Recall 04V332000: Front Coil Spring Corrosion

Make / Models : Model/Build Years:

Ford / Taurus 1999-2001

Mercury / Sable 1999-2001

MANUFACTURER: Ford Motor Company

NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID Number : 04V332000 Recall Date : JUL 06, 2004

COMPONENT: Suspension: Front: Springs: Coil Springs

Potential Number Of Units Affected : 899060

SUMMARY:
On certain passenger vehicles 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.

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

REMEDY:
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. Interim owner notification is expected to begin during August 2004. Owners should contact Ford at 1-800-392-3673.

NOTES:
Ford Recall NO. 04S17. Customers can also contact The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Auto Safety Hotline at 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).