Ford Mountaineer problems
The Mercury Mountaineer is a mid-size luxury sport utility vehicle (SUV) that was sold by Mercury from 1996 until 2010. Sharing many of its features with the Ford Explorer, the vehicles were virtually identical in terms of hardware. Externally, they were styled somewhat differently, and the Mountaineer was positioned with a more upscale interior, with the Mountaineer's MSRP coming in at $1,000–$6,000 more than the Explorer. It was last redesigned for the 2006 model year with a new frame, looking very similar to its previous model.
Some controversy resulted after the media highlighted a number of rollovers involving Explorers and Mountaineers fitted with Firestone tires. The Mountaineer has been praised for its excellent handling and stability. The Mountaineer was never sold in Canada. As part of the discontinuation of the Mercury brand, production of the Mountaineer ended in late 2010.
Background
In 1990, General Motors introduced the Oldsmobile Bravada sport-utility vehicle, derived from the four-door Chevrolet S-10 Blazer. Though far lower in price, the Bravada was marketed as a competitor to the Range Rover (and the later Land Rover Discovery) and Toyota Land Cruiser. While sharing its body with the Blazer, Oldsmobile differentiated the Bravada with the use of model-specific trim and a dedicated all-wheel drive powertrain (in place of part-time four-wheel drive). For 1993, Jeep briefly revived the long-running Grand Wagoneer nameplate as part of the Jeep Grand Cherokee model line, using woodgrain exterior trim and a leather interior; limited sales led to its cancellation after a single model year.
As a response to the Bravada and the Grand Wagoneer, Ford introduced the 1993 Ford Explorer Limited in 1992. In contrast to the outdoors-themed Explorer Eddie Bauer, the Limited was geared towards on-road driving; it was fitted with all-wheel drive in place of traditional four-wheel drive. The Limited was also distinguished by monochromatic body trim, body-color bumpers, and chrome wheels.
As part of the redesign of the Explorer for 1995, the Limited remained part of the Explorer lineup, with the segment gaining additional competitors through the use of badge engineering. For 1996, the Acura SLX (Isuzu Trooper), Infiniti QX4 (Nissan Pathfinder), and the larger Lexus LX450 (Toyota Land Cruiser) were introduced together.
As these brands, along with Oldsmobile, competed more directly with luxury brands than the Ford model line, Ford Motor Company sought to develop SUVs for its Lincoln-Mercury division. To minimize model overlap, Mercury was chosen to sell a version of the mid-size Ford Explorer, while Lincoln would sell a version of the then-upcoming full-size Ford Expedition.
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Ford Mountaineer model years
Common Ford Mountaineer problems
The Mercury Mountaineer, a mid-size SUV produced by Ford from 1997 to 2010, has been known for several common problems that owners have reported over the years. These issues range from suspension, brake, and drivability problems to cracked rear panels and transmission failures.
One of the most common issues reported is the cracked rear panel, particularly in the 2002-2005 models. This problem is so widespread that it has led to a class-action lawsuit against Ford, alleging that the cracked rear panels can lead to water seepage, corrosion, and even shattered rear windows.
Another significant problem area is the transmission. Transmission failures have been reported in the 2002 model, with 41 complaints of transmission failure. Additionally, the 2007 model has had issues with transmission rebuilds or replacements, torque converter problems, and premature clutch replacement.
Suspension, brake, and drivability problems have also been reported by Mercury Mountaineer owners. These issues can range from premature pad or rotor wear, pulsation or vibration, and antilock system problems to brake failure and regenerative braking issues.
The 2009 Mercury Mountaineer, while not having as many complaints as other model years, still has a FIXD Reliability Score of 5 out of 10. This score, combined with a F.I.R.I.S. rating of 9.4 out of 10, indicates that there are still some reliability concerns with this model year.
In summary, while the Mercury Mountaineer has been a popular SUV, it has had its fair share of common problems, particularly with the transmission, cracked rear panels, and suspension, brake, and drivability issues. Potential buyers should be aware of these issues and consider having a mechanic inspect any used Mercury Mountaineer they are considering purchasing.
What problems does a Mercury Mountaineer have?
Owner Reported Trouble Spots
- Steering And Suspension. ...
- Climate System. ...
- Drive System. ...
- Fuel System/Emissions. ...
- Electrical Accessories. ...
- Engine Electrical. ...
- Engine Cooling. ...
- Noises And Leaks.
Is the Mercury Mountaineer reliable?
I've owned my mountaineer since 2013 and I never had any problems with my car and I would definitely recommend this vehicle to other people who is looking for a good reliable used car.
How many miles will a Mercury Mountaineer last?
Well maintained they could be good for 200,000+ miles. It all depends on how it was taken care of. There is a bit of luck involved also. Also it is probable that the transmission will need rebuilt during this 200,000 miles.
Do Mercury mountaineers have transmission problems?
Some of the more common Mercury Mountaineer transmission problems are unusually hard shifts, erratic shifting, and transmission fault codes. Many times, these issues are caused by excessive wear on the bushings, clutch drum, and clutches.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Ford Mountaineer years
We have researched Ford problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Ford Mountaineer cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Ford Mountaineer model years:
- Ford Mountaineer 2002
- Ford Mountaineer 1997
- Ford Mountaineer 1999
- Ford Mountaineer 1998
- Ford Mountaineer 2004
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Ford Mountaineer model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Ford Mountaineer years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Ford Mountaineer car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Ford Mountaineer , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Power train problems
- Tires problems
- Suspension problems
- Structure problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Ford Mountaineer vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Mountaineer model years
A total of 1 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Mountaineer model years
There were a total of 2 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Mountaineer model years
There were a total of 1 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 40 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Ford Mountaineer . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Ford Mountaineer vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Ford Mountaineer 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2014-08-11
- Date Complaint: 2014-09-08
- VIN: 4M2ZU86W72U
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD MOUNTAINEER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE TRANSMISSION GEAR SHIFT LEVER ON THE COLUMN WAS FRACTURED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER, BUT WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 183,000.
Ford Mountaineer 1997
- Date Of Incident: 2012-06-07
- Date Complaint: 2014-01-02
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 4M2DU55P9VU
- Components: AIR BAGS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: CAR WAS PARKED IN DRIVEWAY GOT IN NEXT MORNING CRUISE CONTROL BUTTONS ON STEERING WHEEL COMPLETELY MELTED.FORD HAS A RECALL ON THIS THEY SAID MY MODEL WAS NOT MANUFACTURED AT THIS PARTICULAR PLANT. ONE SIDE MELTED 2 MONTHS LATER OTHER SIDE MELTED. I DO NOT KNOW IF THIS HAS AFFECTED AIR BAG. I AM 84 YRS OLD AND AFRAID TO DRIVE CAR WORRIED FIRE COULD START WHILE DRIVING. *TR
Ford Mountaineer 1998
- Date Of Incident: 2013-11-01
- Date Complaint: 2013-11-15
- VIN: 4M2ZU55P1WU
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE PASSENGER FRONT DOOR DOES NOT RELEASE: NOW THE CAR WOULD NOT START. WE'VE BOOSTED IT AND IT WOULD RUN BUT ONCE TURNED OFF IT WOULD NOT TURN ON AGAIN. *TR
Ford Mountaineer 1999
- Date Of Incident: 2009-09-11
- Date Complaint: 2009-09-14
- VIN: 4M2ZU55P5XU
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 FORD MOUNTAINEER. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 45 MPH, THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL BECAME STUCK TO THE FLOOR AND HE WAS UNABLE TO RELEASE IT. THE DRIVER WAS FORCED TO SHIFT GEARS INTO NEUTRAL TO TURN THE VEHICLE OFF; HOWEVER, WITHIN A FEW SECONDS THE VEHICLE RESET ITSELF, BEGAN DRIVING NORMALLY AND THE FAILURE RECURRED. REPORT 1499871479 WAS FILED WITH THE MANUFACTURER. THE MANUFACTURER WILL NOT OFFER ANY ASSISTANCE WITH THE COST FOR THE DIAGNOSIS OR REPAIRS. THE CURRENT AND THE FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 119,000.
Ford Mountaineer 1999
- Date Of Incident: 2007-08-01
- Date Complaint: 2008-02-06
- VIN: 4M2ZU55P9XU
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 FORD MOUNTAINEER. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A NOTICE FOR FORD RECALL NUMBER 05S28 IN AUGUST OF 2007 REGARDING THE VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL. THE DEALER STATED THAT THEY DO NOT KNOW WHEN THE PART WOULD BE AVAILABLE. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT THE PART WOULD BE AVAILABLE THE FOURTH QUARTER OF 2008. THERE HAD BEEN NO FAILURE TO DATE. THE CURRENT MILEAGE IS 80,000. UPDATED 02-25-08 *BF
Ford Mountaineer 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2007-12-31
- Date Complaint: 2007-12-31
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TAILGATE HAS A CRACK IN THE FIBERGLASS, BELOW THE WINDSHIELD TRAVELING DOWN. THERE IS NO IDENTIFIED REASON FOR THIS CRACK. I HAVE BEEN TOLD BY THE DEALERSHIP THIS IS COMMONLY SEEN IN THE MOUNTAINEER AND EXPLORERS. THE CRACK INDICATES A MANUFACTURER DEFECT HOWEVER FORD/MERCURY HAS NOT MADE THE RECALL. *TR
Ford Mountaineer 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2007-11-20
- Date Complaint: 2007-11-27
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: I HAVE A 2002 FORD EXPLORER AND HAVE HAD TO REPLACE WHEEL BEARINGS AND HAVE SEEN WHERE MANY OTHERS ON THE INTERNET AS WELL AS PEOPLE I HAVE TALKED TO WITH THE EXACT SAME MODEL SUV HAVE HAD TO REPLACE THEIR BEARINGS AS WELL. TO ME IT SEEMS IF EVERYONE HAS HAD TO REPLACE THESE BEARING THAT THERE WOULD BE A RECALL. FORD MOTOR COMPANY SHOULD BE FORCED TO REPLACE THESE PARTS. IT IS NOT ONLY A EXPENSIVE PART IT IS ALSO A SAFETY RISK. I AMONG OTHERS DO NOT HAVE THE MONEY TO REPLACE ALL THOSE PARTS. MY WIFE DRIVES THIS TRUCK EVERYDAY AND I FEEL THAT IT IS A RISK TO DRIVE IT. *TR
Ford Mountaineer 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2007-10-17
- Date Complaint: 2007-10-19
- VIN: 4M2DU66E92U
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD MOUNTAINEER. WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH, THE SERVICE ENGINE LIGHT ILLUMINATED AND HAS REMAINED LIT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT ONCE THE RESET BUTTON WAS PRESSED, IT TRIGGERED THE SERVICE ENGINE LIGHT TO ILLUMINATE. THE DEALER INSPECTED THE VEHICLE AND WAS UNABLE TO FIND ANY FAILURES. THE VIN WAS INVALID AND THE ENGINE SIZE WAS UNKNOWN. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 140,708 AND THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
Ford Mountaineer 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2007-06-22
- Date Complaint: 2007-07-31
- VIN: 4M2ZU86W42Z
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TRANSMISSION STARTED TO SHUDDER WHEN SHIFTING, HAD DEALER POWER FLUSH AND FILL TRANSMISSION AND REPROGRAM PCM THIS FIXED PROBLEM FOR 3 DAYS, THEN PROBLEM RETURNED. HAVE NOW BEEN TOLD THAT TRANSMISSION NEEDS TO BE REPLACED. TRANSMISSION CAN GO OUT ANYTIME SO REPAIRS HAVE TO BE DONE AT A COST OF $3600.00 AT DEALER. *JB
Ford Mountaineer 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2006-02-07
- Date Complaint: 2007-07-11
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: ABS LIGHT COMES ON AND GOES OFF. BRAKES ARE STARTING TO FAIL WHEN LIGHT IS OFF, NOT WHEN THE ABS LIGHT IS ON. I AM GOING TO TAKE IT TO THE DEALERSHIP FOR INSPECTION.*AK
Ford Mountaineer 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2007-06-18
- Date Complaint: 2007-06-20
- VIN: 1FMZU64K64Z
- Components: VISIBILITY,STRUCTURE
- Summary: THERE IS A CRACK THAT EXTENDS DOWN THE LIFTGATE ON THE 2004 FORD EXPLORER. I HAVE NO EVENTS LEADING UP TO THIS FAILURE. IF THIS CRACK IS NOT REPAIRED INEVITABLY THERE WILL BE WATER DAMAGE TO THE ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS IN THE LIFT DOOR SUCH AS A FAILURE OF THE REAR WINDOW DEFROSTER AND REAR WINDOW WIPER. I WISH TO HAVE THIS FAILURE REPAIRED AT MY FORD AUTHORIZED DEALER AT YOUR COST. ADDITIONALLY, THE TWO REAR WINDOWS WILL NOT LET DOWN. I HAVE CHECKED THE FUSES AND HAVE REPLACED ONE THAT WAS BROKEN. IT SOLVED THE PROBLEM ONCE. THE PROBLEM RECURRED, AND I HAVE CHECKED THE FUSES AGAIN. THIS TIME NONE OF THEM WERE BROKEN. IF THIS PROBLEM WAS NOT REPAIRED, I BELIEVE ALL THE WINDOWS MAY EVENTUALLY BE FROZEN, POSSIBLY IN THE DOWN POSITION , CAUSING DAMAGE TO THE INTERIOR OR IN THE UP POSITION WHICH WAS NOT ACCEPTABLE FOR GOING THROUGH DRIVE ,THROUGH BANKING, FAST FOODS, TOLL BOOTHS, ETC. *AK MY THIRD COMPLAINT IS THAT MY TURN SIGNALS ARE
Ford Mountaineer 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2007-05-25
- Date Complaint: 2007-06-08
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: 2003 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER HAS REAR DIFFERENTIAL ISSUES. LOUD HUMMING COMING FROM BACK END. POTENTIAL FAILURE IS POSSIBLE AT ANYTIME WHICH CAN RESULT IN LOCKING OF BACK WHEEL.
Ford Mountaineer 2003
- Date Of Incident: 2007-05-20
- Date Complaint: 2007-05-22
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 4M2ZU86K93U
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: MY 2003 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER HAD A LIFT GATE RECALL. LINCOLN MERCURY DEALER IN HYANNIS, MA REPLACED PARTS TO FIX. THIS WAS LAST YEAR. THIS WEEK THE LATCH BROKE ON THE OUTSIDE OF THE WINDOW AND THE GLASS FELL AGAIN. LINCOLN MERCURY DEALER IN HYANNIS CHARGED ME FOR THE PART! THIS ALL IS DIRECTLY RELATED TO THE EARLIER RECALL I WOULD BELIEVE. THE DEALER SAYS NO. THE ORIGINAL RECALL SAID LIFTGATE GLASS STRUT MAY DISENGAGE OR HINGE MAY FRACTURE, ALLOWING GLASS TO FALL AND POSSIBLY BREAK. AM I WRONG? AND IF IT NOT PART OF THE RECALL THEN I GUESS IT SHOULD BE. THANK YOU VERY MUCH FOR YOUR TIME.
Ford Mountaineer 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2007-02-02
- Date Complaint: 2007-03-16
- VIN: 4M2ZU86E52U
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I HAD TO HAVE THE TRANSMISSION IN MY 2002 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER REBUILT THE GEARS IN THE TRANSMISSION WENT BAD IT COST ME $1400 FOR PARTS AND LABOR TO HAVE IT REBUILT I BOUGHT THIS VEHICLE IN MARCH 2003 I CONTACTED FORD MOTOR COMPANY ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS TO SEE IF THERE IS SOME KIND OF DEFECT IN THEIR TRANSMISSIONS.I KEEP GETTING THE SAME OLD SOUND AND DANCE FROM THEIR CUSTOMER SERVICE DEPARTMENT. THE MECHANIC WHO REBUILD MY TRANSMISSION TOLD ME THAT THIS IS NOT AN ISLOTED INCIDENT. HE SAID THAT THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEN WITH FORD CARS AND TRUCKS ESPECIALY MOUNTAINEERS AND THE FORD EXPLORER.SO I TOLD THIS TO MERCURY DO THEY HAVE PROBLEMS WITH THEIR TRANSMISSIONS THEY SAID IT WAS THE FIRST TTHEY HEARD OF THIS. THIS TRUCK IS ONLY 5 YEARS OLD TRANSMISSIONS JUST DONT GO BAD IN 5 YEARS I HAVE 2 OYTHER VEHICLES I ONLY USE THIS VEHICLE TO AND FROM WORK THERE IS NO REASON FOR MY TRANSMISSION TO GO BAD IN 5 YEARS. I TRIED TO BE COMPANSATED FOR THE RRRPEPAIRS THEY JUST IGNORE ME. WHAT CAN I DO. THANK YOU: ROBERT JOHN 3-16-2007
Ford Mountaineer 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2006-11-20
- Date Complaint: 2006-11-20
- VIN: 4M2ZU66W224
- Components: VISIBILITY,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: I AM THE OWNER OF A 2002 FORD/MERCURY MOUNTAINEER I HAD TO HAVE MY RIGHT FRONT WINDOW FIXED. I LET IT DOWN AND IT WOULD NOT COME BACK UP SO I TOOK IT TO MY LOCAL BODY SHOP AND HE SAID THIS IT THE 6TH ONE HE HAS HAD TO FIX IN THE LAST FEW MONTHS. IS THERE A RECALL ON THIS PART. IT COST ME OVER $200.00 TO HAVE A GASKET/SEAL PUT ON THE WINDOW. IT WAS NOT THE MOTOR BUT A PART THAT ATTACHES TO THE WINDOW. *NM
Latest 5 recalls Ford Mountaineer
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 9 recalls for different components of the Ford Mountaineer.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Ford Mountaineer 1998
- Report Received Date: 2006-08-01
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: ON CERTAIN TRUCKS EQUIPPED WITH SPEED CONTROL, GASOLINE OR NATURAL GAS ENGINES, THE SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH MAY OVERHEAT.
- Consequence: OVERHEATING COULD RESULT IN SMOKE OR BURN AND AN UNDERHOOD FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A FUSED WIRING HARNESS INTO THE SPEED CONTROL SYSTEM FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 7, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT FORD AT 1-866-436-7332. (NOTE: ALSO SEE RECALLS 05V017 AND 05V388)
- Model: Ford Mountaineer 2002
- Report Received Date: 2004-09-13
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE:HINGE AND ATTACHMENTS
- Summary: ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, THE LIFTGATE GLASS STRUT MAY BECOME DISENGAGED OR THE HINGE MAY FRACTURE ALLOWING THE GLASS TO FALL AND POSSIBLY BREAK.
- Consequence: IF THE HINGE SHOULD FRACTURE, THERE IS A POTENTIAL FOR THE GLASS TO FALL AND ULTIMATELY BREAK AND PERSONAL INJURIES COULD OCCUR.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL HAVE THE LIFTGATE GLASS STRUT BRACKETS AND GLASS HINGES REPLACED. FOR THE VEHICLES BUILT FROM AUGUST 1, 2000 THROUGH MARCH 3, 2002, THE DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE HINGES AND LIFTGATE STRUT BRACKET. ON VEHICLES BUILT FROM MARCH 3, 2002 THROUGH JUNE 23, 2003, THE DEALERS WILL ONLY REPLACE THE HINGES. THE RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 30, 2004. A POSTCARD WAS SENT TO OWNERS ON DECEMBER 27, 2004, ADVISING THEM THAT PARTS ARE NOW AVAILABLE. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673.
- Model: Ford Mountaineer 2003
- Report Received Date: 2004-09-13
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE:HINGE AND ATTACHMENTS
- Summary: ON CERTAIN SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, THE LIFTGATE GLASS STRUT MAY BECOME DISENGAGED OR THE HINGE MAY FRACTURE ALLOWING THE GLASS TO FALL AND POSSIBLY BREAK.
- Consequence: IF THE HINGE SHOULD FRACTURE, THERE IS A POTENTIAL FOR THE GLASS TO FALL AND ULTIMATELY BREAK AND PERSONAL INJURIES COULD OCCUR.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL HAVE THE LIFTGATE GLASS STRUT BRACKETS AND GLASS HINGES REPLACED. FOR THE VEHICLES BUILT FROM AUGUST 1, 2000 THROUGH MARCH 3, 2002, THE DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE HINGES AND LIFTGATE STRUT BRACKET. ON VEHICLES BUILT FROM MARCH 3, 2002 THROUGH JUNE 23, 2003, THE DEALERS WILL ONLY REPLACE THE HINGES. THE RECALL BEGAN ON SEPTEMBER 30, 2004. A POSTCARD WAS SENT TO OWNERS ON DECEMBER 27, 2004, ADVISING THEM THAT PARTS ARE NOW AVAILABLE. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673.
- Model: Ford Mountaineer 1997
- Report Received Date: 2001-05-22
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: TIRES:TREAD/BELT
- Summary: THIS IS NOT A SAFETY RECALL IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE SAFETY ACT. HOWEVER, IT IS DEEMED A SAFETY IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN BY THE AGENCY. EQUIPMENT DESCRIPTION: FORD IS REPLACING ALL FIRESTONE WILDERNESS AT 15, 16, AND 17 INCH TIRES MOUNTED ON FORD TRUCKS AND SUVS. FORD REPORTS TREAD SEPARATION CAN OCCUR DUE TO A COMBINATION OF THE SENSITIVITY OF THE TIRE DESIGN TO STRESS, AGING, AND MANUFACTURING DIFFERENCES BETWEEN PLANTS. FORD IS REPLACING THESE TIRES TO PREVENT POSSIBLE PREMATURE TIRE FAILURE. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: THE VEHICLES LISTED BELOW MAY HAVE BEEN ORIGINALLY EQUIPPED WITH FIRESTONE WILDERNESS AT TIRES OR MAY HAVE HAD WILDERNESS AT TIRES INSTALLED DURING THE FIRESTONE RECALL LAUNCHED IN AUGUST 2000. CERTAIN 1991 THROUGHT 2002 FORD EXPLORER CERTAIN 2001 THROUGHT 2002 EXPLORER SPORT, AND SPORT TRAC CERTAIN 1997 THROUGH 2002 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER CERTAIN 1991 THROUGH 2001 RANGER CERTAIN 1999 THROUGH 2001 EXPEDITION CERTAIN 1991 THROUGH 1994, AND 1997 MODEL YEAR F-SERIES CERTAIN 1991 THROUGH 1994 BRONCO NOTE: BOTH ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT AND REPLACEMENT TIRES ARE AFFECTED.
- Consequence: SHOULD THE TREAD SEPARATE AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS, A VEHICLE CRASH COULD OCCUR, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH.
- Remedy: THE REPLACEMENT/REIMBURSEMENT PROGRAM FOR THIS CAMPAIGN EXPIRED ON MARCH 31, 2002. HOWEVER, CUSTOMERS CAN CONTACT FORD AT 1-877-917-3673 OR GO ON-LINE TO WWW.FORD.COM FOR POSSIBLE ASSISTANCE.
- Model: Ford Mountaineer 1998
- Report Received Date: 2001-05-22
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: TIRES:TREAD/BELT
- Summary: THIS IS NOT A SAFETY RECALL IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE SAFETY ACT. HOWEVER, IT IS DEEMED A SAFETY IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN BY THE AGENCY. EQUIPMENT DESCRIPTION: FORD IS REPLACING ALL FIRESTONE WILDERNESS AT 15, 16, AND 17 INCH TIRES MOUNTED ON FORD TRUCKS AND SUVS. FORD REPORTS TREAD SEPARATION CAN OCCUR DUE TO A COMBINATION OF THE SENSITIVITY OF THE TIRE DESIGN TO STRESS, AGING, AND MANUFACTURING DIFFERENCES BETWEEN PLANTS. FORD IS REPLACING THESE TIRES TO PREVENT POSSIBLE PREMATURE TIRE FAILURE. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: THE VEHICLES LISTED BELOW MAY HAVE BEEN ORIGINALLY EQUIPPED WITH FIRESTONE WILDERNESS AT TIRES OR MAY HAVE HAD WILDERNESS AT TIRES INSTALLED DURING THE FIRESTONE RECALL LAUNCHED IN AUGUST 2000. CERTAIN 1991 THROUGHT 2002 FORD EXPLORER CERTAIN 2001 THROUGHT 2002 EXPLORER SPORT, AND SPORT TRAC CERTAIN 1997 THROUGH 2002 MERCURY MOUNTAINEER CERTAIN 1991 THROUGH 2001 RANGER CERTAIN 1999 THROUGH 2001 EXPEDITION CERTAIN 1991 THROUGH 1994, AND 1997 MODEL YEAR F-SERIES CERTAIN 1991 THROUGH 1994 BRONCO NOTE: BOTH ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT AND REPLACEMENT TIRES ARE AFFECTED.
- Consequence: SHOULD THE TREAD SEPARATE AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS, A VEHICLE CRASH COULD OCCUR, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN PERSONAL INJURY OR DEATH.
- Remedy: THE REPLACEMENT/REIMBURSEMENT PROGRAM FOR THIS CAMPAIGN EXPIRED ON MARCH 31, 2002. HOWEVER, CUSTOMERS CAN CONTACT FORD AT 1-877-917-3673 OR GO ON-LINE TO WWW.FORD.COM FOR POSSIBLE ASSISTANCE.