Owners have filed 100 complaints
about the 1998 Mercury Villager with NHTSA between 1998 and 2018.
The largest single group is the acceleration & cruise control.
Across this model's run it ranks 7 of 10 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 — 23
Against the median year of the Mercury Villager. 50 means typical for this
model; 100 means roughly double.
Severity — 88
17% of these complaints
involved a crash, fire, injury or death, against a national rate of
9.7%.
Early failure — 41
24% 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 Villager
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.
Accelerator Pedal
923.1%
Door
820.5%
Automatic Transmission
512.8%
Coil Springs
410.3%
Latch
410.3%
Foundation Components
410.3%
Frontal
37.7%
Exterior
25.1%
When it fails
Odometer readings owners gave when they filed. About half of all
complaints include one.
10,000 – 24,999 miles
523.8%
25,000 – 49,999 miles
14.8%
50,000 – 74,999 miles
314.3%
75,000 – 99,999 miles
419.0%
100,000 – 149,999 miles
419.0%
150,000+ miles
419.0%
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.
Jun 1998peak 5Mar 2018
NHTSA investigations into the 1998 Mercury Villager
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.
EA00014Opened 22 May 2000Closed 4 Jan 2001VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:LINKAGES
FUEL TANK VENT HOSE LEAKAGE
PERIODIC EXPOSURE TO LIQUID GASOLINE MAY RESULT IN EXTRACTION OF ANTIDEGRADANTS FROM THE SUBJECT FUEL TANK VENT HOSE.HOSES WHICH HAVE SUFFERED LOSS OF ANTIDEGRADANTS CAN DEVELOP CRACKS IN AREAS OF HIGH STRAIN.FUEL MAY SPRAY OR DRIP FROM CRACKED VENT HOSES FOLLOWING TANK FILL.STARTING AT JOB#1 1998 MY (CALIFORNIA EMISSIONS VEHICLES) AND JOB#1 1999 MY (FEDERAL EMISSIONS VEHICLES), THE SUBJECT VENT HOSE COMPOSITION CHANGED FROM NITRILE RUBBER HOSES WITH CHLOROPRENE RUBBER COVERS (NBR/CR) TO FLUOROCARBON RUBBER HOSES WITH AN OUTER LAYER BLEND OF NBR/PVC.THE CHANGES WERE MADE TO IMPROVE HYDRACARBON...
Recalls on the 1998 Mercury Villager
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
00V419002
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MINIVANS. THE FUEL TANK VENT HOSE ALLOWS AIR TO VENT FROM THE FUEL TANK DURING REFUELING. CRACKS HAVE DEVELOPED IN THE VENT HOSE. IF (1) THE FUEL TANK IS OVERFILLED, NOT ALLOWING EXCESS FUEL IN THE VENT HOSE TO FLOW BACK INTO THE TANK, (2) THE VEHICLE IS DRIVEN ONLY A SHORT DISTANCE AFTER REFUELING AND, (3) THERE IS SUBSEQUENTLY SIGNIFICANT HEATING OF THE FUEL TANK, THE FUEL IN THE TANK CAN EXPAND INTO THE VENT HOSE AND LEAK FUEL.
Risk: FUEL LEAKAGE IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE CAN RESULT IN A FIRE.
97V184001
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER MINI VANS EQUIPPED WITH AUTOMOTIVE BATTERIES SUPPLIED BY GNB TECHNOLOGIES. THESE BATTERIES HAVE A DEFECTIVE NEGATIVE POST THAT CAN CAUSE ACID LEAKAGE AND RELATED CORROSION DAMAGE.
Risk: THIS CONDITION CAN CAUSE A CATASTROPHIC FAILURE OF THE BATTERY WHICH COULD LEAD TO AN ENGINE FIRE OR BATTERY EXPLOSION.
Canada — Transport Canada
Canada runs its own recall programme, and its campaigns do not
always mirror the American ones.
Recall 200102539,378 units in Canada
Fuel System
On certain vehicles, cracks could develop in the fuel vent hose. If (1) the fuel tank is overfilled, not allowing excess fuel in the vent hose to flow back into the tank, (2) the vehicle is driven only a short distance after refueling and, (3) there is subsequently significant heating of the fuel tank, the fuel in the tank can expand into the vent hose and leak fuel. Fuel leakage in the presence of an ignition source can result in a fire. Correction: Fuel tank vent hose will be replaced.
Recall 1997190355 units in Canada
Electrical
THESE VEHICLES MAY HAVE BEEN MANUFACTURED WITH DEFECTIVE BATTERIES. THE BATTERIES MAY HAVE NEGATIVE TERMINALS THAT COULD FRACTURE CAUSING ACID LEAKAGE AND RELATED CORROSION DAMAGE WHICH COULD LEAD TO AN ENGINE FIRE OR BATTERY EXPLOSION. CORRECTION: DEFECTIVE BATTERIES WILL BE REPLACED.
Reports where the owner recorded a crash, a fire, an injury or a death.
at 115,000 milesElkhart, INCrash
POWER TRAIN
1998 VILLAGER-4 RAPID ACCELERATION SITUATIONS-STARTING TO BRAKE THE ENGINE STARTS REVVING UP TO THE POINT YOU CANNOT HOLD THE CAR WITH THE BRAKE, ONLY BY SHIFTING TO NEUTRAL. SEPT.2005,10/2006, 8/2010 & 12/09/10. CAUSED ACCIDENT ON 12/09 AND TOTALED VEHICLE. FORTUNATE NO INJURIES BUT A VERY SHOOK UP DRIVER TRYING TO GET IT STOPPED. IT DRAGGED HER ACROSS THE INTERSECTION UP ONTO A SIDEWALK AND TOOK HER SEVERAL FEET DOWN THE SIDEWALK BARELY MISSING HOUSES & TREES. ALL THE TIME SHE WAS PUSHING ON THE BRAKE & THE ENGINE WAS RACING & THE TIRES WERE DIGGING UP THE DIRT DRAGGING THE VEHICLE. RAN OVER A TWO FOOT STUMP & THE VAN FINALLY CAME TO A STOP. THE DRIVER WAS VERY SHOOK AND THIS ALL HAPPENED THROUGH NO FAULT OF HERS. THIS PROBLEM WAS REPORTED TO NHTSA WHEN THE 9/2005 INCIDENT HAPPENED. THERE HAVE BEEN AT LEAST 4 OR 5 OTHER REPORTS OF THE SAME PROBLEM WITH THE 98 VILLAGER. THE POWER TRAINS IN THE VILLAGER ARE BUILT BY NISSAN. VERY FORTUNATE THE DRIVER WAS NOT INJURED OR THAT NO ONE WAS ON THE SIDEWALK AT THE TIME. SOMETHING DEFINITELY NEEDS TO BE CHECKED ABOUT THIS PROBLEM BEFORE SOMEONE GETS INJURED OR KILLED. I HAVE SEVERAL PICTURES OF THIS LAST INCIDENT IF SOMEONE WOULD BE INTERESTED IN SEEING WHAT HAPPENED.
NHTSA complaint #10370299 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Norwell, MACrash1 injured
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
DT: CONTACT PUT THE VEHICLE IN PARK AND EXITED THE VEHICLE AND IT ROLLED BACKWARDS. THE DOOR PULLED THE CONTACT UNDER THE VEHICLE, AND BOTH SETS OF TIRES RAN HER OVER. SHE SUSTAINED A BROKEN PELVIC BONE, A BROKEN HIP, A BROKEN FEMUR, A BROKEN KNEE, A BROKEN ANKLE, AND A BROKEN BACK FROM L1-5. AS A RESULT, SHE SPENT THE SUMMER IN A NURSING HOME. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN TO A MECHANIC FOR THIS PROBLEM.
NHTSA complaint #10142425 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 82,000 milesToledo, OHCrash
STEERING
CONSUMER'S 4 YEAR OLD CHILD WAS ABLE TO SHIFT THE LEVER OUT OF THE PARK GEAR WHILE VEHICLE WAS PARKED ON AN INCLINE. VEHICLE ROLLED ACROSS SEVERAL STREETS BEFORE CRASHING INTO A NEIGHBOR'S TRUCK PARKED IN DRIVEWAY. DEALERSHIP INDICATED THAT THE STEERING PIN BROKE.
NHTSA complaint #10093994 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Highgate Center, VTCrash
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS
CONSUMER APPLIED BRAKES TO COME TO A STOP AT INTERSECTION, PEDAL FELT HARD, AND VEHICLE WENT THROUGH INTERSECTION. DEALER STATED BOTH REAR CALIPERS WERE FROZEN, AND ONE FRONT ROTOR WAS RUSTED. ALL PARTS WERE REPLACED. ON JULY 26, 2002 CONSUMER APPLIED BRAKES AT 10 MPH, PEDAL FELT HARD, NO BRAKING ACTION. VEHICLE AT DEALER AT THIS TIME. *AK THE BOOSTER WAS REPLACED, HOWEVER IT IS UNCERTAIN AS TO IF THIS WILL REMEDY THE PROBLEM. *SLC
NHTSA complaint #8015495 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Highgate Center, VTCrash
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC
CONSUMER APPLIED BRAKES TO COME TO A STOP AT INTERSECTION, PEDAL FELT HARD, AND VEHICLE WENT THROUGH INTERSECTION. DEALER STATED BOTH REAR CALIPERS WERE FROZEN, AND ONE FRONT ROTOR WAS RUSTED. ALL PARTS WERE REPLACED. ON JULY 26, 2002 CONSUMER APPLIED BRAKES AT 10 MPH, PEDAL FELT HARD, NO BRAKING ACTION. VEHICLE AT DEALER AT THIS TIME. *AK THE BOOSTER WAS REPLACED, HOWEVER IT IS UNCERTAIN AS TO IF THIS WILL REMEDY THE PROBLEM. *SLC
NHTSA complaint #8015495 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Montvale, NJCrash2 injured
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
WHILE STOPPED AT A RED LIGHT, DUAL FRONT AIRBAGS DEPLOYED, CAUSING MY CAR TO LURCH FORWARD INTO VEHICLE IN FRONT OF MINE. VERY LITTLE STRUCTURAL EXTERIOR/INTERIOR DAMAGE WAS DONE TO MY CAR WHICH INDICATED THAT THE AIRBAGS MAY HAVE EITHER CAUSED THE ACCIDENT, OR GONE OFF UNNECESSARILY AT TOO LOW A SPEED. ON THE VERY SAME DAY, A SAFETY RECALL NOTICE FROM FORD MOTOR CO. ARRIVED IN THE MAIL INDICATING THAT THERE IS ALSO A DEFECT IN THE FILLER PIPE VENT HOSE OF MY VEHICLE WHICH COULD CAUSE A FIRE. DID THIS SOMEHOW CAUSE A MALFUNCTION OF THE AIRBAG SENSORS? OR IS THERE A FUEL LINE IRREGULARITY THAT COULD HAVE CAUSED THE SUDDEN LURCHING FORWARD OF MY CAR? I HAD NOTICED IN THE WEEKS PRIOR TO THIS INCIDENT, SOMEWHAT JERKY ACCELERATION OF MY CAR, BUT THOUGHT IT WAS JUST DUE TO THE COLD WEATHER. ALSO, THERE IS EVIDENCE OF GASOLINE OR OIL HAVING LEAKED FROM CAR ON THE FLOOR OF MY GARAGE. MY HUSBAND AND I ONLY NOTICED THIS WHEN WE RETURNED HOME AFTER THE ACCIDENT, AND OUR CAR WAS NOT PARKED IN ITS USUAL SPOT. I HOPE YOU CAN INVESTIGATE THIS MATTER. I BELIEVE THAT IF AIRBAGS WERE TO GO OFF SPONTANEOUSLY AT A HIGHER SPEED, THEY WOULD MOST CERTAINLY CAUSE A COMPLETE LOSS OF CONTROL OF THE CAR, AND POSSIBLE FATALITIES. ADDITIONALLY, IF ONE'S FOOT IS ACCIDENTALLY RELEASED FROM THE BRAKE PEDAL, BUT NOT PLACED ON THE ACCELERATOR, SHOULD THE CAR LURCH OR SURGE FORWARD? I FEEL THAT THE TRAUMA AND SUDDEN DEPLOYMENT OF THE AIRBAG MAY HAVE CAUSED ME TO RECOIL AND RELEASE THE BRAKE, THEREBY CAUSING A LOSS OF CONTROL OF MY VEHICLE. FORTUNATELY, WE WERE STOPPED AT A LIGHT, AND MY CHILDREN AND I ONLY SUSTAINED MINOR PHYSICAL INJURIES.
NHTSA complaint #741674 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
The most recent complaints
In the owners' own words, exactly as filed with NHTSA.
LAS Vegas, NV
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
FUEL LEAK UNDER THE HOOD
NHTSA complaint #11079440 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 202,000 milesEdmond, OK
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 MERCURY VILLAGER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE EMITTED A STRONG FUEL ODOR IN THE CABIN. THE ODOR WAS PRIMARILY OBSERVED NEAR THE FRONT END OF THE VEHICLE AT ALL TIMES. WHEN THE HEAT IN THE VEHICLE WAS ACTIVATED, THE ODOR INTENSIFIED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT A CERTIFIED MECHANIC CONCLUDED THAT THE FAILURE OF THE VEHICLE DIRECTLY RELATED TO NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 00V419002 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE). THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 202,000.
NHTSA complaint #10865161 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 116,000 milesHouma, LA
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 MERCURY VILLAGER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE REAR BRAKE LIGHTS ILLUMINATED AND FAILED TO TURN OFF ALTHOUGH THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS NOT DEPRESSED. AFTER INSPECTING THE VEHICLE AND CRUISE CONTROL SWITCH THE CONTACT DISCOVERED THAT THE PLASTIC BUSHINGS LOCATED ON THE BRAKE PEDAL AGAINST THE STOP LIGHT SWITCH WERE CRACKED INTO PIECES CAUSING THE REAR BRAKE LIGHT TO REMAIN ILLUMINATED. THE PLASTIC BUSHINGS WERE REPLACED BY THE CONTACT. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 116,000...UPDATED 09/30/14 *BF UPDATED 2/27/2015
NHTSA complaint #10615095 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Morton, IL
SUSPENSION
I PARKED MY VAN, 1998 MERCURY VILLAGER ON THE STREET IN FRONT OF MY HOME. TWO DAYS LATER, I NOTICED THE FRONT RIGHT TIRE WAS FLAT. I HAD FOUR NEW TIRES SINCE JAN 2011. WHEN I LIFTED UP THE FRONT RIGHT AND TRIED TO REMOVE THE FR TIRE, IT WOULD NOT COME OFF. AFTER A WHILE, I NOTICED THE STRUT COIL SPRING GOT BROKE, AND THE SHAPE END OF BROKEN COIL SPRING PIERCED THRU. THE INSIDE SIDE WALL OF THE TIRE. I AM THE ORIGINAL OWNER OF THIS VAN,AND BOUGHT NEW. IT HAS `150,000 MILES ON IT. THIS INCIDENT COULD HAVE BEEN TURNED OUT BE A VERY SERIOUS ACCIDENT IF IT HAPPENED WHILE I WAS DRIVING AT 70MPG. I DO A LOT OF HIGHWAY DRIVING. BOTH FRONT RIGHT AND LEFT COMPLETE STRUT ASSEMBLIES WERE REPLACED AND THE FLAT TIRE WAS REPLACED WITH NEW ONE. I TOOK SOME PICTURES AND HAVE THE SHARP END OF BROKEN COIL SPRING.
NHTSA complaint #10389919 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Morton, IL
EQUIPMENT:RECREATIONAL VEHICLE/TRAILER
I PARKED MY VAN, 1998 MERCURY VILLAGER ON THE STREET IN FRONT OF MY HOME. TWO DAYS LATER, I NOTICED THE FRONT RIGHT TIRE WAS FLAT. I HAD FOUR NEW TIRES SINCE JAN 2011. WHEN I LIFTED UP THE FRONT RIGHT AND TRIED TO REMOVE THE FR TIRE, IT WOULD NOT COME OFF. AFTER A WHILE, I NOTICED THE STRUT COIL SPRING GOT BROKE, AND THE SHAPE END OF BROKEN COIL SPRING PIERCED THRU. THE INSIDE SIDE WALL OF THE TIRE. I AM THE ORIGINAL OWNER OF THIS VAN,AND BOUGHT NEW. IT HAS `150,000 MILES ON IT. THIS INCIDENT COULD HAVE BEEN TURNED OUT BE A VERY SERIOUS ACCIDENT IF IT HAPPENED WHILE I WAS DRIVING AT 70MPG. I DO A LOT OF HIGHWAY DRIVING. BOTH FRONT RIGHT AND LEFT COMPLETE STRUT ASSEMBLIES WERE REPLACED AND THE FLAT TIRE WAS REPLACED WITH NEW ONE. I TOOK SOME PICTURES AND HAVE THE SHARP END OF BROKEN COIL SPRING.
NHTSA complaint #10389919 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 115,000 milesElkhart, INCrash
POWER TRAIN
1998 VILLAGER-4 RAPID ACCELERATION SITUATIONS-STARTING TO BRAKE THE ENGINE STARTS REVVING UP TO THE POINT YOU CANNOT HOLD THE CAR WITH THE BRAKE, ONLY BY SHIFTING TO NEUTRAL. SEPT.2005,10/2006, 8/2010 & 12/09/10. CAUSED ACCIDENT ON 12/09 AND TOTALED VEHICLE. FORTUNATE NO INJURIES BUT A VERY SHOOK UP DRIVER TRYING TO GET IT STOPPED. IT DRAGGED HER ACROSS THE INTERSECTION UP ONTO A SIDEWALK AND TOOK HER SEVERAL FEET DOWN THE SIDEWALK BARELY MISSING HOUSES & TREES. ALL THE TIME SHE WAS PUSHING ON THE BRAKE & THE ENGINE WAS RACING & THE TIRES WERE DIGGING UP THE DIRT DRAGGING THE VEHICLE. RAN OVER A TWO FOOT STUMP & THE VAN FINALLY CAME TO A STOP. THE DRIVER WAS VERY SHOOK AND THIS ALL HAPPENED THROUGH NO FAULT OF HERS. THIS PROBLEM WAS REPORTED TO NHTSA WHEN THE 9/2005 INCIDENT HAPPENED. THERE HAVE BEEN AT LEAST 4 OR 5 OTHER REPORTS OF THE SAME PROBLEM WITH THE 98 VILLAGER. THE POWER TRAINS IN THE VILLAGER ARE BUILT BY NISSAN. VERY FORTUNATE THE DRIVER WAS NOT INJURED OR THAT NO ONE WAS ON THE SIDEWALK AT THE TIME. SOMETHING DEFINITELY NEEDS TO BE CHECKED ABOUT THIS PROBLEM BEFORE SOMEONE GETS INJURED OR KILLED. I HAVE SEVERAL PICTURES OF THIS LAST INCIDENT IF SOMEONE WOULD BE INTERESTED IN SEEING WHAT HAPPENED.
NHTSA complaint #10370299 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 180,000 milesIrvington, KY
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
MY HUSBAND USES OUR MERCURY VILLAGER VAN FOR HIS WORK. HE WAS GOING TO A JOB AND WAS TRAVELING WHEN HE STATED THE VAN LOST POWER, THE ENGINE ACTUALLY TURNED ITSELF OFF. HE WAS ABLE TO GET OFF THE ROAD BEFORE HE WAS INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT. HE PROCEEDED TO TRY RESTARTING THE VAN. IT DID NOT WORK, SO WE HAD THE VAN TOWED TO OUR HOME. HE CHECK TO SEE IF THE MOTOR WAS TIED UP BUT IT WAS FINE.HE CHANGED BATTERIES, BECAUSE DURING THE EVENT, THE BATTERY WAS DRAINED. AFTER ABOUT 3 HOURS, THE VAN MIRACULOUSLY STARTED. WE HAVE SPOKEN TO A COUPLE THAT HAD THIS HAPPEN TO THEM. THEY STATED THAT IF THE OIL GETS CLOSE TO 1 QUART BELOW LEVEL, THE SENSORS AUTOMATICALLY SHUT OFF THE ENGINE. THIS IS DANGEROUS. MY HUSBAND COULD OF BEEN IN A SERIOUS ACCIDENT WHEN THE ENGINE TURNED ITSELF OFF. THERE WERE NO ENGINE LIGHTS SIGNIFYING LOW OIL. PLEASE CHECK AND ADVISE. THANK YOU.
NHTSA complaint #10342853 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 40,000 milesGraytown, OH
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
SOMETIMES WHEN I GO FROM A STOP POSITION OR SLOW DOWN AND YOU WANT TO ACCELERATE, YOU PUT YOUR FOOT DOWN AND GET NOTHING, WHEN TAP HARDER ON IT, IT WILL LURCH FORWARD, AND WHIP BACK YOUR PASSENGERS (CHILDREN). IT SEEMS TO OCCUR WHEN HUMIDITY IS HIGHER, REGARDLESS OF SEASON.
NHTSA complaint #10315469 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 189,732 milesDutchtown, MA
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 MERCURY VILLAGER WHICH WAS PURCHASED IN 2007. SHE STATED THAT THE FUEL FILLER HOSE HAD SEVERAL CRACKS IN IT. THE CRACKS IN THE HOSE CAUSED MAJOR GASOLINE FUMES TO ENTER THE INTERIOR OF THE VEHICLE. ALTHOUGH THERE WAS A RECALL FOR THE FAILURE, NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER, 00V419002, FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE STORAGE TANK ASSEMBLY HER VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED. ON A SEPARATE OCCASION, THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT ACCELERATE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO HER HOME WHERE AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC STATED THAT THE SUB-FRAME ON THE VEHICLE WAS CRACKED. NO REPAIRS HAD BEEN MADE TO DATE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE UNDER 189,732.
NHTSA complaint #10299634 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 189,732 milesDutchtown, MA
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 MERCURY VILLAGER WHICH WAS PURCHASED IN 2007. SHE STATED THAT THE FUEL FILLER HOSE HAD SEVERAL CRACKS IN IT. THE CRACKS IN THE HOSE CAUSED MAJOR GASOLINE FUMES TO ENTER THE INTERIOR OF THE VEHICLE. ALTHOUGH THERE WAS A RECALL FOR THE FAILURE, NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER, 00V419002, FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE STORAGE TANK ASSEMBLY HER VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED. ON A SEPARATE OCCASION, THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT ACCELERATE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO HER HOME WHERE AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC STATED THAT THE SUB-FRAME ON THE VEHICLE WAS CRACKED. NO REPAIRS HAD BEEN MADE TO DATE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE UNDER 189,732.
NHTSA complaint #10299634 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 80,000 milesOfallon, MO
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 MERCURY VILLAGER. THE CONTACT SMELLS A STRONG ODOR OF FUEL, WHICH CAN BE NOTICED BOTH INSIDE AND OUTSIDE OF THE VEHICLE. THROUGH RESEARCH, THE CONTACT DISCOVERED NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 00V419002 AND NHTSA ACTION NUMBER EA00015 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY). HE TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER AND PROVIDED THEM WITH THE INFORMATION HE FOUND ONLINE. THE CONTACT LEFT THE VEHICLE AT THE DEALER FOR THE DAY. HE RETRIEVED THE VEHICLE THE FOLLOWING DAY AND NOTICED THAT THE REPAIR WAS NOT PERFORMED. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE VIN WAS EXCLUDED FROM THE 19 YEAR RECALL RANGE. THE MANUFACTURER AGREED WITH THE DEALER. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT YET BEEN REPAIRED, BUT THE CONTACT BELIEVES THAT HIS VIN SHOULD BE INCLUDED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 80,000 AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 130,000.
NHTSA complaint #10258092 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 144,946 milesDelran, NJ
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1998 MERCURY VILLAGER PURCHASED USED IN 2003. IDLE THROTTLE BODY FAILED IN 2006, MERCURY DEALER TOOK TWO WEEKS TO FIND THE PART AND REPLACED AT MY EXPENSE. IDLE THROTTLE BODY FAILED AGAIN IN EARLY 2007. DEALER TOOK TWO WEEKS AGAIN TO FIND PART AND DID NOT CHARGE ME BUT I HAD TO RENT A CAR AT MY EXPENSE. TODAY 9/30/07 THE SAME SYMPTOM OF THE CAR ACCELERATING TO 1500 RPM INTERMITTENTLY WHILE SITTING STOPPED AT A LIGHT HAS BEGUN AGAIN INSTEAD OF CONSTANT 800 RPM WHEN THIS PART IS WORKING CORRECTLY. I WILL HAVE TO WAIT ON THE DEALER TO FIND A PART AND REPAIR IT AGAIN AT MY INCONVENIENCE AND EXPENSE. HAVE OTHER OWNERS OF THIS VEHICLE ENGINE EXPERIENCED THE SAME REPEATED SAFETY AND WASTE OF FUEL ISSUE?
NHTSA complaint #10204465 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 144,946 milesDelran, NJ
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:CARBURETOR SYSTEM
1998 MERCURY VILLAGER PURCHASED USED IN 2003. IDLE THROTTLE BODY FAILED IN 2006, MERCURY DEALER TOOK TWO WEEKS TO FIND THE PART AND REPLACED AT MY EXPENSE. IDLE THROTTLE BODY FAILED AGAIN IN EARLY 2007. DEALER TOOK TWO WEEKS AGAIN TO FIND PART AND DID NOT CHARGE ME BUT I HAD TO RENT A CAR AT MY EXPENSE. TODAY 9/30/07 THE SAME SYMPTOM OF THE CAR ACCELERATING TO 1500 RPM INTERMITTENTLY WHILE SITTING STOPPED AT A LIGHT HAS BEGUN AGAIN INSTEAD OF CONSTANT 800 RPM WHEN THIS PART IS WORKING CORRECTLY. I WILL HAVE TO WAIT ON THE DEALER TO FIND A PART AND REPAIR IT AGAIN AT MY INCONVENIENCE AND EXPENSE. HAVE OTHER OWNERS OF THIS VEHICLE ENGINE EXPERIENCED THE SAME REPEATED SAFETY AND WASTE OF FUEL ISSUE?
NHTSA complaint #10204465 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Neenah, WI
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS:UNDERBODY SHIELDS
THE STRUT TOWER IS RUSTING BAD AND IS ABOUT TO BREAK OFF. IT IS EVERY TIME MY WIFE AND KIDS GO SOME WHERE IT COULD BREAK THROW AND CAUSE MASSIVE DAMAGE AND PUT THEIR LIVES IN DANGER. JUST HOPE IT DOES NOT BREAK ON THE HIGHWAY.
NHTSA complaint #10170233 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Uniontown, PA
WHEELS:LUGS/NUTS/BOLTS/STUDS
1998 MERCURY VILLAGER'S FRONT LEFT WHEEL CAME OFF OF THE VEHICLE. *KB THE WHEEL BOUNCED OVER THE CENTER WALL AND THE VEHICLE DROVE OFF THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE ROAD TO A CONTROLLED STOP. THE FRONT LEFT FENDER WAS DENTED AND SCRAPED AS WELL AS THE LOWER PORTION OF THE DRIVER'S DOOR. THE LEFT FRONT WHEEL LUG NUTS SHEARED OFF, ONE WAS STILL PARTIALLY INTACT.
NHTSA complaint #10166901 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Yarker, 00
SUSPENSION:FRONT:SPRINGS:COIL SPRINGS
1998 MERCURY VILLAGER PARKED. WHEN FAMILY RETURNED TO VAN AND GOT INTO IT, THE FRONT LEFT (DRIVERS) SIDE COIL SPRING SNAPPED. ABLE TO SLOWLY DRIVE VEHICLE TO GARAGE TO REPLACE BOTH SPRINGS.
NHTSA complaint #10165762 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Norwell, MACrash1 injured
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
DT: CONTACT PUT THE VEHICLE IN PARK AND EXITED THE VEHICLE AND IT ROLLED BACKWARDS. THE DOOR PULLED THE CONTACT UNDER THE VEHICLE, AND BOTH SETS OF TIRES RAN HER OVER. SHE SUSTAINED A BROKEN PELVIC BONE, A BROKEN HIP, A BROKEN FEMUR, A BROKEN KNEE, A BROKEN ANKLE, AND A BROKEN BACK FROM L1-5. AS A RESULT, SHE SPENT THE SUMMER IN A NURSING HOME. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN TO A MECHANIC FOR THIS PROBLEM.
NHTSA complaint #10142425 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 20,000 milesBoles, AR
VISIBILITY:GLASS, SIDE/REAR
THE VEHICLE AUTOMATIC DOOR LOCKS AUTOMATICALLY LOCK THE DOORS THIS HAS HAPPENED INNUMERABLE OCCASIONS. THIS BEGAN SHORTLY AFTER PURCHASE OF THE VEHICLE IN 1998, AND CONTINUES TODAY. THE DOORS AR NOT TO LOCK IF THE KEYS ARE IN THE IGNITION, AND THEY DO. THIS HAS OCCURRED WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE, WHILE IT IS PARKED, WHEN ENTERING, AND EXITING THE VEHICLE. THE INTERIOR DOORS DO NOT OVERRIDE THE LOCKS, AND IN AN EMERGENCY, ONE WOULD BE UNABLE TO EXIT THE VEHICLE IF THEY WERE TO LOCK. USUALLY THIS OCCURS MOST OFTEN WHEN THE DOORS ARE BEING CLOSED; AND IF THE BATTERY IS UNHOOKED, AND RECONNECTED, IT MAY REMEDY THE SITUATION FOR SEVERAL DAYS. THE REAR AUTOMATIC WINDOWS GO OUT WHEN YOU PRESS THE BUTTONS TO MAKE THEM GO IN, AND THE REAR WIPER STAYS DOWN AS IF THE WINDOW IS UNLOCKED. THAT CAN BE REMEDIED BY UNLOCKING THE WINDOW, AND RELATCHING IT, IT USUALLY STAYS UP FOR 2-3 DAYS. WHEN YOU ATTEMPT TO RETRACT THE REAR WINDOWS, THEY WILL NOT GO IN AUTOMATICALLY. I HAVE CONTACTED PUTNAM LINCOLN MERCURY IN FORT SMITH, ARKANSAS, AND I DO NOT HAVE THE MONEY TO COMPLETE THESE REPAIRS WHICH COULD POSSIBLY CAUSE INJURY OR DEATH IF THE DOORS LOCKED SOMEONE IN. IN OTHER NEWS, THE GAS PEDAL IS STICKING ALSO, THIS HAPPENS WHEN YOU TAKE OFF IN THE VEHICLE, AND HAPPENS EVERY TIME. THIS HAS ALSO BEEN REPORTED TO THE DEALERSHIP.
NHTSA complaint #10139592 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 20,000 milesBoles, AR
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH
THE VEHICLE AUTOMATIC DOOR LOCKS AUTOMATICALLY LOCK THE DOORS THIS HAS HAPPENED INNUMERABLE OCCASIONS. THIS BEGAN SHORTLY AFTER PURCHASE OF THE VEHICLE IN 1998, AND CONTINUES TODAY. THE DOORS AR NOT TO LOCK IF THE KEYS ARE IN THE IGNITION, AND THEY DO. THIS HAS OCCURRED WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE, WHILE IT IS PARKED, WHEN ENTERING, AND EXITING THE VEHICLE. THE INTERIOR DOORS DO NOT OVERRIDE THE LOCKS, AND IN AN EMERGENCY, ONE WOULD BE UNABLE TO EXIT THE VEHICLE IF THEY WERE TO LOCK. USUALLY THIS OCCURS MOST OFTEN WHEN THE DOORS ARE BEING CLOSED; AND IF THE BATTERY IS UNHOOKED, AND RECONNECTED, IT MAY REMEDY THE SITUATION FOR SEVERAL DAYS. THE REAR AUTOMATIC WINDOWS GO OUT WHEN YOU PRESS THE BUTTONS TO MAKE THEM GO IN, AND THE REAR WIPER STAYS DOWN AS IF THE WINDOW IS UNLOCKED. THAT CAN BE REMEDIED BY UNLOCKING THE WINDOW, AND RELATCHING IT, IT USUALLY STAYS UP FOR 2-3 DAYS. WHEN YOU ATTEMPT TO RETRACT THE REAR WINDOWS, THEY WILL NOT GO IN AUTOMATICALLY. I HAVE CONTACTED PUTNAM LINCOLN MERCURY IN FORT SMITH, ARKANSAS, AND I DO NOT HAVE THE MONEY TO COMPLETE THESE REPAIRS WHICH COULD POSSIBLY CAUSE INJURY OR DEATH IF THE DOORS LOCKED SOMEONE IN. IN OTHER NEWS, THE GAS PEDAL IS STICKING ALSO, THIS HAPPENS WHEN YOU TAKE OFF IN THE VEHICLE, AND HAPPENS EVERY TIME. THIS HAS ALSO BEEN REPORTED TO THE DEALERSHIP.
NHTSA complaint #10139592 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 20,000 milesBoles, AR
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL
THE VEHICLE AUTOMATIC DOOR LOCKS AUTOMATICALLY LOCK THE DOORS THIS HAS HAPPENED INNUMERABLE OCCASIONS. THIS BEGAN SHORTLY AFTER PURCHASE OF THE VEHICLE IN 1998, AND CONTINUES TODAY. THE DOORS AR NOT TO LOCK IF THE KEYS ARE IN THE IGNITION, AND THEY DO. THIS HAS OCCURRED WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE, WHILE IT IS PARKED, WHEN ENTERING, AND EXITING THE VEHICLE. THE INTERIOR DOORS DO NOT OVERRIDE THE LOCKS, AND IN AN EMERGENCY, ONE WOULD BE UNABLE TO EXIT THE VEHICLE IF THEY WERE TO LOCK. USUALLY THIS OCCURS MOST OFTEN WHEN THE DOORS ARE BEING CLOSED; AND IF THE BATTERY IS UNHOOKED, AND RECONNECTED, IT MAY REMEDY THE SITUATION FOR SEVERAL DAYS. THE REAR AUTOMATIC WINDOWS GO OUT WHEN YOU PRESS THE BUTTONS TO MAKE THEM GO IN, AND THE REAR WIPER STAYS DOWN AS IF THE WINDOW IS UNLOCKED. THAT CAN BE REMEDIED BY UNLOCKING THE WINDOW, AND RELATCHING IT, IT USUALLY STAYS UP FOR 2-3 DAYS. WHEN YOU ATTEMPT TO RETRACT THE REAR WINDOWS, THEY WILL NOT GO IN AUTOMATICALLY. I HAVE CONTACTED PUTNAM LINCOLN MERCURY IN FORT SMITH, ARKANSAS, AND I DO NOT HAVE THE MONEY TO COMPLETE THESE REPAIRS WHICH COULD POSSIBLY CAUSE INJURY OR DEATH IF THE DOORS LOCKED SOMEONE IN. IN OTHER NEWS, THE GAS PEDAL IS STICKING ALSO, THIS HAPPENS WHEN YOU TAKE OFF IN THE VEHICLE, AND HAPPENS EVERY TIME. THIS HAS ALSO BEEN REPORTED TO THE DEALERSHIP.
NHTSA complaint #10139592 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Canton, OH
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
DT: 1998 MERCURY VILLAGER. THE CONSUMER STATES ALL OF THE DOORS ARE LOCKING ON THEIR OWN. THIS HAS HAPPENED A COUPLE OF TIMES. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN INSPECTED BY THE DEALERSHIP TO SEE WHY THIS WAS OCCURRING. HE HAS NOT YET CONTACTED MERCURY. THIS STARTED ON AUGUST 15, 2005. THIS ALMOST LOCKED THE CONSUMER'S CHILD IN THE CAR. THIS WA SA KEYLESS ENTRY LOCKING SYSTEM.
NHTSA complaint #10136920 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
Savannah, GA
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH
A DEFECT IN THE KEYLESS ENTRY SYSTEM OF 1998 MODEL YEAR MERCURY VILLAGER MINIVANS CAUSES UNCONTROLLED LOCKING AND UNLOCKING OF THE VEHICLE DOORS. COMPANY IS AWARE OF THE DEFECT AND A TECHNICAL MEMORANDUM EXISTS REGARDING THIS PROBLEM BUT THE COMPANY REFUSES TO TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR REPAIR OF THE DEFECT.
NHTSA complaint #10093229 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 70,000 milesPerry, GA
POWER TRAIN:DRIVELINE:CONSTANT VELOCITY JOINT
I HAVE OWNED A 1996 AND 1998 MERCURY VILLAGER. BOTH VEHICLES HAD A FAILURE OF THE DRIVER'S SIDE CV BOOT WITH THE EVENTUAL FAILURE OF THE TRANS AXLE CV JOINT. EACH TIME THE TRANSAXLE HAD TO BE REPLACED.
NHTSA complaint #10093226 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 82,000 milesToledo, OHCrash
STEERING
CONSUMER'S 4 YEAR OLD CHILD WAS ABLE TO SHIFT THE LEVER OUT OF THE PARK GEAR WHILE VEHICLE WAS PARKED ON AN INCLINE. VEHICLE ROLLED ACROSS SEVERAL STREETS BEFORE CRASHING INTO A NEIGHBOR'S TRUCK PARKED IN DRIVEWAY. DEALERSHIP INDICATED THAT THE STEERING PIN BROKE.
NHTSA complaint #10093994 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.
at 60,000 milesFontana, CA
SERVICE BRAKES, AIR:ANTILOCK
CONSUMER TOOK VEHICLE TO DEALERSHIP BECAUSE OF A NOISE THAT WAS BEING HEARD WHEN APPLYING THE BRAKES. DEALER MAINTAINED THAT THE BRAKES WERE FINE, YET THE NOISE CONTINUED. IT COULD BE HEARD WHEN VEHICLE WAS GOING AT 35 MPH.
NHTSA complaint #10090364 — an unverified report by a vehicle owner.