Owners have filed 282 complaints
about the 1996 Mercury Grand Marquis with NHTSA between 1996 and 2023.
The largest single group is the engine & cooling.
Across this model's run it ranks 5 of 19 worst.
The letter says how bad. This says what kind — whether this year drew
an unusual number of complaints, unusually dangerous
ones, or failures that arrived unusually early.
The dashed ring is 50 — the national norm. Further out is worse.
Complaint volume — 65
Against the median year of the Mercury Grand Marquis. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 84
16.3% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 9
5% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
How 1996 compares with every other Mercury Grand Marquis
NHTSA files every complaint against a named sub-assembly, not just a
system. This is the difference between knowing it was "the engine" and
knowing which part of it — the list to hand a mechanic.
Manifold/Header/Muffler/Tail Pipe
3530.7%
Carburetor System
1614.0%
Engine
1614.0%
Headlights
1210.5%
Gasoline
108.8%
Cooling System
97.9%
Hoses, Lines/Piping, AND Fittings
87.0%
Automatic Transmission
87.0%
When it fails
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
Under 1,000 miles
21.7%
1,000 – 9,999 miles
21.7%
10,000 – 24,999 miles
21.7%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
76.0%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
2622.4%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
4437.9%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
2118.1%
150,000+ miles
1210.3%
NHTSA crash tests
The agency crash-tested this model year itself. These are its own
photographs and star ratings.
These stars come from the pre-2011 crash test programme. NHTSA
rebuilt the programme for the 2011 model year and states that
ratings either side of that change are not comparable — so do
not read these against a 2011-or-newer car's stars.
Configuration
Overall
Front
Side
Rollover
1996 Mercury Grand Marquis 4-DR.
—
—
—
—
When owners complained
A spike years after the car went on sale usually means a part wearing
out on schedule across the whole fleet — the kind of pattern no single
owner can see from inside their own car.
Apr 1996peak 9Mar 2023
NHTSA investigations into the 1996 Mercury Grand Marquis
An investigation is the step before a recall: the agency has seen enough
complaints to look into a pattern itself. An open one means it thinks
something may be wrong and nothing has been fixed yet.
IN A LETTER DATED FEBRUARY 25, 2005, FORD MOTOR COMPANY (FORD) NOTIFIED ODI THAT IT WOULD BE CONDUCTING A CUSTOMER SATISFACTION PROGRAM (FORD NO. 04B26) TO CORRECT A REAR BRAKE LINE CHAFING CONCERN IN APPROXIMATELY 44,000 MODEL YEAR (MY) 1997 FORD CROWN VICTORIA AND GRAND MARQUIS NON-FLEET VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH ELECTRONIC TRACTION CONTROL THAT WEREBUILT AFTER MARCH 19, 1997.THESE VEHICLES HAVE AN ADDITIONAL REAR BRAKE LINE AND A MASTIC PATCH CAUSING REDUCED CLEARANCE FROM A STIFFENING RIB IN THE FLOOR PAN.ODI?S ANALYSIS SHOWED HIGHER COMPLAINT AND WARRANTY RATES RELATED TO REAR BRAKE LINE FAI...
RQ03004Opened 11 Mar 2003Closed 25 Jul 2003SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FLUID
REAR BRAKE LINE FAILURE
ODI HAS RECEIVED 40 COMPLAINTS ALLEGING REAR BRAKE LINE FAILURE IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES, INCLUDING 8 THAT HAVE BEEN RECEIVED THIS YEAR.AN ADDITIONAL 192 REPORTS AND 478 WARRANTY CLAIMS HAVE BEEN RECEIVED FROM FORD.A LEAK IN THE REAR BRAKE LINE CAN CAUSE EXTENDED STOPPING DISTANCE.A SEARCH OF ODI'S COMPLAINT DATABASE FOR PEER VEHICLE COMPLAINTS, USING THE SAME BRAKE LINE FAILURE CRITERIA AS FOR THE SUBJECT VEHICLES AND THE SAME MODEL YEARS (1995-97), IDENTIFIED ONLY 1 COMPLAINT INVOLVING GENERAL MOTORS CAPRICE/IMPLALA/88/98/REGAL VEHICLES AND ONLY 2 COMPLAINTS INVOLVING CHRYSLER LH-CARS.THE INV...
RQ03002Opened 3 Jan 2003Closed 3 Jun 2003SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER BALL JOINT
BALL JOINT SEPARATION
SEE ATTACHED REPORT.
EA02025Opened 6 Sep 2002Closed 30 Jun 2004ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH FIRES
BASED ON THE LOW RATE OF FIRE INCIDENTS (2.5 INCIDENTS PER 100,000 VEHICLES SOLD) WHERE FAILURE OF THE SCDS IS INVOLVED AND THE AGE OF THE VEHICLES ? 7 TO 11 YEARS ? A SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT TREND HAS NOT BEEN IDENTIFIED AND FURTHER USE OF AGENCY RESOURCES DOES NOT APPEAR TO BE WARRANTED.THE CLOSING OF THIS INVESTIGATION DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A FINDING BY NHTSA THAT NO SAFETY-RELATED DEFECT EXISTS.THE AGENCY RESERVES THE RIGHT TO TAKE FURTHER ACTION IF WARRANTED BY THE CIRCUMSTANCES.FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, SEE THE ATTACHED CLOSING REPORT.
DP02007Opened 22 Aug 2002Closed 4 Dec 2002VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:LINKAGES
FUEL-FED FIRES
THE FARS DATA SHOWS THAT THE RISK OF FIRE FROM IMPACT IN ALL DIRECTIONS IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES IS THE SAME AS ALL OTHER SEDANS.THE SUBJECT VEHICLES ARE NOT OVER REPRESENTED WITH RESPECT TO THE RISK OF FIRE IN REAL-WORLD HIGH-ENERGY CRASHES.A FURTHER DISCUSSION OF ISSUES RELATED TO POST CRASH FIRES IN THE SUBJECT VEHICLES IS SET OUT IN THE CLOSING REPORT FOR SQ 01-014 AND THAT REPORT IS IN THE DOCKET FOR THIS PETITION.AFTER REVIEWING THE PETITION AND ITS SUPPORTING MATERIALS, AS WELL AS INFORMATION FURNISHED BY FORD AND GM, AND INFORMATION WITHIN THE AGENCY'S POSSESSION FROM PREVIOUS INVESTIGA...
SQ01014Opened 27 Nov 2001Closed 3 Oct 2002FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE
NHTSA WAS PETITIONED TO COMMENCE A DEFECT INVESTIGATION OF THE SUBJECT VEHICLES ON JULY 28, 1998.THE PETITION ALLEGES THAT THE DRIVER'S SEAT HEAD RESTRAINT WAS NOT HIGH ENOUGH AT ITS HIGHEST POSITION TO PROTECT HIM FROM NECK INJURIES SUSTAINED DURING A REAR IMPACT COLLISION.OTHER THAN THE SUBJECT PETITIN, ODI HAS RECEIVED NO OTHER COMPLAINTS OF INADEQUATE HEAD RESTRAINT HEIGHT FOR THE SUBJECT VEHICLES.FORD MOTOR COMPANY'S COMPLIANCE DATA SHOWS THAT THE SUBJECT VEHICLES MET THE HEAD RESTRAINT HEIGHT REQUIREMENT OF FMVSS NO. 202, HEAD RESTRAINTS. THEREFORE, THE PETITION IS DENIED.
Recalls on the 1996 Mercury Grand Marquis
A complaint is one owner's allegation. A recall is the point at which
the manufacturer or a regulator agreed the defect is real and dangerous
enough to fix for free — however old the car is.
United States — NHTSA
15E082000
STEERING
Dorman Products, Inc. (Dorman) is recalling certain model Dorman Steering Shafts, part number 425-359, Solutions Steering Shafts, part number 7-0359, and OE Solutions Steering Shafts, part number 425-359, manufactured April 17, 2014, to September 28, 2015. These aftermarket replacement steering shafts are sold for use in 1995-2002 Ford Crown Victoria, Mercury Grand Marquis, and Lincoln Town Car vehicles. These steering shafts may separate during operation if the integral fastener is loose or missing and if the interfacing vehicle shaft is compressed in length.
Risk: If the shafts separate during vehicle operation, a loss of steering control would result, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
08V051000
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:CRUISE CONTROL
FORD IS RECALLING 225,000 MY 1992-2003 ECONOLINE, MY 1993-1995 TAURUS SHO, MY 1992-1998 CROWN VICTORIA, MY 1993 BRONCO, F-SERIES, MY 1995-1997 F-SERIES SUPER DUTY STRIPPED CHASSIS, MY 1992-1998 MERCURY GRAND MARQUIS, AND MY 1992-1995 LINCOLN TOWN CAR VEHICLES. THE AFFECTED VEHICLES WERE PREVIOUSLY REPAIRED USING A WIRING HARNESS THAT IS NOT COMPATIBLE WITH THE VEHICLE CIRCUIT POLARITY.
Risk: AS A RESULT, THE FUSE IS LOCATED IN THE OUTPUT CIRCUIT RATHER THAN IN THE INTENDED INPUT POWER FEED CIRCUIT, AND MAY NOT OFFER THE INTENDED PROTECTION IN THE EVENT OF AN ELECTRICAL SHORT TO GROUND.
07V336000
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
ON CERTAIN PICKUP TRUCKS, PASSENGER VEHICLES, SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, AND MOTOR HOMES CHASSIS, THE SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH MAY, UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS, LEAK INTERNALLY AND THEN OVERHEAT, SMOKE, OR BURN.
Risk: THIS COULD RESULT IN AN UNDERHOOD FIRE.
00V157002
SEAT BELTS:FRONT:ANCHORAGE
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES USING AFTERMARKET FRONT PASSENGER SIDE SEAT BELT ASSEMBLIES THAT WERE SOLD BY FORD PARTS DEPARTMENTS FROM JANUARY 1, THROUGH JUNE 13, 2000. THESE SEAT BELT ASSEMBLIES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 209, "SEAT BELT ASSEMBLIES." THE EQUIPMENT INVOLVED IS SERVICE STOCK SEAT BELT ASSEMBLIES, MODEL NOS. H 9977, H 9979, T 9063, AND T 9217, BUILT BY TRW VEHICLE SAFETY SYSTEMS, INC. (TRW) MANUFACTURED FROM JUNE 1, 1998 THROUGH MAY 21, 2000. SOME OF THESE SEAT BELT ASSEMBLIES MAY HAVE BEEN INSTALLED AS SERVICE REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT ON THE VEHICLES INVOLVED IN THE RECALL.
Risk: IN THE EVENT OF A COLLISION, THESE SEAT BELTS MAY NOT RESTRAIN AN OCCUPANT INCREASING THE RISK OF INJURY.
00V157001
SEAT BELTS:FRONT:ANCHORAGE
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES USING AFTERMARKET DRIVER'S SEAT BELT ASSEMBLIES THAT WERE SOLD BY FORD PARTS DEPARTMENTS FROM JANUARY 1, THROUGH JUNE 13, 2000. THESE SEAT BELT ASSEMBLIES FAIL TO COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 209, "SEAT BELT ASSEMBLIES." THE EQUIPMENT INVOLVED IS SERVICE STOCK SEAT BELT ASSEMBLIES, MODEL NOS. H 9977, H 9979, T 9063, AND T 9217, BUILT BY TRW VEHICLE SAFETY SYSTEMS, INC. (TRW) MANUFACTURED FROM JUNE 1, 1998 THROUGH MAY 21, 2000. SOME OF THESE SEAT BELT ASSEMBLIES MAY HAVE BEEN INSTALLED AS SERVICE REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT ON THE VEHICLES INVOLVED IN THE RECALL.
Risk: IN THE EVENT OF A COLLISION, THESE SEAT BELTS MAY NOT RESTRAIN AN OCCUPANT INCREASING THE RISK OF INJURY.
96V070000
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH
WHEN IN THE SECONDARY LATCHED POSITION, THE DRIVER DOOR LATCHES MAY OPEN WHEN SUBJECTED TO TRANSVERSE LOADS LESS THAN THAT SPECIFIED IN FMVSS NO. 206, "DOOR LOCKS AND DOOR RETENTION COMPONENTS."
Risk: THE DRIVER'S DOOR, WHEN CLOSED ONLY TO THE SECONDARY LATCHED POSITION, MAY NOT SUSTAIN A 1,000 POUND TRANSVERSE LOAD.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 20080388,869 units in Canada
Electrical
On certain vehicles, a wiring harness that is not compatible with the vehicle circuit polarity may have been inadvertently installed during servicing for recall 2005028 or 2007258. As a result, the fuse is located in the output circuit rather than in the input power feed circuit, and will not offer the intended protection in the event of an electrical short to ground. This could result in a vehicle fire, causing property damage and/or personal injury. Correction: Dealers will install an updated wiring harness.
Recall 2007258165,447 units in Canada
Electrical
On certain vehicles, the speed control deactivation switch may overheat, smoke, or burn, potentially resulting in an underhood fire. The failure mode appears to be different than that of Recall 2005028 (05S28). This time, the concern is with long term durability performance issues causing the switch to fail. Correction: Initially as an interim repair, owners will be instructed to return their vehicles to their dealers to have the speed control deactivation switch disconnected. As soon as replacement parts are available, owners will be instructed to return to the dealers for installation of a fused wiring harness designed to eliminate the potential risk of fire.
Recall 19960713,296 units in Canada
Structure
THESE VEHICLES MAY NOT COMPLY WITH C.M.V.S.S 206 - DOOR LATCHES, HINGES AND LOCKS. THE DRIVER'S DOOR, WHEN CLOSED ONLY TO THE SECONDARY LATCHED POSITION, MAY NOT SUSTAIN A 1000 POUND TRANSVERSE LOAD AS REQUIRED BY THE STANDARD. CORRECTION: DRIVER DOOR LATCH WILL BE INSPECTED AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACED.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
at 190,000 milesRichmond, VAFire
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
ON 9/17/2003 @ 11:23 PM, MY 1996 GRAND MARQUIS CAUGHT FIRE UNDER THE HOOD AND WAS TOTALLY DESTROYED WHILE SITTING IDLE IN FRONT OF MY HOUSE. THE HENRICO COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS CALLED. I HAVE THE FIRE REPORT, WHICH INDICATES THAT NO CAUSE FOR THE FIRE WAS DETERMINED. IN JUNE 2014, I RECEIVED A NOTIFICATION FROM FORD MOTOR COMPANY STATING THAT MY 1996 GRAND MARQUIS HAS A POTENTIAL UNDER HOOD FIRE RISK. THE ISSUE AS STATED WAS THAT "FORD CANNOT BE CONFIDENT THAT AFTER MANY YEARS IN SERVICE, THE SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH IN YOUR VEHICLE WILL NOT LEAK, POSING THE RISK OF AN UNDER HOOD FIRE. UNTIL THIS REPAIR IS PERFORMED, A FIRE COULD OCCUR AT ANY TIME. A FIRE CAN OCCUR EVEN IF THE KEY IS NOT IN THE IGNITION, AND CAN OCCUR EVEN IF THE SPEED CONTROL SYSTEM IS NEVER USED." AFTER RECEIVING THE LETTER, I FILED A REPORT WITH FORD TO POSSIBLY GET SOME FORM OF COMPENSATION FOR MY CAR SINCE I MY CAR WAS INSURED FOR LIABILITY ONLY. FORD RESPONDED BACK THAT MY CLAIM WAS CLOSED DUE TO THE FACT THAT I KNOW LONGER OWNED THE CAR, AND THEY WERE UNABLE TO INSPECT IT. I FIND THIS TO BE ABSURD SINCE THE CAR WAS TOTALED, AND NOT AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION.
NHTSA complaint #10631764 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 85,000 milesSoca, MEFire
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:MANIFOLD/HEADER/MUFFLER/TAIL PIPE
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 MERCURY GRAND MARQUIS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS STEAM EMITTING FROM THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. A MECHANIC ADVISED THE CONTACT THAT THERE WAS A CRACK IN THE PLASTIC INTAKE MANIFOLD. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED AT THE TIME OF THE COMPLAINT. THE CONTACT CALLED THE MANUFACTURER WHO OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE APPROXIMATELY 85,000.
NHTSA complaint #10348684 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 113,000 milesQuincy, ILFire
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
CAR CAUGHT FIRE HAD NO PROBLEMS WITH THE CAR IN THE PAST DROVE ABOUT 2 MILES PARKED AND TURNED CAR OFF AND THE ENGINE CAUGHT FIRE.
NHTSA complaint #10297068 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 96,000 milesSpring Lake, NJFire
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 MERCURY GRAND MARQUIS. WHILE PARKED IN THE RESIDENCE CARPORT, THE VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT EXTINGUISHED THE FLAMES. THE MASSIVE FIRE COMPLETELY DESTROYED THE VEHICLE AND CAUSED DAMAGES TO THE HOME. THERE WERE NO PERSONAL INJURIES. AT THIS TIME THE CAUSE OF FAILURE HAS NOT BEEN DETERMINED. THE MANUFACTURER AND INSURANCE COMPANY WERE NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 96,000.
NHTSA complaint #10289452 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 220,000 milesGainesville, FLFire
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
ON TUESDAY NIGHT, APRIL 28, MY 1996 MERCURY GRAND MARQUIS SUDDENLY CAUGHT FIRE UNDER THE HOOD OF THE CAR AND THE ENGINE WAS IN FLAMES IN A MATTER OF MINUTES. MY CAR HAD BEEN SITTING FOR HOURS BEFORE I GOT IN IT AND DROVE IT HOME, APPROXIMATELY 2 1/2 MILES. WHEN I PARKED MY CAR IN THE DRIVEWAY I ENTERED MY HOUSE. WITHIN FIVE MINUTES MY DAUGHTER SCREAMED THAT SMOKE WAS COMING OUT FROM UNDER THE HOOD. WITHIN ANOTHER 5 - 10 MINUTES THE ENTIRE ENGINE AREA WAS IN FLAMES. FIRE RESCUE ARRIVED AND PUT OUT THE FIRE, BUT NOT BEFORE MY CAR WAS, FOR THE MOST PART, RUINED. FROM WHAT I HAVE HEARD, AND READ, I BELIEVE IT WAS SOMETHING TO DO WITH THE CRUISE CONTROL MECHANISM.
NHTSA complaint #10267518 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Plainfield, INFire
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
WE OWNED A 1996 MERCURY GRAND MARQUIS VEHICLE. THIS VEHICLE CAUGHT FIRE IN JULY 2007 WITHOUT ANY WARNING PARKED IN FRONT OF OUR HOME WHILE WE WERE OUT OF TOWN. LUCKILY MY DAUGHTER AND GRANDDAUGHTER WERE HOME AT THE TIME TO CALL 911. WE DID NOT RECEIVE A RECALL NOTICE FROM FORD MOTOR COMPANY REGARDING A RECALL UNTIL 2 MONTHS LATER! HAD WE BEEN ABLE TO KNOW ABOUT THE RECALL, THIS COULD HAVE BEEN AVOIDED. MY WIFE AND I ARE SENIOR CITIZENS, ME IN MY 80'S AND SHE IN HER 70'S. HAD THIS HAPPENED WHILE WE WERE DRIVING WE WOULD HAVE NOT MADE IT OUT OF THE VEHICLE IN TIME! MY DAUGHTER DID EXTENSIVE RESEARCH ONLINE AND FOUND THERE WERE MANY COMPLAINTS PRIOR TO THE SAFETY RECALL #05S28. THESE AUTOMAKERS NEED TO BE HELD ACCOUNTABLE FOR SITUATIONS AS THIS, ESPECIALLY WHEN NUMEROUS CONSUMER COMPLAINTS WERE MADE PRIOR TO THE RECALL. WE'RE LUCKY TO BE ALIVE AND NOT BURNED!
NHTSA complaint #10250941 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
at 225,000 milesWhittier, CA
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
The contact owns a 1996 Mercury Grand Marquis. The contact stated while driving approximately 60 MPH the instrument panel began started flashing off and on before going black. The contact stated that he was headed to an off ramp the head lights stopped functioning. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact had stopped driving the vehicle for several days and then tested the head lights and stated that the functionality had returned. The contact had not taken the vehicle to a dealer or independent mechanic. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 225,000.
NHTSA complaint #11509717 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 225,000 milesWhittier, CA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
The contact owns a 1996 Mercury Grand Marquis. The contact stated while driving approximately 60 MPH the instrument panel began started flashing off and on before going black. The contact stated that he was headed to an off ramp the head lights stopped functioning. The contact stated no warning light was illuminated. The contact had stopped driving the vehicle for several days and then tested the head lights and stated that the functionality had returned. The contact had not taken the vehicle to a dealer or independent mechanic. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 225,000.
NHTSA complaint #11509717 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 210,000 milesWhittier, CA
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
The contact owns a 1996 Mercury Grand Marquis. The contact stated while driving approximately 70 MPH at night, the headlights became inoperable. While driving for approximately 30 more miles and exiting the off ramp, the headlights started to flicker. The headlights momentarily worked but then became inoperable again. The instrument panel warning lights illuminated and were flashing. The contact also detected an abnormal clicking noise from the steering column. The contact stated that the windshield wipers became stuck in the on position. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The approximate failure mileage was 210,000.
NHTSA complaint #11508567 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 210,000 milesWhittier, CA
STEERING
The contact owns a 1996 Mercury Grand Marquis. The contact stated while driving approximately 70 MPH at night, the headlights became inoperable. While driving for approximately 30 more miles and exiting the off ramp, the headlights started to flicker. The headlights momentarily worked but then became inoperable again. The instrument panel warning lights illuminated and were flashing. The contact also detected an abnormal clicking noise from the steering column. The contact stated that the windshield wipers became stuck in the on position. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The approximate failure mileage was 210,000.
NHTSA complaint #11508567 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 210,000 milesWhittier, CA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL
The contact owns a 1996 Mercury Grand Marquis. The contact stated while driving approximately 70 MPH at night, the headlights became inoperable. While driving for approximately 30 more miles and exiting the off ramp, the headlights started to flicker. The headlights momentarily worked but then became inoperable again. The instrument panel warning lights illuminated and were flashing. The contact also detected an abnormal clicking noise from the steering column. The contact stated that the windshield wipers became stuck in the on position. The local dealer was not contacted. The vehicle was not diagnosed or repaired. The manufacturer was not contacted. The approximate failure mileage was 210,000.
NHTSA complaint #11508567 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 150,000 milesJacksonville, FL
STEERING
WHEN DRIVING AND TURN TO LEFT VEHICLES STEERING WANTS TO LOCK UP
NHTSA complaint #11015706 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Tacoma, WA
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 MERCURY GRAND MARQUIS. WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE HEADLIGHTS BECAME VERY DIM AND HINDERED THE CONTACT'S VISIBILITY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DETERMINED THAT THERE WAS NO FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN.
NHTSA complaint #10871600 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 70,000 milesMilnooka, IL
POWER TRAIN
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 MERCURY GRAND MARQUIS. THE CONTACT INSPECTED THE VEHICLE AND NOTICED THAT THE TRANSMISSION FLUID LEAKED ONTO THE GASKET PAN. THERE WAS NO FLUID VISIBLE ON THE GROUND. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE TORQUE CONVERTER, TRANSMISSION PUMP, AND PAN NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. ADDITIONALLY, THE TRANSMISSION REAR MAIN SEAL AND DRIVE SHAFT REQUIRED REPLACEMENT. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 70,000.
NHTSA complaint #10863133 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 114,000 milesBronx, NY
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 MERCURY GRAND MARQUIS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DEALER DISCONNECTED THE SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH AS AN INTERIM REPAIR UNTIL THE INSTALLATION OF A FUSED WIRING HARNESS BECAME AVAILABLE FOR NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 07V336000 (VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL). THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE DEALER TO COMPLETE THE RECALL REPAIRS; HOWEVER, THE DEALER REFUSED TO HONOR THE RECALL REPAIR. AS A RESULT, THE CONTACT WAS UNABLE TO ACTIVE THE SPEED CONTROL ACTIVATION SWITCH. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE AND INFORMED THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 08V051000 (VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL). THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 114,000. ....UPDATED 07/22/15 *BF UPDATED 10/11/2017
NHTSA complaint #10713897 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 190,000 milesRichmond, VAFire
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
ON 9/17/2003 @ 11:23 PM, MY 1996 GRAND MARQUIS CAUGHT FIRE UNDER THE HOOD AND WAS TOTALLY DESTROYED WHILE SITTING IDLE IN FRONT OF MY HOUSE. THE HENRICO COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS CALLED. I HAVE THE FIRE REPORT, WHICH INDICATES THAT NO CAUSE FOR THE FIRE WAS DETERMINED. IN JUNE 2014, I RECEIVED A NOTIFICATION FROM FORD MOTOR COMPANY STATING THAT MY 1996 GRAND MARQUIS HAS A POTENTIAL UNDER HOOD FIRE RISK. THE ISSUE AS STATED WAS THAT "FORD CANNOT BE CONFIDENT THAT AFTER MANY YEARS IN SERVICE, THE SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH IN YOUR VEHICLE WILL NOT LEAK, POSING THE RISK OF AN UNDER HOOD FIRE. UNTIL THIS REPAIR IS PERFORMED, A FIRE COULD OCCUR AT ANY TIME. A FIRE CAN OCCUR EVEN IF THE KEY IS NOT IN THE IGNITION, AND CAN OCCUR EVEN IF THE SPEED CONTROL SYSTEM IS NEVER USED." AFTER RECEIVING THE LETTER, I FILED A REPORT WITH FORD TO POSSIBLY GET SOME FORM OF COMPENSATION FOR MY CAR SINCE I MY CAR WAS INSURED FOR LIABILITY ONLY. FORD RESPONDED BACK THAT MY CLAIM WAS CLOSED DUE TO THE FACT THAT I KNOW LONGER OWNED THE CAR, AND THEY WERE UNABLE TO INSPECT IT. I FIND THIS TO BE ABSURD SINCE THE CAR WAS TOTALED, AND NOT AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION.
NHTSA complaint #10631764 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 130,000 milesMentor, OH
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
PLASTIC HEADLIGHT LENSES HAVE BECOME YELLOWED AND CLOUDY. THIS HAS SEVERELY REDUCED NIGHTTIME VISIBILITY ON UNLIT STREETS, WHICH IS A SAFETY ISSUE. DID SOME INTERNET RESEARCH AND DISCOVERED THAT THIS IS A WIDESPREAD ISSUE WITH NUMEROUS EXPENSIVE AFTERMARKET PRODUCTS THAT WILL SUPPOSEDLY RESTORE LENS CLARITY. I BOUGHT AND USED ONE OF THESE PRODUCTS, BUT WAS UNABLE TO RESTORE FULL LENS CLARITY. I'M GUESSING THAT THE CLOUDINESS WILL RETURN AND I'LL HAVE TO REPEAT THE "RESTORATION" PROCESS. I WENT TO A NEARBY SHOPPING MALL AND NOTICED NUMEROUS VEHICLES WITH CLOUDY HEADLIGHTS, ALL WITH PLASTIC LENSES. THIS SAFETY ISSUE WAS A NON-ISSUE WHEN ALL HEADLIGHTS WERE REQUIRED TO USE GLASS LENSES. PLEASE RESTORE THE REQUIREMENT THAT, FOR SAFE NIGHTTIME DRIVING OVER THE LIFE OF A VEHICLE, ALL HEADLIGHTS USE GLASS LENSES. OR, REQUIRE AUTO MAKERS TO REPLACE OR RESTORE CLOUDY PLASTIC LENSES AT NO CHARGE FOR THE LIFE OF THE VEHICLE. THANKS.
NHTSA complaint #10595320 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 106,243 milesPacifica, CA
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
THE CAR ALL OF A SUDDEN FELT DIFFERENT WHILE DRIVING ONE DAY, KIND OF SLUGGISH AND THEN THE ENGINE LIGHT WENT ON. THE TEMP ROSE AND SMOKE STARTED COMING OUT FROM UNDER THE HOOD. WHEN I PULLED OVER TO LET COOL DOWN I COULDN'T START IT UP AGAIN. HAD IT TOWED TO A MECHANIC WHO SAID THAT THE ENGINE WAS SHOT. NOT WORTH REPAIRING. HAD IT TOWED BACK HOME AND ITS BEEN PARKED IN MY DRIVEWAY EVER SINCE.
NHTSA complaint #10483974 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 106,243 milesPacifica, CA
ENGINE
THE CAR ALL OF A SUDDEN FELT DIFFERENT WHILE DRIVING ONE DAY, KIND OF SLUGGISH AND THEN THE ENGINE LIGHT WENT ON. THE TEMP ROSE AND SMOKE STARTED COMING OUT FROM UNDER THE HOOD. WHEN I PULLED OVER TO LET COOL DOWN I COULDN'T START IT UP AGAIN. HAD IT TOWED TO A MECHANIC WHO SAID THAT THE ENGINE WAS SHOT. NOT WORTH REPAIRING. HAD IT TOWED BACK HOME AND ITS BEEN PARKED IN MY DRIVEWAY EVER SINCE.
NHTSA complaint #10483974 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 122,000 milesWest Allis, WI
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
A CRACK IN MY EXHAUST MANIFOLD BEHIND THE ALTERNATOR CAUSING COOLANT TO SPRAY ALL OVER UNDER MY HOOD AND NOW MY ENGINE OVERHEATS..THANKS FOR USING PLASTIC PARTS FORD .
NHTSA complaint #10458067 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 102,511 milesVilla Park, IL
SUSPENSION:FRONT
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 MERCURY GRAND MARQUIS EQUIPPED WITH A DURALAST BALL JOINT, PART NUMBER FA2101. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE STUD ON THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE LOWER BALL JOINT BROKE AFTER BEING USED FOR 253 MILES. THE PARTS DEALER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE MANUFACTURER WOULD LIKE TO EXAMINE THE BALL JOINT BECAUSE THEY BELIEVED IT WAS INSTALLED INCORRECTLY. THE CONTACT EXPRESSED CONCERNS ABOUT THE STUD BREAKING, NOT THE ACTUAL BALL JOINT. THE CURRENT MILEAGE ON THE VEHICLE WAS 102,511. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE.
NHTSA complaint #10413311 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 102,511 milesVilla Park, IL
SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER BALL JOINT
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 MERCURY GRAND MARQUIS EQUIPPED WITH A DURALAST BALL JOINT, PART NUMBER FA2101. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE STUD ON THE FRONT PASSENGER SIDE LOWER BALL JOINT BROKE AFTER BEING USED FOR 253 MILES. THE PARTS DEALER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE MANUFACTURER WOULD LIKE TO EXAMINE THE BALL JOINT BECAUSE THEY BELIEVED IT WAS INSTALLED INCORRECTLY. THE CONTACT EXPRESSED CONCERNS ABOUT THE STUD BREAKING, NOT THE ACTUAL BALL JOINT. THE CURRENT MILEAGE ON THE VEHICLE WAS 102,511. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE.
NHTSA complaint #10413311 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 94,100 milesSyracuse, NY
STEERING
THE STEERING WHEEL HAS BECOME VERY LOOSE, AND IT SQUEAKS ALOT. I AM UNABLE TO ADJUST THE STEERING WHEEL HEIGHT ANY MORE. I BELIEVE THIS COULD BE A POTENTIAL HAZARD, AND RESULT IN LOSS OF CONTROL OF STEERING FOR THIS VEHICLE.
NHTSA complaint #10395908 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 85,218 milesMurrells Inlet, SC
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
WHILE DRIVING MY VEHICLE HOME FROM WORK IN THE EVENING, THE CAR STARTED TO PUTTER, THEN SMOKE CAME POURING OUT FROM UNDER THE ENGINE HOOD BLOCKING MY VIEW FROM THE ROAD CAUSING CARS TO RACE AROUND ME AND ALMOST HAD AN ACCIDENT...ALSO STARTED COMING IN THE VENTS OF THE CAR, MAKING ME NAUSEA. EXTREME DANGER AND FEAR. I HAD TO HAVE THE CAR TOWED $65.00 AND THE REPAIR ESTIMATE CAME IN AT $900.00. CRACKED PLASTIC INTAKE MANIFOLD. ??PLASTIC?? WHO DOES THAT? I HAVE BEEN UNEMPLOYED AND ONLY ABLE TO GET PART TIME EMPLOYMENT. I CAN'T AFFORD THIS REPAIR SO I HAD TO HAVE THE CAR TOWED BACK TO MY HOUSE...ANOTHER $65.00. THE CAR ONLY HAS 85,218 MILES ON IT AND HAS BEEN KEPT IMMACULATE. I CONTACTED MERCURY/FORD AND THEY SAID THERE IS NOTHING THEY CAN DO. IN RESEARCHING, I SPENT HOURS READING HUNDREDS AND HUNDREDS OF POSTINGS REGARDING THE SAME SITUATION...AND ALSO, THE SAME CAR, FORD CROWN VICTORIA HAS THE EXACT SAME PROBLEM. I UNDERSTAND THERE WAS A "SILENT RECALL" WHERE ONLY GOVERNMENT FLEET/POLICE CARS WERE TAKEN CARE OF. HOW NICE! THE REPLACEMENT WAS WITH A METAL PART, WHICH IT SHOULD HAVE BEEN FROM THE BEGINNING. THIS IS AN EXTREME NEGLECT ON FORD/MERCURY PART. I BELIEVE THAT THE INVESTIGATION AND ACTION SHOULD BE BASED ON THE QUANTITY OF BOTH THE CROWN VICTORIA AND GRAND MARQUIS COMBINED, SINCE THEY ARE THE EXACT SAME CAR MANUFACTURED. PLEASE HELP!
NHTSA complaint #10368518 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 85,218 milesMurrells Inlet, SC
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM
WHILE DRIVING MY VEHICLE HOME FROM WORK IN THE EVENING, THE CAR STARTED TO PUTTER, THEN SMOKE CAME POURING OUT FROM UNDER THE ENGINE HOOD BLOCKING MY VIEW FROM THE ROAD CAUSING CARS TO RACE AROUND ME AND ALMOST HAD AN ACCIDENT...ALSO STARTED COMING IN THE VENTS OF THE CAR, MAKING ME NAUSEA. EXTREME DANGER AND FEAR. I HAD TO HAVE THE CAR TOWED $65.00 AND THE REPAIR ESTIMATE CAME IN AT $900.00. CRACKED PLASTIC INTAKE MANIFOLD. ??PLASTIC?? WHO DOES THAT? I HAVE BEEN UNEMPLOYED AND ONLY ABLE TO GET PART TIME EMPLOYMENT. I CAN'T AFFORD THIS REPAIR SO I HAD TO HAVE THE CAR TOWED BACK TO MY HOUSE...ANOTHER $65.00. THE CAR ONLY HAS 85,218 MILES ON IT AND HAS BEEN KEPT IMMACULATE. I CONTACTED MERCURY/FORD AND THEY SAID THERE IS NOTHING THEY CAN DO. IN RESEARCHING, I SPENT HOURS READING HUNDREDS AND HUNDREDS OF POSTINGS REGARDING THE SAME SITUATION...AND ALSO, THE SAME CAR, FORD CROWN VICTORIA HAS THE EXACT SAME PROBLEM. I UNDERSTAND THERE WAS A "SILENT RECALL" WHERE ONLY GOVERNMENT FLEET/POLICE CARS WERE TAKEN CARE OF. HOW NICE! THE REPLACEMENT WAS WITH A METAL PART, WHICH IT SHOULD HAVE BEEN FROM THE BEGINNING. THIS IS AN EXTREME NEGLECT ON FORD/MERCURY PART. I BELIEVE THAT THE INVESTIGATION AND ACTION SHOULD BE BASED ON THE QUANTITY OF BOTH THE CROWN VICTORIA AND GRAND MARQUIS COMBINED, SINCE THEY ARE THE EXACT SAME CAR MANUFACTURED. PLEASE HELP!
NHTSA complaint #10368518 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 80,000 milesMilwaukee, WI
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 MERCURY GRAND MARQUIS. THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING 30 MPH WHEN A VEHICLE ABRUPTLY PULLED IN FRONT OF HIM. THE CONTACT APPLIED THE BRAKES AND THE BRAKE PEDAL FELL INTO THE FLOORBOARD AND DID NOT ENGAGE. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO AVOID CRASHING INTO THE SECOND VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A LOCAL REPAIR FACILITY WHERE THE CONTACT WAS ADVISED THAT THE ENTIRE BRAKE LINE WOULD NEED REPLACING. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED BY AN AUTHORIZED DEALER. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 80,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 81,000.
NHTSA complaint #10351534 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 85,000 milesSoca, MEFire
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:MANIFOLD/HEADER/MUFFLER/TAIL PIPE
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 MERCURY GRAND MARQUIS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS STEAM EMITTING FROM THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. A MECHANIC ADVISED THE CONTACT THAT THERE WAS A CRACK IN THE PLASTIC INTAKE MANIFOLD. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED AT THE TIME OF THE COMPLAINT. THE CONTACT CALLED THE MANUFACTURER WHO OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE APPROXIMATELY 85,000.
NHTSA complaint #10348684 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 102,741 milesHettinger, ND
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM
MERCURY GRAND MARQUIS 1996 INTAKE MANIFOLD CRACKED AND HAD TO BE REPLACED, DID NOT KNOW THERE WAS A RECALL ON THE INTAKE MANIFOLD UNTIL WE HAD IT REPLACED.
NHTSA complaint #10328221 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 113,000 milesQuincy, ILFire
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
CAR CAUGHT FIRE HAD NO PROBLEMS WITH THE CAR IN THE PAST DROVE ABOUT 2 MILES PARKED AND TURNED CAR OFF AND THE ENGINE CAUGHT FIRE.
NHTSA complaint #10297068 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 96,000 milesSpring Lake, NJFire
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 MERCURY GRAND MARQUIS. WHILE PARKED IN THE RESIDENCE CARPORT, THE VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT EXTINGUISHED THE FLAMES. THE MASSIVE FIRE COMPLETELY DESTROYED THE VEHICLE AND CAUSED DAMAGES TO THE HOME. THERE WERE NO PERSONAL INJURIES. AT THIS TIME THE CAUSE OF FAILURE HAS NOT BEEN DETERMINED. THE MANUFACTURER AND INSURANCE COMPANY WERE NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 96,000.
NHTSA complaint #10289452 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 235,000 milesPlano, TX
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
THE CAR STARTED NORMAL AT WORK AND DROVE 20 MINUTES TO HOME. PLACED CAR IN PARK, AND ATTEMPTED TO TURN IGNITION TO OFF, BUT THE KEY SWITCH ROTATED FREELY WITH NO RESISTANCE. THE KEY SWITCH WAS TRIED AGAIN TO TURN OFF IGNITION BY TURNING IN EITHER DIRECTION FULLY WITH NO AFFECT. KEY WAS REMOVED, SWITCH ROTATED FREELY. STEERING COULD NOT BE LOCKED. THEN ATTEMPTED TO STOP ENGINE BY ANOTHER METHOD. LIFTED HOOD AND DISCONNECTED BATTERY - ALTERNATOR KEEP IT RUNNING. OWNER MANUAL SHOWED IGNITION FUSE WHICH WAS PULLED TO STOP MOTOR. SWITCH WAS STILL IN ON POSITION WHEN BATTERY WAS RECONNECTED. THE CAR COULD NOT BE RESTARTED BY KEY SWITCH. BATTERY DISCONNECTED TO DISABLE AIRBAG UNTIL REPAIRS COULD BE ACCOMPLISHED. REPAIRS: I DID THIS MYSELF. THE STEERING COLUMN HAD TO COME COMPLETELY OFF. I DETERMINED IT WOULD TAKE 5 TO 6 HOURS OF WORK TO IDENTIFY PROBLEM AND FIX. A DEALER WOULD HAVE CHARGE FOR THIS. AFTER STEERING COLUMN WAS REMOVED THE SWITCH MECHANISM WAS EXAMINED FOR PROBLEM. THIS WAS A TILT TYPE COLUMN. A PLASTIC SHAFT EXTENDED FROM THE KEY SWITCH ACROSS THE TILT AREA TO A PLASTIC SWITCH ACTUATOR IN THE MAIN COLUMN SHAFT. A THIN 1 INCH LONG STEEL BEARING TYPE PIN WAS FOUND STUCK TO SOME GREASE. THE COLUMN WAS TAKEN APART AND IT WAS DETERMINED THE PIN FIT INTO A HOLE IN THE SWITCH ACTUATOR. THIS PIN WAS FORCED BACK INTO THE HOLE, SUPER GLUED, AND STEERING COLUMN WAS REASSEMBLED AND PLACED BACK IN THE CAR. LOOSE SHIFTER BOLT TIGHTENED. IGNITION SWITCH WAS CHECKED. SLIDER HAD RESISTANCE TO BEING MOVED AND SHOWED SOME CONTACT BURNS. THE IGNITION SWITCH WAS REPLACED. STEERING COLUMN WITH FIXED SWITCH ACTUATOR WAS INSTALLED. CAR STARTED NORMAL WITH NO RESISTANCE TO IGNITION. TURNS ON AND OFF NORMAL. CONSEQUENCE OF IGNITION ACTUATOR LINK FAILURE IS HIGH DANGER WITH A STUCK ACCELERATOR OR PARKING IN A CONFINED SPACE (GARAGE). ENGINE CAN NOT BE TURNED OFF IN DANGEROUS THESE SITUATIONS OR AN AUTO ACCIDENT. SWITCH ACTUATOR IS POOR DESIGNED WITH PARTS THAT FALL OUT.
NHTSA complaint #10288684 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.