1988 Mercury Sable problems
The Mercury Sable is a range of automobiles manufactured and marketed by the Mercury brand of Ford Motor Company. Introduced on December 26, 1985, as the replacement for the Mercury Marquis, the Sable marked the transition of the mid-size Mercury product range to front-wheel drive.
Over its production span, the Sable was Mercury's badge-engineered counterpart to the Ford Taurus, below the Grand Marquis in the Mercury range. From the 1986 to 2005 model years, it was produced as a mid-size four-door sedan and five-door station wagon. For 2006, the Sable was replaced by the full-size Montego and mid-size Milan. It was reintroduced for 2008 as a full-size car, offered as a four-door sedan.
Because of declining sales, the Sable was discontinued after the 2009 model year, leaving no Mercury counterpart for the sixth-generation Taurus. The final Sable was produced on May 21, 2009; in total, 2,112,374 Sables were produced during its 1985–2005 production.
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Common 1988 Mercury Sable problems
The Mercury Sable, produced from 1986 to 2009, has been known to have several common problems, particularly in the 1988 model year. These problems span multiple components of the vehicle, including the fuel system, brakes, suspension, frame, lighting, seats, equipment, engine, wheels, visibility, transmission, and fuel system.
One of the most prevalent issues with the 1988 Mercury Sable is related to the fuel system. Some owners have reported experiencing problems with fuel delivery, such as the engine struggling to start or running roughly.
Another common problem area for the 1988 Mercury Sable is the braking system. Several owners have reported issues with the brakes, such as reduced brake performance or complete brake failure. These problems can be traced back to various components, including faulty brake master cylinders, worn-out brake pads, or damaged brake lines. In some instances, these issues may be caused by a lack of regular maintenance or wear and tear over time.
Suspension problems are also prevalent in the 1988 Mercury Sable. Owners have reported issues such as excessive swaying or bouncing, which can be attributed to worn-out suspension components, including shock absorbers, struts, or bushings. These issues can lead to decreased handling and stability, particularly during high-speed driving or when taking sharp turns.
Frame issues are another concern for the 1988 Mercury Sable. Some owners have reported problems with the vehicle's frame, such as cracks or corrosion, which can compromise the structural integrity of the car. These issues can be caused by exposure to harsh weather conditions, road salt, or other environmental factors.
Lighting problems are also common in the 1988 Mercury Sable. Owners have reported issues with the vehicle's headlights, tail lights, or brake lights, which can be caused by faulty bulbs, blown fuses, or damaged wiring. These issues can lead to decreased visibility, both for the driver and other road users, and can increase the risk of accidents.
Seat problems are another concern for the 1988 Mercury Sable. Some owners have reported issues with the vehicle's seats, such as malfunctioning seat adjustment mechanisms or uncomfortable seating positions. These issues can lead to decreased comfort and convenience for the driver and passengers.
Equipment problems are also prevalent in the 1988 Mercury Sable. Owners have reported issues with various equipment components, such as the power windows, power locks, or audio system. These issues can be caused by faulty switches, blown fuses, or damaged wiring.
Engine problems are another concern for the 1988 Mercury Sable. Some owners have reported issues with the vehicle's engine, such as reduced power or performance, which can be attributed to various factors, including worn-out engine components, clogged air filters, or malfunctioning sensors.
Wheel problems are also prevalent in the 1988 Mercury Sable. Owners have reported issues with the vehicle's wheels, such as damaged wheel bearings or worn-out wheel hubs, which can lead to decreased stability and handling.
Visibility problems are another concern for the 1988 Mercury Sable. Some owners have reported issues with the vehicle's visibility, such as reduced visibility due to foggy or damaged windows, which can be caused by various factors, including exposure to harsh weather conditions or improper cleaning techniques.
Transmission problems are also prevalent in the 1988 Mercury Sable. Owners have reported issues with the vehicle's transmission, such as delayed or rough shifting, which can be attributed to various factors, including worn-out transmission components, low transmission fluid levels, or malfunctioning sensors.
Fuel system problems are another concern for the 1988 Mercury Sable. Some owners have reported issues with the vehicle's fuel system, such as leaks or malfunctions, which can lead to decreased fuel efficiency or engine performance.
In summary, the 1988 Mercury Sable has been known to have several common problems, including issues with the fuel system, brakes, suspension, frame, lighting, seats, equipment, engine, wheels, visibility, transmission, and fuel system. These issues can lead to decreased performance, safety, and convenience for the driver and passengers. Regular maintenance and inspections can help identify and address these issues before they become more serious.
What years of Mercury Sable to avoid?
Years to Avoid
- 2003. ...
- 2000. ...
- 2002. ...
- 2005. ...
- 2001.
- 2004.
Are Mercury Sables good cars?
Overall Mercury Sable is a great vehicle. Very comfortable, powerful, and drives smoothly. Relatively, fuel efficient.
How much horsepower does a 1988 Mercury Sable have?
MMP Rating
| Engine Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Horsepower Range: | 140 hp @ 4800 rpm (3.0L), 140 hp @ 3800 rpm (3.8L) |
| Torque: | 160 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (3.0L), 215 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm (3.8L) |
| Compression Ratio: | 8.9:1 (3.0L), 9.0:1 (3.8L) |
| Ignition System: | Electronic |
What kind of engine does a Mercury Sable have?
For the Sable G and GS, the standard engine was the 3.0L Vulcan V6, producing 145 hp. For the Sable LS, the standard engine was a 3.0L DOHC Duratec V6, producing 200 hp; optional in the Sable GS, the Duratec engine was an enlarged version of the engine from the Mercury Mystique.
What years of Mercury Sable to avoid?
Years to Avoid
- 2003. ...
- 2000. ...
- 2002. ...
- 2005. ...
- 2001.
- 2004.
How much horsepower does a 1988 Mercury Sable have?
MMP Rating
| Engine Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Horsepower Range: | 140 hp @ 4800 rpm (3.0L), 140 hp @ 3800 rpm (3.8L) |
| Torque: | 160 lb-ft @ 3000 rpm (3.0L), 215 lb-ft @ 2400 rpm (3.8L) |
| Compression Ratio: | 8.9:1 (3.0L), 9.0:1 (3.8L) |
| Ignition System: | Electronic |
What kind of engine does a Mercury Sable have?
For the Sable G and GS, the standard engine was the 3.0L Vulcan V6, producing 145 hp. For the Sable LS, the standard engine was a 3.0L DOHC Duratec V6, producing 200 hp; optional in the Sable GS, the Duratec engine was an enlarged version of the engine from the Mercury Mystique.
Is Mercury Sable a good car?
Overall Mercury Sable is a great vehicle. Very comfortable, powerful, and drives smoothly. Relatively, fuel efficient.
1988 Mercury Sable car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Mercury Sable problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Electrical system problems
- Steering problems
- Power train problems
- Structure problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1988 Mercury Sable vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1988 Mercury Sable
The NHTSA has received 180 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1988 Mercury Sable. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1988 Mercury Sable vehicles.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1MEBM50UXJA
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: INITIALLY THE GEARS WERE SLIPPING WHILE DRIVING. CURRENTLY, THE CONSUMER CANNOT SHIFT THE VEHICLE INTO ANY GEAR. THE DEALER DETERMINED THAT THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION MUST BE REBUILT. *AK . THE CONSUMER IS SEEKING ASSISTANCE TO CORRECT HIS VEHICLE BECAUSE OF THE FAULTY DEFECT DESIGN IN THE TRANSMISSION WHICH CAUSED SLIPPAGE WHILE OPERATING. *CB SEVERAL YEARS AGO THE DISC BRAKE SEPARATED FROM THE ROTOR RING WHILE DRIVING. AFTER SEEKING ASSISTANCE, THE CONSUMER DISCOVERED THERE WAS A RECALL REGARDING THE ROTOR, HOWEVER HIS VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED.*JB
STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN,TIRES,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-09-25
- VIN: 1MEBM53U8JA
- Components: STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN,TIRES,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: TRANSMISSION HAS FAILED TWICE. CURRENTLY IN THE VEHICLE RADIO LIGHT AND DOME LIGHT INTERMITTENLY COMES ON. HORN ALSO HONKS AS I DRIVE . STEERING WHEEL FEELS WOBBLY AND THERE ARE POPPING NOISES COME FROM AROUND THE STEERING COLUMN. FRONT PASSENGER SEAT LUMBAR BUTTON IS STUCK. TIRES HAVE BEEN CHANGED 4 TIMES IN THE FRONT. ELECTRIC WINDOWS FAILED THE FIRST DAY I BOUGHT THE CAR. THE MOST DANGEROUS PART OF THE WHOLE DEAL IS THAT THE CAR WILL STOP RUNNING WHEN YOUR DRIVING AT55 MPH; THIS HAPPENED TO ME TWICE. MR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-04-24
- VIN: 1MEBM5847JA
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ONGOING PROBLEM WITH ENGINE STALLING AT ANY SPEED. VEHICLE BEEN INTO DEALER SHOP ON FOUR OCCASIONS, AND DEALER WAS UNABLE TO DUPLICATE THE PROBLEM. *AK *YH
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-07-18
- VIN: 1MEBM5841JG
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: POWER ASSIST HOSE IS TOO CLOSE TO EXHAUST MANIFOLD. HEAT IS BURNING A HOLE THROUGH RUBBER HOSE, CAUSING FLUID LEAKAGES AND LOSS OF POWER STEERING ASSIST. ALSO, CAN LEAD TO A POSSIBLE FIRE. DEALER WAS NOTIFIED AND INFORMED CONSUMER THAT THEY HAVE A HEAT SERVICE SHIELD KIT AVAILABLE AT A COST TO THE CONSUMER. ASKING NHTSA TO LOOK INTO THIS MATTER. *AK *SLC
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-04-15
- VIN: 1MEDM53U4JG
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WHILE TRAVELING 65MPH VEHICLE SUDDENLY STALLED IN MIDDLE OF TRAFFIC. WAS NOT ABLE TO RESTART IT. TOWED TO DEALERSHIP, AND HAD DISTRIBUTOR/ ROTOR, AND CAP REPLACED.*AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1MEBM50U2JA
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: CV JOINT WHICH IS A PART OF AXLE ASSEMBLY BROKE, CAUSING LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL. PLEASE GIVE ANY FURTHER DETAILS.*AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1MEBM50U0JA
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: AXOD TRANSMISSION HAS FAILED DUE TO FAULTY MANUFACTURING.PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION.*AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-01-10
- VIN: 1MEBM50VXJA
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: DISC BRAKE ROTORS HAVE RUSTED OUT DUE TO LACK OF CORROSION PROTECTION ON 2 PIECES OF METAL, CAUSING LOSS OF BRAKES. *AK THE COMPOSITE DISK BRAKES ROTOR'S BOND BETWEEN THE DISK BRAKE PAD CONTACT AREA FRACTURED FROM THE SHEET METAL HUB CAUSEING THE BRAKE. *YH
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1993-06-19
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING, VEHICLE STALLED, A GARAGE MAN FOUND THE PROBLEM TO BE A FAULTY IGNITION MODULE. *SLC
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-10-04
- VIN: 1MEBM50V5JA
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: EA00023; TIRE TREAD SEPARATION: WHILE DRIVING ABOUT 65 MPH TREAD ON THE REAR PASSENGER'S SIDE TIRE PEELED OFF. DRIVER WAS ABLE TO MAINTAIN CONTROL OF VEHICLE. TIRE SIXE P20570R14. TIRE ON A 1988, MERCURY, SABLE. FIRESTONE WAS CONTACTED ABOUT THE TIRE. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER INFORMATION.*AK FIRESTONE TIRE DOT # E2T9F5A065, THE TREAD SEPARATION CAUSED THE BUMPER TO SEPARATE FROM THE VEHICLE. *SLC
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-07-15
- VIN: 1MEBM5341JA
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WHILE TEST DRIVING SLIDE CONTACTS WENT OUT, THEN 2 MONTHES LATER THEY WENT OUT AGAIN THEN 10 MONTHES LATER WENT OUT AGAIN. THEN HEAD GASKET WENT OUT. CRUISE DOSN'T WORK OR HORN. FORD DEALERSHIP SAID THEY COULDN'T FIND REPLACEMENT SO I HAVE TO JUST LIVE WITHOUT HORN AND CRUISE. I THINK I HAVE SHORT BECAUSE OF HORN NOW BUT WANT TO CHARGE ME TO LOOK AT IT, AND IT CAN NO LONGER BE DRIVEN BECAUSE OF HEAD GASKET. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: THE ROTOR DISC RUSTED THROUGH AND BROKE AT THE HUB, THIS IS LIKE RECALL 91V134, HOWEVER THE CONSUMER'S STATE OF MISSOURI IS NOT INCLUDED. *SLC
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-03-09
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1MEBM5541JG
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: FIVE HOURS AFTER LAST USE HORN WENT OFF,WHEN I WENT TO SEE THE PROBLEM SMOKE POURIHG OUT CRACK MADE IN WINDSHIELD FROM FIRE.BATTERY DISCONNECTED STOPPED FIRE,HOWEVER POLICE STILL HAD FIRE DEPT. GIVE IT A GOOD HOSING.
STEERING,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-08-19
- VIN: 1MEBM5847JG
- Components: STEERING,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: POWER STEERING LEAKS STARTED IN 1995 AFTER THE MOTOR MOUNTS BROKE AND THE AUTOMOBILE WAS TAKEN IN MANY TIMES TO REPAIR THE LEAKS TO NO AVAIL. HOSES AND LINES WERE REPLACED TWICE, SEALS WERE REPLACED ON PS PUMP, AND FINALLY IN 1998 THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A NON FORD DEALER AND THEY WERE ABLE TO FIX THE PROBLEM BY REPLACING THE POWER STEERING RACK AND PINION. THE MONEY SPENT WAS WELL OVER $2100.00 TO FINALLY REPAIR THE LEAKS. THIS INCLUDED THE REPLACEMENT OF THE MOTOR MOUNTS WHICH WERE A RECALL ITEM AND I PAID FOR THIS. I WAS TOLD THAT IT WAS NOT A WARRANTY OR RECALL PROBLEM. THIS FAILURE LED TO THE EXCESSIVE EXPENDITURES FOR REPAIRS. THE LATEST PROBLEM WITH THE CAR IS THE HEAD GASKETS FAILED. THIS IS THE SECOND TIME AND THE ESTIMATE IS FOR $1000.00. THE HEADGASKET SECRET WARRANTY ONLY COVERS THROUGH DEC. 1998. I HAVE YET TO TALLY ALL REPAIRS FOR THIS VEHICLE, BUT I AM SURE IT IS WELL OVER $5000.00 OVER THE LIFE OF THE VEHICLE. TRANSMISSION REPLACED, ALTERNATOR, TWO POWER STEERING PUMPS, RACK AND PINION, RADIATOR, TWO HEAD GASKET FAILURES, EXCESSIVE BRAKE JOBS EVER SINCE THE RECALL OF THE ROTORS, ALMOST YEARLY AFTER THIS RECALL. NUMEROUS VACUUM LEAKS UNDER THE DASH AND ONE AGAIN LAST WEEK. TWO SETS OF POWER STEERING LINES. THE CAR NEVER STAYS RUNNING WHEN IT IS HOT. IT HAS BEEN TAKEN BACK NUMEROUS TIMES WITH NO RESOLUTION. THE THROTTLE CABLE STUCK WHILE CROSSING AN INTERSECTION AND ALMOST CAUSED AN ACCIDENT AND THEN BROKE AFTER DRIVING IT TO THE DEALER TO CHECK THE PROBLEM. THE REAR ALIGNMENT BOLTS ARE FROZEN. ENGINE AND TRANSMISSION HAVE ALWAYS LEAKED EXCESSIVELY. FROZEN CALIPERS HAS BEEN A COMMON PROBLEM. *AK
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-03-01
- VIN: 1MEBM53U8JA
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: DRIVER SEAT OUTER BRACKET BROKE AT FRONT BEND, SEAT IS LOOSE, CAR HAS FAILED NJ STATE INSPECTION FOR SAFETY. SEAT CAN BREAK COMPLETELY LOOSE IN A COLLISION CAUSING ADDITIONAL INJURIES AND DEATHS. THERE ARE ALREADY 10 ODIS THAT I FOUND FOR THE SAME PROBLEM. THIS IS A FATIGUE FAILURE, SO OVER TIME MANY MORE WILL FAIL. THIS IS A SERIOUS DESIGN DEFECT TREND, A RECALL SHOULD BE ORDERED TO REPLACE THE TRACK (SEE OIDS 545300,963608,483070,947504,924010,935076,372411,389368,712732,942605)
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1MEBM5041JG
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHILE WAITING AT STOP LIGHT WITH FOOT ON BRAKE PEDAL ENGINE STARTED RACING & THEN JERKED FORWARD. TURNED VEHICLE OFF TO STOP IT. WAS ABLE TO TAKE VEHICLE TO DEALERSHIP, BUT VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. *AK
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1991-03-11
- VIN: 1MEBM53UXJA
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: THE ORIGINAL DEFECT OCCURRED ON 3/11/91 AS INDICATED IN THE QUESTIONNAIRE AND WAS REPAIRED BY HEMPSTEAD LINCOLN MERCURY. THE CAR WAS PICKED UP ON 3/13/91. UNFORTUNATELY, ON 3/28/91, THE CAR WAS BROUGHT IN AGAIN FOR THE AFOREMENTIONED PROBLEM (DRIVERS SIDE POWER SEAT TRACK, BROKEN AND DISLODGED). THE REPLACEMENT PART WAS NOT IN STOCK AND HAD TO BE ORDERED. THE REPAIR WAS COMPLETED AND THE VEHICLE WAS PICKED UP A FEW DAYS LATER. BOTH OF THESE REPAIRS WERE DONE UNDER OWNER'S WARRANTY (IN ADDITION TO PURCHASING AN EXTENDED 5-YR WARRANTY). LAST WEEK, THE SAME PROBLEM OCCURRED. DRIVERS SEAT DOES NOT STAY IN POSITION WHEN ACCELERATING, WHICH IS A SAFETY PROBLEM. I RETURNED TO HEMPSTEAD LINCOLN MERCURY, TOLD THEM OF THE CURRENT PROBLEM AND SHOWED THEM PAPER WORK OF THE TWO PREVIOUS REPAIRS. THE SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE INDICATED THAT NO DOCUMENTATION EXISTED SINCE THE CAR IS OUT OF WARRANTY, EVENTHOUGH THE PROBLEM HAS EXISTED THROUGHOUT NUMEROUS REPAIRS AS PREVIOUSLY DISCUSSED. HAVE OTHER COMPLAINTS BEEN DOCUMENTED THAT ARE SIMILAR TO MINE? DO I HAVE TO BE CHARGED THE FULL AMOUNT FOR REPAIR SINCE THIS PROBLEM HAS OCCURRED NUMEROUS TIMES AND HAS BEEN COVERED UNDER WARRANTY? PLEASE ADVISE.
SUSPENSION,WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-07-03
- VIN: FILL IN
- Components: SUSPENSION,WHEELS
- Summary: WAS COMING TO A STOP SIGN. HEARD A LOUD BANG, VEHICLE STARTED PULLING TO LEFT. RIGHT WHEEL HAD BROKEN DUE TO CORROSION. *AK
EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-07-04
- VIN: 1MEBM53U7JA
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: DISCHARGE LINE TO AIR CONDITIONER WAS NOT INSTALLED CORRECTLY. IT CAME LOOSE & RELEASED FREEON INTO ATMOSPHERE OF VEHICLE. INDEPENDENT INSPECTOR HAD CHECK IT. TOOK TO DEALER & MECHANIC WAS GOING TO REPLACE WITH SAME PART. HAD REFUSED TO HAVE OLD PART REPLACED NEW PART, JUST LIKED OLD. *AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-03-12
- VIN: 1MEBM5542JA
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHEN DRIVING AT ANY SPEED VEHICLE WILL ACCELERATE AT HIGH SPEED. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-07-24
- VIN: 1MEBM5OUOJG
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: I HAVE TRIED TO WORK WITH THE CAR LOT ON THIS, THEY REFUSE & I REPORTED PROBLEMS WITHIN 48 HOURS OF PURCHASE
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-07-01
- VIN: 1MEBMSOU0JA
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: VEHICLE EXPERIENCED FAILURE OF THE SUB-FRAME BODY MOUNT, RECALL ON COMPONENT HOWEVER CONSUMER WAS NOT NOTIFIED (98V-323). MJS
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-06-01
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1MEBM5348JA
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: 11/8/98 RETURNED HOME AFTER TAKING HUSBAND TO WORK 4 MILE ROUND TRIP. PARKED 2 DOORS DOWN, 20 TO 25 MINUTES, HEARD AN EXPLOSION AND GOT A TELEPHONE CALL FROM NEIGHBOR THAT MY CAR WAS ON FIRE , FIRE TRUCK ARRIVED AND SAID MY BATTERY CAUSED THE FIRE. MY CAR WAS RULED AS TOTALED. I DO HAVE A REPORT FROM THE FIRE MASHALL'S OFFICE. 2ND COMPLAINT, RELPACED 2 PRESSURE POWER STEERING HOSE AND 1 RETURN HOSE AND STILL HAD A POWER STEERING LEAK. ALSO 3 BATTERIES AND 2 TENSIONERS.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-06-01
- VIN: 1MEBM50U9JG
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION IS SLIPPING, CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO LUNGE FORWARD WHICH MAY CAUSE A CRASH. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION. *AK
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-09-03
- VIN: 1NEBM53U4JG
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: REAR SUB-FRAME MOUNTS BROKE, CAUSING A PROBLEM WITH TRANSMISSION. BOLTS ON THE MOUNTS DROPPED OFF/BUSHINGS ALSO FELL OFF. BOTH WERE CORRODED/RUSTY. *AK
1988 Mercury Sable recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 6 recalls for different components of the 1988 Mercury Sable.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS
- Summary: 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.
- Consequence: IF BOTH REAR CORNERS DROP, STEERING WOULD BECOME SUDDENLY VERY DIFFICULT, AFFECTING VEHICLE CONTROL AND INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL SUBFRAME REAR MOUNT BOLTS, REINFORCEMENT PLATES, AND PLATE NUTS.
- Manufacturer: MONROE AUTO CORP.
- Components: SUSPENSION:FRONT:SHOCK ABSORBER
- Summary: THE ARC WELDS ON THE SWAY BAR BRACKET, WHERE IT ATTACHES TO THE STRUT RESERVE TUBE, DID NOT FUSE PROPERLY.
- Consequence: 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.
- Remedy: MONROE DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE STRUT FREE OF CHARGE.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS
- Summary: 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.
- Consequence: 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.
- Remedy: 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.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: 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.
- Consequence: 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.
- Remedy: REPLACE THE SELF-LATCHING ASSEMBLY CURRENTLY USED IN THE REAR STORAGE COMPARTMENT WITH A LATCH ASSEMBLY THAT CAN ONLY BE CLOSED WITH A KEY.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:ROTOR
- Summary: 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.
- Consequence: 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.
- Remedy: REPLACE FRONT BRAKE ROTORS WITH FULL CAST FRONT BRAKE ROTORS.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: 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.
- Consequence: 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.
- Remedy: REVISE ROUTING OF POWER SEAT WIRING TO PREVENT DAMAGE FROM SEAT CUSHION SPRING CONTACT.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1988 Mercury Sable problems:
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May 26, 2009 ... ... engine just quit running. Engine - Answered by a verified Mercury Mechanic. ... I gave you the more common problems here. ... My 2003 Mercury sable ...
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Apr 11, 2011 ... I think it's a pretty common problem for the Taurus. ... Taurus SE Vulcan, 1994 Sable GS, 1988 Taurus LX ... Taurus and SHO models, Mercury Sable ...
2004 Taurus SE....104,000 miles....what could I be in store for ...
Nov 11, 2014 ... I owned a 1988 Taurus ... The Sable had the 3.0 engine that gave no problems. ... A look at carcomplaints.com shows 2003-2005 Taurus transmission ...
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