Lemon Law Center

certain passenger vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standard no. 212, øwindshield mounting.ø the windshields may potentially exhibit increased wind noise, water leakage, and squeaks and rattles.

Corrective Action

potential loss of windshield retention may also reduce occupant protection in the event of a crash.

Recall Notes

dealers will replace these windshields. owner notification began on march 31, 2003. 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/mercury at 1-800-392-3673.

2003 Mercury Sable

Component

Exterior Lighting:Brake Lights:Switch

Consequence of Defect

certain passenger vehicles are being recalled to correct a problem with a malfunctioning stop lamp switch and/or associated wiring. this malfunctioning could render the stop lamps inoperable or cause them to stay on all the time. this could cause confusion to a following driver, which could lead to a crash.

Corrective Action

in addition, if the switch and/or associated wiring fail in the open position, the brake lights will not actuate and the driver will not be able to shift the vehicle out of øpark.ø if they fail in the closed position, the brake lights will remain on, which will not allow the speed control to be activated. this could also cause the battery to discharge.

Recall Notes

dealers will remove the stop lamp switch and associated wiring assembly and install a newly designed stop lamp switch and wire assembly. owner notification is expected to begin on april 5, 2004. owners should contact ford at 1-800-392-3673.

2002 Mercury Sable

Component

Service Brakes, Hydraulic:Pedals And Linkages

Consequence of Defect

certain passenger vehicles equipped with adjustable padels are being recalled in order to adjust the brake and accelerator pedals to a minimum of 50 mm of lateral separation. simultaneous application of both the brake and accelerator pedals could result in an increase in engine rpm.

Corrective Action

this could result in a customer experiencing an "unintended vehicle speed increase" or a perceived "unable to stop" condition.

Recall Notes

owners will be instructed as to the proper way to set the position of the pedals and to take their vehicles to a dealer to have the spacing between the brake and accelerator pedals measured. if the spacing is found to be less than 50 mm, the dealer will adjust the pedals to increase the distance between them to greater than 50 mm. owner notification began october 28, 2002. owners who do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact ford at 1-866-436-7332.

2002 Mercury Sable

Component

Visibility:Windshield

Consequence of Defect

Corrective Action

potential loss of windshield retention may also reduce occupant protection in the event of a crash.

Recall Notes

2002 Mercury Sable

Component

Exterior Lighting:Brake Lights:Switch

Consequence of Defect

Corrective Action

Recall Notes

2001 Mercury Sable

Component

Visibility:Windshield Wiper/Washer:Motor

Consequence of Defect

vehicle description: passenger cars, sport utility vehicles, and light and medium duty pickup trucks. a switch located in the plastic cover of the wiper motor gear case could malfunction and overheat, potentially resulting in loss of intermittent wiper function, loss of wiper park function, complete loss of wiper function, or ignition of the plastic cover material. switch malfunction is most likely to occur when the intermittent setting of the wipers is being used, or when snow or ice obstructs the blades from returning to the "parked" position at the bottom of the windshield. these vehicles were built at the following assembly plants: atlanta plant from 2/11/00 through 7/31/00; chicago plant from 2/14/00 through 8/4/00; kansas city plant from 2/26/00 to 9/4/00; kentucky truck plant from 2/18/00 to 8/31/00; michigan truck plant from 2/23/00 through 8/3/00; norfolk plant from 2/21/00 through 7/27/00; wayne stamping and assembly plant from 2/25/00 through 8/15/00; and wixom plant from 2/15/00 through 8/8/00.

Corrective Action

loss of visibility while driving increases the risk of a crash.

Recall Notes

dealers will inspect the date code on the wiper motor. motors built with the suspect time frame will have the wiper motor gear case cover replaced. owner notification began august 20, 2001. 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 1-866-436-7332.

2001 Mercury Sable

Component

Suspension:Front:Springs:Coil Springs

Consequence of Defect

on certain passenger vehicles originally sold in or currently registered in the states of connecticut, delaware, illinois, indiana, iowa, kentucky, maine, maryland, massachusetts, michigan, minnesota, missouri, new hampshire, new jersey, new york, ohio, pennsylvania, rhode island, vermont, west virginia, wisconsin, and the district of columbia, the front coil springs could fracture due to corrosion associated with salt used on the roadways during the winter. a fractured spring could move past the spring seat and contact a front tire.

Corrective Action

if this occurs, the tire may rupture resulting in a rapid air loss, which could result in a crash.

Recall Notes

dealers will install protective spring shields. in addition, ford is extending the warranty coverage of the front coil springs in all other states, for fracture only, up to 10 years of service or 150,000 miles, whichever occurs first. if the vehicle has already accumulated more than 150,000 miles, this coverage will last until july 31, 2005. if either front coil spring fractures, dealers will replace both front springs at no charge to the owner. an interim notice was sent to owners on august 2, 2004. parts are now available for the 2000-2001 my vehicles and owners were sent a letter on january 10, 2005, advising them to bring in their vehicles for repair parts are expected to be available for the 1999 my vehicles by the end of february 2005 and owners of these vehicles will be notified then. owners should contact ford at 1-800-392-3673.

2001 Mercury Sable

Component

Service Brakes, Hydraulic:Pedals And Linkages

Consequence of Defect

Corrective Action

this could result in a customer experiencing an "unintended vehicle speed increase" or a perceived "unable to stop" condition.

Recall Notes

2001 Mercury Sable

Component

Seat Belts:Front:Anchorage

Consequence of Defect

vehicle description: passenger vehicles. the child safety seat anchor latch (iso-fix anchor) fasteners do not have adequate residual torque. the anchors are secured to the floor pan with a reinforcement plate that has two studs that extend upward through the floor pan and the iso-fix anchor. the sealer on the floor pan could cause a soft joint and, even if the nuts are properly torqued, road vibrations could cause the nut to work its way completely off the stud.

Corrective Action

the anchor may not hold the child safety seat in position during an accident, increasing the risk of injury to the occupant of the child safety seat.

Recall Notes

dealers will remove and re-install the bracket nut using a torque retention material (red loctite). owner notification began september 11, 2000. 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.

2001 Mercury Sable

Component

Seat Belts:Front:Buckle Assembly

Consequence of Defect

vehicle description: passenger cars. the seat belt buckle tongue may not fully eject from the buckle assembly when the release button is pushed slowly. this condition could also result in a partial latch of the tongue in the buckle.

Corrective Action

in the event of a vehicle crash, the vehicle occupant may not be properly restrained, possibly resulting in personal injury or death.

Recall Notes

dealers will replace the driver and right front passenger seat belt buckles. owner notification began may 4, 2001. 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.

2001 Mercury Sable

Component

Exterior Lighting:Tail Lights:Switch

Consequence of Defect

vehicle description: passenger vehicles equipped with adjustable pedals. if the grease from the adjustable pedal assembly enters the stop lamp switch, it can contaminate the contacts leading to carbon build up, and potentially, a short circuit.

Corrective Action

a short circuit could lead to either the brake lamps staying on, or to a loss of brake lamp function, increasing the risk of a crash.

Recall Notes

dealers will replace the brake lamp switch and wipe down the adjustable pedal assembly to remove excess grease. owner notification began march 22, 2001. 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.

2001 Mercury Sable

Component

Equipment:Other:Owners/Service/Other Manual

Consequence of Defect

vehicle description: certain sport utility vehicles, pickup trucks, and passenger vehicles fail to comply with the requirements of fmvss 225, "child restraint anchorage systems." the affected expedition/navigator owner guides do not identify the locations of seating positions equipped with tether anchorages, and do not provide instructions for securing child seats to these tether anchorages. the f150 sc owner guides do not provide the procedure for securing child seats to the tether anchorages. the taurus/sable owner guides do not identify the center rear seating position as having latch compatible lower anchorages.

Corrective Action

in the event of a crash, the child seat may not be properly attached increasing the risk of injury to the child.

Recall Notes

owners will be provided with owner guide inserts revised to provide the required information, and instructions for affixing these inserts to their owner guides. customers will also be advised that if they prefer, their dealer will affix the inserts to their owner guides.

2001 Mercury Sable

Component

Exterior Lighting:Brake Lights:Switch

Consequence of Defect

Corrective Action

Recall Notes

2000 Mercury Sable

Component

Visibility:Windshield Wiper/Washer:Motor

Consequence of Defect

Corrective Action

loss of visibility while driving increases the risk of a crash.

Recall Notes

2000 Mercury Sable

Component

Suspension:Front:Springs:Coil Springs

Consequence of Defect

Corrective Action

if this occurs, the tire may rupture resulting in a rapid air loss, which could result in a crash.

Recall Notes

2000 Mercury Sable

Component

Service Brakes, Hydraulic:Pedals And Linkages

Consequence of Defect

Corrective Action

this could result in a customer experiencing an "unintended vehicle speed increase" or a perceived "unable to stop" condition.

Recall Notes

2000 Mercury Sable

Component

Exterior Lighting:Headlights:Switch

Consequence of Defect

vehicle description: passenger and sport utility vehicles. due to the use of incorrect material by a supplier, the headlamp switch knob can fracture and separate from the headlamp switch.

Corrective Action

this would cause difficulty for the driver to activate the headlamps, which could affect driver visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.

Recall Notes

dealers will replace the headlamp switch knob. owner notification began april 9, 2001. 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.

2000 Mercury Sable

Component

Equipment:Other:Labels

Consequence of Defect

vehicle description: passenger vehicles. the "vehicle capacity weight" and "designated seating capacity" information was not printed on the safety certification labels affixed to these vehicles. on affected sable sedan vehicles, the "vehicles capacity weight" (and also the luggage load) information printed on this label is incorrect - sable wagon luggage load was incorrectly used for the sable sedan. these vehicles do not comply with the label requirements of fmvss no. 110, "tire selection and rims."

Corrective Action

excessive loading can cause tire and vehicle damage that could result in a crash.

Recall Notes

owners will be provided with a supplemental label with the correct information, along with instructions for affixing the label adjacent to the vehicle certification label. owner notification began october 20, 2000. 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.

2000 Mercury Sable

Component

Exterior Lighting:Tail Lights:Switch

Consequence of Defect

Corrective Action

a short circuit could lead to either the brake lamps staying on, or to a loss of brake lamp function, increasing the risk of a crash.

Recall Notes

2000 Mercury Sable

Component

Exterior Lighting:Brake Lights:Switch

Consequence of Defect

Corrective Action

Recall Notes

1999 Mercury Sable

Component

Seat Belts:Front:Anchorage

Consequence of Defect

vehicle description: passenger vehicles. the seat belt retractor may have a pin shaft in the switchable elr/alr mechanism that is incorrectly formed. in some circumstances, the switching mechanism could become nonfunctional, preventing the seat belt webbing from being extracted from the retractor. it is also possible that malfunction of the mechanism could prevent the belt from being switched into the alr mode. the elr mechanism is not affected by this condition.

Corrective Action

if the mechanism malfunctions and does not allow the webbing to be extracted, the lap and shoulder belt could not be worn by a vehicle occupant. in the event that the mechanism does not allow the alr mode to be engaged, the operator may be unable to properly install a child seat in that seating position.

Recall Notes

dealers will inspect the lap and shoulder belt assemblies. assemblies with julian date codes of 200 through 223 are suspect and will be replaced.

1999 Mercury Sable

Component

Suspension:Front:Springs:Coil Springs

Consequence of Defect

Corrective Action

if this occurs, the tire may rupture resulting in a rapid air loss, which could result in a crash.

Recall Notes

1999 Mercury Sable

Component

Vehicle Speed Control

Consequence of Defect

vehicle description: passenger vehicles. a dash insulator retainer clip was not fully assembled to the accelerator cable dash fitting. the clip can disengage from the accelerator cable and fall into the accelerator pedal arm pivot area.

Corrective Action

if this condition occurs, the engine may not fully return to idle. also, the insulator may not stay in the intended location and could interfere with the accelerator cable.

Recall Notes

dealers will inspect these vehicles to ensure proper installation of the accelerator cable clip, and re-install if needed.

1999 Mercury Sable

Component

Seat Belts:Front:Anchorage

Consequence of Defect

vehicle description: passenger vehicles equipped with manual seat tracks. the front seat belt buckle attaching stud may have been improperly heat treated. this heat treatment may have resulted in cracks developing in the stud.

Corrective Action

if the stud is cracked, in the event of a vehicle crash, the occupant may not be properly restrained, increasing the risk of personal injury.

Recall Notes

dealers will replace the seat belt buckle mounting bracket and stud assembly.

1999 Mercury Sable

Component

Power Train:Automatic Transmission:Cooling Unit And Lines

Consequence of Defect

vehicle description: passenger vehicles equpped with the "california" emissions package. an incorrect transmission oil cooler line was installed. the line contacts the anti-lock braking system module support bracket and over time, can wear and develop a leak.

Corrective Action

transmission fluid leakage onto the exhaust manifold or catalytic converter can result in a fire.

Recall Notes

dealers will install the appropriate transmission oil cooler line.

1998 Mercury Sable

Component

Seat Belts:Front:Anchorage

Consequence of Defect

Corrective Action

if the stud is cracked, in the event of a vehicle crash, the occupant may not be properly restrained, increasing the risk of personal injury.

Recall Notes

dealers will replace the seat belt buckle mounting bracket and stud assembly.

1998 Mercury Sable

Component

Exterior Lighting:Headlights

Consequence of Defect

vehicle description: passenger vehicles. the text and/or graphics for the vehicle headlamp aiming instructions provided in the owner guides are not sufficiently clear. this does not meet the requirements of fmvss no. 108, "lamps, reflective devices, and associated equipment."

Corrective Action

if the headlamp assemblies are replaced, customers may be confused by the aiming instructions provided in the owner guides causing the headlamps to be improperly aimed.

Recall Notes

owner guides containing revised aiming instructions will be mailed to owners of these vehicles.

1997 Mercury Sable

Component

Power Train:Automatic Transmission

Consequence of Defect

vehicle description: passenger vehicles equipped with ax4s automatic transaxles. the low/intermediate servo cover can separate from the transaxle while the vehicle is being driven. if this occurs, transmission fluid will leak contacting the catalytic converter.

Corrective Action

the catalytic converter temperature may be hot enough to ignite the transmission fluid and cause a vehicle fire.

Recall Notes

dealers will inspect the transmission and replace these servo covers.

1997 Mercury Sable

Component

Power Train:Automatic Transmission:Gear Position Indication (Prndl)

Consequence of Defect

the park pawl abutment bracket has a sharp edge which can cause the parking pawl to hang up and not engage the park gear. this would allow the vehicle to move even though the gear shift indicator shows that the vehicle is in park.

Corrective Action

unintended and unexpected vehicle movement can result in personal injury and property damage.

Recall Notes

dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the park pawl abutment bracket.

1997 Mercury Sable

Component

Exterior Lighting:Headlights

Consequence of Defect

Corrective Action

if the headlamp assemblies are replaced, customers may be confused by the aiming instructions provided in the owner guides causing the headlamps to be improperly aimed.

Recall Notes

owner guides containing revised aiming instructions will be mailed to owners of these vehicles.

1996 Mercury Sable

Component

Power Train:Automatic Transmission

Consequence of Defect

the automatic transmission park pawl shaft may not be free to rotate as intended. if the park pawl shaft does not rotate, it would prevent the park pawl from engaging the park gear when the shift lever is in the park position.

Corrective Action

this condition could result in the vehicle rolling as if in neutral with the shift lever in the park position.

Recall Notes

dealers will inspect the park pawl shaft rotation and those shafts with restricted rotation will be replaced with a shorter shaft that will not restrict rotation.

1996 Mercury Sable

Component

Fuel System, Gasoline:Storage:Tank Assembly

Consequence of Defect

vehicle description: passenger vehicles previously serviced under ford service bulletin 97-17-9 from august 1997 through december 1997. these vehicles were inadvertenly equipped with an 18-gallon fuel tank rather than the 16-gallon as specified. the 18-gallon tank has a second valve location where a shipping plug should be installed.

Corrective Action

if this shipping plug is displaced, fuel leakage can result. fuel leakage in the presence of an ignition source could potentially result in a fire.

Recall Notes

dealers will install the correct fuel tank.

1996 Mercury Sable

Component

Power Train:Automatic Transmission:Gear Position Indication (Prndl)

Consequence of Defect

Corrective Action

unintended and unexpected vehicle movement can result in personal injury and property damage.

Recall Notes

dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the park pawl abutment bracket.

1996 Mercury Sable

Component

Service Brakes, Hydraulic:Switches:Brake Warning

Consequence of Defect

the brake system fluid level indicator lamp switch can malfunction. this does not comply with fmvss no. 105, "hydraulic brake systems."

Corrective Action

consequence of non-compliance: if the switch malfuntions, the brake system warning lamp will either remain illuminated continuously or fail to light as intended when the fluid level falls to a certain level. in either case, the vehicle operator would not be warned of a low brake fluid level condition.

Recall Notes

dealers will replace the brake system fluid level indicator lamp switches.

1996 Mercury Sable

Component

Power Train:Automatic Transmission

Consequence of Defect

the park pawl shaft was improperly positioned when the roll pin that retains it was installed during transmission assembly. if the shaft was not properly positioned, the roll pin may not have lined up with the groove in the shaft and have been crushed at assembly. also, a burr could have been raised on the shaft.

Corrective Action

this could result in the park pawl occasionally not engaging when the transmission selector lever is placed in the park position. this could result in the vehicle rolling as if in neutral if the vehicle operator does not apply the parking brake.

Recall Notes

dealers will inspect the park pawl shaft roll pin. if the roll pin is damaged, both the roll pin and the park pawl shaft will be replaced. in addition, owners will be reminded to fully apply the parking brake, in addition to placing the transmission in park.

1995 Mercury Sable

Component

Service Brakes, Hydraulic:Pedals And Linkages

Consequence of Defect

the retainer clip which holds the master cylinder push rod to the brake pedal arm is missing or not completely installed. the push rod can separate from the brake pedal arm.

Corrective Action

this can result in loss of braking ability and an accident.

Recall Notes

dealers will inspect and, if necessary, install the retainer clip.

1995 Mercury Sable

Component

Engine And Engine Cooling:Cooling System:Fan

Consequence of Defect

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.

Corrective Action

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.

Recall Notes

dealers will install an electrical jumper harness containing an automatic resetting circuit breaker to protect the fan motor low speed circuitry from overheating.

1995 Mercury Sable

Component

Engine And Engine Cooling:Cooling System:Fan

Consequence of Defect

vehicle description: taurus/sable vehicles equipped with 3.0l and 3.8l engines and mustang vehicles with 3.8l and 5.0l engines. it is possible for the engine cooling fan bearing to seize.

Corrective Action

should this occur, excessive heat could be generated which could melt the fan motor electrical connector. components inside the cooling fan motor could ignite potentially resulting in an underhood fire.

Recall Notes

dealers will inspect the engine cooling fan assembly and install a circuit breaker. if the cooling fan is inoperative, the fan and motor assembly will be replaced. owner notification began december 28, 2001. 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 1-866-436-7332.

1995 Mercury Sable

Component

Engine And Engine Cooling:Cooling System:Fan

Consequence of Defect

this is not a safety recall in accordance with the safety act. however, it is deemed a safety improvement campaign by the agency. vehicle description: 1995 taurus/sable passenger vehicles equipped with 3.0l and 3.8l engines and 1995 ford mustang vehicles with 3.8l and 5.0l engines. it is possible for the engine cooling fan bearing to seize.

Corrective Action

Recall Notes

dealers will replace the engine cooling fan motor assembly at no charge to consumers. ford is extending the limited warranty on the engine cooling fan motor to a total of 8 years or 100,000 miles from the warranty start date, whichever occurs first. this coverage is automatically transferred to subsequent owners at no charge. if the vehicle already has more than 100,000 miles, this coverage will last until june 30, 2002. if the consumer has paid to have this service done before december 2001, ford is offering a refund. owners can contact ford at 1-866-436-7332, concerning this program.

1995 Mercury Sable

Component

Vehicle Speed Control

Consequence of Defect

vehicle description: vehicles equipped with 3.8l engines and originally sold or currently registered in the following states: alaska, colorado, iowa, idaho, illinois, indiana, kansas, massachusetts, maine, michigan, minnesota, missouri, montana, north dakota, nebraska, new hampshire, new york, ohio, pennsylvania, south dakota, vermont, wisconsin, and wyoming. water can accumulate within the speed control cable conduit. if enough water accumulates, it could freeze within a low area of the cable routing when exposed to a long term cold soak at temperatures at least several degrees below freezing.

Corrective Action

driver control of vehicle speed using the speed control system or the accelerator control system would be diminished increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.

Recall Notes

dealers will add a boot to the speed control cable.

1995 Mercury Sable

Component

Structure:Frame And Members

Consequence of Defect

vehicle description: passenger vehicles originally sold or currently registered in connecticut, delaware, district of columbia, illinois, indiana, iowa, kansas, kentucky, maine, maryland, massachusetts, michigan, minnesota, missouri, nebraska, new hampshire, new jersey, new york, ohio, pennsylvania, rhode island, vermont, virginia, west virgnia, and wisconsin. the rear lower subframe mount plate nut can experience stress corrosion cracking if subjected to long term exposure to road salts. this can result in fracture and loss of the structural integrity of the subframe mount attachment. detachment of the body mounts at the rear corners of the subframe, which supports the engine and transmission, allows the rear corners of the subframe to drop.

Corrective Action

if both rear corners drop, steering would become suddenly very difficult, affecting vehicle control and increasing the risk of a crash.

Recall Notes

dealers will install subframe rear mount bolts, reinforcement plates, and plate nuts.

1994 Mercury Sable

Component

Engine And Engine Cooling:Cooling System:Fan

Consequence of Defect

Corrective Action

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.

Recall Notes

dealers will install an electrical jumper harness containing an automatic resetting circuit breaker to protect the fan motor low speed circuitry from overheating.

1994 Mercury Sable

Component

Suspension:Front:Shock Absorber

Consequence of Defect

the arc welds on the sway bar bracket, where it attaches to the strut reserve tube, did not fuse properly.

Corrective Action

over time, a portion of the bracket can tear away from the strut, falling into and puncturing the tire or causing damage to the wheel, which could result in an accident.

Recall Notes

monroe dealers will replace the strut free of charge.

1994 Mercury Sable

Component

Vehicle Speed Control

Consequence of Defect

Corrective Action

driver control of vehicle speed using the speed control system or the accelerator control system would be diminished increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.

Recall Notes

dealers will add a boot to the speed control cable.

1994 Mercury Sable

Component

Structure:Frame And Members

Consequence of Defect

Corrective Action

if both rear corners drop, steering would become suddenly very difficult, affecting vehicle control and increasing the risk of a crash.

Recall Notes

dealers will install subframe rear mount bolts, reinforcement plates, and plate nuts.

1994 Mercury Sable

Component

Exterior Lighting:Headlights:Switch

Consequence of Defect

vehicle description: passenger vehicles. the headlights can flash intermittently as a result of the circuit breaker opening. the vehicle's headlights can go out for brief intervals.

Corrective Action

loss of headlights during vehicle operation can affect a driver's ability to navigate the roadway and reduce the visibility of the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.

Recall Notes

dealers will install a headlight switch that incorporates a cricuit breaker of revised design and installation of a wiring harness connector and wiring, if needed.

1993 Mercury Sable

Component

Engine And Engine Cooling:Cooling System:Fan

Consequence of Defect

Corrective Action

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.

Recall Notes

dealers will install an electrical jumper harness containing an automatic resetting circuit breaker to protect the fan motor low speed circuitry from overheating.

1993 Mercury Sable

Component

Suspension:Front:Shock Absorber

Consequence of Defect

the arc welds on the sway bar bracket, where it attaches to the strut reserve tube, did not fuse properly.

Corrective Action

over time, a portion of the bracket can tear away from the strut, falling into and puncturing the tire or causing damage to the wheel, which could result in an accident.

Recall Notes

monroe dealers will replace the strut free of charge.

1993 Mercury Sable

Component

Suspension:Front:Springs:Coil Springs

Consequence of Defect

this is not a safety recall in accordance with federal regulation 573. however, it is deemed a safety improvement campaign by the agency. vehicle description: passenger vehicles originally sold or currently registered in the states of new york, michigan, ohio, illinois, wisconsin, pennsylvania, massachusetts, indiana, new jersey, maine, connecticut, new hampshire, rhode island, vermont, minnesota, iowa, missouri, kentucky, maryland, delaware, and west virginia. ford is providing an extended warranty through the year 2001 for replacement of fron tsprings due to fracture. the front coil springs can fracture as a result of corrosion in combination with small cracks in the springs.

Corrective Action

the front tire could deflate due to a broken front coil spring contacting the tire, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.

Recall Notes

customers with vehicles that have broken springs are to return their vehicle for spring replacement. both springs will be replaced even if only one spring is fractured.

1993 Mercury Sable

Component

Vehicle Speed Control

Consequence of Defect

Corrective Action

driver control of vehicle speed using the speed control system or the accelerator control system would be diminished increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.

Recall Notes

dealers will add a boot to the speed control cable.

1993 Mercury Sable

Component

Service Brakes, Hydraulic:Antilock

Consequence of Defect

anti-lock brake system controllers designed for rear wheel drive cars may have been installed on these front wheel drive cars..

Corrective Action

this could result in reduced braking ability and possiblevehicle accident.

Recall Notes

replace the rear wheel drive abs controller with a front wheel drive abs controller.

1993 Mercury Sable

Component

Suspension:Front:Springs:Coil Springs

Consequence of Defect

vehicle description: passenger vehicles originally sold or currently registered in the states of new york, michigan, ohio, illinois, wisconsin, pennsylvania, massachusetts, indiana, new jersey, maine, connecticut, new hampshire, rhode island, vermont, minnesota, iowa, missouri, kentucky, maryland, delaware, and west virginia. the front coil springs can fracture as a result of corrosion in combination with small cracks in the springs.

Corrective Action

the front tire could deflate due to a broken front coil spring contacting the tire, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.

Recall Notes

dealers will install a spring catcher bracket which will prevent a fractured spring from contacting a tire.

1993 Mercury Sable

Component

Structure:Frame And Members

Consequence of Defect

Corrective Action

if both rear corners drop, steering would become suddenly very difficult, affecting vehicle control and increasing the risk of a crash.

Recall Notes

dealers will install subframe rear mount bolts, reinforcement plates, and plate nuts.

1993 Mercury Sable

Component

Exterior Lighting:Headlights:Switch

Consequence of Defect

vehicle description: passenger vehicles. the headlights can flash intermittently as a result of the circuit breaker opening. the vehicle's headlights can go out for brief intervals.

Corrective Action

loss of headlights during vehicle operation can affect a driver's ability to navigate the roadway and reduce the visibility of the vehicle, increasing the risk of a crash.

Recall Notes

dealers will install a headlight switch that incorporates a cricuit breaker of revised design and installation of a wiring harness connector and wiring, if needed.

1992 Mercury Sable

Component

Engine And Engine Cooling:Cooling System:Fan

Consequence of Defect

Corrective Action

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.

Recall Notes

dealers will install an electrical jumper harness containing an automatic resetting circuit breaker to protect the fan motor low speed circuitry from overheating.

1992 Mercury Sable

Component

Suspension:Front:Shock Absorber

Consequence of Defect

the arc welds on the sway bar bracket, where it attaches to the strut reserve tube, did not fuse properly.

Corrective Action

over time, a portion of the bracket can tear away from the strut, falling into and puncturing the tire or causing damage to the wheel, which could result in an accident.

Recall Notes

monroe dealers will replace the strut free of charge.

1992 Mercury Sable

Component

Vehicle Speed Control

Consequence of Defect

Corrective Action

driver control of vehicle speed using the speed control system or the accelerator control system would be diminished increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.

Recall Notes

dealers will add a boot to the speed control cable.

1992 Mercury Sable

Component

Wheels

Consequence of Defect

children can accidentally lock themselves in the footwell area of the rear-facing third seat, or in the storage compartment in station wagons not equipped with an optional third seat. once the compartment is closed it cannot be opened from the inside.

Corrective Action

there is a danger of air deprivation, hyperthermia,and/or panic response to a child who has locked himself or herself into thecompartment, with the possibility of asphyxiation.

Recall Notes

replace the self-latching assembly currently used in the rear storage compartment with a latch assembly that can only be closed with a key.

1992 Mercury Sable

Component

Structure:Frame And Members

Consequence of Defect

Corrective Action

if both rear corners drop, steering would become suddenly very difficult, affecting vehicle control and increasing the risk of a crash.

Recall Notes

dealers will install subframe rear mount bolts, reinforcement plates, and plate nuts.

1991 Mercury Sable

Component

Suspension:Front:Shock Absorber

Consequence of Defect

the arc welds on the sway bar bracket, where it attaches to the strut reserve tube, did not fuse properly.

Corrective Action

over time, a portion of the bracket can tear away from the strut, falling into and puncturing the tire or causing damage to the wheel, which could result in an accident.

Recall Notes

monroe dealers will replace the strut free of charge.

1991 Mercury Sable

Component

Service Brakes, Hydraulic:Foundation Components:Disc:Rotor

Consequence of Defect

front disc brake rotors of the subject vehicles may experience severe corrosion if operated in areas where calcium chloride and sodium chloride are used extensively.

Corrective Action

severely corroded rotors may fracture or separate nearthe inner edges of the brake discs resulting in reduced braking effectiveness,higher than normal pedal efforts, loud grinding noises, and moderate pulls whenthe brakes are applied. reduced braking effectiveness may increase minimumstopping distances, possibly resulting in an accident.

Recall Notes

replace front brake rotors with full cast front brake rotors.

1991 Mercury Sable

Component

Vehicle Speed Control

Consequence of Defect

Corrective Action

driver control of vehicle speed using the speed control system or the accelerator control system would be diminished increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.

Recall Notes

dealers will add a boot to the speed control cable.

1991 Mercury Sable

Component

Wheels

Consequence of Defect

Corrective Action

there is a danger of air deprivation, hyperthermia,and/or panic response to a child who has locked himself or herself into thecompartment, with the possibility of asphyxiation.

Recall Notes

replace the self-latching assembly currently used in the rear storage compartment with a latch assembly that can only be closed with a key.

1991 Mercury Sable

Component

Structure:Frame And Members

Consequence of Defect

Corrective Action

if both rear corners drop, steering would become suddenly very difficult, affecting vehicle control and increasing the risk of a crash.

Recall Notes

dealers will install subframe rear mount bolts, reinforcement plates, and plate nuts.

1990 Mercury Sable

Component

Air Bags:Frontal

Consequence of Defect

threaded inflator components may have been damaged during assembly which may allow components to separate when inflator receives a signal to deploy the air bag.

Corrective Action

inflator component separation allows hot combustion gases to escape into the passenger compartment which could result in injuries to vehicle occupants.

Recall Notes

replace air bag modules containing potentially defective inflators.

1990 Mercury Sable

Component

Suspension:Front:Shock Absorber

Consequence of Defect

the arc welds on the sway bar bracket, where it attaches to the strut reserve tube, did not fuse properly.

Corrective Action

over time, a portion of the bracket can tear away from the strut, falling into and puncturing the tire or causing damage to the wheel, which could result in an accident.

Recall Notes

monroe dealers will replace the strut free of charge.

1990 Mercury Sable

Component

Seat Belts:Front:Buckle Assembly

Consequence of Defect

the rigid mounted safety belt buckles are defective in three ways. first, a fastened safety belt buckle will not unlatch when the release button is depressed. this results from interference between the buckle ejector finger and the buckle tongue window. the second defect is the safety belt buckle may not latch. the third possible defect is that the tongue may be retained by the buckle, but it may not be latched sufficiently to provide occupant protection.

Corrective Action

an insufficiently latched or unlatched safety beltincreases the risk of injury to seat occupants in the event of a sudden stop oraccident. if the safety belt buckle will not unlatch, it will not allow theoccupant to get out of the vehicle in an emergency situation.

Recall Notes

ford will replace the rigid mounted safety belt buckles with end release safety belt buckles designed to prevent latch problems.

1990 Mercury Sable

Component

Service Brakes, Hydraulic:Foundation Components:Disc:Rotor

Consequence of Defect

front disc brake rotors of the subject vehicles may experience severe corrosion if operated in areas where calcium chloride and sodium chloride are used extensively.

Corrective Action

Recall Notes

replace front brake rotors with full cast front brake rotors.

1990 Mercury Sable

Component

Wheels

Consequence of Defect

Corrective Action

there is a danger of air deprivation, hyperthermia,and/or panic response to a child who has locked himself or herself into thecompartment, with the possibility of asphyxiation.

Recall Notes

replace the self-latching assembly currently used in the rear storage compartment with a latch assembly that can only be closed with a key.

1990 Mercury Sable

Component

Exterior Lighting:Headlights:Switch

Consequence of Defect

an incorrect transistor may cause autolamp system light sensor module malfunction.

Corrective Action

headlamps could turn off while vehicle is being driven orremain on after vehicle is parked. loss of headlights while driving at nightcould be hazardous to the driver and other trafific.

Recall Notes

replace light sensor modules.

1990 Mercury Sable

Component

Structure:Frame And Members

Consequence of Defect

Corrective Action

if both rear corners drop, steering would become suddenly very difficult, affecting vehicle control and increasing the risk of a crash.

Recall Notes

dealers will install subframe rear mount bolts, reinforcement plates, and plate nuts.

1989 Mercury Sable

Component

Exterior Lighting

Consequence of Defect

front side marker lamps were unintentionally equipped with clear bulbs, instead of amber colored bulbs as specified in fmvss 108.

Corrective Action

vehicles would not comply with standard.

Recall Notes

replace clear bulbs with amber colored bulbs.

1989 Mercury Sable

Component

Suspension:Front:Shock Absorber

Consequence of Defect

the arc welds on the sway bar bracket, where it attaches to the strut reserve tube, did not fuse properly.

Corrective Action

over time, a portion of the bracket can tear away from the strut, falling into and puncturing the tire or causing damage to the wheel, which could result in an accident.

Recall Notes

monroe dealers will replace the strut free of charge.

1989 Mercury Sable

Component

Seat Belts:Front:Buckle Assembly

Consequence of Defect

Corrective Action

Recall Notes

ford will replace the rigid mounted safety belt buckles with end release safety belt buckles designed to prevent latch problems.

1989 Mercury Sable

Component

Service Brakes, Hydraulic:Foundation Components:Disc:Rotor

Consequence of Defect

front disc brake rotors of the subject vehicles may experience severe corrosion if operated in areas where calcium chloride and sodium chloride are used extensively.

Corrective Action

Recall Notes

replace front brake rotors with full cast front brake rotors.

1989 Mercury Sable

Component

Wheels

Consequence of Defect

Corrective Action

there is a danger of air deprivation, hyperthermia,and/or panic response to a child who has locked himself or herself into thecompartment, with the possibility of asphyxiation.

Recall Notes

replace the self-latching assembly currently used in the rear storage compartment with a latch assembly that can only be closed with a key.

1989 Mercury Sable

Component

Seats

Consequence of Defect

the power seat switch wiring is routed over rather than under the front seat support brace, allowing damage by seat cushion spring ends when seat is occupied.

Corrective Action

power seat switch wiring insulation may become abraded,or punctured, and an electrical short could occur that could result in a firein the seat cushion material.

Recall Notes

revise routing of power seat wiring to prevent damage from seat cushion spring contact.

1989 Mercury Sable

Component

Structure:Frame And Members

Consequence of Defect

Corrective Action

if both rear corners drop, steering would become suddenly very difficult, affecting vehicle control and increasing the risk of a crash.

Recall Notes

dealers will install subframe rear mount bolts, reinforcement plates, and plate nuts.

1989 Mercury Sable

Component

Seat Belts:Front:Buckle Assembly

Consequence of Defect

this is not a safety recall in accordance with federal regulation 573. however, it is deemed a safety improvement campaign by the agency. ford is initiating an owner notification program that will provide an extended warranty, 12 years and unlimited mileage, for all seat belt buckles with functional concerns.

Corrective Action

in the event of a collision, the occupant of the seat may not be properly restrained and personal injury could occur.

Recall Notes

dealers will replace the seat belt buckle assembly, for 12 years and unlimited mileage.

1988 Mercury Sable

Component

Suspension:Front:Shock Absorber

Consequence of Defect

the arc welds on the sway bar bracket, where it attaches to the strut reserve tube, did not fuse properly.

Corrective Action

over time, a portion of the bracket can tear away from the strut, falling into and puncturing the tire or causing damage to the wheel, which could result in an accident.

Recall Notes

monroe dealers will replace the strut free of charge.

1988 Mercury Sable

Component

Structure:Frame And Members

Consequence of Defect

vehicle description: taurus and sables built from 10-14-85 through 8-19-88, and lincoln continentals built from 11-4-87 through 9-30-88 (except 1989 - 1991 2.5l taurus and 1989 - 1992 sho). the affected cars were originally sold or currently registered in the following states: connecticut, illinois, indiana, maine, massachusetts, michigan, new hampshire, new jersey, new york, ohio, pennsylvania, rhode island, vermont, and wisconsin. the body mounts at the rear corners of the subframe, which supports the engine and transmission, may become detached due to corrosion of the subframe mount retaining plate. this would allow the rear corners of the subframe to drop.

Corrective Action

if one of the rear corners drops, only minor indications of a malfunction such as a clunking noise or slight change in steering wheel alignment are noticeable. however, if both rear corners of the subframe drop, steering becomes very difficult, which could adversely affect vehicle control and possibly result in an accident.

Recall Notes

install a corrosion-resistant reinforcing plate and a new bolt on both rear subframe mounts. this recall campaign has been superseded by recall 98v-323.

1988 Mercury Sable

Component

Service Brakes, Hydraulic:Foundation Components:Disc:Rotor

Consequence of Defect

front disc brake rotors of the subject vehicles may experience severe corrosion if operated in areas where calcium chloride and sodium chloride are used extensively.

Corrective Action

Recall Notes

replace front brake rotors with full cast front brake rotors.

1988 Mercury Sable

Component

Wheels

Consequence of Defect

Corrective Action

there is a danger of air deprivation, hyperthermia,and/or panic response to a child who has locked himself or herself into thecompartment, with the possibility of asphyxiation.

Recall Notes

replace the self-latching assembly currently used in the rear storage compartment with a latch assembly that can only be closed with a key.

1988 Mercury Sable

Component

Seats

Consequence of Defect

the power seat switch wiring is routed over rather than under the front seat support brace, allowing damage by seat cushion spring ends when seat is occupied.

Corrective Action

power seat switch wiring insulation may become abraded,or punctured, and an electrical short could occur that could result in a firein the seat cushion material.

Recall Notes

revise routing of power seat wiring to prevent damage from seat cushion spring contact.

1988 Mercury Sable

Component

Structure:Frame And Members

Consequence of Defect

Corrective Action

if both rear corners drop, steering would become suddenly very difficult, affecting vehicle control and increasing the risk of a crash.

Recall Notes

dealers will install subframe rear mount bolts, reinforcement plates, and plate nuts.

1987 Mercury Sable

Component

Steering:Wheel And Handle Bar

Consequence of Defect

steering shaft assemblies contain lower shafts of insufficient length for proper attachment to the shaft insulator flange. consequence of defect: shaft could separate, resulting in total loss of steering control and a possible accident.

Corrective Action

Recall Notes

replace steering shaft assembly, as necessary.

1987 Mercury Sable

Component

Suspension:Front:Shock Absorber

Consequence of Defect

the arc welds on the sway bar bracket, where it attaches to the strut reserve tube, did not fuse properly.

Corrective Action

over time, a portion of the bracket can tear away from the strut, falling into and puncturing the tire or causing damage to the wheel, which could result in an accident.

Recall Notes

monroe dealers will replace the strut free of charge.

1987 Mercury Sable

Component

Structure:Frame And Members

Consequence of Defect

Corrective Action

Recall Notes

install a corrosion-resistant reinforcing plate and a new bolt on both rear subframe mounts. this recall campaign has been superseded by recall 98v-323.

1987 Mercury Sable

Component

Service Brakes, Hydraulic:Foundation Components:Disc:Rotor

Consequence of Defect

front disc brake rotors of the subject vehicles may experience severe corrosion if operated in areas where calcium chloride and sodium chloride are used extensively.

Corrective Action

Recall Notes

replace front brake rotors with full cast front brake rotors.

1987 Mercury Sable

Component

Wheels

Consequence of Defect

Corrective Action

there is a danger of air deprivation, hyperthermia,and/or panic response to a child who has locked himself or herself into thecompartment, with the possibility of asphyxiation.

Recall Notes

replace the self-latching assembly currently used in the rear storage compartment with a latch assembly that can only be closed with a key.

1987 Mercury Sable

Component

Visibility:Windshield Wiper/Washer:Motor

Consequence of Defect

road salt induced erosion of the wiper motor conductor strips could cause localized thermal stress within the glass.

Corrective Action

glass could fracture while station wagon is being drivenor parked, creating a risk of injury to occupants or sudden distraction to thedriver.

Recall Notes

apply sealant to conductor strips and protective tape to lower backlites.

1987 Mercury Sable

Component

Fuel System, Gasoline:Delivery:Hoses, Lines/Piping, And Fittings

Consequence of Defect

spring lock fuel line coupling may not be properly engaged.

Corrective Action

coupling could disengage due to fuel pressure,vibration, and engine movements; this would cause loss of fuel which, inpresence of an ignition source, creates a fire risk.

Recall Notes

install retainer clips over the couplings to prevent coupling separation and fuel leakage.

1987 Mercury Sable

Component

Structure:Frame And Members

Consequence of Defect

Corrective Action

if both rear corners drop, steering would become suddenly very difficult, affecting vehicle control and increasing the risk of a crash.

Recall Notes

dealers will install subframe rear mount bolts, reinforcement plates, and plate nuts.

1987 Mercury Sable

Component

Suspension:Rear:Axle:Spindle

Consequence of Defect

left and/or right rear spindle assemblies may have been improperly heat treated. consequence of defect: if spindle stem separates, loss of vehicle control could occur without prior warning.

Corrective Action

Recall Notes

replace rear spindle.

1986 Mercury Sable

Component

Suspension:Front:Shock Absorber

Consequence of Defect

the arc welds on the sway bar bracket, where it attaches to the strut reserve tube, did not fuse properly.

Corrective Action

over time, a portion of the bracket can tear away from the strut, falling into and puncturing the tire or causing damage to the wheel, which could result in an accident.

Recall Notes

monroe dealers will replace the strut free of charge.

1986 Mercury Sable

Component

Structure:Frame And Members

Consequence of Defect

Corrective Action

Recall Notes

install a corrosion-resistant reinforcing plate and a new bolt on both rear subframe mounts. this recall campaign has been superseded by recall 98v-323.

1986 Mercury Sable

Component

Service Brakes, Hydraulic:Foundation Components:Disc:Rotor

Consequence of Defect

front disc brake rotors of the subject vehicles may experience severe corrosion if operated in areas where calcium chloride and sodium chloride are used extensively.

Corrective Action

Recall Notes

replace front brake rotors with full cast front brake rotors.

1986 Mercury Sable

Component

Visibility

Consequence of Defect

the right quarter windows may contain glass which was improperly tempered. this glass may yield pieces larger than the maximum allowed by fmvss 205, glazing material. consequence of defect: in case of an accident these large pieces of glass may seriously injure the occupants of the car.

Corrective Action

Recall Notes

replace the quarter windows containing date code 5 af.

1986 Mercury Sable

Component

Steering:Column Locking:Anti-Theft Device

Consequence of Defect

Corrective Action

if the car is left unattended with the key removed and the ignition switch not in lock position, the car can be easily stolen. studies have shown that stolen cars are frequently involved in accidents.

Recall Notes

ignition lock switch cylinder will be replaced.

1986 Mercury Sable

Component

Wheels

Consequence of Defect

Corrective Action

there is a danger of air deprivation, hyperthermia,and/or panic response to a child who has locked himself or herself into thecompartment, with the possibility of asphyxiation.

Recall Notes

replace the self-latching assembly currently used in the rear storage compartment with a latch assembly that can only be closed with a key.

1986 Mercury Sable

Component

Visibility:Windshield Wiper/Washer:Motor

Consequence of Defect

road salt induced erosion of the wiper motor conductor strips could cause localized thermal stress within the glass.

Corrective Action

glass could fracture while station wagon is being drivenor parked, creating a risk of injury to occupants or sudden distraction to thedriver.

Recall Notes

apply sealant to conductor strips and protective tape to lower backlites.

1986 Mercury Sable

Component

Fuel System, Gasoline:Delivery:Hoses, Lines/Piping, And Fittings

Consequence of Defect

spring lock fuel line coupling may not be properly engaged.

Corrective Action

coupling could disengage due to fuel pressure,vibration, and engine movements; this would cause loss of fuel which, inpresence of an ignition source, creates a fire risk.

Recall Notes

install retainer clips over the couplings to prevent coupling separation and fuel leakage.

1986 Mercury Sable

Component

Structure:Frame And Members

Consequence of Defect

Corrective Action

if both rear corners drop, steering would become suddenly very difficult, affecting vehicle control and increasing the risk of a crash.

Recall Notes

dealers will install subframe rear mount bolts, reinforcement plates, and plate nuts.