Owners have filed 168 complaints
about the 1998 Mercury Grand Marquis with NHTSA between 1998 and 2021.
The largest single group is the engine & cooling.
Across this model's run it ranks 17 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 — 39
Against the median year of the Mercury Grand Marquis. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 74
14.3% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 13
8% of failures with a mileage on record happened under
36,000 miles, against a national rate of
29%.
How 1998 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.
Gasoline
715.6%
TIE ROD Assembly
613.3%
Engine
613.3%
Headlights
613.3%
Front
613.3%
Automatic Transmission
613.3%
Manifold/Header/Muffler/Tail Pipe
511.1%
Front Underhood
36.7%
When it fails
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
10,000 – 24,999 miles
11.9%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
47.7%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
1630.8%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
815.4%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
1426.9%
150,000+ miles
917.3%
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.
Mar 1998peak 9Mar 2021
NHTSA investigations into the 1998 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.
DP05005Opened 22 Sep 2005Closed 4 Jan 2006ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
SPARK PLUG EJECTION FROM CYLINDER HEAD
ON SEPTEMBER 6, 2005, ODI RECEIVED A PETITION REQUESTING THAT THE AGENCY INVESTIGATE ALLEGATIONS OF ENGINE SPARK PLUG EJECTION IN CERTAIN MODEL YEAR 1997 THROUGH 2004 FORD VEHICLES WITH TRITON V-8 AND V-10 ENGINES.ODI RECEIVED A TOTAL OF 474 NON-DUPLICATIVE COMPLAINTS ON THE SUBJECT VEHICLES WHERE THE COMPLAINANT, OR THE DEALER REPAIRING THE VEHICLE, REPORTED THAT A SPARK PLUG DETACHED FROM THE CYLINDER AND/OR EJECTED FROM THE ENGINE.AS OF DECEMBER 8, 2005, ODI IS NOT AWARE OF ANY ALLEGATIONS WHERE THE ALLEGED DEFECT RESULTED IN A LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL, A CRASH, AN INJURY, OR A FATALITY IN A...
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
POST REAR END COLLISION FIRES
Recalls on the 1998 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.
06E056000
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
CERTAIN AFTERMARKET FUEL FILTERS SOLD UNDER THE PUROLATOR BRAND NAME, P/N F65277, SHIPPED FROM JANUARY 16 THROUGH JUNE 2, 2006, FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. DUE TO INCORRECT DESIGN, THE QUICK CONNECTORS MAY NOT FULLY SEAT WITH THE TUBE INTERFACE, EVEN THOUGH THE PERSON MAKING THE CONNECTION MAY BELIEVE THAT THE QUICK CONNECTOR IS FULLY ATTACHED.
Risk: FAILURE OF THIS CONNECTION COULD LEAD TO FUEL SPILLAGE AND, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FIRE COULD OCCUR.
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE VEHICLES HAVE JACKING INSTRUCTIONS WHICH, IF FOLLOWED, COULD CAUSE THE VEHICLE OPERATOR TO PLACE THE JACK ON A FRAME WELD WHEN ATTEMPTING TO RAISE A REAR WHEEL. IF THE VEHICLE IS JACKED UP WITH THE JACK PLACED ON THE FRAME WELD AND IF THE VEHICLE IS FREE TO ROLL (WHEELS NOT BLOCKED OR CHOCKED), THE JACK COULD YIELD AND THE VEHICLE MAY DROP SUDDENLY.
Risk: IF THIS OCCURS AND ANY PORTION OF THE OPERATOR'S BODY IS UNDER THE VEHICLE, THE POTENTIAL FOR PERSONAL INJURY EXISTS.
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.
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 200015825,115 units in Canada
Other
Certain vehicle have jacking instructions which, if followed, may cause the operator to place the jack on a frame weld when attempting to raise a rear wheel. If the vehicle is jacked up with the jack placed on the frame weld and if the wheels are not blocked or chocked, then the jack may yield and the vehicle may drop suddenly with the potential for injury to the operator. Correction: Owners will be provided with a revised Jack Instruction and Stowage Card and Jack Warning Label and a supplement to the owner guide. This information moves the jacking location several inches forward of the frame weld and clearly recommends that the diagonally opposite wheel be blocked.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
at 213,760 milesDecatur, ILCrash
STEERING
AUTOZONE- VALUCRAFT BRAND- BALL JOINTS PART NUMBER VFA2101 I RECENTLY HAD MY BALL JOINTS REPLACED AND I HAD A PREMATURE FAILURE OF THE BALL JOINT FASTENING HARDWARE WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE CITY ROAD IN A STRAIGHT LINE AT 45 MPH. IT CAUSED THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS OF DAMAGE AND IT ALSO ALMOST CAUSE ME GREAT INJURY. I SUSPECT AUTOZONE IS USING LOW GRADE NUTS CAUSE THE NUT THAT WAS ON THE BALL JOINT SHEARED OFF CAUSING ME TO BEND A CONTROL ARM, CRACK MY FRAME, BLOW A TIRE, ALL WHILE BARELY MISSING A TELEPHONE POLE. HAD I BEEN GOING DOWN THE HIGHWAY AT THE POSTED SPEED LIMIT I COULD HAVE FLIPPED MY CAR, GOT PULLED UNDER A SEMI, CROSS THE MEDIAN INTO ONCOMING TRAFFIC AND SO ON. I WOULD LIKE FOR AN INVESTIGATION TO BE STARTED ON THEIR POOR ENGINEERING CHOICES AND A RECALL TO BE STARTED. ITS JUST NOT FOR THE SAFETY OF ME BUT FOR THE SAFETY OF OTHER PEOPLE. I DO HAVE ALL DAMAGE PICTURES AND PICTURES OF THE FAILURE POINT. I HAVE PICTURES OF THE NUT IN QUESTION COMPARED TO ANOTHER COMPETITORS BRAND AND THERE IS A NOTICEABLE SIZE DIFFERENCE AND HARDNESS DIFFERENCE. THE BALL JOINTS WERE REPLACED 9/26/2015 AND FAILED ON 4/25/2016. AUTOZONE PART NUMBER VFA2101. MY BELIEF IS THE NUT IS A LOWER GRADE WHEN IT SHOULD BE A GRADE 8 NUT. I SAY THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS BECAUSE THE AUTO BODY SHOPS AROUND ME SAID THEY WILL NOT REPAIR THE FRAME BECAUSE ITS A LIABILITY AND WOULD RECOMMEND A NEW FRAME TO BE PUT UNDER THE VEHICLE ESSENTIALLY TOTALING MY CAR OUT CAUSING ME TO HAVE TO SPEND THOUSANDS TO REPLACE MY VEHICLE.
NHTSA complaint #10861946 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 213,760 milesDecatur, ILCrash
SUSPENSION
AUTOZONE- VALUCRAFT BRAND- BALL JOINTS PART NUMBER VFA2101 I RECENTLY HAD MY BALL JOINTS REPLACED AND I HAD A PREMATURE FAILURE OF THE BALL JOINT FASTENING HARDWARE WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE CITY ROAD IN A STRAIGHT LINE AT 45 MPH. IT CAUSED THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS OF DAMAGE AND IT ALSO ALMOST CAUSE ME GREAT INJURY. I SUSPECT AUTOZONE IS USING LOW GRADE NUTS CAUSE THE NUT THAT WAS ON THE BALL JOINT SHEARED OFF CAUSING ME TO BEND A CONTROL ARM, CRACK MY FRAME, BLOW A TIRE, ALL WHILE BARELY MISSING A TELEPHONE POLE. HAD I BEEN GOING DOWN THE HIGHWAY AT THE POSTED SPEED LIMIT I COULD HAVE FLIPPED MY CAR, GOT PULLED UNDER A SEMI, CROSS THE MEDIAN INTO ONCOMING TRAFFIC AND SO ON. I WOULD LIKE FOR AN INVESTIGATION TO BE STARTED ON THEIR POOR ENGINEERING CHOICES AND A RECALL TO BE STARTED. ITS JUST NOT FOR THE SAFETY OF ME BUT FOR THE SAFETY OF OTHER PEOPLE. I DO HAVE ALL DAMAGE PICTURES AND PICTURES OF THE FAILURE POINT. I HAVE PICTURES OF THE NUT IN QUESTION COMPARED TO ANOTHER COMPETITORS BRAND AND THERE IS A NOTICEABLE SIZE DIFFERENCE AND HARDNESS DIFFERENCE. THE BALL JOINTS WERE REPLACED 9/26/2015 AND FAILED ON 4/25/2016. AUTOZONE PART NUMBER VFA2101. MY BELIEF IS THE NUT IS A LOWER GRADE WHEN IT SHOULD BE A GRADE 8 NUT. I SAY THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS BECAUSE THE AUTO BODY SHOPS AROUND ME SAID THEY WILL NOT REPAIR THE FRAME BECAUSE ITS A LIABILITY AND WOULD RECOMMEND A NEW FRAME TO BE PUT UNDER THE VEHICLE ESSENTIALLY TOTALING MY CAR OUT CAUSING ME TO HAVE TO SPEND THOUSANDS TO REPLACE MY VEHICLE.
NHTSA complaint #10861946 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 63,000 milesSAN Jose, CAFire
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 MERCURY GRAND MARQUIS. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED THE CONTACT HEARD A LOUD BOOMING NOISE FROM INSIDE HIS HOME. THE CONTACT NOTICED FLAMES UNDERNEATH THE HOOD. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE AND A REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND A COMPLAINT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT STATED THERE WAS A RECALL UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 07V336000 (VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL) THAT MAY BE RELATED TO THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 63,000.
NHTSA complaint #10412167 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Greenwood Village, COCrash
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
1998 MERCURY GRAND MARQUIS. CONSUMER STATES FAULTY REAR BRAKE PAD REPLACEMENT *TGW THE CONSUMER STATED WHEN HIS WIFE APPLIED THE BRAKES FIRMLY, BUT NOT HARD, THE VEHICLE LUNGED FORWARD STRIKING A SIGN AND DAMAGING THE RIGHT FRONT OF THE VEHICLE. THE CONSUMER LATER DISCOVERED THE BRAKES WERE SPONGY AND FAILED TO EFFECTIVELY STOP THE VEHICLE. THE DEALER INFORMED THE CONSUMER THE SPONGY BRAKES WERE NORMAL. THE CONSUMER WENT TO ANOTHER DEALER AND THEY RESTORED THE BRAKES BACK TO NORMAL OPERATION.
NHTSA complaint #10350908 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Edinburg, TXCrash1 injured1 killed
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
DT*: THE CONTACT STATED THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS INSPECTED BY AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC BUT WAS UNABLE TO IDENTIFY THE PROBLEM. THE PROBLEM WAS WITH THE VEHICLE SPEED CONTROLS AS ACCELERATION WAS SLUGGISH AND THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL NEEDED TO BE PUMPED TO INCREASE SPEED. AT OTHER TIMES THE VEHICLE WOULD ACCELERATE UNCONTROLLABLY FOR NO REASON AND THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WOULD HAVE TO BE PUMPED BEFORE THE SPEED WOULD REDUCE TO NORMAL. WHILE TRAVELING AT 50 MPH, ON A DRY PAVED ROAD IN CLEAR CONDITIONS, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED OUT OF CONTROL. THE CONTACT VEERED LEFT TO AVOID A HEAD ON COLLISION WITH A VEHICLE DIRECTLY AHEAD AND WAS UNABLE TO SLOW OR STOP. THE VEHICLE ENTERED A FOUR WAY STOP INTERSECTION AND STRUCK THE PASSENGER SIDE OF ANOTHER VEHICLE, THAT WAS PASSING THROUGH THE INTERSECTION FROM LEFT TO RIGHT. THE CONTACT (20 YEARS OLD) WAS INJURED AND THERE WAS ONE FATALITY (AGED 79). A POLICE REPORT WAS TAKEN AND AN INVESTIGATION WAS CONDUCTED. A FENCE AND PALM TREE WERE DAMAGED, AND PHOTOS WERE TAKEN. THE SERVICE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER WERE NOT NOTIFIED. THE NAME AND ADDRESS LISTED IS FOR THE ATTORNEY OF THE CONTACT. THE CONTACT WAS JOSE GARCES, OF P.O. BOX 126, DONNA TEXAS.
NHTSA complaint #10171443 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
NEW Church, VAFire
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:CRUISE CONTROL
DT: THE CALLER SAID HER CAR BURNED UP IN 2000. NOW SHE IS FINDING OUT ABOUT THE INVESTIGATION INTO THE CRUISE CONTROL FIRES. SHE BELIEVES THAT THE CAR SHOULD BE INCLUDED. AT THE TIME SHE WAS TOLD TO CALL THE INSURANCE COMPANY, THEY SAID TO CALL MANUFACTURER, AND SHE WAS GETTING THE RUN AROUND. SHE SAW ON CNN AND THE NEWSPAPER ABOUT THE CURRENT PROBLEM THEY ARE HAVING AND WANTED SOMEONE TO HELP HER. THERE IS A FIRE REPORT. *AK THE VEHICLE FIRE WAS CONTAINED TO THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT AND DASH AREA. *SC
NHTSA complaint #10126197 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
at 241,000 milesLancaster, KY
STEERING
WHEN DRIVING AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS CAR FEELS LIKE IT IS SWAYING BACK AND FORTH.
NHTSA complaint #11404137 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 165,400 milesEvansville, IN
SUSPENSION
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 MERCURY GRAND MARQUIS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE EXAMINING HIS VEHICLE AT HIS RESIDENCE, HE NOTICED THE FRONT BALL JOINTS WERE DEFECTIVE. THE VEHICLE TAKEN TO EXPRESSWAY FORD OF MOUNT VERNON (3800 HIGHWAY 62 E, MOUNT VERNON, IN 47620) ON MAY 30 2020, WHERE THE VEHICLE WAS INSPECTED AND IT WAS DETERMINED THAT THE SHOCKS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE FRONT SHOCKS WERE REPLACED HOWEVER, SEVERAL MONTHS LATER THE DRIVER'S SIDE SHOCK WAS LEAKING FLUID. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN BACK TO THE DEALER FOR REPAIRS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 165,400.
NHTSA complaint #11360434 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 74,900 milesTampa, FL
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
CRACKED AIR INTAKE MANIFOLD ALLOWING IT TO OVER HEAT AND MESSING UP MASS AIR FLOW SENSOR
NHTSA complaint #11128800 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 109,000 milesTampa, FL
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 MERCURY GRAND MARQUIS. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE HEADLIGHTS AND INSTRUMENT PANEL LIGHTING FAILED TO ILLUMINATE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE OCCURRED PERIODICALLY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER OR INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING OR REPAIRS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 109,000.
NHTSA complaint #11121928 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 109,000 milesTampa, FL
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 MERCURY GRAND MARQUIS. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE HEADLIGHTS AND INSTRUMENT PANEL LIGHTING FAILED TO ILLUMINATE. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE OCCURRED PERIODICALLY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER OR INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING OR REPAIRS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 109,000.
NHTSA complaint #11121928 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Evansville, IN
TIRES
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 MERCURY GRAND MARQUIS EQUIPPED WITH FIRESTONE FR380 TIRES, SIZE: P225/60R16. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE TIRES HAD PREMATURE BLISTERS AND TREAD DETERIORATION. THE TIRE REPAIR FACILITY (FIRESTONE COMPLETE AUTO CARE, 4401 N FIRST AVE, EVANSVILLE, IN 47710, (812) 618-3542) DIAGNOSED THAT THE TIRES NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE TIRE MANUFACTURER INDICATED THAT A SIMILAR TIRE MODEL HAD BEEN RECALLED, BUT NOT THIS PARTICULAR MODEL. THE MANUFACTURER RECOMMENDED THAT THE TIRES BE INSPECTED BY AN AUTHORIZED FIRESTONE COMPLETE AUTO CARE FACILITY. THE TIRE AND VEHICLE FAILURE MILEAGE AND VIN WERE NOT AVAILABLE.
NHTSA complaint #11076371 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 165,784 milesSouke, AR
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 MERCURY GRAND MARQUIS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR LIGHTING OPERATED INTERMITTENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 165,784.
NHTSA complaint #10927822 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 165,784 milesSouke, AR
INTERIOR LIGHTING
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 MERCURY GRAND MARQUIS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR LIGHTING OPERATED INTERMITTENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 165,784.
NHTSA complaint #10927822 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 165,784 milesSouke, AR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 MERCURY GRAND MARQUIS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR LIGHTING OPERATED INTERMITTENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 165,784.
NHTSA complaint #10927822 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 80,000 milesNashua, NH
ENGINE
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 MERCURY GRAND MARQUIS. WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE ENGINE MISFIRED AND HESITATED TO RESPOND. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO DIAGNOSED THAT THE PLASTIC INTAKE MANIFOLD WAS CRACKED, WHICH CAUSED ANTI FREEZE TO LEAK OUT AND DAMAGE THE ENGINE COILS. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 80,000.
NHTSA complaint #10871517 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 213,760 milesDecatur, ILCrash
STEERING
AUTOZONE- VALUCRAFT BRAND- BALL JOINTS PART NUMBER VFA2101 I RECENTLY HAD MY BALL JOINTS REPLACED AND I HAD A PREMATURE FAILURE OF THE BALL JOINT FASTENING HARDWARE WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE CITY ROAD IN A STRAIGHT LINE AT 45 MPH. IT CAUSED THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS OF DAMAGE AND IT ALSO ALMOST CAUSE ME GREAT INJURY. I SUSPECT AUTOZONE IS USING LOW GRADE NUTS CAUSE THE NUT THAT WAS ON THE BALL JOINT SHEARED OFF CAUSING ME TO BEND A CONTROL ARM, CRACK MY FRAME, BLOW A TIRE, ALL WHILE BARELY MISSING A TELEPHONE POLE. HAD I BEEN GOING DOWN THE HIGHWAY AT THE POSTED SPEED LIMIT I COULD HAVE FLIPPED MY CAR, GOT PULLED UNDER A SEMI, CROSS THE MEDIAN INTO ONCOMING TRAFFIC AND SO ON. I WOULD LIKE FOR AN INVESTIGATION TO BE STARTED ON THEIR POOR ENGINEERING CHOICES AND A RECALL TO BE STARTED. ITS JUST NOT FOR THE SAFETY OF ME BUT FOR THE SAFETY OF OTHER PEOPLE. I DO HAVE ALL DAMAGE PICTURES AND PICTURES OF THE FAILURE POINT. I HAVE PICTURES OF THE NUT IN QUESTION COMPARED TO ANOTHER COMPETITORS BRAND AND THERE IS A NOTICEABLE SIZE DIFFERENCE AND HARDNESS DIFFERENCE. THE BALL JOINTS WERE REPLACED 9/26/2015 AND FAILED ON 4/25/2016. AUTOZONE PART NUMBER VFA2101. MY BELIEF IS THE NUT IS A LOWER GRADE WHEN IT SHOULD BE A GRADE 8 NUT. I SAY THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS BECAUSE THE AUTO BODY SHOPS AROUND ME SAID THEY WILL NOT REPAIR THE FRAME BECAUSE ITS A LIABILITY AND WOULD RECOMMEND A NEW FRAME TO BE PUT UNDER THE VEHICLE ESSENTIALLY TOTALING MY CAR OUT CAUSING ME TO HAVE TO SPEND THOUSANDS TO REPLACE MY VEHICLE.
NHTSA complaint #10861946 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 213,760 milesDecatur, ILCrash
SUSPENSION
AUTOZONE- VALUCRAFT BRAND- BALL JOINTS PART NUMBER VFA2101 I RECENTLY HAD MY BALL JOINTS REPLACED AND I HAD A PREMATURE FAILURE OF THE BALL JOINT FASTENING HARDWARE WHILE DRIVING DOWN THE CITY ROAD IN A STRAIGHT LINE AT 45 MPH. IT CAUSED THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS OF DAMAGE AND IT ALSO ALMOST CAUSE ME GREAT INJURY. I SUSPECT AUTOZONE IS USING LOW GRADE NUTS CAUSE THE NUT THAT WAS ON THE BALL JOINT SHEARED OFF CAUSING ME TO BEND A CONTROL ARM, CRACK MY FRAME, BLOW A TIRE, ALL WHILE BARELY MISSING A TELEPHONE POLE. HAD I BEEN GOING DOWN THE HIGHWAY AT THE POSTED SPEED LIMIT I COULD HAVE FLIPPED MY CAR, GOT PULLED UNDER A SEMI, CROSS THE MEDIAN INTO ONCOMING TRAFFIC AND SO ON. I WOULD LIKE FOR AN INVESTIGATION TO BE STARTED ON THEIR POOR ENGINEERING CHOICES AND A RECALL TO BE STARTED. ITS JUST NOT FOR THE SAFETY OF ME BUT FOR THE SAFETY OF OTHER PEOPLE. I DO HAVE ALL DAMAGE PICTURES AND PICTURES OF THE FAILURE POINT. I HAVE PICTURES OF THE NUT IN QUESTION COMPARED TO ANOTHER COMPETITORS BRAND AND THERE IS A NOTICEABLE SIZE DIFFERENCE AND HARDNESS DIFFERENCE. THE BALL JOINTS WERE REPLACED 9/26/2015 AND FAILED ON 4/25/2016. AUTOZONE PART NUMBER VFA2101. MY BELIEF IS THE NUT IS A LOWER GRADE WHEN IT SHOULD BE A GRADE 8 NUT. I SAY THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS BECAUSE THE AUTO BODY SHOPS AROUND ME SAID THEY WILL NOT REPAIR THE FRAME BECAUSE ITS A LIABILITY AND WOULD RECOMMEND A NEW FRAME TO BE PUT UNDER THE VEHICLE ESSENTIALLY TOTALING MY CAR OUT CAUSING ME TO HAVE TO SPEND THOUSANDS TO REPLACE MY VEHICLE.
NHTSA complaint #10861946 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 86,000 milesLouisville, KY
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 MERCURY GRAND MARQUIS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 60 MPH, THE LOW BEAM HEADLIGHTS FAILED TO ILLUMINATE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 86,000.
NHTSA complaint #10823801 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 722,530 milesSAN Antonio, TX
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
LOW/HIGH BEAM LIGHTS INOPERATIVE IN PARK OR DRIVE, BULBS & WIRING CHECKS GOOD, 25 AMP FUSE WAS BLOWN, BUT REPLACED FUSE CAUSED NO CHANGE.
NHTSA complaint #10810807 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 722,530 milesSAN Antonio, TX
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
LOW/HIGH BEAM LIGHTS INOPERATIVE IN PARK OR DRIVE, BULBS & WIRING CHECKS GOOD, 25 AMP FUSE WAS BLOWN, BUT REPLACED FUSE CAUSED NO CHANGE.
NHTSA complaint #10810807 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 108,284 milesBroken Arrow, OK
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
WHILE DRIVING THE CAR, THE HEADLIGHTS GOES OUT, THAN ON, AND OUT. THIS IS UNSAFE FOR MY WIFE DRIVING WITH KIDS.
NHTSA complaint #10778737 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 102,281 milesBoca Raton, FL
ENGINE
I OBSERVED A COOLANT LEAK AROUND THE THERMOSTAT. I FOUND THE PLASTIC INTAKE MANIFOLD TO BE CRACKED AROUND THE THERMOSTAT AND LEAKING COOLANT. I MADE CONTACT WITH MERCURY AND FOUND THAT THERE HAD BEEN A RECALL ON THE PLASTIC INTAKE MANIFOLD IN WHICH THEY WOULD HAVE REPLACED THE PART AT NO CHARGE DURING THE SAFETY RECALL CAMPAIGN. I WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE SAFETY RECALL AND HAVE OWNED THE VEHICLE SINCE 04/17/02 WHEN I PURCHASED THE VEHICLE USED FROM A MERCURY DEALERSHIP. THE DEALERSHIP WOULD NO LONGER HONOR THIS RECALL ALTHOUGH THERE ARE STILL THOUSANDS UPON THOUSANDS OF THESE ENGINES STILL ON THE ROAD. THE ALL PLASTIC MANIFOLD WAS REPLACED WITH AN INTAKE MANIFOLD WITH AN ALUMINUM CROSSOVER CHANNEL FOR THE COOLANT. I WAS FORCED TO REPLACE THIS DEFECTIVE PART OUT-OF-POCKET AT A COST OF $800. IT WOULD HAVE BEEN MORE HAD I NOT BEEN FRIENDS WITH THE MECHANIC. THE VEHICLE HAD 102,281 MILES AT THE TIME OF THE FAILURE.
NHTSA complaint #10574132 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 127,300 milesWindsor Locks, CT
ENGINE
VEHICLE STARTED TO BUCK AND WHEN I PULLED MY VEHICLE OVER I LIFTED THE HOOD. I FOUND ANTI-FREEZE FLOWING ON THE TOP OF MY ENGINE. I HAD IT TOWED TO MY LOCAL GARAGE & THEY TOLD ME THAT THE INTAKE MANIFOLD IS CRACKED. I DID SOME RESEARCH AND FOUND OUT THERE'S A RECALL ON THIS PART. WHEN I CALLED MY LOCAL FORD DEALER, THEY TOLD ME THERE IS A RECALL ON THIS PART, BUT IT'S ONLY FOR POLICE AND FLEET VEHICLES ONLY. NOW THAT THIS WAS SAID TO ME, I WAS TOLD BY MY GARAGE IT WOULD COST ME $1000 TO FIX. SOMETHING I DON'T HAVE. FORD WAS NOT VERY COOPERATIVE ABOUT MY SITUATION AND I'M VERY DISAPPOINTED.
NHTSA complaint #10513357 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 31,000 milesSandwich, IL
SUSPENSION
WHILE DRIVING OR BACKING AT SLOW SPEEDS THIS VEHICLE(WHICH HAS VERY VERY LOW MILES) MAKES LOUD,BANGING,POUNDING,BINDING NOISES AND SOUNDS LIKE THE ENTIRE FRONT END IS GOING TO FALL OFF. THIS HAPPENS FREQUENTLY AND IS NOT NORMAL FOR ANY CAR WITH SUCH LOW MILES 15 YEARS OLD OR NOT. I HAVE GOTTEN TO THE POINT THAT I AM AFRAID TO DRIVE THIS CAR. I HAVE ALSO BEEN TOLD THAT OTHERS HAVE THIS SAME OR A SIMILAR ISSUE. THE CAR WAS DRIVEN BY AN OLDER COUPLE AKA MY GRANDPARENTS WHO BOUGHT IT NEW IN 98' AND THEY BOTH PASSED AWAY IN 2012. THIS MAY BE IN PART DUE TO THE "DOUBLE WISHBONE" SUSPENSION WHICH I KNOW NOTHING ABOUT. I AM EXTRA UPSET AS I SAID DUE THE FACT THAT THIS CAR HAS ONLY HAD AN AVERAGE OF JUST OVER 2,000 MILES ANNUALLY AND WAS TREATED VERY WELL. THE CAR LOOKS LIKE NEW BUT SCARES ME HALF TO DEATH WHEN I HEAR THIS UNMISTAKABLE LOUD SOUND OF BROKEN,BINDING,LOOSE OR DEFECTIVE PARTS. I AM ABLE TO REPAIR IT BUT WAS HOPING THERE WAS A RECALL DUE TO THE SAME STORY BEING POSTED OVER AND OVER. THIS CAR,EITHER MODEL THE GS OR LS IS AN ACCIDENT WAITING TO HAPPEN. IF YOU ARE A PROSPECTIVE BUYER,PLEASE DRIVE THE CAR SLOWLY THEN TURN IN REVERSE AND IF IT EXISTS THE PROBLEM WILL SOUND OFF IMMEDIATELY. IF BACKING OUT WITH A VERY SLIGHT CURB,THE CAR WILL SOUND MUCH WORSE.FORD IS NOT KNOWN FOR ITS FRONT ENDS OTHER THAN THE FACT THAT ITS CARS AND TRUCKS FRONT ENDS ARE EITHER NEXT TO IMPOSSIBLE TO ALIGN AND/OR ARE VERY EXPENSIVE TO REPAIR. I HAVE NEVER SEEN OR HEARD ANYTHING LIKE THIS IN ANY OTHER CAR MAKER,FORD SHOULD PAY FOR THIS TRAVESTY OF A FRONT END. WITHOUT TAKING A VISUAL I WOULD SAY IT MY CAR NEEDS BOTH UPPER AND LOWER BALL JOINTS,TIE ROD ENDS AND A FULL SUSPENSION CHECK OR REBUILD. IF ANYONE HEARS THIS IN A CAR FROM A DEALER OR ELSEWHERE=DO NOT BUY!!!
NHTSA complaint #10494784 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 83,400 milesFort Worth, TX
STEERING
DURING NORMAL DRIVING NOTICED A SQUEAKING AND GROANING NOISE COMING FROM FRONT END OF CAR. STEERING HAS BECOME LOOSE AND WAS TOLD BY A MECHANIC THAT THE BALL JOINTS,SHOCKS,BUSHINGS ARE DRY AND THAT THE VEHICLE CANNOT BE LUBRICATED BECAUSE IT IS SEALED. SEEN OTHER COMPLAINTS ON WEBSITE REGARDING THESE SAME ISSUES. I HAVE BEEN WARNED THAT THE TIRES COULD FALL OFF AT HIGH SPEEDS CAUSING SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.
NHTSA complaint #10447085 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 83,400 milesFort Worth, TX
SUSPENSION
DURING NORMAL DRIVING NOTICED A SQUEAKING AND GROANING NOISE COMING FROM FRONT END OF CAR. STEERING HAS BECOME LOOSE AND WAS TOLD BY A MECHANIC THAT THE BALL JOINTS,SHOCKS,BUSHINGS ARE DRY AND THAT THE VEHICLE CANNOT BE LUBRICATED BECAUSE IT IS SEALED. SEEN OTHER COMPLAINTS ON WEBSITE REGARDING THESE SAME ISSUES. I HAVE BEEN WARNED THAT THE TIRES COULD FALL OFF AT HIGH SPEEDS CAUSING SERIOUS INJURY OR DEATH.
NHTSA complaint #10447085 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 120,000 milesLumberton, MS
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 MERCURY GRAND MARQUIS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE HEADLIGHTS FAILED WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER AND THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE LIGHTING CONTROL MODULE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 120,000. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE.
NHTSA complaint #10446373 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 60,000 milesLyons, IL
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 MERCURY GRAND MARQUIS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE ABNORMALLY ACCELERATED WHILE ATTEMPTING TO PARK WITH THE BRAKES DEPRESSED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER AND THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 60,000. UPDATED 01/13/12*LJ UPDATED 01/19/12
NHTSA complaint #10439046 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 63,000 milesSAN Jose, CAFire
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 MERCURY GRAND MARQUIS. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED THE CONTACT HEARD A LOUD BOOMING NOISE FROM INSIDE HIS HOME. THE CONTACT NOTICED FLAMES UNDERNEATH THE HOOD. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE AND A REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND A COMPLAINT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT STATED THERE WAS A RECALL UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 07V336000 (VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL) THAT MAY BE RELATED TO THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 63,000.
NHTSA complaint #10412167 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 136,000 milesNorth Carolina, NC
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
MY 1998 MERCURY GRAND MARQUIS HEADLIGHTS AS WELL AS TAILIGHTS FAIL. DURING THIS ALL OF A SUDDEN WHILE DRIVING AT NIGHT THE HEADLIGHTS WHILE DRIVING WILL START FLASHING ON AND OFF, THEN JUST COMPLETELY GO OFF, AS WELL AS THE LIGHTS ON THE DOORS AND LIGHT AROUND THE DASH CONTROLS SUCH AS (AC BUTTONS AN KNOBS) THIS HAPPENED RARELY, BUT NOW IT HAPPENED EVERY SINGLE NIGHT. I GOOGLED THIS AND MANY MORE ARE HAVING THE SAME PROBLEM, IT SEEMS AS IF ITS COMMON IN THESE VEHICLES. ON THE FORUMS SOME SAY A LIGHT CONTROL BOX NEEDS REPLACING, AND THEN SOME SAY A HEADLIGHT CONTROL MODULE NEEDS REPLACING. THIS NEEDS TO BE INVESTIGATED. A RECALL NEEDS TO BE FILED FOR THE REPLACING OF THE BAD PART CAUSING THIS ISSUE. THIS CAN CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY TO SOMEONE IF THIS HAPPENS ON A DARK WINDY ROAD.
NHTSA complaint #10394258 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.