1990 MERCURY SABLE

7 recalls, 220 complaints - 68 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
94E036000 Nov 25, 1994
SUSPENSION:FRONT:SHOCK ABSORBER
Defect Description
THE ARC WELDS ON THE SWAY BAR BRACKET, WHERE IT ATTACHES TO THE STRUT RESERVE TUBE, DID NOT FUSE PROPERLY.
Consequence
OVER TIME, A PORTION OF THE BRACKET CAN TEAR AWAY FROM THE STRUT, FALLING INTO AND PUNCTURING THE TIRE OR CAUSING DAMAGE TO THE WHEEL, WHICH COULD RESULT IN AN ACCIDENT.
Remedy
MONROE DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE STRUT FREE OF CHARGE.
98,000 vehicles affected
Manufacturer: MONROE AUTO CORP.
92V113000 Aug 17, 1992
SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY
Defect Description
THE RIGID MOUNTED SAFETY BELT BUCKLES ARE DEFECTIVE IN THREE WAYS. FIRST, A FASTENED SAFETY BELT BUCKLE WILL NOT UNLATCH WHEN THE RELEASE BUTTON IS DEPRESSED. THIS RESULTS FROM INTERFERENCE BETWEEN THE BUCKLE EJECTOR FINGER AND THE BUCKLE TONGUE WINDOW. THE SECOND DEFECT IS THE SAFETY BELT BUCKLE MA... Read more
Consequence
AN INSUFFICIENTLY LATCHED OR UNLATCHED SAFETY BELTINCREASES THE RISK OF INJURY TO SEAT OCCUPANTS IN THE EVENT OF A SUDDEN STOP ORACCIDENT. IF THE SAFETY BELT BUCKLE WILL NOT UNLATCH, IT WILL NOT ALLOW THEOCCUPANT TO GET OUT OF THE VEHICLE IN AN EMERGENCY SITUATION.
Remedy
FORD WILL REPLACE THE RIGID MOUNTED SAFETY BELT BUCKLES WITH END RELEASE SAFETY BELT BUCKLES DESIGNED TO PREVENT LATCH PROBLEMS.
565,000 vehicles affected
Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
92V065000 May 11, 1992
WHEELS
Defect Description
CHILDREN CAN ACCIDENTALLY LOCK THEMSELVES IN THE FOOTWELL AREA OF THE REAR-FACING THIRD SEAT, OR IN THE STORAGE COMPARTMENT IN STATION WAGONS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AN OPTIONAL THIRD SEAT. ONCE THE COMPARTMENT IS CLOSED IT CANNOT BE OPENED FROM THE INSIDE.
Consequence
THERE IS A DANGER OF AIR DEPRIVATION, HYPERTHERMIA,AND/OR PANIC RESPONSE TO A CHILD WHO HAS LOCKED HIMSELF OR HERSELF INTO THECOMPARTMENT, WITH THE POSSIBILITY OF ASPHYXIATION.
Remedy
REPLACE THE SELF-LATCHING ASSEMBLY CURRENTLY USED IN THE REAR STORAGE COMPARTMENT WITH A LATCH ASSEMBLY THAT CAN ONLY BE CLOSED WITH A KEY.
654,000 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
90E043001 Oct 30, 1990
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
Defect Description
THREADED INFLATOR COMPONENTS MAY HAVE BEEN DAMAGED DURING ASSEMBLY WHICH MAY ALLOW COMPONENTS TO SEPARATE WHEN INFLATOR RECEIVES A SIGNAL TO DEPLOY THE AIR BAG.
Consequence
INFLATOR COMPONENT SEPARATION ALLOWS HOT COMBUSTION GASES TO ESCAPE INTO THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT WHICH COULD RESULT IN INJURIES TO VEHICLE OCCUPANTS.
Remedy
REPLACE AIR BAG MODULES CONTAINING POTENTIALLY DEFECTIVE INFLATORS.
172,000 vehicles affected
Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
89V171000 Oct 13, 1989
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS:SWITCH
Defect Description
AN INCORRECT TRANSISTOR MAY CAUSE AUTOLAMP SYSTEM LIGHT SENSOR MODULE MALFUNCTION.
Consequence
HEADLAMPS COULD TURN OFF WHILE VEHICLE IS BEING DRIVEN ORREMAIN ON AFTER VEHICLE IS PARKED. LOSS OF HEADLIGHTS WHILE DRIVING AT NIGHTCOULD BE HAZARDOUS TO THE DRIVER AND OTHER TRAFIFIC.
Remedy
REPLACE LIGHT SENSOR MODULES.
2,900 vehicles affected
Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY

Complaint Statistics

220 total complaints 20 crashes 19 fires 16 injuries

Top Reported Components

ComponentComplaints
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE25
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS20
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION15
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL11
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL9
STEERING:LINKAGES:TIE ROD ASSEMBLY8
SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY5
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS5
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:ROTOR4
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION4
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL Feb 16, 2010
Incident date: Jun 1, 2009
MY WIFE OWNS A 1990 MERCURY SABLE. SHE AS WELL HAS COMPLAINED ABOUT A STICKY GAS PEDAL. I MYSELF HAVE DROVE THE CAR WHEN THE GAS PEDAL WAS STICKING AND THE CAR ACCELERATED. SOMETIMES WHEN WE HAVE PUT OUR FOOT ON THE GAS PEDAL THE CAR WILL NOT ACCELERATE UNTIL WE PUSH ALITTLE HARDER THEN THE CAR TAKE... Read more
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS Jul 21, 2008
Incident date: Jul 1, 2008
VEHICLE -- 1990 MERCURY SABLE STATION WAGON, 3.8 ENGINE EXPERIENCED LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL DUE TO FAILURE OF ENGINE/TRANSMISSION LOWER SUBFRAME MOUNT FAILING. SUBSEQUENT MOTION ALSO BREACHED BOTH REAR BRAKE LINES WITH MAJOR LOSS OF BRAKING POWER. WITH SIGNIFICANT EFFORT, I WAS ABLE TO MAINTAI... Read more
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION Apr 21, 2008
Incident date: Apr 18, 2008
CAR CRUISED JUST FINE 25 MILES TO TOWN, GOT ALL MY STUFF DONE IN TOWN, PULLED UP TO A STOP SIGN ON A HILL AND THE CAR WOULD NOT MOVE, ENGINE RAN JUST FINE, THE TRANSMISSION WOULD NOT SHIFT INTO GEAR, CAR ONLY HAS 110K ON IT, HAD TO ROLL BACK OFF THE ROAD AND STOP, PARK GEAR WORKED, AFTER AN HOUR CAR... Read more
WHEELS:RIM Dec 5, 2006
Incident date: Dec 4, 2006
DT*: THE CONTACT STATED UPON ENTERING A HIGHWAY AT 40 MPH, THE PASSENGER FRONT RIM FRACTURED CAUSING THE PARTIAL RIM AND TIRE TO SEPARATE FROM THE VEHICLE. IT WAS MANEUVERED OFF THE ROAD AND LATER TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. THE DEALER WAS ALERTED.
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION Mar 24, 2005
Incident date: Mar 10, 2005
THE TRANSMISSION SLIPS BUCKING THE CAR OUT OF CONTROL WHEN IDLING ALONG WITH THE ALUMINUM PISTONS BEING DAMAGED. THE CAR JUMPS FORWARD WHICH CAUSES UNNECCESARY ACCIDENTS AND CAUSES THE CAR TO STALL ON BUSY STREETS. A NEW TRANSMISSION WAS NEEDED AND ALL NEW PISTONS DUE TO A BAD DESIGN. THERE IS A W... Read more
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL Jul 15, 2004
Incident date: Jul 12, 2004
WHILE DRIVING 20 MPH, THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED WITHOUT THE PEDAL BEING APPLIED. THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS IMMEDIATELY APPLIED IN AN ATTEMPT TO STOP THE ACCELERATION, BUT FAILED TO DO SO. THE VEHICLE HAD TO BE TURNED OFF AND THE KEYS REMOVED FROM THE IGNITION BEFORE THE VEHICLE STARTED DECELERATING... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE Jun 2, 2003
Incident date: Jun 2, 2003
ENGINE PROBLEMS. *AK
STEERING: STEERING WHEEL/HANDLE BAR Jul 16, 2002
Incident date: Jun 26, 2002
CONSUMER CAN HEAR NOISE IN STEERING COLUMN WHICH CAN RESULT IN LOSS OF STEERING. CAUSE UNKNOWN. DEALER NOTIFIED.*AK
SUSPENSION:REAR:SPRINGS Jul 15, 2002
Incident date: Jul 7, 2002
WHILE TRAVELING ON A SIDE STREET HEARD A NOISE COMING FROM DRIVER'S SIDE WHEEL. REAR COIL SPRING BROKE. DEALERSHIP WAS AWARE OF PROBLEM.*AK
STEERING:LINKAGES:TIE ROD ASSEMBLY Jan 2, 2002
Incident date: May 25, 1997
HEARD A CLICKING NOISE IN FRONT OF VEHICLE. WHILE BACKING OUT OF DRIVEWAY INNER TIE ROD BROKE OFF. TIE ROD BALL WAS RUSTED IN THE SOCKET. CONTACTED DEALER, AND DEALER REPLACED TIRE ROD.*AK
SUSPENSION:FRONT:SPRINGS:COIL SPRINGS Oct 17, 2001
FRONT LEFT COIL SPRING BROKE . VEHICLE NOT INCLUDED IN RECALL 98I002000. PLEASE GIVE ANY FURTHER DETAILS. *AK
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS Sep 17, 2001
Incident date: Sep 7, 2001
VEHICLE WAS AT AN INTERSECTION AT A LIGHT AND WAS ABOUT TO MOVE WHEN ANOTHER VEHICLE HIT CONSUMER'S VEHICLE. WHEN CONSUMER LIFTED FOOT FROM BRAKES VEHICLE STARTED TO DRIFT INTO ANOTHER LANE. STARTED TO TURN VEHICLE LEFT AND RIGHT, BUT STEERING WOULDN'T TURN. MECHANIC STATED THAT ... Read more
Crash
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE Aug 13, 2001
WHENEVER TRAVELING AT VARIOUS SPEED VEHICLE WOULD STALL OUT. VEHICLE CAN BE RESTARTED . TOOK VEHICLE TO DEALERSHIP, AND MECHANIC COULD GIVE NO INDICATION OF THE CAUSE OF THE PROBLEM.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE Jul 16, 2001
Incident date: Jun 30, 2001
HEAD GASKET FAILURE, CAUSING LOW OIL PRESSURE AND CONNECTING ROD FAILURE. *AK
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION Apr 9, 2001
Incident date: Apr 1, 2001
TRANSMISSION OPERATES NORMALLY WHEN ENGINE IS COLD/COOL. HOWEVER, WHEN ENGINE WARMS UP, IT FAILS TO SHIFT GEARS (ALUMINUM - FORWARD CLUTCH PISTON). A TRANSMISSION SHOP INFORMED CONSUMER THAT THIS PISTON WILL CRACK. REPLACEMENT PART SENT OUT BY MANUFACTURER IS STEEL. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY ADDIT... Read more
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS Apr 9, 2001
Incident date: Apr 1, 2001
FRONT SUBFRAME BOLTS BROKE DUE TO CORRISION . RECALL WAS ISSUED BUT ONLY FOR REAR.*AK THE BOLT WAS REPLACED AND THE CONSUMER WAS ASKING THE MANUFACTURER TO PAY FOR REPAIR SINCE THE DEFECT WAS ESSENTIALLY THE SAME AS THAT OF THE RECALL. *YH
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE Mar 13, 2001
Incident date: Feb 27, 2001
TIMING COVER AND HEAD GASKETS LEAKING - FORD SERVICE RECOMENDED NEW MOTOR. *AK
STEERING:RACK AND PINION Feb 28, 2001
Incident date: Feb 16, 2001
CONSUMER WAS FOLLOWING A RIGHT CURVE AT 40 MPH WHEN STEERING FROZE UP, HALFWAY AROUND, COULD NOT TURN OR MOVE STEERING. CONSUMER CONTINUED OFF ROAD, AND APPLIED BRAKES IN ORDER TO STOP VEHICLE. DEFECT WAS DUE TO FAULTY RACK AND PINION STEERING. ALSO, MIDAS TOLD HIM THAT THERE WAS A SPECIFIC PROBL... Read more
TIRES:TREAD/BELT Feb 8, 2001
Incident date: Feb 8, 1998
WHILE DRIVING ABOUT 50 MPH FRONT TIRES WERE MAKING NOISE LIKE RUBBING WIRE TO METAL OF VEHICLE. THEN, CONSUMER STOPPED AND FOUND OUT THAT FRONT TIRES HAD A TREAD SEPARATION. VEHICLE HAD TO BE TOWED. CONSUMER HAD FILED A COMPLAINT BEFORE.*AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL Oct 19, 2000
Incident date: Oct 18, 2000
WHILE DRIVING ABOUT 65-70 MPH, ALL OF SUDDEN VEHICLE ACCELERATED. RPMS INCREASED BY 3000. IN ORDER TO STOP VEHICLE APPLIED AS MUCH PRESSURE AS POSSIBLE TO THE BRAKES, SHIFTED INTO NEUTRAL OR PARK, AND SHUT OFF IGNITION. THIS HAPPENED WITHOUT CRUISE CONTROL BEING ENGAGED. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHE... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE Oct 17, 2000
MOTOR MOUNTS FAILED SEVERAL TIMES. *ET
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL Oct 17, 2000
AUTO SPEED CONTROL IS NOT DEACTIVATED BY BRAKING. *ET
SUSPENSION Sep 22, 2000
Incident date: Sep 15, 2000
WHEN SLOWING DOWN FROM 50 MPH VEHICLE WILL VIBRATE, CONSUMER HAS BEEN BACK AND FORTH TO DEALER.*AK
SUSPENSION Sep 20, 2000
Incident date: Sep 19, 2000
WHEN GOING DOWN A HILL IT VIBRATES WHEN GOING TO SPEED UP TO 50MPH.*AK
STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE:HINGE AND ATTACHMENTS Aug 23, 2000
Incident date: May 1, 2000
THE DEALER WAS VERY HELPFUL. HOWEVER FORD CUSTOMER SERVICE/ZONE REP. WAS NOT EVEN INTERESTED IN THIS PROBLEM. IF I HAD NOT TAKEN THE TRIM OFF TO CLEAN, I WOULD HAVE NEVER SEEN THE FAILURE. THIS STRIKER IS NEEDED TO KEEP THE DOOR/TAILGATE CLOSED. CHILDEN CAN RIDE IN THE REAR FACING SEAT OF THIS V... Read more
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS Aug 22, 2000
Incident date: Jul 27, 2000
PLEASE HELP ME I AM MENTALLY DISABLED WITH A FAMILY AND THIS IS WHAT IS HAPPENING TO ME -PLEASE HELP ME. THE FRAME ON MY CAR BROKE AND FELL DOWN WHILE MY WIFE WAS COMING HOME FROM WORK. THE DEALER VERIFIED THE RECALL AND GOT US A LOANER BUT SAID IT WOULD COST 25.00 A DAY ITS BEEN 10 DAYS AND MONDAY... Read more
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION Jul 25, 2000
Incident date: Jun 30, 2000
THE CAR MADE A LURCHING MOTION-TWICE. WHEN THE CAR WAS PUT INTO NUTERAL AND COASTED TO A PARKING SPOT, IT WOULDN'T MOVE WHEN PUT IN GEAR. MY MECHANIC REPORTED THAT THE TRANSMISSION HAD FROZEN BETWEEN TWO GEARS.*AK
STRUCTURE:BODY Jun 23, 2000
Incident date: Oct 10, 1999
THE BODY STRUCTURE WHERE THE POST THAT HOLDS THE TAILGATE CLOSED FAILED. THE METAL IS CRACKED IN SEVERAL PLACES, NOT PERMITTING THE TAILGATE TO BE CLOSED PROPERLY. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN IN A REAR END SITUATION WHERE THE BODY STRUCTURE WOULD BE COMPROMISED. WE WERE LUCKY THAT WE REALIZED THAT T... Read more
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION May 31, 2000
WE HAVE REPLACED THE TRANSMISSION IN THIS CAR 3 TIMES ONE AT 95, ONE AT 125 AND ONE AT 200000. I REVIEWED THE RECALL NOTICES ON THIS MAKE AND MODEL AND THER E ARE 104 PAGES WHICH I HAVE PRINTED OUT. TO DATE, WE HAVE ONLY BEEN NOTIFIED OF ABOUT 5 RECALLS. ON THE RECALL PAGES THERE ARE TRANSMISSION... Read more
SUSPENSION:REAR May 19, 2000
Incident date: Apr 20, 2000
THE BRACKET TO WHICH REAR CONTROL ARMS ARE ATTACHED AND THE PARENT BRACKET HAVE FRACTURERD AND SPLIT. *AK
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS May 17, 2000
CONSUMER CONTACTED DEALER IN REFERENCE TO RECALL 98V323000 CONCERNING SUBFRAME CORROSION. DEALER STATED THAT VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL, AND REFUSED TO DO RECALL WORK. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER DETAILS. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE Mar 20, 2000
VEHICLE MAKING KNOKING NOISE. CONTACTED DEALER. DEALER STATED THAT ENGINE HEAD GASKET NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION. *AK
SEAT BELTS:FRONT:ANCHORAGE Mar 5, 2000
Incident date: Jan 20, 2000
NO SUMMARY LISTED FOR ABOVE VEHICLE. *AK
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION Mar 4, 2000
Incident date: May 15, 1999
THE TRANSMISSION FAILED IN WHICH I HAD TO PAY $1834 TO REPLACE!
STRUCTURE:BODY Dec 8, 1999
Incident date: Jul 1, 1999
CLEAR FINISHING COAT OF PAINT IS CRACKING AND FLAKING OFF. DEALER IS NOT ACCEPTING RESPONSIBILITY. *AK *ML
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE Nov 1, 1999
TEMPERATURE GUAGE INDICATED THE VEHICLE WAS HEATING AND LOSING ANTI-FREEZE. OWNER ADDED ANTI-FREEZE. HEAD GASKET WENT OUT. DEALER HAS NOT SEEN VEHICLE. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE Oct 30, 1999
ENGINE MOTOR MOUNTS ARE BROKEN. THIS PROBLEM OCCURED AFTER THE SUBFRAME BOLTS HAD BROKEN SEVERAL MONTHS EARLIER. I WAS TOLD BY OTHER OWNERS OF THIS TYPE OF VEHICLE THAT THEY HAD A RECALL FOR MOTOR MOUNTS, I HAVE NEVER RECEIVED NOTICE OF THIS PROBLEM NOR DO I FIND ANY INFO ON YOUR WEBSITE. THANK YOU... Read more
STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST:PUMP Oct 13, 1999
Incident date: Oct 5, 1999
THE SUBFRAME BOLTS HAVE TO BE REPLACED BECAUSE THEY HAVE WORN DOWN. *AK
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS Sep 7, 1999
Incident date: Sep 7, 1998
VEHICLE WAS TRAVELING AT 15 MPH OR LESS WHEN BOTH REAR & FRONT SUBFRAMES DISCONNECTED. DEALER NOTIFED AND INFORMED CONSUME R THAT REAR SUBFRAMES WOULD BE REPAIRED UNDER MANUFACTURER'S RECLL, BUT FRONT WOULD BE REPAIRED AT CONSUMER'S EXPENSE. CONSUMER WOULD LIKE TO KNOW WHY CAN THE SAME RECALL ON THE... Read more
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS Sep 2, 1999
Incident date: Aug 30, 1999
WHILE TRAVELING 30-40 MPH THE SUBFRAME DROPPED ONTO THE AXLES DUE TO RETAINER WASHER RUSTING OUT, MAKING IT VERY DIFFICULT TO STEER THE VEHICLE. RECALL 98V32300 WAS LISTED FOR THE SAME TYPE OF PROBLEM. HOWEVER, THIS VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED DUE TO VIN. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:INTERIOR/UNDER DASH Aug 29, 1999
Incident date: Aug 14, 1999
PROBLEM STARTED WITH A SIEZED IGNITION SWITCH IN SEPTEMBER 1998. REPLACED SWITCH. IN AUGAUST 1999 SWITCH BEGAIN TO FAIL. I HAD TO WIGGLE THE KEY TO GET MY DIGITAL INSTRUMENTS TO FUNCTION (INTERMITTANT). ON ABOUT 14 AUG. 99 I WIGGLED THE SWITCH AND SMOKE ROLLED UP FROM UNDER THE DASH. I WAS ABLE TO T... Read more
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS Aug 23, 1999
Incident date: Jan 1, 1998
RECALL COMPONENT FAILED PRIOR TO RECALL NOTICE CAUSING EXTENSIVE DAMAGE TO THE TRANSMISSION WHEN THE SUB-FRAME BROKE. (98S36- 98V-323) MJS
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE Aug 19, 1999
Incident date: Jul 4, 1999
WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY THE CAR STARTED SMOKING. WHEN DRIVER PULLED TO POP UP THE HOOD, 10 FEET FLAMES SHOT FROM UNDER THE ROOF OF THE CAR.THE DEALER HAS YET TO BE NOTIFIED. *AK
Fire
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE Aug 11, 1999
Incident date: Aug 4, 1999
VEHICLE MAKES A JOLT IN FRONT LEFT SIDE WHEN TAKING OFF OR STOPPING. DEALER CONTACTED, AND STATED ALL MOTOR MOUNTS WERE DEFECTIVE. PROBLEMS STILL EXISTS. PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION. *AK
STEERING:LINKAGES:TIE ROD ASSEMBLY Jun 22, 1999
TIE ROD BROKE WHILE DRIVING CAUSING LOSS OF CONTROL. MJS
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:ROTOR Apr 15, 1999
Incident date: Feb 17, 1999
FIRST: STATION WAGON'S REAR SEAT COVER CAN BE LATCHED WITHOUT A KEY. RECALL 92V065000. VEHICLE WAS SOLD IN OHIO & NOW IN FLORIDA. SECOND: BRAKE ROTORS ARE CORRODED & SHOULD HAVE BEEN REPLACED RECALL 91V134001. *AK
WHEELS Apr 15, 1999
Incident date: Feb 17, 1999
FIRST: STATION WAGON'S REAR SEAT COVER CAN BE LATCHED WITHOUT A KEY. RECALL 92V065000. VEHICLE WAS SOLD IN OHIO & NOW IN FLORIDA. SECOND: BRAKE ROTORS ARE CORRODED & SHOULD HAVE BEEN REPLACED RECALL 91V134001. *AK
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:TRUNK LID:LOCK Apr 14, 1999
THE TWO BOLT SPRINGS THAT HOLD TRUNK LID UP HAD POPPED OUT, CAUSING THE LID TO FALL WHENEVER THE CONSUMER WAS TRYING TO GET IN THE TRUNK. DEALER HAS BEEN CONTACTED. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE Apr 13, 1999
Incident date: Feb 15, 1999
VEHICLE IS ALWAYS RUNNING HOT DUE TO DEFECTIVE ENGINE HEAD GASKET. DEALER NOT AWARE OF THE PROBLEM. PROBLEM STILL EXISTS. *AK
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS Apr 5, 1999
Incident date: Feb 25, 1999
RECEIVED RECALL NOTICE AND CONTACTED DEALER. WAS GIVEN AN APPOINTMENT FOR JUNE. THAT WAS NOT ACCEPTABLE. DEALER ONLY DOING 5 VEHICLES A DAY & WAS THE EARLIEST DATE AVAILABLE. OWNER NOT HAPPY WITH SITUATION. 93V-106.002. *AK

Showing 50 of 220 complaints.

EPA Fuel Economy, 1990 MERCURY SABLE

Trim / Engine City MPG Highway MPG Combined MPG Fuel Type Annual Fuel Cost
3.0L 6-cyl, Automatic 4-spd (Front-Wheel Drive) 18.0 26.0 21.0 Regular $2,950
3.8L 6-cyl, Automatic 4-spd (Front-Wheel Drive) 17.0 26.0 20.0 Regular $3,100

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

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

Technical Service Bulletins, 1990 MERCURY SABLE

68 manufacturer communications from 61 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.

Most Affected Components

ComponentBulletins
103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION8
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE5
136200 VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER:MOTOR4
138800 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:FAN/MOTOR4
103700 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:TORQUE CONVERTER3
061100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE3
034500 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC3
022000 SUSPENSION:REAR2
02107 May 27, 2002
136200 VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER:MOTOR
TRANSFER SERVICE TIPS FOR THE FRONT WIPER MOTOR MOUNT BRACKET AND DEPRESSED PARK OUTPUT ARM. *TT
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
01124 Jun 25, 2001
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
ON SOME VEHICLES, ENGINE OIL MAY CONTINUE TO LEAK FROM THE ENGINE OIL PAN GASKET AREA AFTER AN ENGINE OIL PAN GASKET REPAIR HAS BEEN PERFORMED. *TT
011201 Jun 25, 2001
136000 VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER
THIS INFORMATION IS A SUPPLEMENT TO THE WIPER SYSTEM SERVICE INFORMATION PROVIDED IN THE WORKSHOP MANUALS. THIS SERVICE INFORMATION IS INTENDED AS AN AID TO ASSIST IN DIAGNOSIS AND REPAIR OF ERRATIC WIPER SYSTEM CONDITIONS.
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
99183 Sep 6, 1999
061100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE
SERVICE TIP INFORMATION ON REVISED OIL PAN GASKET REPLACEMENT PROCEDURE. *TT
99152 Jul 26, 1999
103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
INFORMATION ON THE NEW FLUSH AND FILL TOOL AVAILABLE THROUGH ROTUNDA. *TT
99129 Jun 14, 1999
353400 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.
EXPERIENCING A WHINE / BUZZ TYPE NOISE IN THE SPEAKERS OF THE ENTERTAINMENT RADIO OR TWO-WAY RADIO ON VEHICLES WITH AN IN-TANK ELECTRIC FUEL PUMP. *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
12570 Mar 1, 1999
017500 STEERING:LINKAGES:TIE ROD ASSEMBLY
SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT FRONT OUTER TIE RODS SQUEAK AND / OR POP NOISE OVER BUMPS AND / OR TURNING. *TT
5897 Mar 1, 1999
017500 STEERING:LINKAGES:TIE ROD ASSEMBLY
EXPERIENCING A SQUEAKING AND / OR POPPING NOISE FROM THE FRONT OUTER TIRE RODS. *TT
12559 Mar 1, 1999
101100 POWER TRAIN:CLUTCH ASSEMBLY:PEDAL/HAND LEVER(MOTORCYCLE)
CONCERNS WITH REVERSE CLUTCH THAT COULD BECOME SHEARED OR TORN IN EXTREMELY COLD TEMPERATURES. *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
9802169838 May 27, 1998
102000 POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION
TRANSAXLES USE A NEW TRANSMISSION FLUID. *YC
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
9873 Apr 13, 1998
353400 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.
EXPERIENCING A WHINING / BUZZING NOISE IN THE SPEAKERS OF THE ENTERTAINMENT RADIO OR TWO-WAY RADIO. *TT
9852 Apr 13, 1998
190000 TIRES
INFORMATION ON TIRE COMPANY TELEPHONE NUMBERS FOR CUSTOMER ASSISTANCE. *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
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
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
9848 Mar 2, 1998
357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER
ANNOUNCING THE FORD OEM AIR CONDITIONING RETROFIT KIT AVAILABILITY. *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
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
9768 Mar 17, 1997
980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER
FUEL ECONOMY- CUSTOMER EXPECTATIONS VERSUS VEHICLE USAGE. *JD
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
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
BC9683961001 Oct 1, 1996
103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
PROCEDURE FOR UPDATING THE CALIBRATION FROM R-11 TO R-12 FOR STALLING ON DECEL & MISFIRE CODES ON 3.0L VEHICLES. *TT
BC9584961001 Oct 1, 1996
015000 STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
INFORMATION FOR CONCERNS OF GRUNT OR GROAN DURING WHEEL RETURN FROM FULL RIGHT TURN. *TT
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.
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
95153 Jul 1, 1995
062100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:RADIATOR ASSEMBLY
TEMPERATURE GAUGE - FLUCTUATING AND /OR INACCURATE HIGH READINGS. *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
BC8890950401 Apr 1, 1995
116200 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:MODULE
UNKNOWN
BC8890950401 Apr 1, 1995
138800 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:FAN/MOTOR
UNKNOWN
BC8890950401 Apr 1, 1995
103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
UNKNOWN
BC8890950401 Apr 1, 1995
071100 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
UNKNOWN
BC8890950401 Apr 1, 1995
034500 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC
UNKNOWN
BC8890950401 Apr 1, 1995
022000 SUSPENSION:REAR
UNKNOWN
9582 Apr 1, 1995
061100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE
A REVISED SERVICE WINDSHIELD WIPER MOTOR IS NOW AVAILABLE. *TW
9556 Mar 1, 1995
022000 SUSPENSION:REAR
PREMATURE WEAR ON INNER EDGES OF REAR TIRES MAY BE CAUSED BY REAR CAMBER AND TOE SETTINGS THAT ARE NOT WITHIN SPECIFICATION. *TW
9559 Mar 1, 1995
116200 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:MODULE
REVISED CALIBRATION IN POWER CONTROL MODULE. *TW
95511 Mar 1, 1995
138800 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:FAN/MOTOR
CHIRP OR SQUEAK FROM BLOWER MOTOR. *TW
9562 Mar 1, 1995
034500 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC
ROUGHNESS CONCERN DURING BRAKE APPLICATION. *TW
9566 Mar 1, 1995
138800 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:FAN/MOTOR
CHIRP OR SQUEAK NOISE FROM BLOWER MOTOR AT LOW SPEEDS. *TW
9546 Feb 1, 1995
136200 VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER:MOTOR
WIPER MOTOR REPLACEMENT - UPGRADED SERVICE KITS. *TW
RCL/94E54 Feb 1, 1995
063140 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CATALYTIC CONVERTOR
VEHICLES MAY BE RELEASING EXHAUST EMISSIONS THAT EXCEED FEDERAL AND CANADAIAN STANDARDS. *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
9511 Jan 1, 1995
021000 SUSPENSION:FRONT
PREMATURE WEAR ON THE INNER EDGES OF REAR TIRES. *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
94243 Nov 1, 1994
021400 SUSPENSION:FRONT:MACPHERSON STRUT
VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT A CLICKING NOISE FROM THE FRONT STRUTS. *TW

MERCURY SABLE - All Years Overview

Complete safety history for the MERCURY SABLE across all model years (1986, 2008).

111 Total Recalls
7,213 Total Complaints
0 Investigations
409 Reported Crashes
253 Reported Fires
8 Reported Deaths

MERCURY SABLE - Year by Year

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

Year Recalls Complaints
2009 0 27 View
2008 1 81 View
2006 0 2 View
2005 1 112 View
2004 2 75 View
2003 4 251 View
2002 4 541 View
2001 9 528 View
2000 7 578 View
1999 5 302 View
1998 2 243 View
1997 3 326 View
1996 5 391 View
1995 6 485 View
1994 5 534 View
1993 8 981 View
1992 5 517 View
1991 5 346 View
1990 (current) 7 220
1989 8 300 View
1988 6 189 View
1987 9 105 View
1986 9 55 View
1984 0 1 View

Other MERCURY Models

Model Recalls Complaints
MILAN 288 3,214 View
GRAND MARQUIS 105 4,962 View
COUGAR 78 2,652 View
CAPRI 56 60 View
MYSTIQUE 49 1,514 View
MOUNTAINEER 49 2,657 View
MARINER 34 1,718 View
LYNX 30 35 View