Mercury Sable 1993 - Engine and engine cooling - car safety information, failing parts, recalls, bulletins, complaints

Mercury Sable 1993

Recalls
Technical Service Bulletins
Defect investigations
Consumer Complaints

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
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - COOLING SYSTEM - FAN
97V019000	FORD MOTOR COMPANY	from 07/22/1991 to 11/18/1994	V (Vehicle)	75200	03/31/1997	ODI	FORD MOTOR COMPANY	02/25/1997	02/26/1997
Defect Summary	These 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 Summary	This 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 Summary	Dealers will install an electrical jumper harness containing an automatic resetting circuit breaker to protect the fan motor low speed circuitry from overheating.
Notes	Owner 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

Bulletin	Bulletin date	Item no.	Summary	Added
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - COOLING SYSTEM
9849	03/02/1998	601270	Concerns with coolant may leak from the head gaskets and / or the vehicle may overheat. *yc	07/16/1998
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - COOLING SYSTEM - FAN
97S66	02/01/1997	51571	Recall 97s66 - advance announcement - the engine cooling fan could stall due to accumulation of ice, snow and slush when the car is operated under certain conditions of high wind, heavy blowing snow and low temperatures - if the fan motor i	06/27/1997
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - COOLING SYSTEM - RADIATOR ASSEMBLY
95153	07/01/1995	45934	Temperature gauge - fluctuating and /or inaccurate high readings. *sd	04/25/1996
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - ENGINE
01124	06/25/2001	622665	On 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. *tt	10/22/2001
9811329	02/01/1998	607497	Information regarding the the availability of the revised headgasket for coolant loss conditions on some engines. *tt	09/24/1999
9874	04/13/1998	601343	A new silicone gasket and sealant. *yc	07/24/1998
97610	03/17/1997	51990	Blower motor- chirping or squeaking from blower motor at low speeds. *jd	07/17/1997
9743	02/17/1997	51682	Blower motor- chirp or squeak from blower motor at low speeds. *jd	06/27/1997
ONP92M77	06/01/1995	45051	Supplement to onp92m77 - program expanded to include 1992/93 ford taurus and mercury sables. *tw	11/01/1995
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - ENGINE - GASOLINE
0214	01/21/2002	630001	Some engine assemblies with aluminum cylinder heads repaired in-vehile have been found to leak coolant and/or oil from the cylinder head gasket area. *tt	04/11/2002
99183	09/06/1999	6090051	Service tip information on revised oil pan gasket replacement procedure. *tt	03/06/2000
99816	05/03/1999	606420	Ford motor company now recommends sae 5w-30 viscosity grade for servicing any ford gasoline-powered vehicle regardless of model year. *tt	08/19/1999
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - EXHAUST SYSTEM
982010	10/12/1998	603695	Experiencing a buzzing or rattling noise from the exhaust system. *yc	03/02/1999
9864	03/30/1998	601312	Information on a buzzing or rattle noise from the exhaust system. *tt	07/21/1998
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - EXHAUST SYSTEM - EMISSION CONTROL
982310	11/23/1998	603724	Mass air flow (maf)- sensor contamination- service tip. *ak	03/03/1999
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - EXHAUST SYSTEM - EMISSION CONTROL - CATALYTIC CONVERTOR
94227	10/01/1994	37749	Objectionable odor from the exhaust system. *tw	01/06/1995

Investigations

NHTSA ID	Manufacturer	Date open	Date close	Subject	Recall campaign
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
PE96033	FORD MOTOR COMPANY	05/02/1996	09/30/1996	ENGINE COOLING FAN FIRES	97V019000
	Bad weather may cause the engine cooling fan to freeze the fan shroud.
EA96024	FORD MOTOR COMPANY	09/30/1996	04/15/1997	ENGINE COOLING FAN FIRES	97V019000
	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.

Consumer Complaints

Fail date	miles	occurences	Purchase date
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
12/15/2002	141762
	I have a 3.8l ford engine in my car. it was replaced before i purchased it at 126219 miles with another rebuilt 3.8l. now i have a blown head or head gasket. i called ford and they say mercury didnt have the problems. my vin showed no past recalls. whats up. its a rebuilt 3.8l. i cant afford to fix it and its only got 15543 miles on it. cant ford do anything. the motor has been in a little over a yr. the warranty is up the salespeople from instant auto quote. help.
05/15/2003	135000
	Ford 3.8l head gasket failure transmission failure
06/15/2003	106000
	About 1 month after the mass air flow sensor was replaced and about 6 months after my head gaskets were replaced, my sable started to hesitate when warm. the vehicle has no power. the fuel pump, fuel filter, air filter and throttle position sensor have all been replaced with no effect. the timing has also been found to be right on.
07/15/2003	0
	I don't have the information for all the above but could find it if necessary. i am more concerned about the head gasket which needs to be replaced. i was never made aware that there was a problem that could happen at any time. i do not know what to do and, living on a small pension and social security, do not have thge money to repair or replace the vehicle.
	46163	1	01/01/1994
	Several repairs as well as maintenance done to a 1993 mercury sable.mr repairs range from head gasket to radiator. ph *jb
07/12/2003	19724	1
	Consumer stated vehicle's head gasket failed prematurely. dealer notified. ph temperature gauge showed vehicle is over heating, which led to the replacement of the thermostat; however, problem still occur. also, mechanic noted that head gaskets were blown. la
	74047	1
	Vehicle experienced the same defect as stated in recall 97 v 019 000, but this vehicle not included in recall due to vin. *ak
01/22/2002		2	10/01/1993
	Consumer stated the head gasket and thermostat were replaced.*jb
04/01/2001		1	09/01/1999
	Engine has failed, and before this happened engine was making noises. also, temperature gauge was reading on high. contacted dealer.ak jb
03/01/1999		1
	Engine head gasket went out after consumer had started vehicle. temperature gauge started to go up ,and engine check light kept coming on, but engine was not totally warmed up.contacted dealer, and dealer was not willing to do anything because it was not included in a recall. ak shortly after replacing of head gasket, the oxygen sensors failed. the manufacturer had admitted that the head gasket was defective, and the consumer was asking for reimbursement. yh
01/18/2001		0
	There was no heat and engine was running rough, temperature gauge was going up and down, took vehicle to dealer, and they said consumer had a blown head gasket, and needed a new engine. *ak
08/03/2000		1
	Was driving 35-40mph when without warning vehicle overheated. temperature gauge went off the chart & the vehicle stalled. towed to dealer & mechanic indicated engine head gaskets had blown & were leaking.*ak
04/14/2000		1	08/26/1999
	Head gasket problem, reimbursment
11/30/1999		1	08/01/1994
	I'm an older woman and do not drive my car fast and keep in in good condition. while driving at approx 45 mph white plumes of smoke came out of the car and the temperature gauge moved all the way to hot. i then started to smell a foul smell. . it cost over $1000.00 to replace the gaskets. *ak
03/01/2000		1	08/01/1998
	Gauge goes to hot after 5 minutes of driving. white smoke pours from tail pipe. low on water. difficulty starting. rough idle when stopping. replaced battery and starter. still have occasional problems starting. ( aso, brakes have squealed when we bought it. )
03/21/2000		1	07/01/1993
	1993 mercury sable (58,500 mileage) head gasket failure: a few days ago, the temperature guage began fluctuating from cold to hot; and would then return to mid-range only to go back to hot -- this cycle continually repated itself. while it was in the hot range, a whirring noise from the engine could barely be detected. heater would not heat up while engine was in idle and would begin heat output only after the car had been driven for about 25 minutes. took the car into the dealership on tuesday, 03/21/00, only a few days after noticing this sudden change in the vehicle performance. estimated cost as of 03/21/00 is: $1,000 - $1,500 (final estimate from dealership due on 03/22/00). will also be contacting ford motor co. on 03/22/00. *ak
03/02/2000		1	08/01/1993
	Well maintained vehicle. while on highway, temperature gauge moved between cold and hot. i exited highway and returned home. temperature in normal range. after 1 hour started car to take for repairs. after quarter mile on residential street, head gasket failed. white anti-freeze exhuast. car would not restart. car was towed to dealer.
02/01/1997			11/10/1994
	Intermittent stalling.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - COOLING SYSTEM
10/15/2002		1	02/01/2093
	I have seen this same complaint by numerous people, nhtsa graph of gasket failures shows thousands for 1993 3.8l sables/taurus. is there any recourse? help!! dt
08/25/2001		1	05/01/2000
	No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak
11/09/2000		1	08/01/1993
	No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak
03/02/2001			12/01/1993
	3.8l loss of coolant, engine temp fluctuating, oil in coolant. 72k miles! dealer repaired. ford will not admit responsibility. car immaculate inside/out - all ford maintenance performed/highest quality materials. ford told me-have had many complaints- forwarding my concerns to the engineering department. if they decide to do anything, - will notify me. had i purchased essentially same vehicle 3 weeks later (1994 model), covered. this is not a part expected to fail in any vehicle unless abuse. ford redesigned gaskets- further evidence of defect. reliability/resale value affected -widespread information of these failures. *ak
08/10/2000			09/01/1994
	This is my mother's car. i purchased it in spruce pine, nc for her. she has given me power of att. for this difficulty. her car lost coolant, she took it to the ford dealer in nj. he checked and told her to drive it and come back in a week. the car overheated due to head gaskets. it engine was ruined- headgaskets, housings, rings, bearings, water pump. paid $3000.00 in repairs, but rings and bearings were not replaced. no oil pressure, uses oil, and rack & pinion then went out. has 80000 on it now. dealer knew 3.8 engines had problems back to '89. no satisfaction- no workable car. ford will pay for new engine up to 1994 even though this problem has been there since 1989. please help. *ak
11/22/1996		3
	Vehicle experiencing coolant leaks, replaced hose and added anti-freeze, radiator replaced 2/29/00, water pump, timing cover gasket, both cylinder head gaksets and head chambers replaced 10/31/00. cj
		25	08/01/1997
	For the first few weeks after each oil change, a strong burning oil smell is emitted into the passenger compartment (the smell is strongest at slow speeds and during idling). also, a greasy film builds up on the interior of the windshield during this time. i have had several dealers (including morande ford and town & country auto group) and non-dealer mechanics try to fix this problem (numerous attempts during 1997 - 2000). no one has been able to fix it. *ak
11/22/2000		2	07/01/1999
	No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak
10/02/2000		2	01/01/1995
	No summary
09/26/2000		8	10/01/1999
	No summary listed for abov evehicle. *ak
11/23/1999		1
	The engine heated due to leaking water pump and radiator failure. yh
05/22/2000			05/01/2000
	While driving on the freeway, the car began to shake uncontrollably. the car overheated and caused the engine to fail. the engine fan malfunctioned which caused the car to overheat.
11/01/1999		1	05/01/1993
	This is the second mercury sable equipped with a 3.8l v6 that has suffered this failure.the previous car was a 1986 that failed at 68,000 miles and incured about $1200 in repairs. this car was traded in on the 1993 model with all paperwork in the glove box concerning all maintanace and repairs. after the failure on the '93 i checked with various garages in my area and found out this type of problem in the 3.8l v6 is so common that most shops kept the materials to repair this problem in stock. *ak
03/31/2000		1	12/01/1993
	Repairs done at a cost of $1251.08. no safety defect listed within summary. *ak
05/01/2000			05/01/1995
	Ford refuses to fix pre-1994 3.8l engines (even w/low milage). *ak
03/01/2000		1	08/01/1998
	Gauge goes to hot after 5 minutes of driving. white smoke pours from tail pipe. low on water. difficulty starting. rough idle when stopping. replaced battery and starter. still have occasional problems starting. ( aso, brakes have squealed when we bought it. )
01/12/1998		1	09/01/1993
	Chronic coolant leak approx. half pt. month-cruise control failure-water leaks rear window- rattles during bitter winter weather. *ak
10/12/1999		1	11/01/1993
	Blown head gasket. ford covers cost of repairs for this problem in the 1994-95 engines, but not in the 1993. ak ml
01/01/2000		1	07/01/1995
	The car has very low mileage and has been maintained properly. i have been told by several local mechanics that this has been a common occurrence for this car make and year and engine size regardless of mileage, and customers have been referred to contact ford motor company as it appears to be a mechanical defect. i certainly also feel this is a mechanical defect as the car has relatively low mileage. the car faintly smelled of anti-freeze for a week but did not exhibit any leaks or overheating until 1/01/00 when it overheated while exiting a local highway. it was left to cool for a few hours ,assuming it was a thermostat. it was apparent it was more than a thermostat when blue-white smoke appeared from the tailpipe. i would hope that if this has been a chronic problem with this car that something could be done by ford motor company to compensate for the expense to repair as it is a costly job to have done, could not have been avoided, and should not have occurred with a car that is driven just under 6,000 miles per year. your response is greatly appreciated. i do plan to contact ford motor company in the meantime. sincerely, tina m. fasano. *ak
10/30/1998		1	05/01/1993
	Coolant detected in exhaust at 70000 miles failure at 115000. transmission failure at 65000 miles broken clutch cylinder
02/14/1997		1	05/23/1995
	Water pump failed.
11/11/1998		3	12/01/1994
	No summary provided by consumer
		1
	Water pump failed resulting in leaking.
11/29/1997
	While driving at highway speeds the vehicle started to jerk and the engine started to overheat and died. the dealer has been notified. *ak
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - COOLING SYSTEM - FAN
08/09/1999			03/01/1995
	Consumer had to have head gaskets and motor mounts repaired at her own cost. there was 60,426 miles on the vehicle. also, vehicle wasn't included in recall 97v01900/ engine cooling fan. ak ml
		1	10/01/1998
	Engine cooling system fan experienced failure, prior to recall notice (97v019000). *yc
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - COOLING SYSTEM - RADIATOR ASSEMBLY
		1
	Engine and radiator replaced, vehicle also experienced oil leak. *slc
04/16/2001
	Vehicle overheated and had to be towed to dealer. anti-freeze had backed up and leaked out. dealer acknowledged they have had some complaints, but no recall was issued. sensor assembly, transmission pan gasket, cylinder head gasket and thermostat had to be replaced. consumer was respondsible for $1700. *ak
02/26/2001		1	07/01/1995
	Shame, only 47,500 mi. & cracked radiator, leaking coolant. irreparable, must be replaced. 1st, head gaskets & starter at 42,000 mi.and now this. ford cheap radiator - plastic on metal seams gets brittle and cracks. stay away from ford!*ak
11/22/1996		3
	Vehicle experiencing coolant leaks, replaced hose and added anti-freeze, radiator replaced 2/29/00, water pump, timing cover gasket, both cylinder head gaksets and head chambers replaced 10/31/00. cj
10/01/2000		1	10/01/1999
	I purcahsed a 1993 mecury sable with 60,000 miles in oct 99 in orangeburg south carolina. about 6 months the temperature began to fluxuate and the thermostat was replaced. it seemed to correct the problem for about three month and then the overheating problem started again. in oct 200 the vehilce was using water and then radiator was repplaced at a cost of $475.00. and after the repair the mechanic notified me that the headgskets were blown. i parked the car because i no money to repair it. i heard from a freind that the 3.8 engine is notorious for headgaskets in the 3.8l engine in the 1993 sable. after going to pomoco mecury and contacting ford they state there is no recall for this engine. how can they seel a defective engine and not own up to it. there are just too many reports and complaints on this piece or crap engine. i still owe $4,000.00 on this car and repairs will run from $1,000 to $2,000 depending on the damage. this is unacceptable from a auto compnay that makes billions of dollars and didn't spend dime on research. i am steamed, just like the steam coming out of my headgaskets!!!! and i am ready to blow!!!!!furiuos .*ak
08/01/1999		1	10/28/1995
	Radiator failed. nlm
11/23/1999		1
	The engine heated due to leaking water pump and radiator failure. yh
06/15/1999		1	08/01/1993
	Starter and thermostat failed. nlm
05/07/2000		62	12/01/1994
	Blown or cracked head gasket resulted in water pouring out the muffler, other parts replaced wiper, radiator, intake manifold gasket
12/31/1998		1	12/01/1995
	No heat; defrost. had 2 thermostats installed; still no heat. took back to merchanic; discovered blown head gasket-only 40,000 miles on car. was told by mechanic that he had seen many of same year and model with same problem. paid $1200 for head gasket and the two thermostats. would like reimbursement.
02/01/1999		1
	The diagnostics showed that the vehical needed a head gasket a front cover gaskest and a new radiator. the car loses heat and there was oil leaking around the front cover and with the compression test showed the head gasket and some of the coolant was seaping from the radiator. these test were all completed at our local ford dealer. we were told the cost to fix would be about $1700.00
07/13/1993		3
	Vehicle runs hotter at highway speeds, temp guage climbs going uphill.
07/13/1993		3
	Thermostat failed, causing engine to overheat.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - ENGINE
04/01/1993	75000	1
	While driving engine blew out. *ak
11/14/2003	72600	1
	While driving at 40 mph, the vehicle began to overheat. the consumer drove the vehicle to a mechanic, who found the head gasket was blown. the manufacturer and the dealer are aware of the problem. *ph
04/08/2003		1
	The head gasket cracked, and coolant leaked onto the engine. *jb
07/25/2002		4	07/01/2002
	Car has stalled since first day when stopping and upon acceleration engine stalls and won't crank,also had broken motor mounts,power windows not working,tachometer not working,windshield wiper was mising when bought. *ak
		1
	Consumer states engine head gasket blew. dealer not willing to do anything. tt tt
05/22/2002			08/01/2093
	Nine year old car with only about 36,000 miles. car never overheated yet head gasket blew. $1,600 repair bill from my private mechanic. i've had 4 other cars with more than twice the mileage, and older, and never encountered anything remotely similar. *ak
05/23/2002		1	04/01/2093
	Head gasket failure in my mercury 3.8liter v6 engine at about 84,600 miles. my 1993 mercury sable gs wagon (vin = 1melm5541pa612558) had a sudden head gasket failure on may 23, 2002 at about 84,600 miles. the repair costs came to over $2200. this head gasket failure is a known problem on 1988-1995 ford taurus and mercury sable vehicles with this engine (ford tsb # 98-4-9 and ford service campaign 98m01). i talked to ford customer relations (800-392-3673) twice about my case both times to ford associates in their san diego customer relations office. the first time was on may 30, 2002 (spoke to a lady who gave her name as arlene) and the second time was on june 6, 2002 (spoke to a lady who gave her name as taylor). they were able to pull up my case on their computer via my home phone number (480-598-8741). i was told that ford had a 7year/100,000 mile warranty on this head gasket problem. however, even though my car was under the 100,000 mile requirement (my car has only about 84,600 miles), my car did not meet the 7 year requirement (my car is 9 years old). due to these reasons i was told that ford will not cover my repair either fully or partially. this is the first ford-manufactured vehicle that i have bought in my life. i bought it new in 1993 and maintained it exceptionally well. i have all the maintenance receipts right from day one in 1993. i expected it to last me till at least 100,000 miles without major problems. the head gasket is a non-maintenance item and it is quite reasonable to expect it to last at least 100,000 miles. this major problem and fords uncooperative attitude towards me have left a very bad taste in my mouth. my only recourse is to never buy a ford-manufactured vehicle again and to tell my friends about my bad experience in dealing with ford. *ak
05/17/2002		1	12/01/2000
	While driving, engine temperature started climbing and no heat from vents. pulled over and towed to garage where diagnosed as blown head gasket.*ak
12/21/2001		1	09/15/1993
	Antifreeze leak due to blown head gasket. ak there was a recall on blower head gasket at one time, but the dealer pointed out that the recall time was over. the consumer replaced a motion sensor on the transmission which was also was on recall a long time ago. yh
10/01/2001		1
	Consumer stated there is constant coolant fluid leaking from under the hood, consumer was informed by mechanic that the head gaskets were damaged.ak slc
01/15/2002		1
	Consumer stated anti-coolant is leaking on engine and on exhaust system, contacted dealer, and dealer stated that engine gasket had blown, consumer was informed ther was a recall on the vehicle.ak jg
		2
	In 1998 front passenger side engine mount broke due to corrosion. an independent mechanic diagnosed problem and made the necessary repairs. the, on 15-dec-2001, rear engine mounts broke with approximately 130,000 miles on vehicle. dealership informed consumer that vehicle was outside of 50,000 mile service program, and any service work will be made at consumer's expense. please provide any additional information / documentation.*ak
01/25/2002
	While driving engine would overheat and white smoke would come from engine compartment, dealer notified, and informed consumer of a blown head gasket. feel free to provide any further information.*ak
01/01/2001
	While driving engine began to overheat. consumer pulled into a service station to have vehicle evaluated. mechanic informed consumer that head gaskets had blown out. please provide further details.*ak
01/03/1999		1	07/01/1993
	The engine overheated..had the car towed to the dealer.they finally found a leak in the headgasket.they did not mention that this was a recurring problem with the 3.8 engine. i later wrote to ford motor co. director of vehicle service,stating the problem i had with the engine refered to a news item that said ford was extending the engine warranty on the 3.8 engines to include the 1994 and 1995 models. i was informed that the 1993 models were not included. since that time i have read the long list of complaints from 1993 mercury owners on your website....there is obviously a problem with the 1993 3.8 engine! a mechanic told me that he believed that ford (mercury) was now taking care of the problem(reimbursing reair costs)......is this true? i would appreciate any updated information you could send me about this problem.*ak
05/24/2001		1
	Engine blew head gasket.
12/07/2000		2	09/01/1996
	Due to cooling problems the head was removed from this vehicle in 1998 but no warranty claim, nor did we ever receive notice of extended 100,000/7-year coverage on the ford 3.8 engine prior to, during or since, despite ford apparently knowing there was head gasket failure problems in these engines, dating back to 1988. as such, we now must pay $1300 for the head gasket repairs or else dispose of the damaged vehicle at an equally unattractive loss. i'm especially upset because we never received notification from ford or anyone else of this problem when the vehicle still fell within the warranty period. and u.s. vehicle manufacturers wonder why more of us are purchasing foreign-built vehicles? *ak
		1	08/02/1993
	Whenever vehicle was in overdrive, it would jerk and then stall out when turning corners. this caused power steering to lock up. took vehicle to dealership, and was informed nothing could be done about it. vehicle was not recalled.ak consumer was informed that his vehicles vin was not included in recall, so consumer had the head gasket and thermostat replaced and paid for repairs. transmission is now going out. right outer tie rod end replaced, was causing a squeaking noise when turning steering wheel. windshield washer pump failed and caused a leak. headlight switch failed. slc
06/20/2001
	While driving enigne blewout. vehicle was non driveable. head gasket could be one of reasons. please provide more information. *ak
02/13/2001		1
	Vehicle experienced engine head gasket failure in which water entered into the combustion chamber, since water is not compressibile the connecting rods and pistons wrist pins failed from excessive force destroying the engine, parts ended up in the oil pan and punched holes in the pan, consumer states manufacturer denied responsibility even though they had a recall for faulty head gaskets for replacements and had replaced numerous engines that failed, the cause of the failure was improper material selection for the head gaskets which was a design error, manufacturer advised consumer that since the engine was beyond their 5 year, 60,000 mile power train warranty they had no responsibility, consumer is requesting that claim be reconsidered because vehicle is well within the 60,000 mile power train warranty. *jb
03/04/2000		1	12/01/1993
	Engine head gaskets failed at 49,000 and at 51,000 motor mounts had to be replaced, oil pan is rusting from the outside and needs replacement, starter has a clip to attach connection, comes loose and must get under car to re-attach (some engineering wiz here) front body mount is under oil filter and will have to be replaced soon. have contacted ford and they are happy for my business, but are not going to help
		1	09/30/1993
	Consumer states head gasket failed without warning, consumer was told by mechanic that head gasket disintegrated. *jb
05/01/2000		1
	Automatic transmission is jumping and has difficulty shifting into higher gears. consumer was originally informed that this defect was due to broken motor mounts. consumer had motor mounts replaced. however, transmission problems have remained.ak consumer was advised that problem was a speed sensor, it was repaired .jb
06/05/1997		1	03/01/1994
	The transmission is just one of the problems we have had with this car.the air conditioning never worked very well. december 1998 the air conditioning quit working completely. the cruise control quit working in 1996. one of the power windows quit working in 1997. the headliner near the back windshield started hanging down in 1998. our latest problem is a blown head gasket. we had the transmission repaired 11/1/98 at a cost to us of $1,788.00. plus it cost us over $100.00 to have the car towed. the ford company hasn't done anything to help us.
05/01/2001		1
	Head gasket failure! engine overheated. big bucks to fix. small claims court here i come! *ak
04/24/2001			06/01/2000
	While driving, noticed white smoke coming from rear of car and engine heat indicator noted to be red lined. car taken to nearby dealer who had sold me the vehicle 10 months ago. dealer/repair agent found engine head gasket to be blown.*ak
04/01/2001			03/01/2000
	Engine failure due to head gasket failure. heads were damaged and coolant had damaged crank shaft and bearings. engine had to be replaced with a rebuilt engine. total cost is over $4800 (cdn). contacted ford canada customer service and was told that they would not cover repair of this manufacturers defect. engine only had 81017 km on it at time of failure (50,000 miles). this apparently is a well known defect for this engine and some models and years have been covered. there should be no reason for an engine to fail this way at such low mileage - this is an obvious manufacturers defect and should be covered by the manufacturer.*ak
04/16/2001
	Vehicle overheated and had to be towed to dealer. anti-freeze had backed up and leaked out. dealer acknowledged they have had some complaints, but no recall was issued. sensor assembly, transmission pan gasket, cylinder head gasket and thermostat had to be replaced. consumer was respondsible for $1700. *ak
04/08/2001
	Consumer pulled out of driveway when thick white steam started coming out of the tail pipe. engine started to overheat after driving 3 miles and running roughly. mechanic looked at the vehicle and informed him that is was a blown head gasket. engine is a 3.8l fuel injected v6.*ak
		1	01/07/1994
	The head gasket was leaking causing the vehicle to overheat while driving. nlm
04/01/2001		1	09/01/1999
	Engine has failed, and before this happened engine was making noises. also, temperature gauge was reading on high. contacted dealer.ak jb
08/10/2000			09/01/1994
	This is my mother's car. i purchased it in spruce pine, nc for her. she has given me power of att. for this difficulty. her car lost coolant, she took it to the ford dealer in nj. he checked and told her to drive it and come back in a week. the car overheated due to head gaskets. it engine was ruined- headgaskets, housings, rings, bearings, water pump. paid $3000.00 in repairs, but rings and bearings were not replaced. no oil pressure, uses oil, and rack & pinion then went out. has 80000 on it now. dealer knew 3.8 engines had problems back to '89. no satisfaction- no workable car. ford will pay for new engine up to 1994 even though this problem has been there since 1989. please help. *ak
03/14/2001		1	01/01/1997
	The starters made for this car are not the right kind i am alwys replacing it, headgaskets blew out at 80000 miles the transmission went out at 103265 this car is poorly built.*ak
10/01/1998		2
	Consumer has had engine gasket problem before in october 1998. there was $4000 worth damage. anti-freeze ran out first and it started to overheat within 5 to 10 minutes. dealers have never given an explanation as to what caused problem. ak slc

	Head gasket failure, diagnosed by dealer after intermittent engine light problem. 1994 and 1995 have recall for head gasket replacement, for same engine, but not for 1993. same problem reported by many others apparently without reponse from manufacturer. i will follow with complaint directly to ford with hopes that recall will be expanded. *ak
			09/01/1997
	Driving at normal highway speed car dies in busy intersection blowing anti freeze out tail pipe. dealer recommended replacing engine. was told it was a blown head gasket. other mechanic says common problem in 1993 mercury 3.8 l engines. help please. *ak
02/15/2001		1	10/01/1993
	This 3.8 l v-6 blew front and read head gaskets at approx. 76,300 miles; i believe this is a manufacurer/engineering defect. would like mercury to pick-up the tab of over $1,000.00 for repairs.
01/01/2001		1
	Approaching parking lot vehicle began to rattle and smoke, vehicle towed to mechanic, vehicle found to have blown head gasket(s). cj
02/26/2001		15	06/01/1998
	Heads went bad at 56,000 new raditor air conditioner in shop 4 times melted pieaces in my hoses, switch whole system over and still does not work. the steering wheel is welted together the hood was painted and also has a different color door but they say the car has a clean title but why would the steering wheel be welded together and no bolts makes a clunking noise in the front end drives very unsafe. handles all over the road. engine went bad because of the heads and i'm steal paying for the lemon.*ak
02/27/2001		1	01/01/1995
	Car first exhibited lack of heat, then erratic engine temps, up to the hottest on the gauge, loss of coolant, and white smoke from exhaust. independant garage stated head gasket failed. two dealers and ford co. called admitted to recall for same problem with 94-95 3.8 but too bad mine was built 07/93. indie garage stated doing 1 of same repair each week in town of 90,000.*ak
11/22/1996		3
	Vehicle experiencing coolant leaks, replaced hose and added anti-freeze, radiator replaced 2/29/00, water pump, timing cover gasket, both cylinder head gaksets and head chambers replaced 10/31/00. cj
01/01/2001			02/01/1993
	We have spent over a thousand dollars and now we find a blown gasket! recall!. *ak
02/12/2001		1	04/01/1995
	Motor mounts on engine were replaced 08nov95 per recall - eng mount program 92m77 - by dealer. recently had car serviced and was shown that 2 mounts were broken along with mount on transmission. called ford motor co. and was told that replacement parts have a 12 month warranty only.

	Engine mounts on passenger's side are cracked which causes engine to rise when vehicle is being driven. please give any further details. *ak
10/28/2000
	Engine mount failure at 20,000 miles. manufacturer notified and informed consumer that this vehicle was not covered under a recall. please feel free to provide any further details on this matter. *ak
02/08/2001		1	05/01/1993
	Blown head gasket per dealer ladin lincoln mercury. *ak
10/01/2000		1	10/01/1999
	I purcahsed a 1993 mecury sable with 60,000 miles in oct 99 in orangeburg south carolina. about 6 months the temperature began to fluxuate and the thermostat was replaced. it seemed to correct the problem for about three month and then the overheating problem started again. in oct 200 the vehilce was using water and then radiator was repplaced at a cost of $475.00. and after the repair the mechanic notified me that the headgskets were blown. i parked the car because i no money to repair it. i heard from a freind that the 3.8 engine is notorious for headgaskets in the 3.8l engine in the 1993 sable. after going to pomoco mecury and contacting ford they state there is no recall for this engine. how can they seel a defective engine and not own up to it. there are just too many reports and complaints on this piece or crap engine. i still owe $4,000.00 on this car and repairs will run from $1,000 to $2,000 depending on the damage. this is unacceptable from a auto compnay that makes billions of dollars and didn't spend dime on research. i am steamed, just like the steam coming out of my headgaskets!!!! and i am ready to blow!!!!!furiuos .*ak
			06/01/1998
	I took the car in to be checked for a coolant leak and was told the head gaskets had blown. the local ford dealership told us there was a warranty extension for '94-'95 3.8l engines. since it is the same engine and the same problem seems to plague almost all 3.8l engines, why didn't ford fix the problem with all the 3.8 l engines? as for the motor mounts i was told by the same ford dealership that there was some sort of m paper sent out but since i didn't own the car at that time, again it was too late for the corrections to be made by ford. so in the end it has cost me and my husband over $2,000 to repair these things that should have been covered by ford. one more thing about the motor mounts, there is no mechanical sfety device to keep things 'together' when the rubber bladder slpits or comes apart. this could allow the negine to raise up out of the well and into the fire wall or out of the well all together, not to mention putting almost everything else attached to it, in a powerful bind.*ak
01/01/2000		0
	Consumer had found out a strong smell of oil just like a frying pan. hadn't taken vehicle to a dealer, but believed that vehicle had a blown head gasket.*ak
01/29/2001		1	04/01/1994
	Head gasket leak caused the car to shutter when cold and consume antifreeze.*ak
01/11/2001		1	02/25/1993
	A lack of heat in vehicle when needed. taken to an independent repair shop, and informed consumer that 3.8l engine experienced a head gasket failure. manufacturer notified. manufacturer informed consumer that the vehicle was not covered under an extended warranty. ak slc
09/29/1999		1
	Head gasket failed. nlm
03/01/1999		1
	Engine head gasket went out after consumer had started vehicle. temperature gauge started to go up ,and engine check light kept coming on, but engine was not totally warmed up.contacted dealer, and dealer was not willing to do anything because it was not included in a recall. ak shortly after replacing of head gasket, the oxygen sensors failed. the manufacturer had admitted that the head gasket was defective, and the consumer was asking for reimbursement. yh
		1
	Vehicle experienced premature head gasket failure, consuner believes this is a manufacturers defect or design flaw. nlm
03/01/2000		1	03/02/1995
	Defective engine head gasket blew in march of 2000, no assistance from ford, despite widespread problem with this component. *ak
01/22/2001		1	03/31/1994
	Engine was leaking anti-freeze, and engine check light came on. took vehicle to dealer. ak dealer stated engine failed because of head gasket failure, anti-freeze is coming out of the exhaust pipe. slc
12/07/2000		1	11/02/1998
	While traveling noticed vehicle smoking. technician stated that head gasket needed to be replaced. ak head gasket failure caused a chain reaction of other damages. water pump failed and the radiator developed hole due to pressure build up. the timing case caver was leaking. head gasket and transmission failures are the two common problems with lincoln mercury vehicle. yh
03/10/2000		1
	Head gasket failed allowing coolant to leak into the oil resulting in loud tapping noise while driving. nlm
		2	12/01/2000
	A recall has been performed however same problem exists. *ak
01/18/2001		0
	There was no heat and engine was running rough, temperature gauge was going up and down, took vehicle to dealer, and they said consumer had a blown head gasket, and needed a new engine. *ak
12/21/2000		2	04/01/1995
	This is the second time head gasket has failed! i am out over $2000.00. i can't believe ford has the nerve to insist these engines not be apart of the recall.*ak
12/17/2000		1	05/01/2000
	Engine failure due to defective head gasket - vehicles 1994 and above are covered, my 1993 vehicle is not. this is a basic design flaw for which the company has only partially assumed responsibility. replacement motors should be required on design failure at ford's expense. *ak
05/15/2000
	3.8l v6 engine overheated. taken to a independent shop, and informed of a head gasket failure. manufacturer notified, and informed consumer that vehicle was not covered under the extended warranty. feel free to provide any further details on this matter. *ak
12/30/2000			11/01/1999
	Blown head gasket as reported for later models. *ak
12/20/2000
	A head gasket failure with a v6 3.8 engine; manufacturer notified and informed consumer that vehicle was not covered under extended warranty. please feel free to provide any further details on this matter. *ak
		1
	Head gaskets blewout. dealer has been notified. *ak
12/15/2000
	Vehicle experienced coolant leakages/overheating, and white smoke coming from tail pipe. vehicle taken to dealer's shop, and informed consumer of a head gasket failure. vehicle's cost. please feel free to provide any further details on this matter. *ak
01/05/2000		1
	Blown head gasket caused consumer to pay for additional oil changes and repairs to exhaust system, consumer wants reimbursement. *slc
01/29/1998		3	09/04/1992
	Every couple of years the motor mounts have to be replaced, failure causes the engine to move excessively, recall issued, however vehicle continues to experience failure. *mjs
05/15/2000		1	05/01/1994
	The premature failure of the head gaskets at 60,000 miles is typical of the failures on outher recalled model years and is a result of defective parts and should be the responsability of ford. my cost was $1,600 for the repairs. also needed replacement of all freeze plugs. i have also had to repair the ac. almost every year since owning this car because of failures in the lines, manifolds, and seals. *ak
11/29/2000			10/01/1996
	The head gasket blew on my 3.8l merc sable while traveling 35 mph. called my mechanic and he stated that was a common problem on that engine. the ford dealer wants $1500 to repair it. i called ford and they are in denial of having problems with that engine for 1993, but for 94 and 95 they extended the warranty due to problems. *ak
12/08/1999		1	01/01/1994
	The engine head gasket is leaking coolant. *ak
			01/01/1993
	I have replaced motor mounts twice at a cost of $500.00 each time. i complained to the district manager of ford motor and never received a reply. i now received a recall for another subframe mount and was told it is not related by a local dealer in wi. *ak
03/15/1998		1
	Vehicle 3.8l, v-6 engine experienced pressure loss/ white smoke from tail pipe/ loss of coolant, and engine overheating. vehicle taken to independent shop and was informed of a head gasket failure. dealer notified, and informed consumer that vehicle was not covered under manufacturer's recall or extended warranty. ak the recall covered 1994 and 1995 models, not 1993. slc
12/08/2000		1
	Head gasket has blown. dealer has been contacted.ak slc
10/16/1998		3	03/01/1995
	Head gasket blown 3 times. no high temperature warning. *ak
09/24/2000		1	07/01/1993
	Vehicle was running rough. then it started to overheat, did not stall. towed to dealership. mechanic indicated that head gaskets had blown. also indicated engine needed to be replaced due to a lack of lubrication & cooling leaking out.ak the dealer acknowledges that this is a common problem with this engine but unwilling neither to recall nor to pay for the repair. yh
01/20/2000		1	07/01/1998
	White smoke coming out of tailpipe, engine overheated. head gasket failure. *ak
08/01/2000			03/01/2000
	Head gasket failed, damaging crank and bearing. ford will not fix!. *ak
07/15/1999
	Vehicle experiencing problem with engine running rough and overheating/ white smoke coming from tail pipe. vehicle taken to independent shop, and informed of a head gasket failure. dealer/manufacturer notified, and informed consumerthat vehicle was not covered under extended warranty. feel free to provide any further details on this matter. *ak
09/24/2000		1	06/01/1993
	Head gasket problem is common. even the ford customer relationship staff and the service manager at the dealer agree. yet ford refuses to recall or to compensate for the repair. my repair costing $5,000+ requires the replacement of the engine due to severe heat damage.*ak
09/04/2000		1	12/01/1997
	Vehicle was proceeding to north carolina from south carolina when the head gasket allowed water to enter the oil system. this seized the engine and my son was able to control it until in came to a stop off a freeway. we had it towed and is now in a dealership lot awaiting repair. lance tenney
10/28/1998		1
	Motor mounts failed.*et
07/21/2000		1	01/01/1996
	Head gaskets blown @79,500. cost 2,200 to repair.ford claims the car is not covered under their extended 7-year warranty for head gasket failures in the 3.8l engines. *ak
		1	08/01/1993
	Oil pan keeps rusting out and leaking onto exhaust, and out bottom of vehicle which could result in fire. *ak
04/26/2000		1	02/01/1994
	Ford extended the warranty on 1994-1995 taurus and sable on head gasketsfor front wheel drive autos with front-wheel drive 3.8 liter engines. i have the identical specifications on my 1993 sable. i had approxamately 4 email contacts with ford's customer relationship center with no success. all they would say over and over again is that 1993 was not included and that i should keep repair receipts in the event coverage would be provided in the future. ford kept repeating that they consider the satisfaction of their customers as one of their most important objectives. it seems unreasonable that the identical problem is not covered under warranty because the manufacture says enough 1993 model owners didn't complain and 1994-1995 owners did. even though i have a 1993 the mileage low enough to qualify. plain. *ak

	Head gasket and bearing failed
08/03/2000		1
	Was driving 35-40mph when without warning vehicle overheated. temperature gauge went off the chart & the vehicle stalled. towed to dealer & mechanic indicated engine head gaskets had blown & were leaking.*ak
03/06/2000		1	03/01/2000
	Head gasket failure
10/28/1997		1	03/01/1994
	Head gasket failure at 65,000 miles on '93 sable. not covered under ford's warranty. *ak
07/14/2000		1	07/01/1993
	Engine overheated and failed due to head gasket failure. we had the car towed to a repair facility. after investigating the condition of the engine, they informed us that the engine needs new heads and that because of damage to the cylinder walls, a replacement engine is needed. they quoted us the price of $4,000 for a replacement engine. we decided not to have the work done. *ak
08/20/2000			11/01/1993
	This 3.8 l v6 blew a head gasket at 69000 miles and many others are reporting the same problem. i'd like frod to pick up the $1023 bill.
11/01/1999		1
	While driving the temperature guage indicated high and exhaust was fuming due to head gasket failure. yh
08/15/2000		2	08/13/2000
	Liquid motor mounts have raptured and leaked liquid out. vehicle drips oil everywhere, and motor moves all around. there was recall on this problem but the vehicle does not fall under this recall. *ak
10/15/1998			07/01/1997
	Head gasket blew out. complainded to dealer said that it wasn't covered under any warrenty. *ak
04/15/2000		1	03/01/1993
	There was a recall for the head gasket failure for this size engine for cars built in atlanta, my car was built in chicago. why would it only apply to that plant?*ak
08/01/1999		6	08/01/1999
	Since i bought my car i have had overheating problems. my engine check light also has come on many times. to resolve the problem i bought a new radiator, tune-up,and two cases of anti-freeze . finally i found out that it was my head gasket that was causing the problem. i don't have the money to have the car repaired. i don't know how much more damage it caused. *ak
04/03/2000		1	10/28/1995
	Consumers transmission mount was replaced at his expense, ford has only repaired mounts in certain geographical regions (recall), ford refuses to reimburse consumer for the replacement. nlm
08/09/2000		1	03/01/2000
	While traveling noticed white smoke from tail pipe and engine leaking. dealer stated it was caused by a blown head gasket. ak the headgasket caused crank case damage, ford refuss to pay for damages. slc
		1
	Head gasket was leaking. yh
07/22/2000
	Engine has blown head gaskets. this happened two hundred miles after transmission repairs. this was noticed by the dealership when vehicle was brought in for recall campaign. manufacturer has been notified about this problem. ak ml
01/25/1999		1	05/01/1994
	Cost of repair was $1,309.94. head gasket failure in 3.8l engine. this has been the subject of a recall on 1994 model and should include the 1993. *ak
			03/01/1999
	Ford motor co. is refusing to pay for the motor mounts broke when hundreds of cars have been repaired from this problem which is a safety problem. *ak
07/21/2000		1	01/01/1993
	Engine head gasket blew out. repaired head gasket, costing consumer $1,300. *ak
03/10/2000		1
	Head gasket failed causing leakage onto the motor. *mjs
06/06/2000		1
	Motor mounts failed. *mjs
11/10/1999		1
	Vehicle overheating due to failure of head gasket and upper and lower intake gasket. yh
		1
	When vehicle was taken to the dealership because it was overheating engine head gasket was found to be blown. dealer refuses to cover any cost of repair, even though they cover repairs for the same problem in 94 models. ak ml
06/15/1999		1	08/01/1993
	Head gaskets leaking. nlm
		1
	Head gasket leaking. nlm
		1
	Head gasket failed, other model years are offered extended warranty on the component due to failure, however vehicle denied due to model year. *mjs
07/01/2000		1	06/01/1996
	Head gasket blown. car overheated. had to pull over and wait for car to cool down in traffic. had to drive car carefully to nearest repair facility. *ak
06/25/2000		1	12/01/1998
	The oil pan rotted b/c the engine runs too hot, and we had to replace the starter.*ak
		1	06/01/1999
	Lower short block in engine has failed due to head gasket leaking. *ak
06/26/2000		1	09/30/1994
	Engine has been operating poorly. vehicle taken to an independent repair shop.consumer was informed of a blown head gasket. dealer was notified, and informed consumer that vehicle was not covered under extended warranty by the manufacturer. ak while having recall (98v-323) performed additional repair charges for the broken motor mounts. y had to replace waterpump and radiator in october of 2000, $ 925.00
06/24/2000		1	07/29/1993
	While driving vehicle started to overheat. consumer noticed that the anti-freeze level was very low, and temperature gauge was extremely high. it was caused by blown engine head gasket. blown head gasket caused subsequent damage to timing cover gasket/water pump gasket, water pump, intake manifold gasket, o2 sensors, and created need for oil change. ford refuses to assist with the repair costs even though mileage is low . ak ml
05/03/2000		1	01/01/2000
	Engine head gasket failure caused the engine to cease. *ak
11/01/1999
	Head gasket blew out, could have fire,bypasser behind me forced us to stop driving. *ak
06/03/2000		1	07/01/1995
	Presently in contact with dealership and manufacturer with complaints on head gaskets and also complaints on misrepresentation by dealership on sale of warranty.....looking for a good e-mail address to complain to ford....already sent hard copies out (6/12/00). *ak
04/05/2000		1	05/01/1994
	The auto dealer never notified me of the headgasket warranty extension, nor did i receive one in the mail. *ak
08/01/1998		1	02/01/1993
	I've just recently become aware of the wide-spread failures of ford head gaskets. i wanted my complaint to be registered because the performance of my car is deteriorating and i'm afaid of engine failure at the wrong time. i'm transporting children often and i don't really trust the performance of my car any longer. a car that is only seven years old shouldn't be so unreliable. ford has agreed to remedy this defect in 1994 and 1995 models. i don't understand why that remedy does not also apply to the same engine made in 1993. *ak
05/02/2000		1
	While driving vehicle started making funny noises, felt as if it was about to stall out. checked it out & noticed anti-freeze was leaking. this was caused by a broken engine head gasket. vehicle towed to dealer for repairs.*ak
05/07/2000		62	12/01/1994
	Blown or cracked head gasket resulted in water pouring out the muffler, other parts replaced wiper, radiator, intake manifold gasket
10/27/1999		1
	Head gasket failed. nlm
04/20/2000		1	11/01/1993
	Car overheated/red warning light came on. consumer had to pull over to cool off. started back up, and water/anti freeze leaked. out. currently, car won't start. owner would like to know if there is currently a class action suit against ford for their defective 3.8 l engine. ak ml
		1	02/26/1996
	The vehicle stalled on highway due to head gasket failure. yh
		3
	The head gasket blew. yh
01/12/2000		1
	Head gasket failed prematurely, the 1994 and 1995 sable vehicle's were recalled for head gasket failure, however vehicle denied due to model year. *mjs
11/23/1998		1	12/01/1995
	Vehicle experienced premature failure of the head gasket, other model year sable vehicle's have been recalled for the head gasket, however vehicle denied recall repair due to model year. *mjs
			08/01/1997
	Blown headgasket
07/06/1999		1	07/01/1994
	Headgasket failure on ford 3.8l engine, replaced. *ak

	Premature corrosion of the engine oil pan caused oil leakage which resulted in head gasket failure. please give any further details. *ak
01/29/1999
	Consumer was traveling about 25mph on the highway and the vehicle didn't have heat. consumer drove vehicle to the dealership . mechanic told her that it could be the thermostat. while leaving the dealership, consumer noticed that white smoke was coming from underneath the vehicle, from the manifold pipe. there was a tiny pinhole inside of the gasket. there was no prior warning. employee from pep boys told her that the head gasket had blown.*ak
		3	12/01/1999
	Head gasket failure caused the heating system to become erratic. yh
		1	09/01/1993
	Head gasket cracked and shortly after (1000 miles) the entire engine blew as a result of the initial head gasket failure.
09/10/1998		4	04/01/1998
	The problems with the head gaskets and transmissions in the sable/taurus is legendary in the industry. why can't something be done?>ak
		3	09/01/1993
	Motors mounts must be replaced for the 3rd time in 4 1/2 years. *ak
11/20/1998			11/01/1995
	Our mechanic told us that this engine type has this failure at 60,000 miles. other friends ford/mercury's head gaskets were recalled and covered. for some reason 1993 hasn't been recalled yet even though it has the problem. it cost us nearly $1000 to have repaired (the dealer wanted $1800). we would like mercury to reimburse us for this defect. *ak
05/08/2000		1	05/01/1994
	Metal wire attachment to rear window defoger fell off dealer wanted to charge $ 800.00 to replace entire rear window i had it repaired for $25.00 at a local repair shop . when i notifed dealer about the premature failure of the headgasket and the recalls on the 1994 and 1995 models and asked if the same parts were used i was told they could not help me. i hope you can thank you.

	3.8 liter v-6 engine has blown head gaskets with less than 69,000 miles. *ak
			12/01/1992
	3.8 liter v-6 engine has blown head gaskets with under 69,000 miles, contacted ford and was told that even though they are honoring warranties on this engine for their 1994 & 1995 cars,they are not doing this for the 1993 cars with the same engine.i think this is completely unfair,since i have heard that this engine has had a lot of problems with blown head gaskets .i would like to know what i can do about ford paying for its repair or replacment. *ak
		3	12/01/1999
	Head gasket failure caused the heating system to become erratic. yh
02/28/2000
	Vehicle was traveling at highway speed of 55 mph when it overheated and lost power. vehicle was towed to dealer. dealer informed consumer of a blown head gasket. it was not covered under manufacturer's exteneded warranty. *ak
02/09/2000		0
	While coming out of driveway engine head gasket blew out. took vehicle to mechanic and he replaced the head gasket. *ak
05/01/2000		0	12/01/1998
	While driving automobile overheated and white smoke came out of the exhaust pipe, smelling like antifreeze. consumer let automobile to cool off for about an hour. then took it to mechanic who told him he had a blown engine head gasket. ford has a recall issued for 95 mercury and taurus for this problem, but not the 93 models. ak ml
04/03/2000		1	03/01/1998
	Head gasket blown
12/11/1997
	Vehicle wouldn't turn over. vehicle was towed to the dealership. mechanic told consumer she had a cracked engine head gasket. *ak
05/01/2000
	Vehicle experienced problem with coolant leakages. was taken to dealer, and informed consumer that problem was due to a blown head gasket. also, vehicle was not covered under a manufacturer's extended warranty. ak ml
07/01/1998		1	11/03/1997
	After driving turned off engine, and a cloud of smoke came from the engine. vehicle was towed to repair shop where technician said it was a head gasket failure. dealer installed ford authorized rebuilt engine at owner's cost. ak ml
03/02/2000		1	01/23/1993
	Faulty head gasket caused erratic engine performance. nlm
		1	03/19/1994
	Head gasket broke, ford will not cover under extended warranty due to model year. nlm
03/03/2000		1
	The vehicle's head gasket blew out while driving. yh
		3	12/01/1999
	Head gasket failure caused the heating system to become erratic. yh
12/10/1999		1	08/01/1993
	Head gasket failer&subfarme bushing failed. *ak
11/30/1999		1	08/01/1994
	I'm an older woman and do not drive my car fast and keep in in good condition. while driving at approx 45 mph white plumes of smoke came out of the car and the temperature gauge moved all the way to hot. i then started to smell a foul smell. . it cost over $1000.00 to replace the gaskets. *ak
02/10/2000		2
	First time engine head gasket blew out was at 43100 miles, and the second time head gasket blew out was at 74100. consumer stated that there was no relief from manufacturer. engine was leaking out white smoke. *ak
03/30/2000		1	05/01/1994
	Head gasket failed at 58,000 miles. a problem ford acknowledges for the 3.8l engine but will only take responsibility for 1994 and newer cars. *ak
05/01/1999			05/01/1998
	When we encountered this problem, we spoke to ford and they denied that there was a problem with our particular engine type. we have since found out that there has been a problem with the 3.8 liters since 1988. ford recently did a recall and reimbursed people with 94 and 94 sables with the exact same problem. i called again and was told the same thing, my engine has no problem, i have bills that say otherwise. *ak
02/25/2000		1	05/01/1994
	Engine head gasket failed, leaking antifreeze into oil, oil pressure dropped at idle at stop light. dealer said engine would need replacement, possible damage to main and rod bearings. *ak

	Head gasket blew out, causing coolant to leak onto the engine. manufacturer has been notified. *ak
04/07/2000		1
	Engine head gasket blew out, causing anti- freeze to leak into v6 3.8 liter engine. problem caused by faulty seals between the cylinders and engine blocks of these engines. oxygen sensors were also damaged by the coolant leak and had to be replaced. ford helping to fix the 94 and 95 sable, but not this 93 sable, which has the same problem. *ak.
11/01/1999		1
	The vehicle's temprature guage indicated high due to the engine head gasket failure. yh
03/16/2000		2
	Engine head gasket failed on two occasions. first failure occurred at 40,000 mile under warranty, and second failure occurred at current 80,000 miles. repairs done at an independent repair shop. 94 and 95 models were given extended warranty, 93 wasn't, but has the same head gasket. owner wants reimbursement for repairs. *ak
03/15/2000			03/01/1994
	Ford refuses to extend warranty to blown headgasket repair; having it repaired elsewhere -vin is not available because i don't have access to it. i will be suing ford to recover repair cost for defective engine. dot must require ford to cover all 3.8l faulty headgaskets produced. please help consumers. *ak
03/10/2000
	Noticed coolant leakages . vehicle taken to dealer, and informed consumer of a blown engine head gasket(3.8l engine). *ak
03/21/2000		1	07/01/1993
	1993 mercury sable (58,500 mileage) head gasket failure: a few days ago, the temperature guage began fluctuating from cold to hot; and would then return to mid-range only to go back to hot -- this cycle continually repated itself. while it was in the hot range, a whirring noise from the engine could barely be detected. heater would not heat up while engine was in idle and would begin heat output only after the car had been driven for about 25 minutes. took the car into the dealership on tuesday, 03/21/00, only a few days after noticing this sudden change in the vehicle performance. estimated cost as of 03/21/00 is: $1,000 - $1,500 (final estimate from dealership due on 03/22/00). will also be contacting ford motor co. on 03/22/00. *ak
01/27/2000		2	10/01/1996
	Two 3.8l mercury sable engine head gasket failures: the first 22jan98, 70418 miles, repaired under warranty by cherner lincoln mercury, virginia. the second 27 jan 2000, 77,266 miles, repaired by ford dealer soo motors, cost me us $1571.19. soo motors svc said in essence i'd have to look to ford for relief. ford customer svc, told me so sorry via phone. thanks, dick couch. *ak
03/01/1999		1	10/01/1996
	Head gasket failure as reported on other 3.8l models. engine was rebuilt. *ak
12/31/1998		1	12/01/1995
	No heat; defrost. had 2 thermostats installed; still no heat. took back to merchanic; discovered blown head gasket-only 40,000 miles on car. was told by mechanic that he had seen many of same year and model with same problem. paid $1200 for head gasket and the two thermostats. would like reimbursement.
12/20/1999		1	12/01/1993
	Head gaskets failed prematurely. ford currently recalling 1994-1995 taurus/sable vehicles with identical engines/identical failures, but ford refuses to acknowledge owners of 1993 vehicles with the same issues. this is unjust exclusion for which i have receive no logical reason from ford. *ak
12/20/1999		1	12/01/1993
	Head gaskets failed prematurely. ford currently recalling 1994-1995 taurus/sable vehicles with identical engines/identical failures, but ford refuses to acknowledge owners of 1993 vehicles with the same issues. this is unjust exclusion for which i have received no logical reason from ford. *ak
02/28/2000
	Engine head gaskets have blown, causing coolant to leak onto the engine. dealer has repaired vehicle. *ak
04/21/1998		1	11/01/1993
	Engine head gasket premature failure. *ak
10/12/1999		1	11/01/1993
	Blown head gasket. ford covers cost of repairs for this problem in the 1994-95 engines, but not in the 1993. ak ml
12/20/1999		1	12/01/1993
	Recall exists for 1994-1995 vehicles with same 3.8l engine. 1993 not included (per ford). why? it's the same engine with the same inherent problem. *ak
08/09/1999			03/01/1995
	Consumer had to have head gaskets and motor mounts repaired at her own cost. there was 60,426 miles on the vehicle. also, vehicle wasn't included in recall 97v01900/ engine cooling fan. ak ml
05/18/1998		1	10/01/1995
	When driving at any speed vehicle overheats and stalls. consumer contacted the dealer, dealer stated head gasket needed replacing. ak ml
12/18/1998		0	06/24/1994
	Engine head gasket cracked, and water was leaking into engine. *ak
03/02/2000		1	08/01/1993
	Well maintained vehicle. while on highway, temperature gauge moved between cold and hot. i exited highway and returned home. temperature in normal range. after 1 hour started car to take for repairs. after quarter mile on residential street, head gasket failed. white anti-freeze exhuast. car would not restart. car was towed to dealer.
02/26/2000		0
	While driving lost coolant water and engine blew. consumer was unable to drive. vehicle had to be towed to mercury dealership, and they said the head gasket had to be replaced. ak ml
10/15/1999		1	05/01/1993
	Head gaskets were defective, but ford refused to reimburse, although they are paying for the same thing on 94-95 sables. very dissappointed with their customer service. *ak
02/10/2000
	While driving on the street at 25 mph vehicle was onerheating and hestitating. vehicle was driven to an independent shop, and consume rwas informed that the 3.8l engine blew a head gasket. dealer notified. *ak
02/06/2000
	Head gasket blew while owner was trying to determine source of coolant leak. after contacting local mechanics, this appears to be a design defect with the 3.8l engine. after contacting the local dealership, there appears to have been some sort of hidden warranty up to 5 years/50,000 miles for this specific problem. this means that ford admits that there is a defect. *ak
06/15/1999		1	08/01/1999
	Head gasket failed causing leakage, resulting in damage to thermostat and starter as well. mjs
06/14/1999			12/01/1993
	The head gasket let go with only 52,000 mil. i bought the the car with 24,000 mil. in dec of 1993 i have only put on 24.000 mil. there is no reson for the head gasket to fail
02/08/2000			12/01/1993
	Engine head gasket failed on highway - steam and smoke clouds dangerous. *ak
01/06/2000
	While driving on the freeway in stop and go traffic vehicle idled roughly and began to overheat. owner was able to drive vehicle home at a slow speed. afterwards the vehicle was towed to a mechanic, where the engine head gasket was found blown. please provide any further information. *ak
12/14/1999		1
	Engine head gasket failed causing overheating and damage to engine components. *mjs
03/31/1999		0	11/01/1997
	While traveling down the highway, engine check light came on. 25 minutes later driver heard an explosion under the hood caused by the head gasket, and resulted in car failure. vehicle had to be towed to dealer. ak ml
12/27/1999
	While traveling on the highway at 55 mph vehicle overheated, and water leaked from the engine head gasket ( 3.8 l engine). dealer notified ,and informed consumer that there was no manufacturer's recall on engine head gasket. *ak
01/01/2000		1	07/01/1995
	No reason for head gasket to blow at 42,000 miles. i'm filing a formal complaint to ford and hope others do the same. there are too many similar complaints. i was exiting a local highway and my car ran hot. blue-white smoke was coming from my exhaust and a the smell of anti-freeze was apparent. please investigate this and other complaints. this is not normal especially for a car with such low mileage. i am awaiting your response. i will contact the ford motor company. thank you, tina m. fasano. *ak

	Engine gasket and power steering pump leaking.
		1	12/04/1998
	Cylinder head gasket failure caused engine to overheat and damage other components. yh
08/24/1999		1	11/01/1992
	Engine head gasket blew out without warning, requiring the car to be towed. the car was repaired by an independent shop (not a dealership).
01/06/1999		3	11/01/1992
	Left and right motor mounts and transmission mount broke. this represents the third time the motor mounts have failed. all three repairs used original ford replacement parts. all repairs were done by independent shops.

	Headbolt snapped, causing engine to freeze and stop, resulting in a big cloud of smoke, making it diffcult for other drivers to see. *ak
10/01/1999		1	05/01/1994
	1. head gasket failure at highway speed, engine coolant found in exhaust system, damage is being evaluated. 2. air compressor appears to be common problem in ford line. have replaced one in 89 taurus at same mileage which has failed again. have also replaced air compressor in 96 aspire at 35000
02/17/1998		1
	The gasket cylinder head blew and replaced. yh
08/09/1999		1
	Recall inspection of the engine mounts completed, however were not showing signs of defect, and not repaired (92m77), however failed after recall inspection required replacement. yh
08/20/1999		2	10/01/1996
	Dealer repaired broken engine mounts two years ago, now broken again second time. ford refuses to repair a second time. out of warrenty.
07/07/1999			11/01/1998
	While driving vehicle jumped out of gear. mechanic replaced motor mounts, but problem got worse. same day took vehicle to transmission shop and had transmission replaced. later received recall notice regarding the sub-frame rear plate nut, which can ruin the transmission or motor if loose or defective. recall repair completed, but owner wants reimbursement for previous repairs.
05/01/1999		1	04/15/1995
	Lower engine motor mount cracked causing transmission to surge when shifting gears which could result in an accident. *yc
04/01/1999		1	04/15/1995
	Blown head gasket. *yc
03/01/1999		2	06/01/1998
	I am terribly angry that a car with 59,500 miles should have a head gasket failure resulting in $1131 in damages to repair and then 5 months later throw a rod resulting in $3500 dollars to replace the engine. thank god my 17 year old daughter did not feel comfortable driving and stopped at a gas station and called for a ride. i was shocked to see wo many head gasket failures reported and would ask that you include a mileage component in your complaint summaries. ford of course takes no responsibility in this, they just want more money. i currently own 3 fords and you cn bet that the next car i buy will not be a ford.
06/16/1999		1	03/01/1999
	Broken engine mounts
05/09/1999
	Vehicle taken to be serviced, due to air conditioner not blowing cold air. mechanic at the dealer checked the engine and said that engine head gasket needed to be replaced. consumer contacted the dealer and manufacturer. *ak
			11/01/1996
	Oil pan leak due to corrosion at 47k
05/01/1998		2	12/26/1998
	At approximately 51,000 miles, the engine head gasket blew out. the actuator rods broke, and the other one cracked, causing vehicle to stay on, it would not shut off. *yc
05/05/1999		1
	Head gasket failed. mjs
		1
	Oil pan rusted, oil pan gasket failed. mjs
		1
	Head gasket blown and timing cover gasket failed resulting in damaging fuel injector. mjs
03/01/1999
	Engine manifold anti-freeze fluid leak. dealer contacted, and stated that leak in engine manifold could be linked to a defective engine gasket. problem still exists. dealer contacted. *ak
07/05/1999
	Engine would overheat. dealer contacted, and stated blown head gaskets. repairwork was done at owners expense. provide further information. *ak
06/15/1999
	2 engine motor mounts were broken.contacted dealer and manufacturer. *ak
06/22/1999
	Head gasket failed, causing coolant to leak. consumer was informed that this appeared to be common with these vehicles. can nhtsa provide addtional information and help in this matter. *ak
04/05/1999		1	04/04/1996
	Head gasket overheated due to the block being cast iron causing damage to the crankshaft. nlm
05/24/1999		1	11/01/1997
	Engine head gasket is leaking into cylinders 3 and 4. this has apparently been a problem with the 1993 sable engine. i contacted mercury and they said that they had never issued a recall although the dealer here (pb lincoln mercury) told me that they had. my car had routine maintenance plus the additional cleaning of the throttle body and when i drove to a local grovery store, it spewed white smoke out of the tailpipe. i called the gargage where the maintenance had been performed and i had it towed there as they said that that was the only way they could diagnose the problem. when i got it towed home after their diagnosis of head gasket problems, it was leaking coolant out of the tail pipe. it has not done that before. i have discovered that there has been a considerable amount of problems with this on the 1993 mercury and i feel that the ford motor co. should stand behind their product. *ak
03/12/1999
	When driving at any speed the temperture went up high and vehicle was running rough. engine was jerking and the heat didn't work due to blown engine head gasket. *ak
04/15/1999
	Defective oil pan rusted through, causing an oil leak which may result in a fire. please provide further information. *ak
03/20/1999		2	06/01/1993
	No summary. *mjs
07/01/1998
	Vehicle blows white smoke. anti-freeze is being lost. vehicle runs hot. dealer contacted, and stated head gasket was defective. problem still exists. also, rear lap seat belt does not tighten/ windshield wipers do not operate properly. provide further information. *ak
03/13/1999		1	09/01/1994
	I have been informed that ford has had blown head gasket problems for some time over the years, and that ford has paid for repairs for 1994 and 1995 vehicles with the 3.8 engine. they refused to help me out at all. i also contacted detroit michigan and they are not interested. even the mechanic told me that it was a bad engine. *ak
12/01/1998		2	03/01/1993
	Head gasket failed, lead in the manifold gasket failed also causing anti-freeze to leak resulting in overheating of the engine.
03/07/1999
	Defective engine head gasket malfunctioned which may cause loss of control and an accident. dealer is replacing the gasket, but it is a common problem. please provide further information. *ak
10/01/1998		2	10/01/1996
	2 out of 4 engine mounts have broken, posing a potential hazard as now the motor will lift off of the mounts during accellerationa ,potentially posing steering / handling problems. we have contacted ford multiple times with no success, we were first told that there was a recall but that it expired in 1996. then we attempt to gain satisfaction from a local dealership and were told that the recall was still active but that our vin was not listed in their database as qualifying. it would seem to me that vin numbers aside, if the car suffers from the same affliction it should be covered by fords recall. i am very frustrated in our efforts to gain satisfaction from ford and feel strongly that this is a design defect that the manufacturer should pay to correct. any assistance that you could provide would be greatly appreciated.
02/01/1999		1
	The diagnostics showed that the vehical needed a head gasket a front cover gaskest and a new radiator. the car loses heat and there was oil leaking around the front cover and with the compression test showed the head gasket and some of the coolant was seaping from the radiator. these test were all completed at our local ford dealer. we were told the cost to fix would be about $1700.00
04/15/1998		1
	While driving about 40-45mph, the head gasket blew at 56,000 miles. it started to vibrate & running rough. smoke came out of the exhaust system. took it to a mechanic & was informed that he has a lot of head gasket problems & will try to repair it. *ak
08/07/1998
	Head gasket blew out without warning. dealer notified, and informed repair will be done if the charges are picked up by consumer. *ak
08/25/1998
	Motor mounts broke, causing the engine to move and ripped the vacuum line, resulting in vehicle shut down. the dealer repaired the vehicle. *ak
06/15/1998
	Consumer complaint concerning replacement of engine head gasket at 55,000 miles. believed this was not considered to be a normal condition at the time. dealer notified and refused to reimburse consumer for gasket. *ak
02/06/1999			11/01/1994
	The head gaskets failed at just over 50,000 miles on a vehicle that had been well maintained. the dealer and mechanic who fixed the vehicle said this is a very common problem for this engine. the manufacture, when i called the consumer office, said the
12/09/1998		1	08/28/1993
	Timing cover gasket failed.
01/18/1999		1	08/28/1993
	Head gasket failed causing extensive damage to engine.
11/20/1998		1	10/01/1996
	Vehicle was running fine at 60mph when engine started to run rough and smoke came out of exhaust. smell of coolant in exhaust also. the engine had blown a head gasket without warning. after turning vehicle off, engine would not start again since fluid had filled up the cylinders. trying to start the car caused a secondary problem, i.e.,the starter broke.

	Engine head gaskets are leaking into the coolant, causing the vehicle to overheat. dealer has not seen. *ak
10/01/1998
	Vehicle had no prior warning that the motor mounts were defective. dealer notification was given when vehicle was serviced for oil change. no warranty. problem still exists. provide further information. *ak
		1
	Two engine mounts broken and serpentine belt failed.
12/13/1998		1
	Head gasket has blown in engine, causing steam to come out of exhaust.ford is aware of defect. *ak
			03/01/1994
	Engine head gaskets have gone bad because of a leak that caused the anti-freeze to run down on and burn the engine. the dealer has been contacted. this is a recall on newer models. *ak
11/24/1998		3	04/19/1993
	Vehicle been in dealer shop on three occasions concerning overheating; on the third time, dealer informed consumer the head gasket was blown. *ak
10/20/1996		4	03/26/1993
	Motor mounts have failed several times, recall work failed.
10/28/1998		1
	Motor mounts failed.
10/09/1998		1
	Sensor failed causing vehicle to stall.
10/16/1998		1
	Motor mounts failed, recall component however vehicle denied due to mileage limitations.
07/23/1998		1	06/01/1998
	Rear motor mounts failed causing engine to fall on steering column rendering complete loss of steering control.
11/18/1998
	Engine head gasket blew out. dealer inspected and informed consumer vehicle out of warranty even with 43000 low mileage.*ak
11/06/1998
	The consumer has been experiencing problems with engine head gaskets. engine head gaskets blew out. recall for 92 vehicles, but not for 93. repairs doen at owner's cost. ak ml
10/28/1998
	Motor mount failure.
10/28/1998
	Front motor mount failed.
		1
	Engine piston failed.
07/09/1998		1
	Engine mounts broke.
03/01/1998		2
	Cracked head gasket destroying entire engine, recall on component,however denied due to vin #.
04/01/1998		1
	Cracked head gasket, recalled component however vehicle denied due to vin.
10/02/1998
	Head gasket broke, causing vehicle fluid to leak. dealer notified and refused to repair unless cost goes to consumer. *ak
		1	10/20/1993
	Engine oil pan rusted and corroded. dealer notified, and informed that repairs would only be made at the cost to consumer. *ak
		1	03/01/1993
	Engine mount recall work performed however failed after repair.
07/22/1998		1	12/27/1993
	Right rear mount on the engine subframe corroded and failed causing vehicle to pull. (qcaw)
01/01/1997		2	10/20/1995
	The original engine gaskets failed at 56,000 miles and the replacements failed after only 21,000 miles.
07/15/1998			06/01/1993
	Head gasket failure. check engine light comes on and goes off.
04/21/1998		1	11/20/1993
	Engine cylinder gasket failed at 56756 miles due to inferior gasket material.
		2	08/01/1996
	Engine mounts failed.
03/25/1998			09/15/1993
	Cracked engine gasket leading to complete engine failure and possible loss of power.
06/20/1998
	While driving the head gasket blew. the dealer has been notified. *ak
04/04/1998			06/05/1997
	Engine motor mounts failed but the manufacturer would not replace them under tsb#92m77, stating that the vehicle had too many miles.
		1	09/16/1993
	Air conditioner failed.
		1	09/16/1993
	Head gasket failed.
04/15/1998		1	05/23/1995
	When we took our car into the shop they were aware of the problem because they have seen numerous blown head gaskets. we were told this by the mechanic at merchant's tire, who originally diagnosis the problem, by the mechanic who towed our car to the dealer to be repaired, and by the dealership who repaired the car.
04/15/1998		1	05/23/1995
	Engine head gasket failed.
03/21/1995
	Three of the motor mounts shearred off.

	Engine head gasket failed, coolant gets all over the car and leaks while the car overheats. dealer repaired vehicle. *ak
01/16/1997		3	11/30/1996
	Two engine mounts snapped, one snapped prior to recall, recall repairs refused. (recall# 93v-023)
08/01/1996		1
	Gasket failure caused gas mileage to drop from 18 to 16 miles/gallon.
		1
	Oil sensor failed.
10/18/1995		1	10/07/1993
	Replaced o rings and freon seal.
04/01/1996		1
	Head gasket failed. *dsh
03/04/1996		4
	Engine design of aluminum head/cast iron block results in different heating/cooling rates, causing the gasket to tear. *dsh
08/08/1995		8
	Engine mounts failed prior to service recall (92m77). *ak
09/20/1994		0
	Engine idles rough, replaced egr sensor asy.
09/01/1994
	Belt tensioner broke while driving, causing lost steering, replaced twice. tt
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - ENGINE - GASOLINE
06/06/2005	89374	1	01/01/1995
	Blowen head gasket on 1993 ford sable wagon witn 87,000 miles on engine engine replacement needed
01/30/2003	85000		07/09/1993
	Own a 1993 mercury sable ls which has had the head gasket gone bad 3 times. ford motor co. has fixed 1991 & 1992 with same engine but will not fix 1993 with same engine.
07/25/2002		4	07/01/2002
	Car has stalled since first day when stopping and upon acceleration engine stalls and won't crank,also had broken motor mounts,power windows not working,tachometer not working,windshield wiper was mising when bought. *ak
09/05/2001		4	06/01/1993
	The 3.8 liter engine head gasket failed, the dealer replaced the entire engine due to the engine being installed with no compression, consumer states that the second engine runs hot and needs antifreeze added periodically, the check engine light illuminates and the dealer has replaced the thermostat, fan temperature sensor and radiator, the dealer is unwilling to replace this engine.
07/08/2002		1	07/01/2002
	No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak
01/02/2002
	No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak
12/01/1999		2
	Everytime while driving vehicle it will stall out at 35mph. would have no warning when this happened. intermittent stalling problem. had not been to dealership.ak jg
03/08/2000		1	07/01/1993
	Consumer states vehicle stalls when accelerating onto a major highway or through an intersection.ak. jb
01/18/2001			09/01/2000
	Engine died during iced over road conditions. *ak
01/31/2002		1	05/01/1994
	A friend told me there was a recall on this engine for their car and received a letter. we never received any info on this car, how does that get determined? seems this should be covered by ford as this engine/s obviously is defective! thanks for your help! no more ford products here!*ak
		1	12/13/2001
	Consumer states the engine runs rough, however the dealer was unable to duplicate the problem.*jb
08/25/2001		1	05/01/2000
	No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak
		1
	This vehicle was purchased used from a mercury dealership and has been in the shop for repairs over 30 times. the engine has always ran hot with the temperature near or at the red line. dealership says this is normal and not a problem. however, the excessive heat constantly boils out the engine coolant and has caused excessive wear inside the coolant lines with failiures above the thermostat, and above the engine at the firewall, and of the upper and lower hoses, as well as two thermostats. the excessive heat has also prevented proper cooling of the transmission fluid which has resulted in shifting problems and eventual failure of the transmission. the motor mounts on this vehicle have been replaced at least 8 times (we have an internal letter from ford that indicates they know the mounts are defective and will replace them for free if the owner has this letter). the engine oil light is now beginning to flicker and the transmission is not shifting properly, again. the valve cover and timing cover gaskets were replaced 5,000 miles ago because they were leaking oil onto the catalytic converter and exhaust system, which caused constant burning odor and smoke. i believe this vehicle, and all models of it with the same engine, poses a serious fire and accident hazard due to the constant high engine temperatures which are not normal, regardless of what the manufacturer says. the high temps are causing transmission failures, gasket failures, coolant line failures, and sensor failures (several have had to be replaced on our car). your database shows hundreds of similar complaints. the sable/taurus needs to be recalled for all versions with the 3.8 liter engine, not just a few select years, and ford needs to reimburse all expenses incurred by the owners for engine and engine component repairs. we have also had water pump failures, computer failure, brake failure, strut failure, rear suspension failure, cruise control lockup which placed the engine in high speed.
		1
	Engine and radiator replaced, vehicle also experienced oil leak. *slc
06/20/2001
	While driving enigne blewout. vehicle was non driveable. head gasket could be one of reasons. please provide more information. *ak
01/12/2001		1	07/01/1993
	No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak
05/18/2000
	Motor overheated and car quit.*ak
04/01/2001		1	09/01/1999
	Engine has failed, and before this happened engine was making noises. also, temperature gauge was reading on high. contacted dealer.ak jb
			09/01/1997
	Driving at normal highway speed car dies in busy intersection blowing anti freeze out tail pipe. dealer recommended replacing engine. was told it was a blown head gasket. other mechanic says common problem in 1993 mercury 3.8 l engines. help please. *ak
12/05/2000		1	02/01/1994
	No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak
01/18/2001		0
	There was no heat and engine was running rough, temperature gauge was going up and down, took vehicle to dealer, and they said consumer had a blown head gasket, and needed a new engine. *ak
12/17/2000		1	05/01/2000
	Engine failure due to defective head gasket - vehicles 1994 and above are covered, my 1993 vehicle is not. this is a basic design flaw for which the company has only partially assumed responsibility. replacement motors should be required on design failure at ford's expense. *ak
08/31/2000			04/01/2000
	The motor failed in the vehicle. it is my understanding that ford motor company is taking limited responsibility for the failures. information obtained off of the internet suggest ford needs to take total responsibility for this failed component. *ak
10/15/2000		1	01/01/1995
	There is a recall on 1994 and 1995 sables and taures equipped with the 3.8l engine the 1993 is equipped with identical engine,yet there is no recall can this be an oversite. same engine, same problem, differet year, yet no recall ? i am angry and out $1500. *ak
11/01/2000			11/01/1997
	3.8l v6 engine failure. *ak
09/28/1999		1	11/01/1994
	No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak
01/10/2000		1	10/01/1993
	No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak
09/24/2000		1	07/01/1993
	Vehicle was running rough. then it started to overheat, did not stall. towed to dealership. mechanic indicated that head gaskets had blown. also indicated engine needed to be replaced due to a lack of lubrication & cooling leaking out.ak the dealer acknowledges that this is a common problem with this engine but unwilling neither to recall nor to pay for the repair. yh
08/20/2000		1	09/01/1996
	Ford has covered vehicles to 1994, ours is a 1993, problem has been reported since 1988. no safety defect mentioned. *ak
04/02/2000		1	06/01/1993
	The engine began to run roughly and the engine heat started to rise. i stopped the vehicle immediately to investigate the problem and discovered the engine coolant to be very low. i added coolant and then started the motore again. the engine temperature had dropped and i started to drive the vehicle back to my home, but it started to run roughly again. i stopped and noticed water coming out of the exhaust. i emmediately shut off the engine and arranged to have the vehicle towed to the local ford lincoln mercury dealer. they checked the vehicle and told me: internal hydrolocked engine, and has bent piston rod in engine, due to head gaskets, recommend replaced with long block assembly est $3370. i later contacted ford motor co. customer service to seek financial assistance in having the vehicle repaired, noting that the mileage on the car was low for its age (70,000 miles for a 1993) and advising them the car had always been maintained by a ford lincoln mercury dealer (the last vehicle service by the local dealer had been on 6 march 2000 (mileage 69,662). ford refused to provide any assistance.
07/01/2000		5	09/01/1993
	Vehicle will stall out and die in the middle of the road.ak fuel filter failed. yh
04/25/2000		1
	Possible engine failure resulted in fire. (ohio traffic crash report) *mjs
06/01/1998		20	12/01/1992
	While driving in village vehicle will stall on the highway it runs rough because of the heated oxygen sensor that was put in. ak the vehicle stalls at about 35 mph during summer season. it stall over 20 times but the dealer could not fix the problem. yh
08/07/2000		5	04/01/1993
	This car stalls out when highway driving. *ak
11/03/1999		1	05/01/1993
	Was charged $1155.18 for repair to gaskets. had originally purchased 100,000 mile/6 year warranty on vehicle in may 1993 (new vehicle). because car had been out of warranty for six months dealer did not look into partial reduction of cost even though service manager admitted that this is a common problem with this engine.*ak
		1
	The entire engine has rusted and corroded from coolant leaking. yh
01/02/1999		1	02/01/1993
	No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak
02/18/1998		1	11/01/1993
	Ford is aware of these defects in 3.8l engine in this model year and subsequently, and has agreed to repair '94+ models, or reimburse repairs for same. coverage should extend to '93 and earlier model years. *ak
05/01/1999
	Engine check light comes on. vehicle hesitates while changing gears, and then stalls unexpectedly which may cause a crash. please provide further information. *ak
02/03/2000		1	11/01/1999
	Started missing as i backed out of drive. quit running with in a few miles. got hot. *ak
12/10/1999		3	10/01/1996
	No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak
03/22/1999		1	08/01/1998
	Oil and water mixed in the engine resulting in failure. nlm
03/01/2000		1	08/01/1998
	Gauge goes to hot after 5 minutes of driving. white smoke pours from tail pipe. low on water. difficulty starting. rough idle when stopping. replaced battery and starter. still have occasional problems starting. ( aso, brakes have squealed when we bought it. )
03/15/1998		2	09/01/1993
	No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak
03/03/1999		1	12/01/1995
	Addtional expense included $40 for towing. no safety defect included in summary. *ak
12/17/1998		1	11/01/1995
	Head gasket failed (known defect accor. to mech.) resulting in $1337 repair
05/26/1999		1	11/01/1997
	After reading the internet, i see this is a common problem with this engine. i asked ford for assistance with the repair expenses, but they refused. i believe this should be a recall item, or an item for an extended warranty. *ak
12/01/1998			04/01/1998
	See tsb 98030298-4-9/engine failure due to coolant leaking into cylinders destroyed rings/engine replaced as a result
10/30/1998		1
	Engine oil pan leaking due to extreme corrosion. dealer says this will only be replaced at my expense. i have owned numerous vehicles over the past 40 years, and worked as a mechanic for several years,. i have never seen an oil pan corrode like this, but i'm told it's fairly common with recent ford engines. i've obtained engines for antique cars that had been sitting directly on the ground for years, and the oil pans were not corroded this badly. i feel it is a manufacturing defect that could cause engine failure while driving.
07/01/1998
	While traveling engine would stall without indications. dealer has been contacted. please provide further details. *ak
01/01/1998		1
	Engine failure.

	While driving engine shuts down, causing vehicle to stall. please provide details. *ak

	While driving vehicle stalls without warning. also vehicle will come to a complete stop. dealers ran diagnostic test and no fault code was found. cause unknown. *ak
02/01/1997		5
	Engine stalls occasionally.
		5
	Intermittent stalling; also rough starting when hot. *ak

	While driving at any speed, the vehicle engine shuts down, causing the vehicle to stall. *ak
01/08/1997		1
	Engine failed.

	The fuel pump replaced under recall. the engine failed while traveling at 55 mph causing power brake and steering failure.
07/09/1996		9
	Engine overheats. *sd
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - ENGINE - GASOLINE - BELTS AND ASSOCIATED PULLEYS
12/22/1999		1	03/01/1995
	Serpentine belt replaced. yh
		1
	Two engine mounts broken and serpentine belt failed.
10/20/1996		1	03/26/1993
	Serpentine belt failed.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - EXHAUST SYSTEM
06/15/2003	106000
	About 1 month after the mass air flow sensor was replaced and about 6 months after my head gaskets were replaced, my sable started to hesitate when warm. the vehicle has no power. the fuel pump, fuel filter, air filter and throttle position sensor have all been replaced with no effect. the timing has also been found to be right on.
09/26/2000		8	10/01/1999
	No summary listed for abov evehicle. *ak
01/01/2000		1	07/01/1995
	No reason for head gasket to blow at 42,000 miles. i'm filing a formal complaint to ford and hope others do the same. there are too many similar complaints. i was exiting a local highway and my car ran hot. blue-white smoke was coming from my exhaust and a the smell of anti-freeze was apparent. please investigate this and other complaints. this is not normal especially for a car with such low mileage. i am awaiting your response. i will contact the ford motor company. thank you, tina m. fasano. *ak
06/23/1994		1
	Defective iac motor failed, causing sudden acceleration/loss of control/accident. *skd
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - EXHAUST SYSTEM - EMISSION CONTROL
03/01/1999		1
	Engine head gasket went out after consumer had started vehicle. temperature gauge started to go up ,and engine check light kept coming on, but engine was not totally warmed up.contacted dealer, and dealer was not willing to do anything because it was not included in a recall. ak shortly after replacing of head gasket, the oxygen sensors failed. the manufacturer had admitted that the head gasket was defective, and the consumer was asking for reimbursement. yh
06/01/1998		20	12/01/1992
	While driving in village vehicle will stall on the highway it runs rough because of the heated oxygen sensor that was put in. ak the vehicle stalls at about 35 mph during summer season. it stall over 20 times but the dealer could not fix the problem. yh
10/20/1996		1	03/26/1993
	Oxygen sensor failed.
11/14/1995		1	10/07/1993
	Eec valve and sensor replaced due to excessive wear.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - EXHAUST SYSTEM - EMISSION CONTROL - CRANKCASE (PCV)
11/14/1995		1	10/07/1993
	Eec valve and sensor replaced due to excessive wear.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - EXHAUST SYSTEM - EMISSION CONTROL - GAS RECIRCULATION VALVE (EGR VALVE)
11/22/1996		1
	Pcv valve replaced. *cj
11/02/1998		3
	The consumer has been experiencing problems with egr valve.. egr valve burned out for the third time. the manufacturer has been contacted. *ak
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - EXHAUST SYSTEM - MANIFOLD/HEADER/MUFFLER/TAIL PIPE
	46163	1	01/01/1994
	Several repairs as well as maintenance done to a 1993 mercury sable.mr repairs range from head gasket to radiator. ph *jb
03/09/2001	4000	19	05/10/1993
	Within the first 4000 miles, the engine was replaced because of an oil filter not doing it's job,according to the mechanics at negherbon mercury in oakland. the new engine ran hot. the dealer said it was within the normal range. the brand new engine actually had a cracked head gasket. all the repairs cost me $1800.00 that time. the dealer wouldn't even perform a compression check. then the car would stall while driving, usually at freeway speeds. most times it would restart. but this was very scary and dangerous. i brought it to the dealer, they claimed they could not duplicate it. i took it to my neighborhood mechanic who hooked up some machine to the computer. we drove it on a nearby freeway, where of course it stalled. he was able to immediately determine the computer was faulty!!!! the device that basically runs the entire vehicle was shutting off gas flow to the engine. i had my mechanic correct the problem. there was also other defects, such as the steering wheel mounted turn signal stalk was replaced but the replacement did the same thing. only low wiper speed no high speed, and the variable speed went out. the lightbar in the front of the vehicle all went out. i spoke with other sable owners who said the same thing about the lights. the vehicle spent almost one year at my mechanics. then within two months of finally getting it back, the torque converter went out. my mechanic said i should replace the transmission at the same time. when he told me it would be $2700.00 i threw in the towel on that car. at that point blue book worth was $3000.00. why would i want to put in any more money? it is now up on blocks at my father-in-laws. i consider this car a lemon. the dealer was not very helpful at all. in fact they seemed very hostile. *ak
05/07/2000		62	12/01/1994
	Blown or cracked head gasket resulted in water pouring out the muffler, other parts replaced wiper, radiator, intake manifold gasket
01/29/1999
	Consumer was traveling about 25mph on the highway and the vehicle didn't have heat. consumer drove vehicle to the dealership . mechanic told her that it could be the thermostat. while leaving the dealership, consumer noticed that white smoke was coming from underneath the vehicle, from the manifold pipe. there was a tiny pinhole inside of the gasket. there was no prior warning. employee from pep boys told her that the head gasket had blown.*ak
05/01/1996		4	01/01/1993
	Exhaust smell coming into car. i was told there were broken bolts on exhaust manifold. they needed to be drilled out at cost of $1,500+. they could fix it or it could wait. locks on door will engage without touching. touched pad on exterior door, has never worked. *ak