Recalls


CampaignManufacturerManufacturing dateType# of units affectedDate Owner notified MfgRecall Initiated byManufacturers of recalled vehicles/productsReport Recieved DateRecord Creation DateRegulation Part NumberFMVSS Number
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
06E022000BRAKE PARTS, INC. E (Equipment)744003/20/2006MFRFORD MOTOR COMPANY03/13/200603/13/2006
Defect SummaryCertain aftermarket brake hydraulic master cylinders sold as replacement brake cylinders for certain ford, daimlerchrysler, and jeep passenger vehicles. these brake cylinders were sold under the brand names of napa, raybestos, aimco, ac delco, carquest, bendix, and wagner. only products that were manufactured from july 27, 2005 through january 17, 2006 (date codes 0529 through 0602) are subject to this recall. when subject to very cold temperatures, an internal seal in the master cylinder could lose flexibility and may cause brake fluid to leak.
Consequence SummaryLoss of brake fluid can lead to a decrease in brake line pressure and an increase in stopping distance, which can result in a vehicle crash.
Corrective SummaryAffinia (brake parts, inc.) will replace the subject brake hydraulic master cylinders free of charge. the recall began on march 20, 2006. owners can contact affina group customer service at 1-800-323-0354.
NotesThis recall only pertains to aftermarket napa, raybestos, ac delco, aimco, carquest, and bendix brake hydraulic master cylinders and has no relation to any original equipment installed on daimlerchrysler or ford vehicles.customers may contact the national highway traffic safety administration's vehicle safety hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (tty: 1-800-424-9153); or go to http://www.safercar.gov.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS
00V075000FORD MOTOR COMPANYfrom 12/06/1997 to 03/16/2000V (Vehicle)43620010/11/2000MFRFORD MOTOR COMPANY03/09/200003/14/2000
Defect SummaryVehicle description: passenger vehicles not equipped with the anti-lock braking system (abs). a pressure conscious reducing valve (pcrv) in the rear brakes may be subject to corrosion and result in malfunction, when operated in areas that use salt compounds on the roadway for de-icing or dust control.
Consequence SummaryIf both pcrv's malfunction, vehicle handling could be adversely affected during braking as a result of the rear wheels locking, increasing the risk of a crash.
Corrective SummaryDealers will install improved pcrv's in the rear brake system. this recall was expanded in september 2000 to include 1999 and 2000 ford contour, mercury mystique and cougar vehicles.
NotesOwner notification began april 3, 2000 for the 1996-1998 model vehicles and on october 11, 2000, for the 1999-2000 model vehicles.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 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).

Bulletins


BulletinBulletin dateReplacement BulletinItem no.SummaryAdded
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - ANTILOCK
1447511/01/2000616559Some vehicles equipped with anti-lock brakes (abs) may exhibit an abs light on condition diagnosed as related to the wheel speed sensors. ford motor company is investigating. *tt03/06/2001
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS
1553801/01/2002630070Subject on brake fluid leak. *yh04/12/2002
00S0309/01/2000618580Safety recall pertaining to brake pressure control reducing valve replacement. *jb04/17/2001
1176608/01/1998615267Engineering is investigating vehicles that exhibit brake noise while slowing to a stop. *tt01/10/2001
464908/01/1998615186Engineering is investigating certain vehicles that exhibit brake noise while slowing to a stop. *tt01/03/2001
1261303/01/19996091824Some vehicles may exhibit a grind / groan noise from the front brakes, usually during stop-and-go (city) driving. *tt11/15/2000
1270705/01/19996091681Some vehicles may exhibit a front brake groan. *tt11/09/2000
620105/01/1999607020Experiencing a front brake groan during city driving. *tt11/03/2000
9919409/20/19996090082Information for servicing and diagnosing brake vibration, brake inspection, and brake friction material replacement. *tt03/06/2000
998905/03/1999606409Some vehicles may exhibit a groaning noise from the front brakes during city driving. *tt08/19/1999
1258803/01/1999605313Vehicles may exhibit a grinding / groaning noise from the front brakes during stop-and-go driving. *tt06/08/1999
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS - DISC
0026512/25/2000616830Some vehicles equipped with rear disc brakes may exhibit a moaning / groaning noise on initial brake application (cold soak). *tt03/13/2001
1226012/01/1998615513Some vehicles (w/ 4 wheel disc brakes) may exhibit a brake squeal / squeak noise from the front while braking after the rotors have warmed up. *tt01/17/2001
534212/01/1998615426Some vehicles with 4 wheel disc brakes may exhibit a brake squeak / squeal noise from the front while braking after the rotors have warmed up. *tt01/16/2001
819202/01/2000612344Some vehicles equiped with 4-wheel disc brakes may exhibit a groan / grind noise from the rear brakes on the first application after the vehicles has been parked overnight. *tt06/07/2000
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS - DISC - PADS
1397403/01/2000612891Information on the brake pad wear sensor. *tt06/13/2000
833103/01/2000612759Information regarding brake pad wear sensor. *tt06/12/2000
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS - DRUM
1437609/01/2000618642Vehicles equipped with 4-wheel disc brakes may exhibit a rear disc brake moan / groan noise. *jb04/18/2001
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - SWITCHES - BRAKE LIGHT
0217609/02/200210008580Lamp-brake-invadvertent disabling of brake shift interlock. *mj08/05/2004

Consumer Complaints


Fail datemilesoccurencesPurchase date
SERVICE BRAKES, AIR
01/01/200202/10/2000
 I have had numerous problems with my '99 cougar such as, failure of my pat system and computer system. i have had problems with my brakes which they can't seem to figure out the problem. i have had my starter replaced twice. i have had defects in several sensors, which is not under warranty that i had to pay a good amount of money for them to repair. my fan has even blown out. there is a burning smell whenever i turn on my heater that none of the dealers can't seem to smell. i also had to purchase a new radiator. when my computer went out my car was still under warranty but they made me pay for the repairs, parts, and labor out of my pocket. this is not all. the list goes on and on. i have complained to the dealership, ford motor co. and even had someone from ford to investigate all of the problems i've had with my vehicle. they have been rude to me on several occasions, especially when i had questions about the repairs of my vehicle. something needs to be done about this. i would not recommend the purchase of a mercury cougar to anyone.
SERVICE BRAKES, AIR - ANTILOCK
02/01/2000112/01/1998
 I have replaced a set of brake pads on the front, the calipers were loose when replaced & i had to replace the rotor on the right & the rotor on the left now needs replaced. this does not seem like normal wear/tear. this car has been used mostly for highway travel. thanks!
SERVICE BRAKES, AIR - DISC - CALIPER
02/01/2000112/01/1998
 I have replaced a set of brake pads on the front, the calipers were loose when replaced & i had to replace the rotor on the right & the rotor on the left now needs replaced. this does not seem like normal wear/tear. this car has been used mostly for highway travel. thanks!
SERVICE BRAKES, AIR - DRUM - DRUM
09/19/2001980002009/19/2001
 My car is a lemon. have had a new engine put in it 2 times because the rods spun. i have had the brake lights fixed 3 times, the alternator replaced 3 times, new catalytic converters twice. new power steering. transmission done 3 times. theres definantly more i just cant think of alllllll my repairs on this 1999 cougar. i bought it used and it has now 98000 miles cause i drive out of state. *ak
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
03/19/20011
 Bought car at dealer on 02/05/01 since then i've had to repair car on too many occasions. here some of the repairs i've had to do on this car ever since i bought it. on 3/01: brakes, 10/01: dealership replaced battery and performed a recall,12/01: dealership replaced alternator, 05/02: brake pads, 04/04: water pump belt, 09/04: replaced batter, 10/11/04: replaced alternator and belt, 10/14/04: replaced positive battery terminal, 12/04: replaced radio, 02/06: replaced motor mount, 01/07:replaced battery, 02/07: replaced strut, 02/08: replaced shock absorber, 10/08: replaced battery, 04/09: replaced bearing, transmission & anchor engine mount and don't have the date but also had to replace the windshield wiper motor. these repairs are what i have in receipts yet for example i have replaced the motor mounts more than once. currently the following areas of my vehicle do not function: the horn no longer works, cruise control is not functioning, the air conditioner no longer heats, & the brake light of my vehicle remained lit when the vehicle was on and now have failed to turn out (lamp socket is burnt). *tr
01/09/200773000105/09/2000
 Brakes continue to grind even after replacement. transmission surges and hesitates upon acceleration causing unexpected increases in speed. transmission also slips in and out of gears randomly. all of these problems could lead to a serious accident. *tr
12/08/2006112554307/25/2006
 This is the second time i filed a complaint, i have heard nothing back ! i started having problems with the braking system its bumping the gas pedal up and down when trying to stop which in turn caused me to be in a car crash in december 2006 in clinton county, ohio. there is a recall and it needs to be fixed asap~! i also feel that someone should contact my home phone listed on contact form and let me know what's going on with this mess~! you can drive the dumb car and see what i am talking about for all i care, just please contact me either by phone or by email at least . thank you very much for your time. *jb
12/08/2006208/25/2006
 I bought a 199 ford mercury cougar and was in an accident on dec. 8th, 2006 when i tried to apply brakes they started moving on their own and the movement was braking up and down i was unable to stop and wrecked and i bought this vehicle from a car lot. this car constantly when cold does this and it also squeaks like there is too much pressure on the whole car, the brakes are still having that shuttering problem. can this be fixed?-i bought the vehicle at the end of last year... it has since done the same things with the braking again and it scares me but it only does it when it is cold out ... *nm updated
06/01/20042110/01/1999
 Mechanical problems with 1999 mercury cougar. *mr the vehicle died in the middle of traffic on three occasions. there were alternator and fuel problems. the consumer requested a credited amount of funds and reimbursement for the battery, brakes and additional expenses. other problem are as followed: the new wheels were defective (corroded and frozen), the brake sensor snapped off of the wheel, the cd player was skipping, the hatch would not release properly, the steering wheel would shake, the keyless entry with anti-theft was inoperative, there was rough idle, the transmission shifter would stick, the cup holder did not shut, the hood would not open, and the lights would dim and or brighten while the vehicle was in motion. *sc *jb
05/19/2003005/11/1999
 I own a 99 mercury cougar, original owner. my husband changed the front brakes and found the sensor was missing on the front passenger side. my husband called the dealership and spoke to one of the tech's, he said all 4 wheels should have a sensor. when i brought the car there today the service writer told me the tech compared it to another cougar and found no sensor on the right front. if a cougar has abs there will not be any sensors, so who knows what he was comparing it to. no brakes wear even. the only way i will be happy if someone sends me a picture of the braking system. my husband has been a truck and car tech. for 30 years and he said all four wheels should have a sensor. who are they kidding. *jb
05/15/200330000203/15/1999
 The front and rear brake disc's are nothing but a total problem. rear brakes were replaced at 30000 miles. the front at 38000 miles. now the fronts have to be replaced again at 52000 miles. it is about time for ford to build a reliable car or just quit making cars. *jb
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - ANTILOCK
07/01/199985202808/20/1998
 Purchased car new, in 57000 miles we have had to replace, 2 alternators, 1 starter, 2 batteries, entire rack and pinion, power steering pump, transmission torque converter, 4 set of brakes, 4 sets of tires plus two individual tires all with sidewall blow outs except one puncture and 2 headlight switches, 2 cig lighters. the entire upper engine gasket set had to be replaced to get to an intake leak. the head lights and foglights work itermittantly, engine warning lights are constantly going on and off. currently one headlight is out (lamp is good) fog lights are not working (today) and an engine warning light is indicating a problem again. *ak
360001
 While traveling at 45 mph vehicle suddenly came to a sudden stop on its own. vehicle was taken to the dealer, where dealer indicated theat bolts fell out which caused brakes to lock up. *jb. *ak
 Vehicle only has abs on driver's side and standard brakes on passenger's side. please provide any further information, and vehicle identification number.*ak
01/01/2002
 While traveling on highway and applying brakes anti-lock brake system will lock up. dealership is aware of problem.*ak
01/19/200101/01/2001
 Shortly after owning the car, i noticed that brakes seemed insufficient for the vehicle. i took it to the dealer a few times to get checked, but they denied any thing being wrong. while driving when the brakes are applied, the vehicle does not stop at a sufficient time. i also had to buy several tires since the purchase date, because the tires would get leaks by simple road debris such as glass and metal pieces. i reported my problems in person and by phone to the dealer i bought from, but they would not give me any information about the car's history. they only stated that all necessary changes were made in december the month before i bought the car. i also told them about the shifting in the steering wheel when driving, but they disregarded the complaint about the steering and the inappropriate stopping of the vehicle.*ak (dot number: w2b0irb tiresize: p215/50r16)
 While traveling, slowed down, and when depressing brake pedal vehicle would not gain speed. technician stated that right caliper malfunctioned. please provide furhter information. *ak
01/06/2001307/01/2000
 Reporting this as it is a us manaufactured car and is sold in the us and can't find evidence that ford/mercury are taking action. no safety defect listed in summary. *ak
12/01/20004
 Panic button went off on my mistake but alarm would'nt shut off had to get replaced, hatch wouldn't open properly, i had my brakes replaced 3 times because of squealing noise. and these windshield wipers for the fourth time now .
 Brake pedal is normal when applied, but there is a vibrating and pulsating feeling in front end when the brakes are applied. also, extended stopping distance. dealer has been contacted.*ak
08/14/2000112/01/1998
 Complete loss of all brakes due to never before seen explosion of abs master cylinder
07/03/2000101/14/1999
 While driving on a 4-lane highway, lights on the dashboard lit up and engine died. then, consumer lost control of the vehicle. with no brakes or steering vehicle started to spin out of control and hit a guardrail at about 55mph. consumer said it was a engine problem. airbags did not deploy.*ak *ml
01/17/2000
 When applying brakes there was a grinding sound, and vehicle would vibrate while stopping. vehicle has been in dealer's shop on several occasions, and problem was still occurring. dealer informed consumer that nothing else could be done. feel free to provide further details. *ak
412/01/1998
 It has been in the shop four times for brake problems. the car shakes after 3,000 miles and the rotors need turning which costs 300.00 each time. *ak
11/30/1999301/01/1999
 Car sounds like it is falling apart when brakes are applied, steering makes loud sound when backing out of parking space, trunk won't open unless hit numerous times from remote or inside.
02/03/1999
 Vehicle been experiencing ongoing problem with unnecessary noise. whenever brakes were applied in a sudden stop, it resulted in extended stopping distance. vehicle been in/out of dealer shop on seven occasions. this almost caused several vehicle collisions. *ak
01/02/1999
 Abs brakes light is on and vehicle jerks at a slow stop and at fast stop. also, there is a grinding noise coming from the brakes, and the back brakes aren't stopping the vehicle. *ak
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - ANTILOCK - CONTROL UNIT/MODULE
01/08/19993
 Abs light/friction light comes on, dealer reset sensors. *slc
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS
04/24/2007104/01/1999
 Recall of brake pressure control. ford service center states repair was done on 12-19-2000, but there is no records to confirm. in addition, the fuel system recall, ford states that there isn't one on my vehicle, however, my vechicle displays the same symptoms described under recall 04v421000 and the continuous check engine light. i have had all sensors repaired that came up in engine diagnostic testing . according to last test done, reads fuel is running lean but can't repair because no code appears for that to show where problem lies. i have had fuel system flushed to help remedy problem. still having issues. *tr
01/16/200662200307/28/2005
 Dt*: the consumer stated while driving on an icy road, the rear brakes failed and the consumer hit into a curb. the throttle has stuck intermittently since august of 2005. the dealership was unable to duplicate the problem. there are two recalls, #00v075000 regarding the service brakes and #99v194000 regarding the vehicle speed control. the vehicle has the same problems as indicated in the recall; however it is not included in the recall due to the vin. *jb
302/08/2000
 The consumer is not satisfied with the vehicle due to the amount of recalls that have been issued on the vehicle since the date purchased, brake pressure control valve 00v-075, battery cable routing 01v-031, brake lamp switch jumper harness 01v-032. *nlm
04/05/2001
 Consumer was having problems with brakes which were causing vehicle not to stop .*ak
 Brake failure. *ak
302/08/2000
 The consumer is not satisfied with the vehicle due to the amount of recalls that have been issued on the vehicle since the date purchased, brake pressure control valve 00v-075, battery cable routing 01v-031, brake lamp switch jumper harness 01v-032. *nlm
10/16/2001308/01/1999
 The engine will kill without any indications at high speeds of 50+ mph. when attempt is made to hit the brakes or steer, they both lock up and that is when i discover that the car is dead. luckily, i never needed to use my brakes or steering when it happened, i coasted through traffic while having to turn the ignition off and then on again. the dealership has had it for two weeks, they have had the vehicle fail for them, yet it still reads as if there is nothing wrong with it on all of their diagnostics. it is under warranty and ford is not offering to replace or reimburse me for the automobile. they actually told me to come pick it up and drive it till it happened again. should traffic had been slightly different when this happened to me, i could be dead, my baby could be dead and whomever i hit could be dead. yet ford is taking little responsibility for it.*ak
106/30/1998
 On going problems with brakes, including recall (00v-075), purchased new front and rear brakes at 31,000 miles. *cj
08/05/2000110/01/1999
 Car leased in 1999. since then there have been several complaints, the radio shorting out, 2 same side/tire blow outs, trouble lights and transmission problems, brake noise and acceleration problems. in each and every case the response has been we cannot reproduce the problem hence, no fixes. warrenty expired now the alternater needs to be replaced? comment from service department it must have been defective. ???
1
 Brakes make intermittent loud grinding noises, dealer can not find problem. *slc
2
 The pcrv failed prior to recall notice 00v-075 resulting in 2 accidents, the air bags failed to deploy during both accidents. nlm
201/10/2000
 On month after purchase rear brakes make noise when backing up and braking, the front and rear brakes have been replaced but the proplem still exist, a solution is being worked on. nlm
2
 The pcrv failed prior to recall notice 00v-075 resulting in 2 accidents, the air bags failed to deploy during both accidents. nlm
 Consumer is experiencing problems with recall 00v-075 of the pressure control reducing valve due to the dealer being 170 miles away. nlm
1
 Consumer feels this vehicle has had too many recalls since purchased and request reimbursement of monthly payments, recent recall (00v-075). nlm
10/15/20001
 Brakes failed prior to recall notice 00v-075, the brakes locked up and consumer lost control of the vehicle and hit a curb damaging front bumper, wheel, tires, suspension and alignment. nlm
 Consumer is experiencing problems with recall 00v-075 of the pressure control reducing valve due to the dealer being 170 miles away. nlm
109/26/1998
 Rear brakes have been replaced 3 times within 10 months. *slc
04/28/19993
 Front brakes squeak and rear brakes groan, tsb issued a statement about replacing the rotors and brake pads, brakes still squeak after repair. *slc
09/01/2000104/01/1999
 Ive had problems with this car since i drove it off the lot almost every month it is in the shop for the same reasons first the radio has been fixed twice and then finally replaced the speakers have been replaced and that has yet to solve the problem, my trunk release on my car has been worked on atleast 4 times and they still think it is not a problem but they dont open it every day either, starting in january of 2000 i called the dealership 6 or more times complaining about the brakes and every time they worked on it they said all brakes pulsate and squeek a little but low and behold a recall letter suprised me in the mail today, my sunroof was in the shop dont know the date because it was squeeking and the panel that surround the keys was loose theyfixed but the day i got it out of the shop for getting the radio replaced the sunroof quit totally, just talked to them today and they said they have had several people with the same problem it appears that the wiring in the sunroof it worn out i asked if this was normal for a car that was a year old and they said it was just from being opened and closed but im sorry its only a year old they said it is a 1200.00 dollar problem to fix without labor and couldnt garuantee that it wouldnt have to be replaced next year again . the alarm system randomly goes off and wont shut off its actually called a panic system but goes off like an alarm system after asking other cougar owners about theirs and comparing notes looks like we have all had the same things going wrong except a friend of mine has already had her engine rebuilt at 20,000 miles ------help me before mine goes out to. thank you
08/01/2000105/01/1999
 On 8-01-00, with a california highway patrolman as a witness, the brakes on my grand daughters car failed completely (pedal to floor), upon pumping the pedal the brakes then locked up and the car went into an uncontrolled skid striking a stopped vehicle. this happened on the freeway in a construction zone and we are unsure of the vehicle speed at the time of impact. she was traveling at approximately 45 mph at the time of the initial brake failure. fortunately no one was injured (although my grand daughter's head did strike the windshield) and very little damage was done to either vehicle. both front tires now have severe cuts and abrasions across their width, approximately 6 to 8 inches long, where the newly formed grooves in the highway shredded the tires upon brake lockup. failed components: 1) brakes - complete failure, then severe lockup. 2) air bags - neither the driver nor passenger air bags deployed upon impact. 3) selt belts - seat belts failed to lockup upon impact. the chp officer, who was sitting in the construction zone area, stated that he saw the entire incident and expressed his concern that with the severity of the impact that the air bags had not deployed. the brake rotors, calipers and pads on this vehicle were replaced and/or rebuilt by ford under warranty at 32k miles. we have so far been unsuccessful in contacting ford/mercury about these problems, and the dealers seem to be at a loss on how to check the failed components. their attitude is one of disbelief since the cars were not severly damaged. when will it happen again? *ak
07/27/2000207/01/1998
 Consumer was traveling 40mph & had brake failure. consumer had to use the emergency brake & move off of expressway. dealer determined the abs pump module sprung a leak & lost of all hyfraulic brake fluid. the warranty expired because of mileage. abs booster pump, master cylinder and other components also replaced. vehicle had to return for repairs within 24 hours of picking up vehicle after initial repairs. *ak *ml
05/05/1999204/02/1999
 Within one month of ownership brakes and rotors failed (may 5, 1999) and again in (july 1999). mjs
02/04/1999812/31/1998
 Brakes continually make grinding noise since ownership, several repairs and inspections to vehicle with no remedy, consumer almost in vehicle accident due to loss of brake ability, however no remedy at this time for brake failure and noise. *mjs
03/03/1999209/12/1998
 Brakes failed. mjs
05/12/1999
 When putting vehicle into reverse and applying the brakes, there is a loud squeaking noise coming from the vehicle. *ak
02/17/19991
 Since purchase of vehicle brakes have continually experienced squeaking and grinding noise, tsb #12260 states the cause may be from the silver dacromet coating on the rotors, which are embedding itself into the pads, no current repairs to rectify at this time.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS - DISC
07/30/2001107/12/2001
 There is a noise in the front wheels, which later was determined the cause of the noise was because of brake failure. *jg
01/05/2001109/01/1998
 Front brakes failed with no warning. friction material detached from backing. rotors ruined. no method for warning provided by mercury as done by other manufacturers.*ak
 Premature wear of brake pads and rotors. dealer has replaced pads and rotors.*ak
10/01/2000205/01/1999
 Serpentine belt slips when driving in rain causing a loss in power steering and all warning lights coming on inside of car. there are various reports about this problem.......#2 front brake pads are wearing out way to early, and also had front rotors replaced. *ak
 Brake pedal is normal when applied, but there is a vibrating and pulsating feeling in front end when the brakes are applied. also, extended stopping distance. dealer has been contacted.*ak
02/01/1999308/01/1998
 Had to change front brakes 3 times . now rear brakes have same problem and dealer refuses to change calling the problem acceptable. sunroof assembly failed 3 times . was driving for 3 months with problem before the part came in. afraid the sunroof would fly off the car when in high speed.had to change intirior cloth 1 time because it had water stains. had to change weather gard on driver side door and it is still not done right.window has marks from it when i open it.
12/01/1998100006/01/1998
 Brakes squeak excessively, lots of brake dust, grinding in reverse, daily since purchase, dealer says normal
01/17/2000
 When applying brakes there was a grinding sound, and vehicle would vibrate while stopping. vehicle has been in dealer's shop on several occasions, and problem was still occurring. dealer informed consumer that nothing else could be done. feel free to provide further details. *ak
04/02/2000509/01/1998
 Within 15000 miles, loud grinding noise when backing up despite repeated trips to dealer service; within 15000 miles, loud grinding noise during normal braking; weather seal around driver door constantly falling off; radio failure at 12500 miles that will come back on when simply touching the *ak
12/30/1999100012/01/1999
 The problem is not bad rotors/pads, i had the dealer turn the rotors and the problem subsided for a while. then a week later they returned. its a low grind/growling noise much different from low pads or no pad left. i have also noticed that alot of people on the net have also noticed the same problem. i just want the problem resolved.( dot number: tire size: 215/50r/16 )
02/01/2000
 Excessive wear of the front brake rotors and pads. upon acceleration vehicle pulls to the right. also, alternator fuse has blown twice, dealer has put in a larger fuse, but did not solve problem. dealer has yet to determine the cause. *ak *ml
05/01/1999
 Brakes are making a grinding noise and are vibrating, making it very hard to stop. *ak
04/23/1999303/01/1999
 I have had the car in 3 seperate times for the front brakes. they continue to grind and the car pulls to the right or left. i have noticed a decrease in brake performance.
05/10/1999104/01/1999
 Caliper pin was replaced by dealership, no charge.
12/01/1998
 The brakes grind.this is the second time i have had it in the garage to fix this problem in two months. what happens when the warranty expires?, and what do i do if this keeps occurring? *ak
10/01/1998
 Brakes make grinding sound and squeak. dealer told me to live with it until ford comes up with a fix... also trunk lid will not open consistantly with remote or button in the car---dealer claims it works-i have yet to find anyone who could make it work consistantly. *ak
09/01/199807/01/1998
 I have had my car in twice (2 times for brake & transmission service) none of the problems that i have, had have been corrected. my brakes still scrub & my transmission still bucks, after these returns for service. i am very unhappy about the way my car is running. especially the brakes which are making me worry. i have had my car in on 9/17/1998 and 12/2/98 for these problems, among other problems, and the brakes and tranzmission problems still exist. i am not very happy with my 1999 mercury cougar and i will not buy one again, unless i know that ford has put their best in this car. sincerely, adria l. person
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS - DISC - CALIPER
12/01/2000
 Brake calipers stick frequently, leaving vehicle with no brakes.had parts replaced. however,problem reoccurred. contacted dealer.*ak
 While traveling, slowed down, and when depressing brake pedal vehicle would not gain speed. technician stated that right caliper malfunctioned. please provide furhter information. *ak
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS - DISC - PADS
07/01/200473000206/01/1998
 Driver's side wheel bearing has failed 3 times in 4 months. each time requiring the bearing to be replaced, as well as the brake pads and rotors. *ak
 When vehicle was being driven and brakes were applied a usual grinding noise occurred. noise occurred due to type of brake pads that vehicle was manufactured with. please give any further details. *ak
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS - DISC - ROTOR
06/23/2000702/01/2000
 1999 mercury cougar has problems with the speakers, battery equipment, brake equipment and instrument cluster.***no answer required***. *mr the vehicle pulled to the right while driving. the consumer stated on a separate occasion while driving she noticed the vehicle had no brakes, the consumer was able to find a mechanic who determined all for rotors and pads needed to be replaced. the consumer stated the brake light did not illuminate. *jb
07/01/200473000206/01/1998
 Driver's side wheel bearing has failed 3 times in 4 months. each time requiring the bearing to be replaced, as well as the brake pads and rotors. *ak
101/01/2002
 I feel like such an idiot because i bought this car!! unbelieveable problems, and now i have to try to sell this car. i paid $16000 for this crap, and then i had to pay $300 because the rotors warped on my rear brakes, and then the track on my sunroof completley broke, and that is going to cost me at least $800. ford/mercury should be sued for making a totally crappy car. as you can see by the number of complaints on your website, something needs to be done about this!!!! thanks, rosie
09/01/2000
 While driving 35-40 mph and applying brakes there was a grinding noise, and vehicle pulled to the left. consumer inspected brakes, brake pad had ground into the rotor. consumer replaced left front rotor.*ak
01/10/2002107/01/1999
 Please contact me at 612-708-8155 to further describe the problem. front tire rotors were shot after only 30000. this is highly unusual and unsafe for other mercury cougar owners. would like to get 300 dollar reimbursement from ford-mercury for replacement / repair of rotors.*ak
07/01/2000
 Rotors needed to be replaced due to wear and tear. dealer recognized problem at 20ooo miles.*ak
05/05/1999204/02/1999
 Within one month of ownership brakes and rotors failed (may 5, 1999) and again in (july 1999). mjs
412/01/1998
 It has been in the shop four times for brake problems. the car shakes after 3,000 miles and the rotors need turning which costs 300.00 each time. *ak
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - FOUNDATION COMPONENTS - MASTER CYLINDER
 Master cylinder was defective, causing brake fluid to leak from vehicle. this brake cylinder was replaced, and problem reoccurred.*ak
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC - SWITCHES - BRAKE LIGHT
06/29/2000106/01/1998
 Brake light switch controls release of shifter & won't release if brake lights do not come on. shifter would not release, left me stranded, had to have car towed to dealership, still waiting for part to come in. needs override button for driver safety!*ak