1989 LINCOLN CONTINENTAL

5 recalls, 255 complaints - 48 TSBs

98V323000 Dec 16, 1998
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS
Defect Description
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES ORIGINALLY SOLD OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN CONNECTICUT, DELAWARE, DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, ILLINOIS, INDIANA, IOWA, KANSAS, KENTUCKY, MAINE, MARYLAND, MASSACHUSETTS, MICHIGAN, MINNESOTA, MISSOURI, NEBRASKA, NEW HAMPSHIRE, NEW JERSEY, NEW YORK, OHIO, PENNSYLVANI... Read more
Consequence
IF BOTH REAR CORNERS DROP, STEERING WOULD BECOME SUDDENLY VERY DIFFICULT, AFFECTING VEHICLE CONTROL AND INCREASING THE RISK OF A CRASH.
Remedy
DEALERS WILL INSTALL SUBFRAME REAR MOUNT BOLTS, REINFORCEMENT PLATES, AND PLATE NUTS.
2,697,000 vehicles affected
Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
97V174000 Oct 7, 1997
SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY
Defect Description
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE FRONT OUTBOARD SEATING POSITION SEAT BELT BUCKLES MAY NOT LATCH OR UNLATCH.
Consequence
THESE CONDITIONS COULD REDUCE SEAT BELT USAGE INCREASING THE RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY IN THE EVENT OF A VEHICLE CRASH.
Remedy
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE FRONT OUTBOARD SEAT BELT BUCKLE ASSEMBLIES.
63,400 vehicles affected
Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
97I003000 Oct 7, 1997
SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY
Defect Description
THIS IS NOT A SAFETY RECALL IN ACCORDANCE WITH FEDERAL REGULATION 573. HOWEVER, IT IS DEEMED A SAFETY IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN BY THE AGENCY. FORD IS INITIATING AN OWNER NOTIFICATION PROGRAM THAT WILL PROVIDE AN EXTENDED WARRANTY, 12 YEARS AND UNLIMITED MILEAGE, FOR ALL SEAT BELT BUCKLES WITH FUNCTION... Read more
Consequence
IN THE EVENT OF A COLLISION, THE OCCUPANT OF THE SEAT MAY NOT BE PROPERLY RESTRAINED AND PERSONAL INJURY COULD OCCUR.
Remedy
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE SEAT BELT BUCKLE ASSEMBLY, FOR 12 YEARS AND UNLIMITED MILEAGE.
299,600 vehicles affected
Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
91V134000 Aug 6, 1991
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:ROTOR
Defect Description
FRONT DISC BRAKE ROTORS OF THE SUBJECT VEHICLES MAY EXPERIENCE SEVERE CORROSION IF OPERATED IN AREAS WHERE CALCIUM CHLORIDE AND SODIUM CHLORIDE ARE USED EXTENSIVELY.
Consequence
SEVERELY CORRODED ROTORS MAY FRACTURE OR SEPARATE NEARTHE INNER EDGES OF THE BRAKE DISCS RESULTING IN REDUCED BRAKING EFFECTIVENESS,HIGHER THAN NORMAL PEDAL EFFORTS, LOUD GRINDING NOISES, AND MODERATE PULLS WHENTHE BRAKES ARE APPLIED. REDUCED BRAKING EFFECTIVENESS MAY INCREASE MINIMUMSTOPPING DISTAN... Read more
Remedy
REPLACE FRONT BRAKE ROTORS WITH FULL CAST FRONT BRAKE ROTORS.
325,000 vehicles affected
Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
89V048000 Mar 27, 1989
SEAT BELTS:FRONT:RETRACTOR
Defect Description
THE LEFT SIDE, REAR SEAT BELT RETRACTOR ASSEMBLY MAY BE IMPROPERLY SECURED AND COULD PULL FREE OF ITS MOUNTING LOCATION.
Consequence
OCCUPANT, THOUGH STILL RESTRAINED BY THE LAP PORTION OFTHE BELT, WOULD NOT HAVE UPPER BODY PROTECTION.
Remedy
REINSTALL THE RETRACTOR ATTACHMENT BOLT.
750 vehicles affected
Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY

Complaint Statistics

255 total complaints 7 crashes 22 fires 12 injuries 1 deaths

Top Reported Components

ComponentComplaints
SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY32
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE17
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP15
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH10
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL9
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE9
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION8
SEAT BELTS:FRONT:RETRACTOR6
EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER6
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS6
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS:UNDERBODY SHIELDS Apr 15, 2008
Incident date: Mar 24, 2008
THE SUBFRAME ON OUR 1989 CONTINENTAL RUSTED THROUGH WHICH ALLOWS THE ENGINE TO FALL ONTO THE STEERING GEAR AND PREVENTS STEERING. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING Apr 22, 2004
Incident date: Dec 15, 2002
THE HEAD GASKET IS BLOWN. I AM LOSING COOLENT AND THICK WHITE SMOKE IS COMING OUT AT THE TAILPIPE. I HAVE NOT TAKEN IT TO THE MECHANIC YET BUT I AM CONVICED FROM THE COLOR OF THE SMOKE AND SMELL OF THE SMOKE.
SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY Nov 13, 2003
DRIVER'S SIDE SEAT BELT KEEPS RELEASING ON ITSW OWN WHILE DRIVING. *AK
SUSPENSION:REAR:SPRINGS:AIR SUSPENSION SYSTEM Apr 30, 2003
Incident date: Jan 1, 2002
ALL FOUR AIR SPRING SUSPENSION LEAKED IN DIFFERENT TIMES THAT CAUSE FRONT PART OR REAR PART OF THE VEHICLE LOWER TO GROUND WHICH CAN NOT DRIVE. THE REAR AIR STRUTS PARTS EACH COST MORE THAN FOUR HUNDRED DOLLARS AND THE FRONT ONES COST MORE THAN $350 EACH FROM LINCOLN DEALER. THE REASON OF LEAK IS TH... Read more
TIRES:TREAD/BELT Apr 17, 2003
THE TREAD ON TIRE HAD SHIFTED AND THERE WAS METAL SHOWING. THE CONSUMER HAD TO REPLACED ANOTHER TIRE PREVIOUSLY FOR THE SAME PROBLEM. *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE Oct 9, 2002
Incident date: Aug 16, 2002
CONSUMER STATES THAT THERE WAS A FIRE IN THE VEHICLE WHICH STARTED IN THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT WHILE THE CONSUMER WAS DRIVING. CONTACTED DEALER. MR FUEL RAIL EXPLODED 3 INCH HOLE. INSTANT FIRE IN BACK OF ENGINE.
Fire
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL Aug 29, 2002
Incident date: Aug 23, 2002
WHILE DRIVING AND WITH NO WARNING, WHEN TRYING TO APPLY BRAKES PEDAL WENT TO THE FLOOR, AND IT WAS HARD FOR VEHICLE TO STOP, CAUSING AN ACCIDENT. DEALER NOTIFIED.*AK CONSUMER STATED THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL BECAME STUCK WHILE DRIVING ON THE FRREWAY, WHEN ATTEMPTING TO PULL OVER TO THE EMERGENCY LANE, C... Read more
Crash
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH Aug 23, 2002
IGNITION SWITCH FAILED TO OPERATE CORRECTLY, OFTEN LOOSING CONTROL CENTER INFORMATION AND SOMETIMES PREVENTING THE CAR FROM OPERATING. CAR WAS TAKEN TO REPAIR STATION WHERE THE IGNITION SWITCH AND HARNESS WERE REPLACED. THE TWO COMPONENTS (BURNED AND FUSED) ARE AVAILABLE FOR ANALYSIS.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FRONT UNDERHOOD Aug 23, 2002
IGNITION SWITCH FAILED TO OPERATE CORRECTLY, OFTEN LOOSING CONTROL CENTER INFORMATION AND SOMETIMES PREVENTING THE CAR FROM OPERATING. CAR WAS TAKEN TO REPAIR STATION WHERE THE IGNITION SWITCH AND HARNESS WERE REPLACED. THE TWO COMPONENTS (BURNED AND FUSED) ARE AVAILABLE FOR ANALYSIS.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FRONT UNDERHOOD Jul 31, 2002
Incident date: Jul 22, 2002
I HAD SPENT ALL MY MONEY ON THIS VEHICLE. MY MECHANIC TOLD ME IT'S IRREPERABLE AND LIABILITY INSURANCE WILL NOT COVER. NOW I HAVE NO MONEY AND NO CAR FOR MY 4-YEAR OLD AND I TO RUN ERRANDS IN.NO SAFETY DEFECT LISTED. *AK
Fire 3 injured
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:INTERIOR/UNDER DASH Apr 29, 2002
Incident date: Apr 15, 2002
DIGITAL MILEAGE GAUGE KEEPS GOING UP.*AK
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS Oct 12, 2001
Incident date: Oct 1, 1990
THERE IS WATER THAT LEAKS INTTO HEADLIGHTS WHICH CAUSES LIGHT BULBS TO BURN OUT. HAS NOT CONTACTED DEALER. *AK
EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER Jul 31, 2001
Incident date: May 15, 2001
THERE HAVE BEEN NUMEROUS PROBLEMS WITH THIS CAR. THE ALTERNATOR HAS BEEN REPLACED FOUR TIMES IN SIX MONTHS. THE BATTERY HAS BEEN REPLACED. SOMETHING IS STILL DRAINING ALL OF THE POWER AWAY. THE FRONT-SEAT THREE-POINT SEAT BELTS GO SLACK WHILE DRIVING AND DO NOT RETRACT AFTER USE. FORD SAYS IT IS NOT... Read more
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL Jul 31, 2001
Incident date: May 15, 2001
THERE HAVE BEEN NUMEROUS PROBLEMS WITH THIS CAR. THE ALTERNATOR HAS BEEN REPLACED FOUR TIMES IN SIX MONTHS. THE BATTERY HAS BEEN REPLACED. SOMETHING IS STILL DRAINING ALL OF THE POWER AWAY. THE FRONT-SEAT THREE-POINT SEAT BELTS GO SLACK WHILE DRIVING AND DO NOT RETRACT AFTER USE. FORD SAYS IT IS NOT... Read more
STEERING:GEAR BOX:SHAFT PITMAN Jul 31, 2001
Incident date: May 15, 2001
THERE HAVE BEEN NUMEROUS PROBLEMS WITH THIS CAR. THE ALTERNATOR HAS BEEN REPLACED FOUR TIMES IN SIX MONTHS. THE BATTERY HAS BEEN REPLACED. SOMETHING IS STILL DRAINING ALL OF THE POWER AWAY. THE FRONT-SEAT THREE-POINT SEAT BELTS GO SLACK WHILE DRIVING AND DO NOT RETRACT AFTER USE. FORD SAYS IT IS NOT... Read more
SUSPENSION:REAR Jul 31, 2001
Incident date: May 15, 2001
THERE HAVE BEEN NUMEROUS PROBLEMS WITH THIS CAR. THE ALTERNATOR HAS BEEN REPLACED FOUR TIMES IN SIX MONTHS. THE BATTERY HAS BEEN REPLACED. SOMETHING IS STILL DRAINING ALL OF THE POWER AWAY. THE FRONT-SEAT THREE-POINT SEAT BELTS GO SLACK WHILE DRIVING AND DO NOT RETRACT AFTER USE. FORD SAYS IT IS NOT... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ALTERNATOR/GENERATOR/REGULATOR Jul 31, 2001
Incident date: May 15, 2001
THERE HAVE BEEN NUMEROUS PROBLEMS WITH THIS CAR. THE ALTERNATOR HAS BEEN REPLACED FOUR TIMES IN SIX MONTHS. THE BATTERY HAS BEEN REPLACED. SOMETHING IS STILL DRAINING ALL OF THE POWER AWAY. THE FRONT-SEAT THREE-POINT SEAT BELTS GO SLACK WHILE DRIVING AND DO NOT RETRACT AFTER USE. FORD SAYS IT IS NOT... Read more
SEAT BELTS:FRONT:ANCHORAGE Jul 31, 2001
Incident date: May 15, 2001
THERE HAVE BEEN NUMEROUS PROBLEMS WITH THIS CAR. THE ALTERNATOR HAS BEEN REPLACED FOUR TIMES IN SIX MONTHS. THE BATTERY HAS BEEN REPLACED. SOMETHING IS STILL DRAINING ALL OF THE POWER AWAY. THE FRONT-SEAT THREE-POINT SEAT BELTS GO SLACK WHILE DRIVING AND DO NOT RETRACT AFTER USE. FORD SAYS IT IS NOT... Read more
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS May 22, 2001
Incident date: Apr 1, 1999
RECALL98-V-323-000/ SUBFRAME CORROSION. CONSUMER HAS HAD PROBLEM FIXED, BUT REMEDY DID NOT DO ITS JOB. CONTACTED MANUFACTURER, AND MANUFACTURER STATED THAT REMEDY WAS ONLY GOOD FOR 12 MONTHS. *AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL Apr 9, 2001
WHEN APPYLING THE BRAKES VEHICLE WILL NOT DOWN SHIFT, VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATES. CAUSE UNKNOWN. PLEASE GIVE ANY FURTHER DETAILS.*AK
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION Apr 9, 2001
WHEN APPYLING THE BRAKES VEHICLE WILL NOT DOWN SHIFT, VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATES. CAUSE UNKNOWN. PLEASE GIVE ANY FURTHER DETAILS.*AK
SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY Sep 11, 2000
Incident date: Aug 18, 2000
CONSUMER IS NOT ABLE TO RECEIVE RECALL REPAIR (97I-003) DUE TO DEALERSHIP PROBLEM. *MJS
SUSPENSION:REAR Sep 5, 2000
CONSTANT TROUBLE WITH THE SUSPENSION SYSTEM LEAKING OR NOT WORKING PROPERLY. THE DEALER HAS NOT BEEN ABLE TO DIAGNOSE THE PROBLEM.
SUSPENSION:FRONT:SPRINGS:AIR SUSPENSION SYSTEM Aug 25, 2000
WHILE DRIVING AT ANY GIVEN TIME FRONT END OF THE VEHICLE WILL DROP COMPLETELY DOWN TO THE GROUND DUE TO AIR SHARKS WHICH NEED TO BE REPLACED. CONSUMER HAS CONTACTED THE DEALER. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER DETAILS.*AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:POWER ASSIST:HYDRAULIC Aug 24, 2000
Incident date: Aug 15, 1998
POWER BOOSTER ASSEMBLY HAS A HIGH FAILURE RATE AND IS A TROUBLESOME SYSTEM PARTS NEEDED FOR REPAIRES ARE NO LONGER AVAILABLE WICH IS STRANGE FOR A 11 YEAR OLD VEHICLE CONSIDERING THE HIGH PROBLEM RATE OF THIS BRAKE SYSTEM. THE BRAKE BOOSTER OPERATES INTERMITENTLY. SINCE I AM A MECHANIC WORKING FOR F... Read more
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC Jun 22, 2000
DISC BRAKES HAVE COMPLETELY SEPARATED FROM THE DISC BRAKE DRUM, CAUSING A DANGEROUS BRAKING SITUATION. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER DETAILS. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE Mar 13, 2000
WHILE DRIVING ALONG THE ROAD VEHICLE OVERHEATED. PULLED OVER ,AND HAD THE CAR TOWED TO THE DEALER. THEY REPLACED THE HEAD GASKET. *AK
POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY Nov 29, 1999
Incident date: Sep 19, 1997
REBUILT PASSENGER SIDE AXLE. MJS
FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS Nov 29, 1999
FUEL PRESSURE REGULATOR VACCUM LINE BROKEN. MJS
SUSPENSION:FRONT:MACPHERSON STRUT Nov 29, 1999
Incident date: Sep 25, 1998
FRONT STRUTS FAILED. MJS
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:MODULE Nov 29, 1999
Incident date: Mar 3, 1999
REPLACEMENT OF FUEL TANK DID NOT RECTIFY ROUGH RUNNING CONDITION, FOUND SHORTED WIRING IN THE ELECTRONIC ENGINE CONTROL CAUSING PROCESSOR TO SHORT OUT AND EGR TO STAY OPEN. MJS
STRUCTURE:BODY:TRUNK LID Nov 29, 1999
Incident date: Feb 28, 1997
CAR TRUNK LINING FALLING OUT. MJS
STEERING:LINKAGES:TIE ROD ASSEMBLY Nov 29, 1999
INNER TIE ROD FAILED. MJS
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY Nov 29, 1999
Incident date: Mar 3, 1999
REPLACEMENT OF FUEL TANK DID NOT RECTIFY ROUGH RUNNING CONDITION, FOUND SHORTED WIRING IN THE ELECTRONIC ENGINE CONTROL CAUSING PROCESSOR TO SHORT OUT AND EGR TO STAY OPEN. MJS
INTERIOR LIGHTING Nov 29, 1999
GEAR LIGHTING FOR (PARK,DRIVE,REVERSE) FAILED. MJS
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:MANIFOLD/HEADER/MUFFLER/TAIL PIPE Nov 29, 1999
Incident date: Feb 18, 1999
EXHAUST SYSTEM TAIL PIPE, MUFFLER/RESONATOR REPLACED. MJS
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL Nov 29, 1999
WHEN VEHICLE WAS STARTED THE ENGINE BEGAN TO RACE AND WOULD NOT IDLE DOWN. NLM
SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:POWER ADJUST Nov 29, 1999
Incident date: Oct 9, 1997
POWER SEAT FAILED. MJS
SUSPENSION:FRONT:MACPHERSON STRUT Nov 29, 1999
Incident date: Oct 1, 1997
STARTER REBUILT. MJS
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE Nov 29, 1999
Incident date: Jun 28, 1999
TWO MOTOR MOUNTS FAILED. MJS
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE Nov 9, 1999
Incident date: Sep 17, 1999
WHILE DRIVING GAS PEDAL GOT STUCK TO THE FLOOR, CAUSING SUDDEN ACCELERATION. CONSUMER PRESSED THE BRAKES, BUT BRAKES FAILED STOP VEHICLE. VEHICLE FINALLY STOPPED AFTER DRIVING 4 MILES. GAS PEDAL STUCK AT LEAST FOUR TIMES *AK
Fire
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL Nov 9, 1999
Incident date: Sep 17, 1999
WHILE DRIVING GAS PEDAL GOT STUCK TO THE FLOOR, CAUSING SUDDEN ACCELERATION. CONSUMER PRESSED THE BRAKES, BUT BRAKES FAILED STOP VEHICLE. VEHICLE FINALLY STOPPED AFTER DRIVING 4 MILES. GAS PEDAL STUCK AT LEAST FOUR TIMES *AK
Fire
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL Oct 28, 1999
Incident date: Sep 13, 1999
WHILE DRIVING 20 MPH AND MAKING A LEFT TURN, ANOTHER VEHICLE HIT THE CONSUMER'S VEHICLE ON THE FRONT RIGHT SIDE, CAUSING DRIVER'S SIDE AIR BAG TO DEPLOY. CONSUMER BROKE THE RIGHT ARM IN FOUR PLACES. *AK
Crash 1 injured
SUSPENSION:FRONT:SPRINGS:AIR SUSPENSION SYSTEM Oct 27, 1999
Incident date: Oct 22, 1998
FRONT AIR SUSPENSION LOSES PRESSURE ,CAUSES THE FRONT TO BOUNCE WHENEVER VEHICLE RUNS OVER BUMPS OR POTHOLES. DEALER / MFR. WERE NOT NOTIFIED AT THIS TIME. *AK
INTERIOR LIGHTING Oct 26, 1999
Incident date: Oct 21, 1999
WHILE DRIVING ON THE STREET AT APPROXIMATELY 25-30 MPH THE INSTRUMENT PANEL LIGHTS WENT OUT, AND THE ABS SENSOR LIGHT CAME ON. VEHICLE HAD NO BRAKES. NO MATTER HOW MANY TIMES THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS APPLIED, VEHICLE HAD NO BRAKES. VEHICLE TURNED INTO A FIELD IN ORDER TO STOP. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP Oct 26, 1999
Incident date: Oct 21, 1999
WHILE DRIVING ON THE STREET AT APPROXIMATELY 25-30 MPH THE INSTRUMENT PANEL LIGHTS WENT OUT, AND THE ABS SENSOR LIGHT CAME ON. VEHICLE HAD NO BRAKES. NO MATTER HOW MANY TIMES THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS APPLIED, VEHICLE HAD NO BRAKES. VEHICLE TURNED INTO A FIELD IN ORDER TO STOP. *AK
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL Oct 20, 1999
Incident date: Oct 20, 1999
CONSUMER AND HER SISTER WERE TRAVELING ABOUT 45 TO 50MPH WHEN THEY APPROACHED A LITTLE HUMP IN THE ROAD, A SMALL HILL, THERE WAS A COW IN THE MIDDLE OF THE ROAD. THEY HIT THE COW, AND THE COW WENT UP IN THE AIR AND LANDED ON THE RIGHT SIDE OF THE HEADLIGHTS. SHE BOUNCED OFF THE HEADLIGHTS AND WENT ... Read more
Crash 2 injured
VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:WINDSHIELD:ELECTRICAL HEATING ELEMENT Sep 30, 1999
HEAT CONTROL / AIR CONDITIONING SWITCH FAILED. *YC
SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY Sep 30, 1999
Incident date: Sep 22, 1999
NHTSA RECALL # 98 V 323 000, SUBFRAME AND NHTSA RECALL #97 I 003 000, SEAT BELT BUCKLES WERE RECEIVED FROM MANUFACTURER. TOOK VEHICLE IN FOR REPAIRS AND WAS INFORMED NOTHING COULD BE DONE BECAUSE RECALL WAS TAKEN CARE OFF. CONSUMER RECEIVED MANUFACTURER'S RECALL ON 22 SEP 99, AND TOOK VEHICLE IN T... Read more
EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER Sep 30, 1999
HEAT CONTROL / AIR CONDITIONING SWITCH FAILED. *YC

Showing 50 of 255 complaints.

EPA Fuel Economy, 1989 LINCOLN CONTINENTAL

Trim / Engine City MPG Highway MPG Combined MPG Fuel Type Annual Fuel Cost
3.8L 6-cyl, Automatic 4-spd (Front-Wheel Drive) 15.0 23.0 18.0 Regular $3,400

CO2 Emissions: -1.0 g/mile (Large Cars)

Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Actual fuel economy may vary based on driving conditions.

Technical Service Bulletins, 1989 LINCOLN CONTINENTAL

48 manufacturer communications from 44 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.

Most Affected Components

ComponentBulletins
103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION7
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE4
138800 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:FAN/MOTOR4
136200 VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER:MOTOR3
034500 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC3
103700 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:TORQUE CONVERTER3
114000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING2
061100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE2
01157 Aug 6, 2001
980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER
INFORMATION REGARDING TRANSMISSION FLUID USAGE CHARTS. *SLC
01156 Aug 6, 2001
138600 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:HEATER CORE
SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT HEATER CORE LEAKS. *SLC
0015 Jan 10, 2000
103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
INFORMATION REGARDING THE NEW TRANSMISSION COOLER FLUSHER- SERVICE TIP. *MJS
99222 Oct 18, 1999
114000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
SUBJECT ON A WIRE HARNESS TERMINAL REPAIR KIT AVAILABLE FOR REPAIRING ELECTRICAL WIRING HARNESSES. *TT
99196 Sep 20, 1999
357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER
INFORMATION ON IDENTIFYING NON-APPROVED / ALTERNATE REFRIGERANTS WHICH COULD CAUSE SAFETY, AND PERFORMANCE CONCERNS IF INSTALLED IN FORD A/C SYSTEMS. *TT
99152 Jul 26, 1999
103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
INFORMATION ON THE NEW FLUSH AND FILL TOOL AVAILABLE THROUGH ROTUNDA. *TT
99816 May 3, 1999
061100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE
FORD MOTOR COMPANY NOW RECOMMENDS SAE 5W-30 VISCOSITY GRADE FOR SERVICING ANY FORD GASOLINE-POWERED VEHICLE REGARDLESS OF MODEL YEAR. *TT
98246 Dec 7, 1998
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
FORD MOTOR COMPANY HAS RELEASED A NEW ELECTRICAL GREASE ( F8AZ - 19G208-AA ) TO REDUCE THE POSSIBILITY OF MOISTURE CORROSION AT THE TERMINALS. *YC
12178 Nov 1, 1998
100000 POWER TRAIN
INFORMATION REGARDING TSB 98-5A-12 (TRANSAXLE/TRANSMISSION/TRANSFER CASE-VEHICLES TOWED BEHIND RECREATIONAL VEHICLES-RECOMMENDED GUIDELINES) DOES NOT LIST TOWING INFORMATION FOR CERTAIN MODEL VEHICLES. *MJS
9888 Apr 27, 1998
103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
INFORMATION ON A NEW TRANSMISSION FLUID USAGE CHART. *YC
9874 Apr 13, 1998
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
A NEW SILICONE GASKET AND SEALANT. *YC
982675 Apr 1, 1998
106220 POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY:AXLE SHAFT:SEAL
A REVISED FORWARD CLUTCH INNER SEAL FOR THE AXOD, AXODE, AX4S & AX4N TRANSAXLE IS AVAILABLE WITH IMPROVED SEALING AND REDUCED CHANCE OF THE SEAL ROLLING DURING INSTALLATION. *YC
9864 Mar 30, 1998
063000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM
INFORMATION ON A BUZZING OR RATTLE NOISE FROM THE EXHAUST SYSTEM. *TT
985A13 Mar 18, 1998
034500 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC
THE USE OF PETROLEUM-BASED GREASE AS A LUBRICANT IN SERVICING DISC BRAKES IS NO LONGER ACCEPTABLE. *YC
985A6 Mar 18, 1998
036000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP
SOME VEHICLES MAY CYCLE WHEN BRAKES ARE APPLIED ON ROUGH ROADS OR ON AN INCLINE WHILE MAKING A SHARP TURN. *YC
9849 Mar 2, 1998
062000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM
CONCERNS WITH COOLANT MAY LEAK FROM THE HEAD GASKETS AND / OR THE VEHICLE MAY OVERHEAT. *YC
9848 Mar 2, 1998
357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER
ANNOUNCING THE FORD OEM AIR CONDITIONING RETROFIT KIT AVAILABILITY. *YC
9811329 Feb 1, 1998
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
INFORMATION REGARDING THE THE AVAILABILITY OF THE REVISED HEADGASKET FOR COOLANT LOSS CONDITIONS ON SOME ENGINES. *TT
97111097234 Nov 10, 1997
113000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:STARTER ASSEMBLY
VEHICLES EXHIBITING A "SQUEAKING" OR "CHIRPING" FROM THE BLOWER MOTOR AT LOW BLOWER MOTOR SPEEDS. *YC
97610 Mar 17, 1997
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
BLOWER MOTOR- "CHIRPING" OR "SQUEAKING" FROM BLOWER MOTOR AT LOW SPEEDS. *JD
97511 Mar 3, 1997
103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
FLUID- TRANSMISSION FLUID USAGE CHARTS. *JD
9743 Feb 17, 1997
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
BLOWER MOTOR- "CHIRP" OR "SQUEAK" FROM BLOWER MOTOR AT LOW SPEEDS. *JD
BC1018497230 Jan 23, 1997
036400 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:ABS WARNING LIGHT
THE ABS/RED BRAKE/AIR SUSPENSION LAMPS COMING ON, CHECK FOR A BAD GROUND ON CIRCUIT 430. *JD
BC3503972301 Jan 23, 1997
036400 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP:ABS WARNING LIGHT
THE ABS/RED BRAKE/AIR SUSPENSION LAMPS COMING ON, CHECK FOR A BAD GROUND ON CIRCUIT 430. *JD
9716 Jan 2, 1997
015200 STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST:HOSE, PIPING, AND CONNECTIONS
SOME POWER STEERING HOSES HAVE BEEN REPLACED WITH A REVISED DESIGN AND SHOULD NO LONGER BE USED FOR SERVICE. *JD
BC101209702 Jan 2, 1997
103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
VERIFY THE TRANSAXLE INSTALLED IN THE VEHICLE IS THE CORRECT MODEL AND MODEL YEAR FOR THE VEHICLE. *JD
962612 Dec 16, 1996
103700 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:TORQUE CONVERTER
TRANSAXLE - TORQUE CONVERTER REPLACEMENT GUIDELINES AND TORQUE CONVERTER/TRANSAXLE COOLING SYSTEM CLEANING PROCEDURES - SERVICE TIP. *TW
96249 Nov 18, 1996
103700 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:TORQUE CONVERTER
TORQUE CONVERTER - LEAK TEST PROCEDURE - SERVICE TIP. *TW
96246 Nov 18, 1996
114000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
WIRING - ELECTRICAL DIODE IDENTIFICATION AND SERVICE REPLACEMENTS. *TW
96221 Oct 21, 1996
131000 VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD
WINDSHIELD AND INTERIOR GLASS - FOG/FILM. *TW
95212 Oct 1, 1995
036000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP
THE USE OF PETROLEUM-BASED GREASE AS A LUBRICANT IN SERVICING DISC BRAKES IS NO LONGER ACCEPTABLE BECAUSE IT MAY BE INCOMPATIBLE WITH THE RUBBER MATERIAL USED IN THE DISC BRAKE SYSTEM. IF PETROLEUM-BASED GREASE IS USED TO LUBRICATE ANY PAR
95191 Sep 1, 1995
015000 STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
THE POWER STEERING SYSTEM MAY HAVE A 'GRUNT' AND/OR 'GROAN' NOISE. THIS MAY BE CAUSED BY HYDRAULIC FLUID MOVEMENT WITHIN THE POWER STEERING RACK.
95165 Aug 1, 1995
022000 SUSPENSION:REAR
SUSPENSION-REAR-AVAILABILITY OF CAMBER KIT TO IMPROVE INNER EDGE WEAR ON REAR REAR TIRES. TIRES-REAR-INNER EDGE WEAR-AVAILABILITY OF CAMBER KIT TO IMPROVE WEAR. *SD
95157 Jul 1, 1995
103700 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:TORQUE CONVERTER
THE TORQUE CONVERTER IDENTIFICATION CODES HAVE BEEN REVISED AS OF 3/1/95. *SD
9592 May 1, 1995
138800 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:FAN/MOTOR
UNKNOWN
9582 Apr 1, 1995
136200 VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER:MOTOR
A REVISED SERVICE WINDSHIELD WIPER MOTOR IS NOW AVAILABLE. *TW
9582 Apr 1, 1995
061100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE
A REVISED SERVICE WINDSHIELD WIPER MOTOR IS NOW AVAILABLE. *TW
9566 Mar 1, 1995
138800 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:FAN/MOTOR
CHIRP OR SQUEAK NOISE FROM BLOWER MOTOR AT LOW SPEEDS. *TW
9562 Mar 1, 1995
034500 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC
ROUGHNESS CONCERN DURING BRAKE APPLICATION. *TW
95511 Mar 1, 1995
138800 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:FAN/MOTOR
CHIRP OR SQUEAK FROM BLOWER MOTOR. *TW
9566 Mar 1, 1995
034500 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC
UNKNOWN
9566 Mar 1, 1995
138800 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:FAN/MOTOR
UNKNOWN
9546 Feb 1, 1995
136200 VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER:MOTOR
WIPER MOTOR REPLACEMENT - UPGRADED SERVICE KITS. *TW
9546 Feb 1, 1995
136200 VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER:MOTOR
REVISED WIPER MOTOR. *TW
9534 Feb 1, 1995
021000 SUSPENSION:FRONT
RATTLING OR CLUNKING NOISE FROM THE FRON SUSPENSION. *TW
9523 Jan 1, 1995
070000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
ERRATIC DISTANCE-TO-EMPTY AND FUEL GAUGE READINGS. *TW
BC0270950103 Jan 1, 1995
103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
SOME AXOD CHAIN COVERS WERE OVERDRILLED IN THE OVERDRIVE SERVO APPLY CIRCUIT, CAUSING THE OVERDRIVE BAND TO BE APPLIED AT ALL TIMES. *TW
94247 Nov 1, 1994
103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
THE FORWARD CLUTCH PISTON MAY CRACK ON ITS OUTSIDE DIAMETER. *TW

NHTSA Safety Investigations, LINCOLN CONTINENTAL

Investigations opened by NHTSA into potential safety defects. These are separate from recalls and may or may not result in a recall.

EA01012 Opened: Apr 27, 2001 , Closed: Apr 15, 2003
EA, Closed , Model Year: 1999
INADVERTENT SIDE AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT
ON APRIL 9, 2003, ODI RECEIVED FROM FORD AN OWNER LETTER AND DEALER NOTICE, BOTH DATED MARCH 2003.THE OWNER LETTER STATES THAT FORD WILL CONDUCT A PRODUCT IMPROVEMENT CAMPAIGN OF CERTAIN MY 1999-2000 LINCOLN CONTINENTAL VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH SIDE AIR BAGS (ALL MY 1999 VEHICLES AND MY 2000 VEHICLES ... Read more
PE00042 Opened: Oct 16, 2000 , Closed: Apr 27, 2001
PE, Closed , Model Year: 1999
INADVERTENT SIDE AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT
There is no summary currently available
EA95033 Opened: Oct 31, 1995 , Closed: Oct 22, 1997
EA, Closed , Model Year: 1989
FAULTY SEAT BELT BUCKLES
COMPLAINTS ALLEGE AN INABILITY TO LATCH SEAT BELT BUCKLES, AND INADVERTENT UNLATCHING OF THE SEAT BELT BUCKLE.
PE93036 Opened: Apr 12, 1993 , Closed: Aug 4, 1993
PE, Closed , Model Year: 1984
AIR SUSPENSION FAILURE
There is no summary currently available
PE89157 Opened: Aug 23, 1989 , Closed: Sep 15, 1989
PE, Closed , Model Year: 1988
PS PUMP PULLEY BREAKS
===
PE89026 Opened: Dec 20, 1988 , Closed: Apr 12, 1989
PE, Closed , Model Year: 1988
AIR SUSPENSION FAILURE
There is no summary currently available
PE88100 Opened: Sep 6, 1988 , Closed: Apr 17, 1989
PE, Closed , Model Year: 1985
ABS FAILURE
There is no summary currently available
PE86067 Opened: Jul 29, 1986 , Closed: Sep 9, 1986
PE, Closed , Model Year: 1985
BRAKE FAILURE
ANALYSIS:THE 8 COMPLAINTS IN ODI COMPLAINT FILE REVEALED SUDDEN BRAKEFAILURE.FORD HAS ISSUED A SERVICE BULLETIN, 03250000, ON 1985 MARK VII'SFOR AN OUT OF POSITION WIRING HARNESS.IN THIS CASE THE BRAKING SENSORMAY SHORT CAUSING POWER BRAKE FAILURE.THERE HAVE BEEN NO RECALLSPERTAINING TO THIS ALLEGED... Read more
DP78052 Opened: Aug 15, 1978 , Closed: Dec 18, 1978
DP, Closed , Model Year: 1977
BRAKES
BRAKES

LINCOLN CONTINENTAL - All Years Overview

Complete safety history for the LINCOLN CONTINENTAL across all model years (1969, 2020).

89 Total Recalls
2,576 Total Complaints
9 Investigations
120 Reported Crashes
113 Reported Fires
11 Reported Deaths

LINCOLN CONTINENTAL - Year by Year

Compare recalls and complaints across model years. Click any year to see full details.

Year Recalls Complaints
2020 2 7 View
2019 3 38 View
2018 2 22 View
2017 4 100 View
2002 1 43 View
2001 2 38 View
2000 4 108 View
1999 3 46 View
1998 2 88 View
1997 2 109 View
1996 3 69 View
1995 2 94 View
1994 5 303 View
1993 4 200 View
1992 3 199 View
1991 3 399 View
1990 5 244 View
1989 (current) 5 255
1988 9 147 View
1987 1 14 View
1986 5 8 View
1985 2 18 View
1984 2 9 View
1983 3 2 View
1982 2 1 View
1981 0 1 View
1980 1 0 View
1979 2 2 View
1978 0 1 View
1977 1 1 View
1976 1 0 View
1975 3 1 View
1974 1 0 View
1969 1 0 View

Other LINCOLN Models

Model Recalls Complaints
NAVIGATOR 549 1,731 View
AVIATOR 367 666 View
MKX 365 1,718 View
MKZ 351 1,974 View
CORSAIR 266 204 View
TOWN CAR 125 4,351 View
NAUTILUS 112 229 View
ZEPHYR 111 289 View