. have put approximately 10,000 miles on the vehicle, which the warranty states car is still under because its 36,000 miles or 3 years which we come well under that. if dealers would be held more liable, as well as the ford motor company, they would probably back their products (cars,trucks etc. better.)
06/15/2001101377
 Ignition module failed in june, 2001 at 101,377 miles and now again it has failed at 113,000 miles. the first time the car just wouldn't start in front of a building, the second time at a city intersection at midnight. in checking with ford corp and the local ford dealer they have no heat deflector, insulator or kit to move the ignition module from its location just above the engine at the base of the distribtor. now i feel my car is unsafe to drive and no one will even offer a solution. do i need to file a lawsuit for the blue book value of my car against ford?
09/15/200060000
 The engine stalls at idle and at a stop hot or cold numerous attempts by mechanics did not help this car is a lemon they are not kidding ford does stand for fix or repair daily. signed never will buy a ford again
10/15/200380000
 Head gasket/ transmission failure
10/31/2003201/01/2000
 I own a 92 ford taurus wagon left to me by my now-deceased father. he had a recall done 3-99 for the motor mount recall done. my father passed away 12-99. since that time i have had a continuing problem with this motor mount. it is now broken again. is there any way this problem can be rectified. thanks. *la
09/24/2003
 Engine mounts broke. independent shop will replaced. please provide further information. *ak
04/13/2001104/17/1999
 Consumer had problems with heater, and heat gauge would go up and down. thought automobile was going to explode. took automobile to shop, and they found out it was head gaskets. *ak the head gasket failure was a common problelm with 3.8 engine. *yh
 In severe cold weather engine overheats and cooling fan freezes. *ak
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - COOLING SYSTEM
1
 Consumer states while driving and without warning vehicle overheated resulting vehicle to become inoperable dealer has been notified however seem not to have a remedy for problem.*jb
12/05/19991
 While starting vehicle white smoke was coming out of tailpipe. heard popping noise, also water and antifreeze was coming from tailpipe. took vehicle to dealer, and dealer indicated engine head gaskets were blown.*ak blower fan blade had to be replaced. on several occasions, the starter had to be replaced. customer states temperature gauge goes up, low on water and loosing coolant. dealer replaced radiator, water pump and serpentine belt. brakes are grinding. dealer replaced front brakes had turned rotors. on one occasion, the throttle positioning sensor had to be replaced. *tt
01/12/2002112/01/2001
 For a car with such low mileage, have had to replace or fix significant number items (serious safety items included!!) that failed. hope manufacturer can help reimburse costs. per research, these items should not break down at this mileage level! no safety defect mentioned. *ak
06/30/2000202/01/2000
 After $1200 dollars in replacement of sensors, $1500 in rebuilding the engine because of defective temperature mechanisms, and putting on new part after part which the dealership and mechanics keep telling me will fix the problem, my car still stalls, looses power and goes into spasms from one gear to another. i would like to know what is wrong with this car, what investigation you are taking to solve the problem of consumers getting soaked.*ak
09/09/2000104/01/2000
 Found out same problems from other consumers with in the same mileage on these vehicles also i just bought my daughter a 95 escort with some of the sme problems but lower miles. no safety defect listed. *ak
09/20/1999
 While driving at 55 mph engine motor mounts broke, causing engine to shift forwards and backwards, damaging the coolant system, and vehicle overheated.*ak
03/04/1999204/01/1997
 Both the engine mounts have failed & this problem is already mentioned in nhtsa campaign # 98v323000. georgia state is not covered in the campaign. i wish to know what i should do? about the engine cooling system i have replaced the thermostat after i just had a 21 point check from boomershine, ga. again the cooling system failed on 03/04/99. this car has been giving problems to me & i feel that the 3.8l engine vehicles should be replaced by the manufacturer. i am frustrated with the stability and dependability of the car.
11/16/1998107/22/1997
 Water pump failed causing leakage.
03/07/1997
 Experienced water pump failure, replaced water pump and fan belt, coolant. *ak
01/09/1995102/27/1992
 Water pump failed.
03/07/1992101/01/1992
 Water pump failed at approxamitely 62,200 miles.
1
 The water pump failed.
101/01/1992
 Water pump replaced.
01/01/19921
 Water pump broke.
12/21/19941
 Water pump failure.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - COOLING SYSTEM - FAN
 Engine cooling fan circuit is bad, causing vehicle to overheat and head gasket to blowout. a recall has been issued on vehicle make and model; however, this vehicle is not included due to vin. *ak
03/07/1997
 Experienced water pump failure, replaced water pump and fan belt, coolant. *ak
103/12/1992
 Engine cooling fan did not work, causing the engine to overheat and warp the head gasket.
06/17/199701/01/1992
 Received recall notice; dealership has no parts; keep saying on back order; called today & dealership said to bring vehicle in for inspection of parts, although they do not have any parts ( 97v019000). *ak
 Engine cooling fan overheated. owner notes that his problem was the same as recall no.97v019000 for engine cooling fan. but owner's vehicle was not included in the recall. *ak
10/01/19941
 Cooling fan motor replaced due to billowing white smoke from tail pipe/popping noise under hood. *sd
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - COOLING SYSTEM - HOSE
05/14/1999
 While in a parking lot motor mount bolts fell out. had to shift into drive & engine would jump up & damage the rod. also, heater & radiator hoses were damaged, as well as also cv boot & accelerator link were bent. had problems before this with motor mounts. will be taking vehicle to dealer. *ak
02/25/1994102/27/1992
 By pass heater hose failed.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - COOLING SYSTEM - RADIATOR ASSEMBLY
08/04/1999
 Front engine mount bolts broke off. dealer not aware of the problem. repairwork done by replacing bolts, also, replaced radiator. provide further information. *ak
03/09/1998107/22/1997
 Radiator failed causing coolant to leak from the vehicle.
02/03/1995102/27/1992
 Radiator shroud leaking.
103/12/1992
 Radiator failed due to a small hole in the bottom.
1
 The thermostat failed.
1
 Radiator rotted after coolant hose recall repair, causing transmission to be replaced.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - ENGINE
01/01/20031
 Consumer is against ford motor company. the consumer stated ford makes faulty cars and his car is one of them. the consumers vehicle did not get good gas mileage. the vehicle had constant engine and transmission failure. the seat was broken, the tire blew out, the vehicle stalled. *jb nar 1/22/2003
11/17/2003720001
 When the vehicle idles a thumping noise is produced. *ak
02/01/200360000111/01/1999
 Engine had head gasket/head cracking problems. air conditioning replaced twice. the exhaust system repaired twice as a result of the head gasket problems. the check engine light came on constantly. *tt
08/17/2002108/01/2092
 Head gasket failed; i now find out this was a chronic problem with taurus cars from this year. manufacturer should have notifvied consumers back when it told dealers of this problem so owners could get preventive measures taken. *ak
05/15/2002
 3.8 v6 engine would overheat while driving. dealer notified, and infromed consumer of a blown head gasket. feel free to provide any further information.*ak
02/08/2002203/01/1992
 Headgasket blew and engine head warped on my 3.8l ford taurus while driving at 35 mph causing the car to overheat. this is the second time this has happend within a year. my mechanic told this is very common on 3.8l engine. i would like to know why the nhtsa has done nothing about this.*ak
12/05/19991
 While starting vehicle white smoke was coming out of tailpipe. heard popping noise, also water and antifreeze was coming from tailpipe. took vehicle to dealer, and dealer indicated engine head gaskets were blown.*ak blower fan blade had to be replaced. on several occasions, the starter had to be replaced. customer states temperature gauge goes up, low on water and loosing coolant. dealer replaced radiator, water pump and serpentine belt. brakes are grinding. dealer replaced front brakes had turned rotors. on one occasion, the throttle positioning sensor had to be replaced. *tt
09/30/2001103/09/1993
 Engine head gaskets blewout at ninety-one thousand miles, dealer informed consumer that gaskets blowout at or around ninety-thousand miles, consumer has contacted manufacturer for recall of this problem, but was told it did not apply to 1992 models, consumer felt that 1992 models should be included. *ak *nlm
08/14/2000112/01/1996
 I purchased this car with 13,000 orig mi..i have carefully and methodically maintained my car..why did headgasket fail at such low mileage?*ak
07/31/2001104/01/1994
 3.8 liter head gasket blew and caused major damgae to engine at only 72,000 miles ! car was not driven hard and all service/maintence was kept up. this is a very expensive repair and ford is not willing to help with the cost. i callled ford customer service and they said they could not help me with this issue and even went so far as to say they had not heard of this problem before and did not know it is a common occurrence among this engine. i am very disapointed in ford for this. ford should at least split the cost of the repair. *ak
06/30/2000103/15/1992
 While attempting to start vehicle engine would not turn over and start. dealership examined vehicle, and determined that head gasket needed to be replaced. *ak *slc
01/01/20010
 Engine check light comes on without prior warning, and vehicle just stops without prior notice. but, vehicle will starts back up. dealership cannot duplicate problem. *ak
04/01/19991
 The vacuum leaks, the leaks in the system are irrepairable causing the check engine light to illuminate and causing hesitation and occasional stalling. nlm
04/13/2001104/17/1999
 Consumer had problems with heater, and heat gauge would go up and down. thought automobile was going to explode. took automobile to shop, and they found out it was head gaskets. *ak the head gasket failure was a common problelm with 3.8 engine. *yh
03/20/2001
 Motor mounts have broken off, just top two not bottom two. contacted dealer, and the dealer said it was regular stress. *ak
03/03/2001
 Engine locked because head gaskets blewout. dealer notified.*ak
11/04/2000203/04/1998
 Head gasket failed, consumer owns two of these vehicles that have had the head gasket replaced. nlm
12/01/20001
 The first transmission went in 1999 and was replaced for $2500. in dec 2000 the head gasket went and it destroyed my new tranny also so i needed to get them both fixed. it also destroyed my radiator which i also just replaced. in two years time i have put close to $6000 into this car. i contacted ford and they told me to write to you. i believe the head destroyed alot of my parts and that it should not have blown at 94000 miles. i also know other fords were known for this and ford covered it. i feel ford should reimburse me for a least half of the $6000 i spent in the past year. thank you. *ak
02/12/200106/01/1992
 Prematurely cracked and rotted components. engine mounts were already replaced via previous recall.*ak
02/27/2001207/26/1996
 Vehicle experienced overheating and white smoke coming from tail pipe. taken to a independent repair shop, and informed consumer that 3.8l v6 engine had blown another head gasket, first one occurred at 47,700 miles. *ak consumer is requesting a refund. *slc
 Head gaskets blewout, causing coolant to leak. dealer notified.*ak
 Engine cooling fan circuit is bad, causing vehicle to overheat and head gasket to blowout. a recall has been issued on vehicle make and model; however, this vehicle is not included due to vin. *ak
02/23/20010
 When putting on brakes vehicle pulls to right, and makes a grinding noise. took vehicle to dealer, and it was motor mounts. *ak
09/01/1999211/01/1994
 Front and rear motor mounts broke twice, replaced 1999 & 2001. no recall was received regarding this problem. i need information for reimbursement.*ak
 Recall 98v323000. vehicle was repaired under recall on march 5, 1999. while driving engine separated from motor mounts. *ak
10/29/1999102/19/1992
 Head gasket failed, ford recalled 1994 and 1995 model and consumer request reimbursement. nlm
04/21/1998112/01/1992
 Very dissatisfied with my car, never buy another ford, always a problem, can't depend on it for any length of time, now has 3 sparks plugs frozen in it because of it blowing a head gasket and i didn't know this until tune up time, just disgusted with the whole ordeal. *ak
01/07/20011
 From all the information i have been able to review, there seems to be an unusally high incidence of head gasket failures in the 3.8l engine. this would seem to indicate a factory defect problem. *ak
08/01/19991
 Head gasket failed prematurely at 60,000 miles, also caused damage to engine.*ak a few days after replacement, vehicle stalled and was taken to dealer, dealer informed consumer that engine needed replaced. *slc
12/29/2000707/01/1994
 Motor mounts have been replaced 7 times in 5 years. not notified of recall. not happy at all with purchase of car and seller has done nothing to correct the problem. *ak
10/24/2000108/01/1998
 I am upset, that i got my oil changed every 3,000 miles, there is no other reason why my gasket can fail so early (at 84,000 miles). this is quite expensive to repair, and i believe it may have something to do with how the vehicle was made. that is why it blew on me, not becuase of my fault. if someone can get back in touch with me, i would greatly appreciate it. thank you. *ak
11/10/20001
 While travelling 40 mph headgasket blewout, causing fluid to contaminate the alternator which also had to be replaced. *slc
08/29/200008/01/2000
 Blown head gasket. *ak
08/25/20001
 The vehicles motor mounts came off which resulted in engine acceleration. *mjs
07/23/20001
 The head gasket was allowing water to enter the engine and anti-freeze was burning in the engine. nlm
07/09/20000
 Engine 3.8 head gasket blewout. there were no prior warning. consumer was traveling on the highway, and she was looking though her side mirror and noticed white smoke coming from underneath vehicle.*ak
07/10/2000
 Motor mounts broke, causing engine to drop while driving which may have caused a loss of vehicle control. please provide further information.*ak
 Motor mounts rusted. a recall has been issued; however, the coverage period has been exceeded. manufacturer has been notified. *ak
06/06/2000107/21/1997
 Engine head gaskets blew out, causing coolant to leak onto the engine. dealer has been notified. *ak brake system totally rebuilt at 52,453, motor mounts and transmission mounts replaced at 35,771, transmission rebuilt at 62,188 miles. *yh
05/01/200006/01/1995
 My air conditioner went out (entire system) just after having it a year, i then proceeded to have to have the transmission replaced, along with many many other small parts, such as idler pully, water pump, etc, all before my extended warranty was up. just after my extended warranty was up at 80,000 miles i had to replace my radiator. my engine was babied, my husband changed the oil faithfully every 2500 miles, changed air filters, flushed the transmission, anything to maintain the vehicle, because by this time i was traveling far to work everyday, (35miles 1 way), so i have put a lot of highway miles on it, then without warning the headgasket blew, sending antifreeze into the engine. if i had known about the problems they were having, i would have had it taken care of, since i didn't i missed a lot of work and had to buy a new car, since the expense of repair wasnt worth it. this car has been a complete lemon, and i have the $6000 worth of warranty work as proof, plus the engine blowing. *ak
05/16/2000102/01/1999
 Engine head gasket blew out without warning. also, engine block may be cracked. *ak
05/08/2000302/01/1992
 I was informed by the ford dealeership the complete engine replacement was the direct result of the two head-gasket failures. i reasearched this problem on the internet/yahoo. i was surprised to learn this was a common problem for fords 90-96 3.8l engine. ford currently has a program for 94-96 3.8l engines and a secret warrenty for the 93 3.8 l engine. however it has no program for the same failures in the 1992 engine. *ak
04/15/1998103/01/1993
 Engine head gasket failed,causing loss of coolant into engine. car had mileage of 70, 053. this is a common problem with 3.8l engine. ford is extending warranty on later year models, but problem existed prior to 1994. i had the service performed by local garage and asked ford for reimbursement but they refused. numerous findings on the internet indicate that this problem is very frequent after 65,000 miles. *ak
03/31/1999106/01/1991
 Head gaskets blown and the front timing cover gasket leaking coolant. coolant mixed with oil requiring $2429.54 dollars to repair damage to engine. according to usa today article dated, april 27, 2000, titled ford extends warranty on some v-6 engines the 3.8l engines in ford taurus's and other ford models have had premature head gasket failures allowing coolant to enter the engine. ford agreed to fix these cars with the 3.8l engines from 1995 on but earlier taurus's with the same 3.8l engine, such as my car had premature failures. the head gasket in my 1992 taurus (3.8l) blew it's head gasket at 87,595 miles, well before the expected 120,000 indicated in the press. i expect ford motor co. to recall these engines or reimburse me for this unnecessary expense. *ak
01/01/1999207/01/1992
 In 1999 my car overheated due to the headgaskets. now, in april of 2000 it has happened again. ford is not stepping up to handle what is obviously a wide spread defect in several of their cars. *ak
1
 The vehicle is pulled to the left due to loose motor mounting. yh
10/03/199902/01/1992
 Failure in head gaskets, total loss of engine. cost to replace $4200. *ak
07/21/1999109/12/1992
 Both head gaskets failed. yh
03/20/2000
 Engine head gaskets blew out, causing coolant to leak onto the engine. dealer has been notified.*ak
03/14/200004/01/1992
 I have owned 1989 and 1992 taurus's and they have both experienced head gasket failures. this appears to be a common problem of the 3.8l v6 engine. *ak
03/17/20000
 While the vehicle was parked could hear noise coming from the engine. head gasket blew up, and vehicle had to be towed to repair shop. *ak
12/25/1999102/01/1992
 For several months prior to the head gasket failure i noticed a odor of antifreeze, and i had to add a little antifreeze about once a week.i had the car checked at bill marsh ford on 4/28/99 when it had 90,350 miles on it. i was told the timing case cover was leaking. i had this repaired at another garage within one week.in november i again smelled antifreeze and had the car checked at a local garage on 1/3/2000 where it was definitley diagnosed as a head gasket problem. i had the head gasket replaced and the motor rebuilt at auto boys in january 2000.it cost me $2,041.34. *ak
04/15/1998103/01/1995
 Our 1992 ford taurus 3.8 engine had head gasket problems. we had them repaired without any success of having a decent running car again. our car still does not run properly and has continuous problems with the engine. we have taken it into dahl ford in la crosse and they had it an entire week and still they could not find out why my engine does not run smoothly since the head gaskets were replaced. we are not happy with the 3.8 engine at all. we feel this engine (with only 48,000 miles on it) should not have blown. we now have 80,000 on the car and it is 8 years old. the engine is still bad. *ak
02/08/2000
 Vehicle experiencing problem with oil leakages. dealer notified, and informed consumer of a blown head gasket. repairs made at consumer's cost. *ak
 Engine head gaskets wore out, causing leaks into the engine compartment, and wear on the engine. engine has been replaced once before because of this problem. dealer has been contacted. *ak
02/26/200001/01/1992
 Head gasket blown. engine needs to be replaced. *ak
02/04/2000108/01/1992
 #4 cylinder combustion chamber coolant leak. diagnosed as cylinder head gasket failure as covered in 3-3-98 technical servcice bulletin 98-4-9 with actin tobe installation of revised head gaketand bolts which provieimproved sealing capacity and higher clamping force between cylinder head and block on l988-95 taurus withinstallation of f5pz. *ak
06/12/1996201/01/1992
 1st incident: on our about june12,1996 heard clunking sound. took vehicle to walker ford 17556 us 19 n., clearwater, fl33764. they determined engine mount had broken (27588 miles) replaced for $177.80. 2nd incident: august 28,1999. driving east on drew taking vehicle to dealer for repair. noise became so great turned vehicle around to return short distance home to call tow truck. stopped for light car stalled. started car, was very weak. turned inti parking lot on my immediate right. the motor mounts broke trowing engine into the hood and bending the linkage causing the engine to rev to 5000rpm . car was headed toward building. turned engine off and stopped the vehicle. the estimated cost to repair the vehicle is $525.00 remount engine. $1400 repair a/c unit. $982 replace hood. $400.00 additional repairs. if someone less experienced then myself they would have driven into the building. had this happened to me on the interstate it would have been a life threatening situation.*ak
02/05/2000108/01/1992
 Combustion chamber leak in #4 cylinder. coolant in #4 cyllinder and crankcase. repair cost quoted $1200. if engine needs to be repaired/replaced $4586.
02/02/2000
 Engine blew the head gasket, causing car to overheat. vehicle isn't working. dealership told consumer it would cost him $4,000 to repair. *ak
02/04/19991
 Premature engine head gasket failure, is class action legal action available? *ak
12/20/1999106/01/1992
 Engine failure due to blown engine head gasket. local garages seemed to indicate that this was a common failure on this make and model (3.8l v6). *ak
02/15/1999
 Front engine mount bolts found loose by an independent repair shop. seeking information weather this normal or not, can nhtsa help with that information. *ak
10/02/1999
 When driving at any speed there is virbation within the steering wheel, and when coming to a stop vehicle vibrates due to broken motor mounts. also, there is an oil leak. *ak
 Motor mounts fell out, causing the engine to jump and damage the rod/radiator and cv boot. dealer has not seen vehicle. *ak
09/20/1999
 While driving at 55 mph engine motor mounts broke, causing engine to shift forwards and backwards, damaging the coolant system, and vehicle overheated.*ak
03/13/1992
 Check engine light comes on and off. warped head gasket. air conditioner doesn't work. pulls to the right and left--front tie-rods replaced 3 times.
07/02/1999
 While driving motor mounts broke, causing the cruise control cable to break which cause vehicle to acclerate. the occupant had to place the vehicle in neutral to stop. please provide further information. and vin#. *ak
08/04/1999
 Front engine mount bolts broke off. dealer not aware of the problem. repairwork done by replacing bolts, also, replaced radiator. provide further information. *ak
07/07/1999
 Both front engine mounts broke. consumer believed this condition is due to defective parts by manufacturer. vehicle only has 333,000 miles of wear. can nhtsa provide help or additional information. *ak
05/14/1999
 While in a parking lot motor mount bolts fell out. had to shift into drive & engine would jump up & damage the rod. also, heater & radiator hoses were damaged, as well as also cv boot & accelerator link were bent. had problems before this with motor mounts. will be taking vehicle to dealer. *ak
06/29/1999105/01/1992
 Engine mount failure discovered by servicing dealer (dreager ford, georgetown tx) while diagnosing transmission uncommanded gearchange problem. problem was reported to ford motor customer hotline but they refused dto acknowledge that the mount failure is a manufacturing defect. they state that they will not pay for the repair as the car is out of warrenty/has more than 60,000 miles. *ak
06/28/1999407/01/1995
 Front motor mounts have failed 4 times. symptom is poor response to acceleration and transmision not shifting properly. *ak
1
 Vehicle recall 98v-323 on the body mounts does not include the motor mounts which have broken. mjs
 Front motor mounts broke. dealer has been contacted. *ak
03/01/1999107/01/1994
 Head gasket failed producing fluctuation in temperature, and clouds of smoke to come from the tailpipe.
3
 Motor mounts have failed on the vehicle, however not covered under recall 98v-323. mjs
06/01/1998
 Engine gaskets were defective, and engine would overheat. dealer contacted and vehicle did not comply to any recall. repairwork done at owner expense. *ak
06/21/1993
 When driving at any speed the vehicle is virbating due to the front and back motor mounts breaking. dealer can't determine the problem. *ak
02/01/1999102/01/1999
 Oil pan rusted and leaked oil. *ak
10/07/19961
 Recall denied for front and rear subframe mounts, motor mounts failed. (campaign# 98s36)
07/01/19981
 Motor mounts failed prior to recall. (93v-106)
 Motor mounts broke causing the engine to shift. please give any further details. *ak
10/21/19981
 Motor mounts replaced prior to recall. (98v-323)
09/12/1998
 The head gasket by the 3rd and 4th cylinder gasket is defective. it began blowing coolant inside and outside the car. can smell the anti-freeze, but can't find the leak. took to dealer, and they said it's in the motor. reported by edward peart. *ak
03/16/1999
 The right motor mount broke, causing the engine to jump and hit the hood while driving. common problem. please provide further information. *ak
 Motor mount broke popping up into the engine and causing damage to the axel shaft. dealer has been contacted. *ak
03/04/1999204/01/1997
 Both the engine mounts have failed & this problem is already mentioned in nhtsa campaign # 98v323000. georgia state is not covered in the campaign. i wish to know what i should do? about the engine cooling system i have replaced the thermostat after i just had a 21 point check from boomershine, ga. again the cooling system failed on 03/04/99. this car has been giving problems to me & i feel that the 3.8l engine vehicles should be replaced by the manufacturer. i am frustrated with the stability and dependability of the car.
1
 Head gasket failed.
02/15/1993
 Transmission skipping while drivin./ also, vehicle would thump into gear whenever vehicle came to a stop. dealer informed consumer of replacing engine head gasket. *ak
02/13/1998106/01/1997
 I thought mine was an isolated instance until i learned of two other owners of ford windstars where i work with the same engine and the same problem. besides the blown head gasket, both oxygen analyzers had to be replaced due to leaking antifreeze.
01/07/1999112/01/1994
 Engine head gasket failed causing engine to have coollant in the oil and coming out the exhaust.
2
 Head gasket is defective, causing vehicle to overheat while driving. owner also notes of recall for problem, but owner's vehicle was not included. *ak
01/01/199810/01/1991
 Engine mounts deterioated and failed. vehicle is out of scope of the recall issued (tsb# 92m77)
03/30/1998104/01/1992
 Engine gaskets failed causing engine to run hot and heavy white smoke came from the rear of vehicle. this premature failure should not have happened; vehicle has been properly maintained since purchased new.
01/24/19990
 Engine head gaskets leak, and vehicle overheats. *ak
01/18/1997107/22/1997
 Oil pan leaking.
12/23/1998
 Motor mounts failed.
01/19/1998111/01/1996
 I have had 3 fords, gone thru 4 motor mounts all under 50,000 miles
03/30/19983
 Motor mounts have failed several times, vibration caused by failure resulted in transmission damage and failure.
06/20/19962
 Front and rear motor mounts broke twice causing damage and failure of the cv-joint.
02/01/19983
 Motor mounts failed.
02/01/19963
 Motor mounts failed on several occasions, resulting in engine damage.
09/01/1996411/01/1993
 Automatic transmission failure. also replaced tied rod/engine valve over and cracked serpentine belt. *ak
 The bolts holding the engine crankshaft: pulley sheared off, resulting in noisy engine. *ak
02/01/1996211/01/1991
 Engine mounts failed, causing damage to vehicle engine.
10/09/1997412/20/1995
 Engine mounts failed prior to/after recall repairs.
07/30/1997102/01/1994
 Motor mounts failed.
3
 While driving engine mounts broke causing other safety hazzards to occur, such as a broken cv boots. also transmission slips while driving.problem has occurred three times even after being repaired.cause possible design flaw. *ak
01/09/1995102/27/1992
 Valve cover gasket failed.
06/20/19962
 Front and rear motor mounts broke.
01/01/199704/21/1992
 Engine motor mounts/transmission/cv joint/air conditioner compressor failed. *ak
01/25/1997204/21/1992
 Motor mount bolt snapped.
07/11/1997
 Engine;mounts: two out of three motor mounts broke, causing the engine to shift and twist. *ak
 The motor mounts are loose, causing the engine to slip/loose. dealer did not fix. *ak
1
 Head gaskets failed.
3
 The motor mounts failed, causing transmission damage.
1
 Engine pistions broke.
01/01/19921
 Motor mount bolts fell out, causing engine to race.
11/01/1995105/01/1992
 Motor mounts replaced due to recall.
07/03/1996112/16/1993
 Camshaft gear failure caused vehicle to stall.
03/23/1997
 Consumer started to turn into driveway when tie rod broked due to missing motor mount bolt. ford has a bulletin on both components. *ak
01/17/1997304/03/1993
 Front/rear engine mounts failed and were replaced three times. *ak
10/01/1994201/01/1992
 Motor mounts replaced twice.
06/05/1995110/01/1991
 Belt pulley failed.
10/16/1994103/01/1992
 Motor mounts replaced.
11/01/1994111/01/1994
 Motor mounts failed 3 times.
08/14/1996111/01/1993
 Motor mounts broke.
06/26/19961
 The motor mounts broke, causing the vehicle engine to drop.*ak
08/04/19963
 Engine mounts replaced 3 times.
09/11/1996
 Purchased car new, the engine mount cracked , called ford, there is a recall and the letter was sent, consumer didn't receive letter . please describe. *ak
07/01/1996205/05/1994
 Engine mounts failed, also broken air conditioning system. *ak
07/01/1996205/05/1994
 Engine motor mounts failed, also air conditioning system broke. *ak
02/22/19932
 Engine mount replaced. *sd
02/12/19962
 Engine mount failed. *dh
01/29/19969
 Engine motor mount bolt/bracket broke after recall repairs. *dsh
06/09/19959
 Engine mounts failed, allowing free movement of engine. *aw
01/29/19969
 Engine intermittently stalled. *sd
01/03/1995
 During turning maneuvers transmission shifted noise in front end sounded like engine mounts falling off. tt
04/21/19931
 Oil sending unit failed, causing excessive oil consumption.
10/24/1995
 Had to replace split by pass hose because engine started to smoke. tt
07/28/19958
 Replaced defective motor mounts.
07/10/1995
 Motor mounts failed, they have broken two different times. tt
07/14/1995
 Engine mount broke ripped out the air conditioner. tt
07/10/19951
 Defective motor mounts. tt
04/28/19958
 Motor mounts failed, causing engine to dislocate and hit hood, after recall. *tw
09/29/19931
 Replaced oil filter. *ak
02/22/1995
 Heard a clinking noise and engine fell out. please explain in more detail. tt
05/10/19951
 Motor mount bolts sheared off, leaving engine loose. tt
09/01/19941
 Motor mounts failed. *skd
06/01/19941
 Motor mount replaced.
10/26/19941
 Engine mounts broke. *skd
10/01/19921
 Motor mounts failed.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - ENGINE - GASOLINE
 Engine would crank over but not start---vehicle stalls at times when coming to a stop
 Intermittently vehicle stalls/slowing for a stop. no prior warning appears on dashboard before stalling. vehicle will restart. dealer was notified. please provide more information.*ak
04/12/2002
 Intermittent problem with engine stalling and starting. dealer was not notified at this time. feel free to provide any further information. *ak
11/01/2001
 Vehicle stalls at any time/ any speed. dealer is not able to remedy the problem.*ak
101/01/2002
 No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak
11/01/1999
 Vehicle has stalled numerous times/ at any speed. mechanic unable to remedy problem. *ak
10/01/1997
 Engine light on the instrument panel will illuminate, and engine will stall unexpectedly. dealership has examined vehicle and could not reproduce the problem. please provide any additional information / attachments.*ak
 While driving,the vehicle will stall without warning. it doesn't do it all the time, it's intermittently. contact dealer, and dealer had tried to remedy it, but couldn't do it. *ak
08/01/2001
 Car will cut off intermittently. problem is getting worse. dealer has yet to be contacted. please provide further details.*ak
03/20/20001
 I am making this report a little over a year after the incident because ford motor company has not taken responsibility for what is occurring in the 1992 model as they have in some of the later models even though it involves the same engine. i have been follung the reports sent to the nhtsa over this time and have seen an increasing number of reports filed describing the same problem i have experienced in my 1992 taurus. i believe since the same problem is occurring in the 1994 sable and they have issued a recall in that instance, they also should recall the ford models since they involve the same engine.*ak
07/05/2001103/01/1992
 After starting from a stop engine started making noises at low speeds. i took the car to my mechanic and he told me the engine was no good, that bearings were gone . i needed a new or rebuilt engine and that this was common on the 3.8l engine. this engine only had 46,404 original miles on it. i contacted ford and they said there was nothing they would do. *ak
07/04/2001109/01/1993
 No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak
12/05/2000108/01/1998
 No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak
08/01/19991
 Head gasket failed prematurely at 60,000 miles, also caused damage to engine.*ak a few days after replacement, vehicle stalled and was taken to dealer, dealer informed consumer that engine needed replaced. *slc
107/01/1992
 Vehicle stalls when driving long distances in hot weather and in traffic, vehicle also surges when idling or after driving long distances and pulling to a toll booth or red light. *slc
03/01/2000103/01/1999
 No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak
10009/01/1992
 Vehicle stalls espically upon acceleartion, ie pulling out into traffic lane
08/08/200001/01/1998
 No summary
12/20/199711/01/1997
 On cold mornings, the engine will suddenly staw after five minutes of driving. allowing the car to warm up at idle does not eliminate problem. according to the dealer, the car's computer reports no problems and they are at a loss what to do.*ak
03/19/2000207/01/1992
 First repair on 2-99 at 50,000 miles at consumers cost. no safety defect listed within summary.
04/30/2000007/31/1992
 While driving stepped on the accelerator and vehicle lost stopping power. also, smoke was coming from the front, and vehicle caught on fire after stopping (just before losing power the engine check light flashed on and off). *ak.et.
09/01/1999
 No summary listed for abov evehicle. *ak
01/12/1998202/01/1994
 Ford is recalling the 1994-1995 models with this engine for this problen, this defect is also found on the 1992-1993 models with this engine why doesnt ford recall these models. they are defective as well? no safety defect listed in the summary. *ak
03/27/200006/01/1995
 No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak
06/12/1996201/01/1992
 1st incident: on our about june12,1996 heard clunking sound. took vehicle to walker ford 17556 us 19 n., clearwater, fl33764. they determined engine mount had broken (27588 miles) replaced for $177.80. 2nd incident: august 28,1999. driving east on drew taking vehicle to dealer for repair. noise became so great turned vehicle around to return short distance home to call tow truck. stopped for light car stalled. started car, was very weak. turned inti parking lot on my immediate right. the motor mounts broke trowing engine into the hood and bending the linkage causing the engine to rev to 5000rpm . car was headed toward building. turned engine off and stopped the vehicle. the estimated cost to repair the vehicle is $525.00 remount engine. $1400 repair a/c unit. $982 replace hood. $400.00 additional repairs. if someone less experienced then myself they would have driven into the building. had this happened to me on the interstate it would have been a life threatening situation.*ak
11/13/1999109/01/1998
 Three auto parts and 6 mechanics have told me that this is a common problem with that engine
10/02/1999
 When driving at any speed there is virbation within the steering wheel, and when coming to a stop vehicle vibrates due to broken motor mounts. also, there is an oil leak. *ak
 Fire started within the engine compartment of the vehicle on the driver side, cause unknown. please give any further details. mjs
1
 Engine block molding unevenly resulting in leakage. mjs
03/13/1992
 Check engine light comes on and off. warped head gasket. air conditioner doesn't work. pulls to the right and left--front tie-rods replaced 3 times.
08/01/1998
 While making a stop at a red light vehicle would stall without any indications. dealer has been contacted. please provide further information. *ak
05/05/19991002/01/1992
 This could cause an accident because you can not accelerate on the road
04/04/1996
 The engine completely shuts off without warning, at all rpm's and at all speeds. the dealer is aware of this problem. not able to correct. *ak
09/25/19931209/14/1992
 Car stalls intermittently continually.
09/25/199311
 Vehicle stalls alot at red lights/complete stops, no difference when raining, dry pavement, cold or hot weather, drives up to 65 mph, no warranty on vehicle. dealer contacted approximately eleven times and cannot duplicate the problem. *ak
 Engine check light still comes on and off warning that there is still a problem with the engine, replace cooling fan, and warped head gasket from it continually overheating.
03/03/1998
 While driving the vehicle caught fire under the hood. the fire investigator determined that the engine was the cause of the fire. the vehicle was totaled. the manufacturer has not been notofied. *ak
 Without warning the vehicle will stall in traffic, cause unknown. please give any further details. *ak
04/10/1998
 While driving the vehicle engine shut down, causing vehicle to stall, resulting in loss of brakes and power steering, which led to an accident. please provide further details. *ak
08/29/1997
 When starting driving and putting the vehicle in reverse it stalls, and often times loses power. owner has not contacted a dealer. *ak
06/10/19960
 The ignition will not turn completely off, the noise still sounds with the key out of the ignition. can even turn the auto on just by manully turning the key holder. *ak check the engine light keeps coming on. *yh
101/01/1992
 Engine noise.
04/12/19978
 Demonstration vehicle first; bought new; problem occurred 1st day; drove vehicle; it died for no reason; happens any time & at any speed; took to dealer many times; could not find problem; dealer had on computer & found nothing. *ak
01/22/19971
 Intermittent stalling.
11/19/19961
 Owner was driving down the highway and the car just cut off. *ak
 When car is cold the car sometimes stalls. *ak
10/05/1994103/01/1992
 Engine surges.
302/01/1994
 While driving in drive, the vehicle stalls at any speed. *ak transmission slipping and needs replaced. *slc
07/31/19951
 Loud squeak coming from under engine area.
06/23/1995
 Vehicle caught fire in engine while driving. tt
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - ENGINE - GASOLINE - BELTS AND ASSOCIATED PULLEYS
03/30/19981
 Serpentine belt failed.
03/07/1997
 Experienced water pump failure, replaced water pump and fan belt, coolant. *ak
09/01/1996411/01/1993
 Automatic transmission failure. also replaced tied rod/engine valve over and cracked serpentine belt. *ak
 In severe cold weather engine overheats and cooling fan freezes. *ak
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - EXHAUST SYSTEM
09/01/2000111/01/1998
 This warrants a recall if anything this violates the clean air act-emissions during failure
 The odor also appears when the car is first started and when it sits awhile. *ak
05/08/1999107/01/1993
 No summary.
04/20/1994110/01/1991
 Exhaust system failed.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - EXHAUST SYSTEM - EMISSION CONTROL
07/21/1999109/12/1992
 Both o2 sensors failed. yh
10/25/19984
 When vehicle is warmed up & would start to turn steering wheel, it would make grinding noises in the right front. sounds like metal to metal. taken to dealer several times. had both struts, tie rods, oxygen sensors replaced. noise still exists. mechanic could not locate problem. *ak
02/13/1998106/01/1997
 I thought mine was an isolated instance until i learned of two other owners of ford windstars where i work with the same engine and the same problem. besides the blown head gasket, both oxygen analyzers had to be replaced due to leaking antifreeze.
08/13/1998107/22/1997
 Check engine light comes on intermittantly, replaced o2 sensor and map test eec system.
1
 Oxygen sensors failed.
05/01/1994105/01/1992
 Oxygen sensor replaced.
08/02/19942
 Map sensor failed, causing vehicle to stall.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - EXHAUST SYSTEM - EMISSION CONTROL - CRANKCASE (PCV)
10/11/19961
 Bypass valve failed.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - EXHAUST SYSTEM - EMISSION CONTROL - GAS RECIRCULATION VALVE (EGR VALVE)
02/03/1998107/22/1997
 Pcv hose ripped.
03/30/19981
 Pcv valve failed.
02/02/1995102/27/1992
 Egr valve failed.