Recalls


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

Bulletins


BulletinBulletin dateReplacement BulletinItem no.SummaryAdded
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - COOLING SYSTEM
984903/02/1998601270Concerns with coolant may leak from the head gaskets and / or the vehicle may overheat. *yc07/16/1998
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - COOLING SYSTEM - FAN
97S6602/01/199751571Recall 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 i06/27/1997
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - COOLING SYSTEM - RADIATOR ASSEMBLY
9515307/01/199545934Temperature gauge - fluctuating and /or inaccurate high readings. *sd04/25/1996
952401/01/199539120New radiator manufacturing process/modification. *tw03/17/1995
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - ENGINE
0112406/25/2001622665On some vehicles, engine oil may continue to leak from the engine oil pan gasket area after an engine oil pan gasket repair has been performed. *tt10/22/2001
00M0910/01/2000618535Information regarding premature failure of head gaskets. *jb04/16/2001
00M0906/01/2000613867Subject regarding customers with prior after warranty adjustment (awa) head gasket repair. *tt09/20/2000
00M0903/01/200098M01612897Some vehicles may experience premature head gasket(s) failure, which may result in engine coolant leakage, which if not detected, can cause engine overheating. *mjs06/13/2000
981132902/01/1998607497Information regarding the the availability of the revised headgasket for coolant loss conditions on some engines. *tt09/24/1999
98M0105/01/1998605465Premature failure of engine head gaskets may occur. this condition may result in engine coolant leakage, which, if not detected or if ignored, will cause engine overheating, or in extreme cases, could cause engine failure if overheat con06/21/1999
987404/13/1998601343A new silicone gasket and sealant. *yc07/24/1998
9761003/17/199751990Blower motor- chirping or squeaking from blower motor at low speeds. *jd07/17/1997
974302/17/199751682Blower motor- chirp or squeak from blower motor at low speeds. *jd06/27/1997
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - ENGINE - GASOLINE
021401/21/2002630001Some engine assemblies with aluminum cylinder heads repaired in-vehile have been found to leak coolant and/or oil from the cylinder head gasket area. *tt04/11/2002
00M0901/01/2001625878Information regarding engine replacements warranty extension program. *yh12/10/2001
00M1001/01/2001625888Information regarding engine replacements warranty extension program. *yh12/10/2001
00M0901/01/2000613563Important recall information regarding vehicles that experience premature failure of the head gasket. *tt07/21/2000
9918309/06/19996090051Service tip information on revised oil pan gasket replacement procedure. *tt03/06/2000
9981605/03/1999606420Ford motor company now recommends sae 5w-30 viscosity grade for servicing any ford gasoline-powered vehicle regardless of model year. *tt08/19/1999
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - EXHAUST SYSTEM
98201010/12/1998603695Experiencing a buzzing or rattling noise from the exhaust system. *yc03/02/1999
986403/30/1998601312Information on a buzzing or rattle noise from the exhaust system. *tt07/21/1998
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - EXHAUST SYSTEM - EMISSION CONTROL
98231011/23/1998603724Mass air flow (maf)- sensor contamination- service tip. *ak03/03/1999
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - EXHAUST SYSTEM - EMISSION CONTROL - CATALYTIC CONVERTOR
9422710/01/199437749Objectionable odor from the exhaust system. *tw01/06/1995

Investigations


NHTSA IDManufacturerDate openDate closeSubjectRecall campaign
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
EA96024FORD MOTOR COMPANY09/30/199604/15/1997ENGINE COOLING FAN FIRES97V019000
 Accumulation of ice, snow, or slush could cause the engine cooling fan to freeze to the fan shroud.automatic or manual actuation of the cooling fan motor when the fan is frozen to the shroud may cause the fan motor and wiring to overheat and cause a fire in the engine compartment.
PE96033FORD MOTOR COMPANY05/02/199609/30/1996ENGINE COOLING FAN FIRES97V019000
 Bad weather may cause the engine cooling fan to freeze the fan shroud.

Consumer Complaints


Fail datemilesoccurencesPurchase date
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
09/15/20030
 The key insert does not align, have had 2 transmissions in 5 years. (i know to check my fluids) new engine, & the paint is awful. engine, motor, gas, gasps and jerks with me. have had motor mounts replaced, nothing helps. heater coil(?) went out, i have no heat now. we had to bypass. the rest i have not been able to afford to repair. i hate this car. i am worried everytime i get in it that my mother and i are not going to get home. i have had the car towed so many times, the man who does the towing knows me and my car on sight. i will not go more than 30 miles fromt he house. my mechanic even hates the car. i call him an angel, because he has kept it running.
09/15/199985000
 Hatch glass came loose started leaking(56000) fuel pump started acting up get hot and hang up(75000) no recall. state farm showed they paid for towing on many, ford products that used the same pump still no recall. transmission shifts down, or shifts out of gear while driving smith ford conway was supposed to check the heads for leaks six months later the head gasket blew,and the air went out at this time i was told the the date this car was originally put in sevice made it out of warranty. this car is sitting in my garage with motor out of it because ford didn't do its job. paint peeled off the inside of the door post.
02/15/200362000
 Head gaskets broke, possibly caused cracked cylinder heads/further engine damage
12/01/1999307/01/1999
 Vehicle experienced several engine and engine cooling problems, head gasket has been replaced 3 times, radiator was replaced, and engine mount was replaced. *slc
02/14/19950
 Temperature gauge rises, no warning lights, consumer stops car and releases the cap on the radiator to release some of the pressure. consumer feels that this is a safety issue because consumer is on the interstate, and has to quickly get off of the interstate. *ak
 While traveling at any time the vehicle overheats. gauge runs high. please provide further informaton. *ak
01/15/1999
 Was taking vehicle off road & noticed the influcuation of heat. had the thermostat changed & flucuation heat still existed. took vehicle to lot to be sold & the mechanic informed owner the head gaskets had blown. the vehicle could not be sold. manufacturer informed owner the tsb on head gaskets had expired. *ak
 Headgasket blew out, causing vehicle to overheat. also, temperature gauge fluctuated between on/off. *ak
12/19/199709/01/1995
 Blown engine gaskets caused coolant loss.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - COOLING SYSTEM
02/24/2000302/01/2000
 Since 2000, the car has broken down several times for the same reasons. we have just replaced the water pump and the radiator and now we have to come up with $800.00 to get the head gasket fixed. if in anyway please e-mail me back at v23vjfd@verizon.net or call 757-854-4027
09/21/2001106/01/1999
 I have experinced overheating w/ my car from the time of purchase the engine cooling system was inspected and showed it was fine now i have a blown head gasket at 90,000 miles after pampering the car for a year and a half. one day i was driving and at a stop light the car stalled , i restarted and a blue smoke came out of the rear after haveing a mechanic look into it , he dtermined it was the head gasket.
08/17/2000403/01/1996
 Head gaasket recall. dealer said water pump is also suspect in this
02/01/1999107/01/1995
 Ford offered limited extended warranty, but program is inadequate for defective part. no safety defect listed within summary.
03/10/200005/01/1995
 Multiple gasket and parts corrosion and failure due to cooling system. *ak
 While traveling at any time the vehicle overheats. gauge runs high. please provide further informaton. *ak
09/03/1999110/01/1994
 Head gasket blew out. lost coolant, head cracked. this is a known defect on this 3.8 engine. ford refuse to pay for repairs because the car is more than 5 years old even though it only has 56,123 miles on it.( dot number: tire size: 15 )
05/01/1999105/01/1994
 This is a known defective part that ford refuses to fix on the 3.8l engine cooling system. *ak
03/12/199901/01/1997
 5yr./60,000mi.-unlimited mi.12/31/98 ext.to 1/31/99 unlimited miles. no defect mentioned. *ak
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - COOLING SYSTEM - RADIATOR ASSEMBLY
02/24/2000302/01/2000
 Since 2000, the car has broken down several times for the same reasons. we have just replaced the water pump and the radiator and now we have to come up with $800.00 to get the head gasket fixed. if in anyway please e-mail me back at v23vjfd@verizon.net or call 757-854-4027
11/22/1996408/01/1994
 Consumer had transmission serviced at 31,000 miles. 9 months later, consumer was backing car out of garage and couldn't shift gears. took vehicle to dealer, and she was told that vehicle needed a new transmission.*ak a/c main line failed. radiator failed. rack and pinion steering failed. *yh
02/14/19950
 Temperature gauge rises, no warning lights, consumer stops car and releases the cap on the radiator to release some of the pressure. consumer feels that this is a safety issue because consumer is on the interstate, and has to quickly get off of the interstate. *ak
10/19/19962
 Radiator failed resulting in leakage, replacement leaked due to faulty radiator cap. mjs
02/24/1999112/01/1993
 Mechanics advise as follows: motor mount fails because too much torque is placed on it by engine; power steering hose ruptured because it rubs against steering rack; replacement hose only available from ford which redesigned hose to avoid rubbing on steering rack; head gasket fails because only 6 bolts hold engine head to engine block, ford redesigned head gasket to make it thicker; radiator cracks because it is manufactured out of plastic and is not repairable. ford responds that none of the foregoing are its problem; ford stated that only rear motor mounts are covered by a nhtsa recall ; ford states that it extended warranty on head gasket only up to 60,000 miles; ford states that power steering hose is not subject to nhtsa recall.
02/18/1999102/01/1998
 Speedometer gives inaccurate readings over 50 mph, sticks when speed declines. service tech. told mecongratulations, your the owner of a late modle ford. meaning: your not the only one with this prob. expensive to replace... radiator side tanks pulled apart in cold weather, normal anti freeze ratio, once again told this happens to late model ford's... blower motor chirps if you keep it at low or med.-low speeds, only stops when on med-high or high.
08/30/1996103/01/1995
 Radiator leaks, causing vehicle to overheat.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - ENGINE
09/25/2003124000210/01/2002
 My 1994 mercury sable suddenly accererated to 60 mph while i was driving. the vehicle accelerated and slowed erratically. i tried braking but was unable to slow sufficiently. iused the emergeny brake but still could not slow enough avoid hitting a phone pole. three passengers were injured. i had new front brakes installed the day before and received an inspection sticker the day before.
03/14/200165500102/01/2001
 Engine failed at night, so i was not able to that there was black smoke trailing after the car until i pulled into the garage. mechanic reported that it was a ruptured motor gasket with antifreeze seeping into the motor. *jb ***dimsii ivoq entry after 12/12/02 cut-over to artemis****742671
1
 The head gasket failed, and the entire engine needed to be replaced.*jb
1
 Consumer called complaining about having problems with the head gaskets. while driving the vehicle at 45 mph the head gasket blew out. dealer was contacted and stated that the vehicle has a defective engine. there is a recall for the problem but it expired on sep/2002 and dealer will not honor the recall. *nlm
12/26/200204/12/1995
 Motor was replaced in 04/00 due to bad head gaskets with 73,200 miles on original engine. heads failed again 12/02 with 43,000 miles on new motor. claim denied by ford due to no available financial assistance package availability. ts
2
 Consumer states due to an engineering flaw the head gasket and engine failed at 9000 miles. the dealership replaced the engine with a long block. however on the factory replaced engine, the head gasket has failed again. dealership has suggested that an engine replacement is the best choice. consumer has asked dealership and manufacturer to take responsibility for an engine which has failed twice. dealership unwilling to accept responsibility. consumer filed complaint with bureau of consumer protection agency. *tt
08/26/2002
 3.8l v6 engine has a blown head gasket. temperature would fluctuate while driving and ther ewould be a loss of coolant. manufacturer was notified. feel free to provide any further information.*ak
107/01/2000
 Consumer states when the vehicle is driven it will overheat and the oil light flashes, consumer states he just recently became aware of the head gasket problem, and is requesting that the extended warranty program issued him a credit towards the purchase of a new vehicle.*jb
1
 The head gasket failed causing the vehicle to overheat, the consumer contacted the dealer and was told that the vehicle had been recalled and a notice was sent out, the consumer was never notified of this recall. nlm
04/05/2002104/01/2098
 Drove vehicle at 65 mph for about 70 miles. at stop light engine began running rough and smoke started coming from under vehicle. pulled to side of road and a moderate amount of engine oil was coming from the oil pan seal. had card towed back to ford dealership where purchased. dealer claims transmission had no fluid in it. vechicle was just serviced two days before this trip and worked fine. when pulled off checked oil and transmission. oil was down some, but not all. tranmission had fluid indicating above the ok to drive mark. was able to move car back and forward for tow truck to attach. transmisison rebuilt by ford at 88000 in 1998 two months after purchase of vehicle. oil pan gasket replace june 0f 2001 at 117,000 miles.*ak
02/24/2000302/01/2000
 Since 2000, the car has broken down several times for the same reasons. we have just replaced the water pump and the radiator and now we have to come up with $800.00 to get the head gasket fixed. if in anyway please e-mail me back at v23vjfd@verizon.net or call 757-854-4027
03/25/2002101/01/1998
 Rough idling yesterday, head gasket blew today. puff of white smoke and usual eruction of antifreeze. avoided accident though i did swerve into next lane between 2 cars.. *ak
03/17/2002
 3.8 v6 engine was losing coolant and overheating while driving, vehicle taken to the dealer, and dealer informed consumer of a blown head gasket. feel free to provide any further information. *ak
12/01/2001
 Engine head gasket was leaking antifreeze onto engine compartmen. dealership was aware of problem. *ak
10/01/2001
 Headgasket failed at 56000 miles. dealer rebuilt engine, headgasket failed again at 33000 miles. *ak
12/01/200110/01/2000
 We purchased vehicle in oct. of 2000. we never received any recall notices. when we had head gasket failure, we contacted ford, and they denied coverage. said the extended warranty that they provided had expired. were unwilling to resolve the problem. *ak
11/01/2001105/01/2000
 The head gaskets on my car which is a 94 mercury sable w/ a 3.8 liter v6 engine. the head gasket has failed on my car and i was not informed of a extended warranty not even when i called my dealer and asked for a quote on the 94 sable which i was quoted1350.00 , if the engine is gone to then 3000.00. i feel it is unfair i am being penalized for a faulty part i had no knowledge of and only 300 miles after the extended warranty, the copy of the warranty states to have the head gasket changed even if there is no problems.*ak
09/21/2001106/01/1999
 I have experinced overheating w/ my car from the time of purchase the engine cooling system was inspected and showed it was fine now i have a blown head gasket at 90,000 miles after pampering the car for a year and a half. one day i was driving and at a stop light the car stalled , i restarted and a blue smoke came out of the rear after haveing a mechanic look into it , he dtermined it was the head gasket.
1
 The head gasket failed causing the vehicle to overheat, the consumer contacted the dealer and was told that the vehicle had been recalled and a notice was sent out, the consumer was never notified of this recall. nlm
10/09/2001110/05/1998
 After replacing first engine at 56,000 miles under ford class action lawsuit, second engine head gasket failed after 33,000 miles of wear. manufacturer notified, and informed consumer that warranty on second engine was good for 2 years or 22,000 miles. seeking help from nhtsa on this matter. *ak *jb
06/20/1997307/29/1994
 Engine mounts do not provide enough support to hold engine, bolts prematurely break which causes engine to drop, engine mounts have been replaced twice. *akconsumer stated she sold the vehicle in oct, 2001 because of reocurring engine mount problems.*slc
06/18/2001103/01/2001
 Head gaskets failed antifreeze leaked through engine block causing it to crack engine took 3 weeks to get car back replacement engine overheated causig antifreeze to boil out head gaskets leakage car had to be towedx2 dealer has car will replace engine again same people as before said at least another 3 weeks without my car need my car for work getting impatient with jd byriders attitude about problems with the car wondering if this car should've been recalled from day 1 of manufacturing.*ak
06/01/2000111/01/1994
 Head gasket failed, resulting in severe engine damage to crankshaft and bearings. *ak
04/15/20011
 Prior to manufacturer's recall notification in which consumer states he never received, he states as he was driving, the engine began to make sounds and then the temperature warning gauge and audible alarm signaled a problem, consumer had vehicle towed to dealer and it was then determined that there had been a head gasket failure, consumer is requesting manufacturer to repair vehicle free of charge or compensate him the retail value of the vehicle, even though failure occurred after the 7 year or 100,000 miles and also because he was not notified of the recall and as of 04-28-01 the vehicle remains at the dealer. *jb
05/01/200108/01/1999
 When i started the engine on about 5/1/01, it chugged and had a hard time starting. this lasted for about a week and a half. then, suddenly white smoke eminated from the exhaust as soon as i started the car on 5/8/01. my mechanic told me it was a blown head gasket and this was later verbally confirmed by the ford/mercury dealership. since the recall coverage expired on 4/8/01, i am told i can have it repaired for half price only by the ford/mercury dealership. i believe i should have it covered for the full amount since my car has so little mileage and since the head gasket blew so close to the coverage deadline (and since it appears this will be an ongoing problem i'll have to deal with every couple of years or so according to the ford/mercury dealership. i feel i've been sold a lemon and am extremely disatisfied with the service (or rather, lack thereof) provided by ford/mercury. the car has had problems ever since i bought it and the ford/mercury dealership was unable to effect repairs! i'd really prefer a cashier's check so i can take it to a reputable car repair establishment. thank you for your website. sincerely, mark sullivan and shelly lambert. *ak
04/22/200105/01/1995
 I had the head gaskets fixed in march 2000, and there was a recall for that malfunction on this vehicle, i spoke with ford motor co. and told them that they should have warned me of possible engine failure resulting from the head gasket problem and ford motor should be liable for the engine failure and repair therefore.*ak
04/15/200108/01/1996
 Driving up a grade, car overheated. believe the head gasket failed and engine failure resulted.*ak
04/15/2001
 Car is leaking antifreeze,through engine block, causing engine to blow up.*ak
03/01/2001
 Head gasket went out without prior warning. it caused smoke to leak at tail light, and anti-freeze to spill in muffler. please fill additional information. *ak
02/10/2001
 While driving 45-55mph engine started smoking. consumer pulled over, antifreeze was low, and head gasket was blown. *ak
01/01/1995
 There was a recall on head gasket. after vehicle was fixed consumer was sent a letter stating that there would be an extened warranty on head gasket.*ak
1
 According to recall 00m09 and a customer service representative, the consumer qualified for $4000 customer focus certificate toward the purchase of a new or leased lincoln/mercury, the consumer spoke with the service manager who stated that he did not qualify. *slc
10/18/200010/01/1997
 I am a mercury sable 1994 owner. as i was driving to work today, i began to have engine trouble. i had the car towed to a nearby garage. i was informed later this morning that i had blown a head gasket. the garage suggested that i tow the car to a nearby ford dealer, novato ford. remembering that ford had issued a letter regarding head gaskets and before towing to the novato ford dealership, i decided to call the dealership. after i explained the situation, the service advisor said that he also remembered this head gasket situation and put me on hold. when he returned he informed me that since my mileage was over 100,000 (currently 105,693), i would not be eligible for the extended warranty coverage. i then called ford customer service 800 392-3673 and referenced the extended warranty coverage under service program, #98m01. quoting the letter - the letter states, ford motor company is providing extended warranty coverage under service program, #98m01, to owners of 1994 and 1995 taurus and sable and 1995 windstar vehicles equipped with a 3.8l fwd engine. reason for this program: premature failure of the head gaskets may occur and may result in engine overheating or in extreme cases could cause engine failure if the overheat condition is ignored. the extended warranty coverage is ford motor company's commitment to customer satisfaction and we are taking this action as part of our ongoing efforts to maintain your confidence in our products. i was informed that there was nothing that could be done. i explained that i acquired the car in 1997 at 44,000 miles. upon receiving the june 1998 letter, i did go to my local hilltop ford dealership and asked them to check out the head gasket(s). i was told that they were fine.
08/08/2000106/01/1997
 Consumer was not notified of the recall related to the head gasket failure, additional repairs made prior to knowledge (alternator, thermostat, engine seals, belts), consumer is being denied recall repair due to mileage. *mjs
04/01/19981
 Motor mounts broke. yh
04/01/19981
 Prior to the recall oil and coolant mixed due to head gasket failure (00m09). yh
08/08/200006/01/1997
 A recall (oom09) was issued in march of 2000 extending a recall issued in october, 1999. because i did not receive the letter i was not apprised of the warning signals that could have been prevented the head gasket failure. if i had received the recall letter i would have taken the auto to a dealer and had the head gaskets checked. the head gasket has failed and ford motor company is hesitant about repairing the automobile because at the time of failure the mileage exceeded the 100,000 mile/7 year recall parameter. i have had to replace or repair 9 major components of this automobile; alternator, fuel line, transmission, clutch, air conditioner, belts, thermostat (destroyed because of excessive heat precipitated by head gasket failure), etc. i think ford should be financially responsible for this damage and should repair the automobile at their expense because of lack of notification. the transmission was replaced in october and ford should have had access to this information via the computer database. ford is hesitant to repair the car and is in the midst if a waiting game. this
08/13/2000
 Consumer received letter regarding extended warranty for head gaskets. consumer was able to benefit from it because of the mileage. consumer was defintely having problems with vehicle stalling/ overheating, and heavy black smoke. also, loss of coolant. *ak
05/11/2000111/01/1999
 Timing cover gasket and head gasket failed, resulting in coolant loss. *ak
108/01/1994
 Both motor mounts are cracked on this vehicle. i have heard lot of other sable owners have had the same problem with lower mileage than my car. thank you. *ak
 Engine blew due to a defective design of head gasket.please provide further information. *ak
09/06/199903/01/1995
 While driving on interstate 75 in atlanta georgia the car overheated and stalled. a wrecker service was called and auto was towed to pep boys for repair. since it was after 5:00 pm they were not able to complete any work on the auto.mobile, overnight stay was required. was contacted the next morning by pep boys and told that the car had a blown head gasket and they did not do this type of repair. was told that this was part of a recall. had car towed to dealership for estimate/repair. was told that due to the mileage that this would not be considered under the recall. had service work done and paid $1,250 and had the same problem when traveling home to jacksonville, florida. was forced to stop three times to cool engine and refill radiator. car is not repaired. have contacted both the repair provider in atlanta and the purchasing dealer in jacksonville. i feel that i should have been notified of a potential problem, but have been told by ford that they stand behind their policies.*ak
01/20/20001
 Recall repair on head gasket was denied, unit was not experiencing problems at the time of recall notice, however failed later and denied repair. *mjs
12/30/1995
 A broken engine mount caused erratic operation of vehicle. dealer notified. *ak *ml
03/15/2000111/01/1994
 Transmission suddenly refused to shift - would only go into reverse or first gear - required full rebuilt of transmission and torque converter - although maintained on schedule by mercury dealer. engine mounts discovered failed at this time - a constant problem with this type vehicle that previously ford would pay to repair but not now. poor quality vehicle.
02/19/1998505/01/1996
 After the head gasket was replaced in 01-98, the crankshaft and radiator needed replacing due to the head gasket being replaced.in 02-98 the crankshaft was replaced along with the timing cover because of excessive wear. in 12-98 the head gasket was replaced due to a recall. the timing chain cover gasket was replaced at the following mileages-44832,45520,67205. according to the receipts given to me at the time, the transmission oil pan gasket was replaced twice under the same day. it is obvious that by doing that, they combined three different work orders into one. the next time it was replaced was at 71387. the crank was replaced at 45520 miles, the seals were replaced at 46942 , 67205, 68523 and 67205. ford motor company , through program #00m09 , is admitting a problem with the 3.8 l engine with regard to the head gasket. this program is allowing for a refund on out of pocket to the consumer for replacing the head gasket or a rebate on a new ford or mercury vehicle. i am not eligible for either of those because my extended warranty , which was purchased through ford, was bought with a $0 deductible. i feel i am being punished because of an option that was the most financially sound at the time.
01/10/2000111/01/1993
 I will fax to your (202) 366-7882 number the letter i sent to jac nasser ceo, ford motor company, their letter (which i didn't receive in the mail) indicating possible premature failure of head gaskets, the form letter that they sent me in response. i feel that if they knew that they had installed defective head gaskets that there should have been a recall. the total engine failure which i experienced was a serious and dangerous situation. *ak
04/08/19991
 Head gasket blew, causing engine to overheat without any prior warning. *ak the manufacturer should pay all of the repair cost because thie problem is very common with there models of vehicles. *yh
12/23/1999110/01/1998
 Failure of engine head gasket led to engine overheating and failure. *ak
1
 Head gasket was recalled but consumer was unable to have it repaired due to dealer problem. nlm
08/15/1999408/01/1998
 The right front engine mount has failed on several occasions. i did not buy extended warranty coverage with this car. the first failed 90 days after purchase of the vehicle. i am now on the fourth failed mount. these are fluid filled and obviously not designed to handle the torque applied. they start by leaking and then follow with engine lift and bump during acceleration. all replacements have been purchased through napa auto parts dealers in my area. i have asked for a solid replacement, but have been informed they do not exist.
06/23/1999
 Had the vehicle serviced by a local mechanic for heater problems and was told that it needed a new engine head gasket. it leaks air into the radiator or cooling system, and the water does circulate in order for the heater to work. contacted the dealer. *ak
09/22/199910/01/1998
 While driving at 45 mph and shifting vehicle into gear there is a knocking noise due to the three of the motor mounts breaking. *ak
06/01/1999
 Engine head gasket blew out at 30,000 miles, causing oil to get into engine, and resulting in vehicle stalling. *ak
09/21/199909/21/1999
 Engine head gasket blew up and oil was leaking from engine . *ak
1
 Head gasket failed prior to recall notice (97v-019). mjs
1
 Front and rear motor mounts failed. mjs
09/27/19990
 Consumer took car in for motor problems. dealer replaced rear mounts. presently, front motor mounts are going. *ak
 Engin ehead gaskets are releasing water from the engine block. manufcturer has been notified. *ak
08/30/1999110/01/1996
 I have experienced numerous recent failures with this vehicle that i believe are due to defective design, materials, and workmanship by ford. some of these can result in a serious accident if not addressed. i have learned that the head gasket, timing cover gasket, engine mounts, and a/c failures are quite common on this vehicle. this tends to support the need for an investigation by your office and subsequent recall of these vehicles. the cost to repair all of these items is approximately $3500. i have contacted ford who in turn offered me a mere $500. towards the head gasket repair. ford had instituted an internal recall on these head gaskets (essentially admitting that they are defective), but my vehicle is now not covered under this program. please investigate and force a recall on these obviously defective vehicles. please contact me if you need further information. thank you, john maciel.
08/01/1998109/01/1997
 Motor mounts and transmission mounts failed causing noise, prior to recall notice of the sub-frame mounts (26-feb-99) (98s36). mjs
08/12/1999105/01/1994
 Ford issued a notice, not a recall as i feel they should have done, because of the premature failure of the head gaskets. the failure could have resulted in a safety concern for my family if they failed at a time or place that would have been dangerous. in the notice ford said they would provide coverage no charge coverage for 5 years or 60,000 miles. no mention was made about whichever comes first. it was a clear statement of 5 years or 60,000 miles. i feel ford is trying to take the easy & cheap way out and not acting in a responsible manner as a manufacturer should.
06/05/1999103/01/1995
 I have had other problems with this car feul pump replaced , new head put on car, transmission screen and filter replaced because of leakage, brakes replaced rotors turned, broken motor mount, rear axle loose. squealing noise on passanger side when turning or going around a curve. the transmission on this car also i think has a problem it hesitates when you first crank up the car it won' t go it acts like you are in neutral for a few seconds then it goes. i have also had some type of collant ring around the timing chain replaced the engine would get hot and start smoking it smelled like anti-freeze . most of the repair work has been done under the extended warrenty but this car does have problems.
01/15/1999
 Was taking vehicle off road & noticed the influcuation of heat. had the thermostat changed & flucuation heat still existed. took vehicle to lot to be sold & the mechanic informed owner the head gaskets had blown. the vehicle could not be sold. manufacturer informed owner the tsb on head gaskets had expired. *ak
 Headgasket blew out, causing vehicle to overheat. also, temperature gauge fluctuated between on/off. *ak
05/24/199905/21/1994
 Engine head gasket is leaking, causing vehicle to idle really rough. in addition, replaced defective motor mounts/ rebuilt transmission, and replaced defective starter. *ak
03/14/199906/22/1995
 Motor mounts broke while driving , causing vehicle to jerk. vehicle has been repaired by private mechanic. dealer has been notified. *ak
02/16/19991
 Head gasket failed due to overheating, recall on head gasket however vehicle denied due to mileage and date. (98mo1)mjs
04/18/1999105/01/1996
 Head gasket has also caused $800 in other damage. problem is well known on this engine, see '95 windstar issues. *ak
12/30/1998103/01/1997
 I contacted the ford company to find out if this was a recalled item. their response was that they had put an extened warranty on the head gaskets which expired on 12/31/98. but since it was past that datewhen i contacted them they would not cover the repairs. while finding out this imformation i also found out that they had never sent me the warranty information because they still had the previos owners name in their files ( 2 years after we purchased the car). since i have had this problem i have talked to 6 other owners of this same car ( make model and year) that have had this same problem! and those are only a few i know in this small community! *ak
05/02/1999106/01/1996
 Received letter from ford vehicle service and programs dated june, 1998 about a premature head gasket failure to owners with my make and model: service program number 98mo1. the letter stated that the head gasket failure could cause engine overheating and engine failure. the program had a fix at no charge till dec. 31, 1998. i had some engine overheating problems that the dealer could find no cause for before the expiration of this program and now, five months after expiration, an engine failure as a result of the head gasket failure of which ford says i will just have to pay for: $1228! my complaint is that if this was a default ford admitted and was willing to repair then what about those of us that didn't have problems until after the expiration of their program? there was also a 5 yr. or 60,000 miles limit on it, i am still in the 5 yr. but due to a highway commute of 100 miles per day, i am over the 60,000 mile perimeter that was set for the program. what can i do?
1
 Recall notice not recieved for head gasket failure.
09/18/19984
 The engine mounts would make loud noises & would not stay in place. the front would vibrate. can happen when the gears are being shifted. took to dealer & informed by mechanic the engine mounts needed replacing. *ak
04/17/1997103/17/1997
 Motor mounts failed causing engine vibration / movement. *yc
03/14/1999
 Engine head gaskets are leaking and vehicle is inoperable due to heat engine light staying on. dealer and manufacturer contacted and cannot remedy problem. problem still exists. provide further information. *ak
01/20/199905/01/1994
 While driving engine head gasket failed, causing engine to overheat. vehicle was driven to garage for mechanic's inspection, mechanic mentioned head gasket leakeage and not properly operating. problem still exists. *ak
1
 Recall (#97s65) on front and rear motor mounts not performed because consumer passed deadline.
12/18/19981
 Cracked engine supports (mounts) causing engine noise, recall component however vehicle denied due to vin.
12/18/19981
 Engine bearing (plastic) failed resulting in engine noise.
02/24/1999112/01/1993
 Mechanics advise as follows: motor mount fails because too much torque is placed on it by engine; power steering hose ruptured because it rubs against steering rack; replacement hose only available from ford which redesigned hose to avoid rubbing on steering rack; head gasket fails because only 6 bolts hold engine head to engine block, ford redesigned head gasket to make it thicker; radiator cracks because it is manufactured out of plastic and is not repairable. ford responds that none of the foregoing are its problem; ford stated that only rear motor mounts are covered by a nhtsa recall ; ford states that it extended warranty on head gasket only up to 60,000 miles; ford states that power steering hose is not subject to nhtsa recall.
01/21/1999
 While driving there was a popping noise. when vehicle was checked by transmission specalist the rear motor mounts were found to be cracked. the motor mounts have been replaced. please provide further details. *ak
02/09/1999
 There isn't any heat in the vehicle due to engine head gasket breaking and causing vehicle to overheat. *ak
02/24/199904/01/1995
 Engine mounts had to be replaced do to state inspection ford said my vihicle not part of recall #98v323000 parts failed to hold up
12/23/1998110/15/1994
 Timing cover gasket failed resulting in anti-freeze leak.
 Engine head gaskets have blown. the dealer has replaced the gaskets. *ak
02/02/199912/01/1993
 Motor mounts broke. consumer took vehicle to repair shop for a tire balance, and dealer noticed the motor mounts were broken. specifically, the right front motor mount liquid-filled rubber boot was torn. both mounts replaced. *ak *ml
10/24/1998406/01/1995
 Have had head gaskets were replaced, but continues to run hot at intermitant intervals. need assistance with this problem! please, contact me as soon as possible. thank you for your assistance. sincerely, jack k. van sandt, jr.
12/16/1996207/27/1994
 Transmission failed two times, engine mounts failed.
09/01/1998209/10/1996
 Both motor mounts failed on well maintained vehicle with 32000 miles and never involved in a crash.
 Motor mounts are faulty. also there is a problem with windshield wiper washer on vehicle. it does not work unless lights are on bright. *ak
09/01/1997110/12/1995
 Engine mount failure caused a clunking noise when vehicle was accelerated.
06/28/1996103/01/1995
 Motor mount failed.
01/27/1998107/11/1996
 Engine gasket failure.
12/19/1997109/01/1995
 Engine gasket failure, a common problem with this type vehicle.
106/01/1995
 The flex plate starter falling down.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - ENGINE - GASOLINE
12/01/2001104/01/2001
 Immediately after the purchase of the vehicle, the heater failed. the dealer informed the consumer of a previous recall regarding the engine and advised that the vehicle should not be driven until engine was replaced, consumer feels the recall information should have been given prior to purchase of vehicle. *slc *scc
06/01/2001
 While consumer is driving vehicle will stall without any prior warning. it is an intermitten problem.*ak
12/09/2000112/09/2000
 Prior to purchase the dealer never disclosed to the consumer that the vehicle had a remanufactured engine installed in it, within the first week of owning the vehicle the consumer noticed that the vehicle required about tow quarts of oil every several days and the oil light was constantly illuminating while driving, the dealer refused to provide any assistance stating that the vehicle was sold as is. nlm
10/01/2000
 Vehicle stalls mostly at slow speeds, and engine is knocking. also, oil light comes on intermittently.*ak
02/05/2001
 Vehicle will stall and has to be turned off before vehicle will start again. *ak
02/05/2001
 Vehicle will stall. *ak
02/23/20010
 While driving in the traffic engine will start losing power without prior warning, then engine will stall. *ak
12/09/2000412/01/2000
 Bought car used, as is. inquired about recalls, etc. told there were none. salesman said he ran carfax & nothing showed up. asked if engine was original engine, any major mechanical problems, etc. was told no. purchased car @ bill penney toyota. first day door handle came off, underside driver's seat track cover came off & sunroof came open & wouldn't shut. paneling fell off. 1st week the oil light came on - car began using 2 qts of oil every 2-3 days. took back to dealership. told it had a new engine & shouldn't be having problems. oil consumption test run. began checking car's history. found previous owner bought the car 4-2000 & the dealership bought it back 6-2000. head gasket changed 3x. the dealership sent car to woody anderson ford. had a new engine put in it (they say). bill penney kept car 1 week. said problem was under a mfg. warranty on the engine although they sold me a warranty for $1,000 for what was already under warranty. they sent car to woody anderson ford; ford kept it for a week. then called & told me to pick it up; there wasn't anything wrong w/it. had to rent a car. warranty sts they provide one. car is not fixed. it's a recurring problem from original owner. engine put in car never put on record. 4 vin #'s have been used on paperwork. met with previous owner. all faults i had w/car she had as well. dealership says my tough luck; maybe i learned a lesson. mfg. won't fix. denies problem. *ak
2
 Vehicle experiences stalling, dealer can not remedy the problem, possible engine failure. *slc
 Engine constantly overheated. *ak
08/29/19990
 Dealer cannot find out why auto stops when engine is hot.*ak
08/29/1999103/15/1999
 Dealer cannot find out why engine just dies.*ak after the vehicle stall, the fuel filter was replaced as a possible cause, but the vehicle stall again and the dealer could not find the cause. the manufacturer was aware of the problem but was doing nothing to solve it. *yh
12
 While on a trip across country during the summer the vehicle satlled out over a dozen times on busy interstates or when going up or down hill. nlm
01/15/2000401/01/2000
 My car has stalled on numerous occassions sometimes while driving down the road at other times stopped and at other times after starting the car. i have had the car back at the dealer several times and i am still experiencing the same problem.
510/01/1993
 My mercury sable stalls unexpectedly. this condition has occurred intermittently over the past few years. in each situation, the weather was very warm and the engine hot. in one case, i was travelling at 60 mph in rush hour traffic and had to quickly get to the berm of the road narrowly escaping injury or death. in the remaining occurrances, the engine stalled when in city traffic. i know vehicles may be recalled in california for this type of defect and i would like to know exactly what part to replace for my own safety even if not recalled. also, how can i identify the bad parts so that i know that the new part i'm installing isn't also defective.
02/01/20001
 Oil light came on and off due to the engine failure. yh
03/01/19971008/01/1994
 While driving vehicle stalls, causing power brakes and power steering to lock up. dealer has seen vehicle several times, and cant duplicate the problem.*ak lights flickering off while driveing at night due to switch failure but dealer was unable to duplicate. *yh
05/01/2000
 Mechanic states this is a known problem with the 3.8 l engines and when fixed head gaskets usually will go. nosafety defect mentioned in summary. *ak
05/12/200005/01/1998
 No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak
03/01/19973
 Vehicle periodically stalls on highway. yh
06/01/1998208/01/1996
 No summary listed for above vehicle. *ak
02/23/2000107/01/1996
 Understand this is ongoing problem with 3.8l - contacted ford cust assist # - understand they have just announced 7yr/100,000mi ext warranty - private mechanic repaired, will take receipt to dealer...will see if they reimburse. no safety defect mentioned in the summary. *ak
11/13/1999112/01/1995
 No summary
06/10/1999106/01/1995
 No sumary listed for this vehicle. *ak
05/01/1996
 1,when vehicle idles there is a thumping noise comming from the engine compartment and the smell of gasoline in the radiator . 2. the abs system bounces extremely violently when brakes are applied. 3. cruise control works only when it wants to, as if shorting. 4. a/c died and will not take a charge. *ak
12/28/1998208/01/1995
 This is a known problem with this engine and ford refuses to assist or correct it on our vehicle. i cannot understand how this is possible since thousands of the design failure has occurred. *ak
10
 Engine continually stalling, unable to determine cause.
09/25/199808/10/1994
 When engine is warm and completely stops.also, transmission is slow to engage when attempting to accelerate. aw
03/15/1998111/16/1996
 Engine failed.
07/01/19971
 The vehicle was on fire. (pam davis/claim specialist for state farm fire and casualty company) (agent for consumer)
06/30/1997207/01/1997
 While driving or parking vehicle, it would either stall or die out for no reason; will not start right away; when driving occurs at various speeds. had to have vehicle towed home when stalled last time. have not taken to dealer yet. *ak the cause for the vehicle's stalling was found to be fuel pump failure. the starter also failed. the passenger side window was fixed three times but the problem sitll continues. the consumer could not properly install a new child seat. *yh
01/24/19944
 Engine fire. *skd
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - ENGINE - GASOLINE - BELTS AND ASSOCIATED PULLEYS
08/02/2002104/01/2094
 Belt broke - mfg. says that this is okay after 6 years. *ak
 Every 10,000 miles serpentine belt will shread and fall apart due to alignment of pulley, and terminal ball bearing that melted, causing tensioner to lock up.
11/12/19981
 Drive belt replaced due to noise.
12/01/19976
 While driving with the air conditioner on the vehicle will stall unexpectedly which may cause an accident. dealer replaced a belt 6x. dealer cannot determine problem. also, rack and pinion steering broke, causing loss of vehicle control. cause unknown. please provide details. *ak
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - EXHAUST SYSTEM
09/15/20030
 The key insert does not align, have had 2 transmissions in 5 years. (i know to check my fluids) new engine, & the paint is awful. engine, motor, gas, gasps and jerks with me. have had motor mounts replaced, nothing helps. heater coil(?) went out, i have no heat now. we had to bypass. the rest i have not been able to afford to repair. i hate this car. i am worried everytime i get in it that my mother and i are not going to get home. i have had the car towed so many times, the man who does the towing knows me and my car on sight. i will not go more than 30 miles fromt he house. my mechanic even hates the car. i call him an angel, because he has kept it running.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - EXHAUST SYSTEM - EMISSION CONTROL
06/24/2000205/01/1999
 After driving from some time during hot weather, and in heavy traffic with slow speeds, the engine loses power for no apparent reason. the engine will not restart until 1/2 to 1 hours cooldown time had passed. i beleive this is related to the improper placement of the tfi module. my family, including 2 children, were stuck in the middle turning lane in busy traffic due to this faulty module. this occured twice during our vacation in june, both driving to and returning from sunriver, oregon. i have notified ford motor company. they have responded by simply saying that the governement has not issued a recall due to this item. i would like to advised you that this is a dangerous problem which should be corrected.*ak
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING - EXHAUST SYSTEM - MANIFOLD/HEADER/MUFFLER/TAIL PIPE
04/08/19981
 The muffler corroded prematurely, causing the carbon monoxide to spill into the vehicle. dealer refused to replace muffler, rust hole caused by metal support strap rubbing into muffler shell housing. *ak.et.