Auto Recall Watch
U.S. public vehicle records

1997 Mercury MARQUIS problems and owner complaints

Explore the records behind recurring owner reports.

Key facts

53 owner complaints analyzed

1 distinct recall campaigns

63,000 mi median reported failure mileage

Scope: 1997 model year. Data updated: . 21 complaints include usable failure mileage. View data status.

Owner-reported patterns

Most common problems

Engine And Engine Cooling:Exhaust System:Manifold/Header/Muffler/Tail Pipe is the most frequently named component, appearing in 11 of 53 complaints (20.8%). A complaint can name multiple components.

Recurring terms in complaint narratives
TopicMatching reportsShare of complaints
Braking behavior815.1%
Steering behavior59.4%
Transmission and shifting47.5%
Engine operation23.8%
Electrical and battery issues23.8%
Fuel system concerns11.9%

Topic matches use published keyword rules. They describe mentions, including negations or comparisons, and do not confirm a diagnosis. Read the matching rules.

Component breakdown

Number of unique complaints naming each component. Top eight shown.

Engine And Engine Cooling:Exhaust System:Manifold/Header/Muffler/Tail Pipe
11
Engine And Engine Cooling
5
Vehicle Speed Control
4
Power Train:Automatic Transmission
3
Air Bags:Frontal
2
Engine And Engine Cooling:Cooling System
2
Fuel System, Gasoline:Carburetor System
2
Fuel System, Gasoline:Delivery:Hoses, Lines/Piping, And Fittings
2
Component breakdown data
CategoryCount
Engine And Engine Cooling:Exhaust System:Manifold/Header/Muffler/Tail Pipe11
Engine And Engine Cooling5
Vehicle Speed Control4
Power Train:Automatic Transmission3
Air Bags:Frontal2
Engine And Engine Cooling:Cooling System2
Fuel System, Gasoline:Carburetor System2
Fuel System, Gasoline:Delivery:Hoses, Lines/Piping, And Fittings2

Engine And Engine Cooling:Exhaust System:Manifold/Header/Muffler/Tail Pipe: 11; Engine And Engine Cooling: 5; Vehicle Speed Control: 4; Power Train:Automatic Transmission: 3; Air Bags:Frontal: 2; Engine And Engine Cooling:Cooling System: 2; Fuel System, Gasoline:Carburetor System: 2; Fuel System, Gasoline:Delivery:Hoses, Lines/Piping, And Fittings: 2

Reported problems by failure mileage

Complaint counts in mileage bands. These are not failure rates per vehicle or mile.

Under 25,000
4
25,000 to 49,999
2
50,000 to 74,999
7
75,000 to 99,999
5
100,000 to 149,999
3
150,000 and above
0
Reported problems by failure mileage data
CategoryCount
Under 25,0004
25,000 to 49,9992
50,000 to 74,9997
75,000 to 99,9995
100,000 to 149,9993
150,000 and above0

Under 25,000: 4; 25,000 to 49,999: 2; 50,000 to 74,999: 7; 75,000 to 99,999: 5; 100,000 to 149,999: 3; 150,000 and above: 0

50,000 to 74,999 miles has the most reports with usable mileage (7). 32 complaints have missing, zero or invalid mileage.

Complaints over time

Year the complaint was filed, not the vehicle model year or incident year. The snapshot year is partial.

1997
4
1998
4
1999
3
2000
5
2001
1
2002
5
2003
6
2004
6
2005
9
2006
3
2007
4
2008
2
2009
1
Complaints over time data
CategoryCount
19974
19984
19993
20005
20011
20025
20036
20046
20059
20063
20074
20082
20091

1997: 4; 1998: 4; 1999: 3; 2000: 5; 2001: 1; 2002: 5; 2003: 6; 2004: 6; 2005: 9; 2006: 3; 2007: 4; 2008: 2; 2009: 1

Pattern summary

Engine And Engine Cooling:Exhaust System:Manifold/Header/Muffler/Tail Pipe leads the component reports. Braking behavior appears in 8 complaint narratives. Steering behavior appears in 5 complaint narratives. Transmission and shifting appears in 4 complaint narratives. Use these patterns to inspect individual reports and prepare questions for a mechanic.

Calculated from recorded counts. An AI narrative has not been published for this selection.

Complaint evidence

Examples provide context, not a representative sample or a verified diagnosis.

Owner report 10093947 · 2004-10-11 (October 11, 2004)

WHILE DRIVING, CAR BRAKE PEDAL WENT ALL THE WAY TO THE FLOOR SUBSTANTIALLY REDUCING THE ABILITY TO STOP AND THERBY ALMOST CAUSING AN ACCIDENT. UPON INVESTIGATION, FOUND BRAKE FLUID WAS SHOOTING OUT FROM UNDER THE CAR. *NM

Owner-reported narrative. 20,000 miles reported. Look up ODI 10093947 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10128324 · 2005-07-11 (July 11, 2005)

WHEN APPLYING THE BRAKES, THE BRAKE PEDAL WENT ALL THE WAY TO THE FLOOR. I WAS ABLE TO STOP THE CAR AND PULL INTO A PARKING LOT. I STARTED THE VEHICLE BUT WAS UNABLE TO TAKE OUT OF PARK. I THEN REFERED TO THE VEHICLE MANUAL AND FOUND OUT THAT IF THIS HAPPENS THEN I SHOULD CHECK THE BRAKE LIGHTS. THEY WERE OUT SO I CHECKED THE FUSE AND IT WAS BLOWN. I REPLACED IT AND THE BRAKES, LIGHTS AND TRANSMISSION WORKED. I DROVE HOME (16 MILES) AND PARKED THE CAR. ABOUT 30 MINUTES LATER THE CAR WAS ON FIRE. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS CALLED AND WE PUT…

Owner-reported narrative. 139,000 miles reported. Look up ODI 10128324 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10106908 · 2005-01-06 (January 6, 2005)

COMPLAINT RECEIVED VIA E-MAIL. I HAVE A 1997 MERCURY MARQUIS WITH ELECTRONIC LIGHTS. THEY ARE ALL CONTROLLED WITH A PROCESSOR CALLED AN LCM FOR LIGHT CONTROL MODULE. IT IS NOT TO BE CONFUSED WITH THE CHEAPER AUTOMATIC DIMMER ON THE DASHBOARD. THE LIGHTS WENT OUT LAST SUMMER, AND THE LENSES TURNED YELLOW. I TRIED NEW BULBS, THAT DID NOT WORK. I CHECKED FUSES AND RELAYS AND ALL WERE FINE. I REPLACED THE TURN SIGNAL LIGHT DIMMER SWITCH ON THE STEERING COLUMN, AND THAT DID NOT WORK. FINALLY THIS FALL I CALLED FORDS TECHNICAL LINE TO SEE IF THERE …

Owner-reported narrative. 80,000 miles reported. Look up ODI 10106908 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10294479 · 2009-12-04 (December 4, 2009)

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 MERCURY MARQUIS. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 15 MPH ON NORMAL ROAD CONDITIONS. THE DRIVER LOSS STEERING CONTROL. THE VEHICLE CRASHED INTO AN UTILITY POLE, BOULDER AND FENCE. THE DRIVER SUSTAINED MINOR INJURY. THE POLICE WAS NOT CALLED TO THE SCENE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC. THE TECHNICIAN STATED THE FAILURE WAS CONTRIBUTED TO THE STEERING GEAR BOX. IN ADDITION, THERE WERE DAMAGES TO THE STRUCTURE BODY OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE IS IN THE PROCESS OF BEING REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND CUR…

Owner-reported narrative. 63,000 miles reported. Look up ODI 10294479 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 523598 · 1997-10-17 (October 17, 1997)

WHEN COASTING WITH GAS PEDAL RELEASED AT 34 MPH, VEHICLE UNEXPECTEDLY DECELERATES/BRAKES PULSE DOWN SHIFTING OCCURS DUE TO TRANSMISSION DESIGN.

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 523598 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 838362 · 1999-05-24 (May 24, 1999)

VEHICLE BEEN EXPERIENCING ONGOING/ INTERMITTENT PROBLEM WITH LOSS OF POWER STEERING. VEHICLE BEEN IN/OUT OF DEALER SHOP ON FOUR OCCASIONS, AND INFORMED CONSUMER THAT THEY COULD NOT FIND THE PROBLEM. SEEKING HELP FROM NHTSA IN THIS MATTER. *AK

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 838362 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 869522 · 2000-09-05 (September 5, 2000)

WHILE TRAVELING AND WITHOUT ANY INDICATION VEHICLE STALLED. DEALER HAS BEEN CONTACTED, COULD NOT FIND CAUSE.*AK THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY STALLS BUT STARTS RIGHT UP AGAIN. DEALER COULD NOT FIND THE PROBLEM. *YH

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 869522 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 535257 · 1998-05-07 (May 7, 1998)

ELECTRICAL SURGE TO ELECTRICAL MOTOR OF THE ABS BRAKES STRATED ENGINE FIRE. ALSO REPLACED TRACTION UNIT.

Owner-reported narrative. Look up ODI 535257 at NHTSA ↗

Owner report 10190386 · 2007-05-10 (May 10, 2007)

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 MERCURY GRAND MARQUIS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE PIPE THAT EXTENDS FROM THE FENDER WHERE FUEL IS APPLIED HAS RUSTED OUT. THE FAILURE IS CAUSING A FUEL LEAK. THE CONTACT HAS FOUND LARGE PUDDLES OF GASOLINE UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A MECHANIC WHO STATED THAT IT NEEDED A GAS FILLER PIPE. THE MECHANIC ALSO STATED THAT, UNFORTUNATELY, THAT PART IS NO LONGER PRODUCED. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 56,000.

Owner-reported narrative. 56,000 miles reported. Look up ODI 10190386 at NHTSA ↗

Explore the data

Vehicle analysis explorer

Inspect model-year patterns, reported mileage, monthly activity and the evidence behind each signal.

Data completeness

53 unique complaints in this selection. Analysis snapshot: 2026-09-30.

39.6%Usable mileage21 / 53 records
86.8%Valid incident date46 / 53 records
100.0%Valid filing date53 / 53 records
86.8%Ordered incident and filing dates46 / 53 records

Missing, zero and invalid mileage is excluded. Dates after the snapshot are excluded. Examples are limited selections, not a representative sample.

Problems by model year

Model-wide comparison of the eight most reported components across the model. Cells show counts and shares within each model year. Open a cell for source examples.

Component complaint heatmap
Component199019911992199319941995199619971998199920002001200220032004
Vehicle Speed Control
116.7%
ODI 971416

PUT VEHICLE IN REVERSE AND IT ACCELERATED ABOUT 100 MPH AND RAN INTO A HOUSE

Look up ODI 971416 at NHTSA ↗

111.1%
ODI 835832

WHILE VEHICLE WAS PARKED IN DRIVEWAY CONSUMER CHANGED GEAR TO REVERSE AND VEHICLE ACCELERATED FOR UNKNOWN REASON. DEALER/ MANUFACTURER WERE NOT NOTIFIED AT THIS TIME. SEEKING HELP IN THIS MATTER FORM NHTSA . ALSO VEHICLE IS EQUIPPED WITH CRUSIE CONTROL. *AK

Look up ODI 835832 at NHTSA ↗

28.3%
ODI 547483

SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH FAILED RESULTING IN VEHICLE FIRE. MJS REFERENCED IN EA02-025

Look up ODI 547483 at NHTSA ↗

28.7%
ODI 10227721

TL*1993 MERCURY MARQUIS. WHILE PARKED IN THE AUTO REPAIR GARAGE, THE VEHICLE CAUGHT FIRE. AFTER THE FIRE WAS EXTINGUISHED, THE FIRE REPORT INDICATED THAT THE VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL WAS THE POSSIBLE CAUSE OF THE FIRE. THE SHOP WAS SEVERELY DAMAGED ALONG WITH THE OTHER VEHICLES THAT WERE PRESENT. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN. UPDATED 07/15/08 *BF THE CONSUMER DOES NOT OWN THE VEHICLE, HE WAS DOING REPAIRS. UPDATED 07/15/08. *JB

Look up ODI 10227721 at NHTSA ↗

413.3%
ODI 558966

THE TURN SIGNAL INOPERATIVE AND BLOWN STOPLIGHT BULB. *CJ

Look up ODI 558966 at NHTSA ↗

210.0%
ODI 10216695

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1995 MERCURY MARQUIS. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE FOR THE VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL IN SEPTEMBER OF 2007. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE PARTS FOR THE REPAIR WERE UNAVAILABLE. THE DEALER DISCONNECTED THE CRUISE CONTROL UNTIL THEY RECEIVE THE PARTS. SINCE THE TIME THE CRUISE CONTROL WAS DISCONNECTED, THE CONTACT HAS RECEIVED TWO SPEEDING TICKETS. THERE HAD BEEN NO FAILURE TO DATE. THE RECALL NUMBER WAS UNKNOWN. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 93,000. UPDATED 02-19-08 *BF UPDATED 02/19/08 *TR

Look up ODI 10216695 at NHTSA ↗

13.2%
ODI 10204731

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 MERCURY MARQUIS. WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED AND SHUT OFF SEVERAL TIMES. THE INTAKE GASKET WAS REPLACED, BUT THE VEHICLE CONTINUED TO OVERHEAT. THE CONTACT RECEIVED A RECALL LETTER (05S28) IN AUGUST OF 2007 REGARDING THE VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER AND THEY DISCONNECTED THE SPEED CONTROL SWITCH AND STATED THAT THE OTHER FAILURES WERE UNRELATED. THE COST FOR A DIAGNOSTIC WOULD BE $900. THE CURRENT AND FAILURES MILEAGES WERE UNAVAILABLE.

Look up ODI 10204731 at NHTSA ↗

47.5%
ODI 10188225 · 70,000 mi

1997 MOUNTAINEER, ENGINE RACE, COULD NOT STOP THE CAR. USED THE BRAKES BUT ENGINE RACED AND BANGED INTO OUR HOUSE IN ORDER TO STOP. THIS WAS THE FOURTH INCIDENT, IN A MONTH TIME. OTHER INCIDENTS WERE HITTING A CAR IN ORDER FOR THE CAR TO STOP. NO ONE WAS HURT, THANK GOODNESS. BUT THIS WAS SCARY. WE WANT TO SELL THE CAR, BUT CAN'T WITH GOOD CONSCIENCE UNTIL WE CAN FIND THE CULPRIT. PLEASE ADVISE OR CONFIRM DIFFICULTY WITH THE CAR. THANKS. *AK

Look up ODI 10188225 at NHTSA ↗

13.4%
ODI 10643847 · 76,000 mi

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 MERCURY MARQUIS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 60 MPH, THE CRUISE CONTROL FAILED. THE FAILURE OCCURRED ON SEVERAL OCCASIONS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 76,000.

Look up ODI 10643847 at NHTSA ↗

312.5%
ODI 10107284

THE VEHICLE EXPERIENCES SUDDEN ACCELERATION AT VARIOUS SPEEDS. THE OWNER HAS TO STOMP ON THE BRAKE SEVERAL TIMES IN ORDER TO STOP THE VEHICLE. OWNER WILL NOTIFY THE MANUFACTURER. *NM

Look up ODI 10107284 at NHTSA ↗

14.3%
ODI 8002227

WHILE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED TO THE FLOOR AND WITHOUT ANY INDICATION VEHICLE ACCELERATED, TRAVELING AT RATE OF 40 MPH, AND HIT A TREE. DEALER HAS BEEN NOTIFIED. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION. *AK

Look up ODI 8002227 at NHTSA ↗

13.8%
ODI 567030

CONSUMER COULD NOT GET THE VEHICLE TO START. ONCE STARTED CONSUMER PROCEEDED ACROSS THE LOT. CONSUMER STOPPED THE CAR AND WHEN GETTING BACK IN COULD NOT GET IT OUT OF GEAR UNTIL AFTER TURNING THE MOTOR OFF. AS CONSUMER APPROACHED THE TRAFFIC LIGHT, HE USED THE BRAKES TO SLOW TO A STOP. ALL OF A SUDDEN, THE VEHICLE JOLTED FORWARD OUT OF CONTROL. *JG

Look up ODI 567030 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

39.1%
ODI 10145457 · 100 mi

DT: THE CONTACT COMPLAINED ABOUT INTERMITTENT SUDDEN ACCELERATION. IT OCCURRED WHEN THE CLIMATE WAS HOT, AND THE ENGINE WAS WARM. WHEN TAKING FOOT OFF OF THE ACCELERATOR TO MOVE IT TO THE BRAKE PEDAL THE ENGINE REVVED AND THE RIPENS WAREHOUSE. THE DEALER COMPLETED DIAGNOSTIC TESTING, AND THE PROBLEM COULD NOT BE DUPLICATED. NO REPAIRS HAVE BEEN MADE. *AK

Look up ODI 10145457 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

Electrical System
00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

111.1%
ODI 10071955

WHILE VEHICLE WAS PARKED, IT CAUGHT ON FIRE WITHOUT WARNING. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE, AND VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION. THE CAUSE HAS NOT BEEN DETERMINED AT THIS TIME. *LA

Look up ODI 10071955 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

14.3%
ODI 10109209

WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED IT CAUGHT ON FIRE ON ITS OWN. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE. VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A DEALER FOR INSPECTION. *AK THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED FOR 3 HOURS. THE HOUSE WAS DAMAGED BY THE FIRE. *TC

Look up ODI 10109209 at NHTSA ↗

310.0%
ODI 10097776 · 80,000 mi

VEHICLE WAS PARKED IN GARAGE FOR ABOUT AN HOUR AND CONSUMER DISCOVERED FIRE AT 11:30PM. CONSUMER STATED THAT CRUISE CONTROL STOPPED WORKING 2-3 MONTHS PRIOR TO THE FIRE. ALSO, BRAKE WARNING LIGHT ON DASHBOARD ILLUMINATED SEVERAL DAYS BEFORE THE FIRE.*AK

Look up ODI 10097776 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

13.2%
ODI 830547

WHEN APPLYING THE BRAKES THEY WENT STRAIGHT TO THE FLOORBOARD. ALSO, THE WINDOW GEARS BROKE AND HAVE BEEN REPLACED. BUT THE PROBLEM IS STILL HAPPENING. IN ADDITION, THERE IS PROBLEM WITH THE IGNITION/ IT IS VERY HARD TO STEER THE VEHICLE DUE TO THE POWER STEERING FAILURE. TRANSMISSION SLIPS AND BANGS INTO GEAR WHEN ACCELERATING. ELECTRICAL FAILURES AS WELL. *AK *ML

Look up ODI 830547 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

13.4%
ODI 10014437 · 75,000 mi

MY TRUNK ON MY 1998 MERCURY MYSTIQUE LEAKS WATER WHEN IT RAINS, PASSENGER WINDOW SWITCH DOES NOT WORK,MY CAR HAS JUMPED TIMING TWICE IN A MONTH AND WAS STUCK ON THE INTERSTATE THE SECOND TIME AND HAD TO CALL A TOW TRUCK, HAD TO REPLACE THE WATER PUMP AND BUY THE TIMING KIT TWICE. NOT COUNTING ON ALL THE RECALLS ON THIS CAR WHEN I BOUGHT IT IN 1998 NEW. THE CAR IS IN MY HUSBANDS NAME... WHICH IS MARVIN MINOR. I REALLY DO LIKE MY CAR, BUT IT HAS BEEN A DISAPPOINTMENT TO ME. 8NLM

Look up ODI 10014437 at NHTSA ↗

28.3%
ODI 10017179

WHILE DRIVING THE ENTIRE DASHBOARD FAILED ALONG WITH THE AIR CONDITIONING AND INTERIOR DOME LIGHT. THE DEALER DIAGNOSED THAT AN ELECTRICAL SHORT WAS THE CAUSE OF THE PROBLEM. *NLM

Look up ODI 10017179 at NHTSA ↗

14.3%
ODI 8019770

CONSUMER STATES THE LIGHTS ON THE INSIDE OF VEHICLE ILLUMINATED AND WOULD NOT GO OFF TILL HOURS LATER. ONE MONTH AGO THE HEADLIGHTS WENT OUT FOR A SECOND AND CAME BACK ON. ONE MONTH LATER CONSUMER WOKE UP AND HEADLIGHTS AND DASH LIGHT ON AND NO ONE HAD BEEN IN CAR. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHTER INFORMATION. NLM

Look up ODI 8019770 at NHTSA ↗

13.8%
ODI 10251492 · 28,000 mi

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2001 MERCURY MARQUIS. WHILE SHIFTING INTO PARK, THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO SOUND THE HORN, BUT WAS UNSUCCESSFUL. A CRASH OCCURRED, BUT THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE HORN IN THE VEHICLE WAS DESIGNED TO BE DIFFICULT TO FIND. THE CONTACT WANTS TO KNOW IF THE HORN IS LOCATED UNDER THE HORN SYMBOL OR UNDER THE AIR BAG. HE HAS TO REMOVE HIS HANDS FROM THE STEERING WHEEL IN ORDER TO BLOW THE HORN, WHICH TAKES A LOT OF EFFORT. HE FEELS THAT IT IS A SAFETY HAZARD THAT THE HORN DOES NOT WORK. THE FAILURE MI…

Look up ODI 10251492 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

39.1%
ODI 10012380

THE CONSUMER HAD TO COVER UP THE EMBLEM IN THE MIDDLE OF STEERING WHEEL DUE TO THE SUN REFLECTING FROM IT DIRECTLY INTO HIS EYES, THE WINDSHIELD WIPERS WERE REPLACED, THE DEFROSTER DID NOT WORK PROPERLY, AND THERE WAS A VIBRATION UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE AND THE REAR END HOWLED, ALSO THE VEHICLE HAD NO HEADLIGHTS,TAIL LIGHTS, BRAKE LIGHTS OR DASH LIGHTS. *AK *JB

Look up ODI 10012380 at NHTSA ↗

325.0%
ODI 11094115 · 245,000 mi

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 MERCURY MARQUIS. IN 2014, THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED PER AN UNKNOWN RECALL REGARDING THE LIGHTING CONTROL MODULE. THE REPAIR WAS PERFORMED BY GOLDER CIRCLE FORD (1432 US-45 BYP, JACKSON, TN 38305). THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FAILURE RECURRED AND ALL THE INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR LIGHTING SHUT OFF COMPLETELY WHILE DRIVING 65 MPH ON THE HIGHWAY. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS CONFIRMED THAT THE LIGHTING CONTROL MODULE WAS DAMAGED BEYOND REPAIR. THE CONTACT SPOKE WITH THE SAME DEALER AND…

Look up ODI 11094115 at NHTSA ↗

Exterior Lighting
00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

26.7%
ODI 10781588 · 130,000 mi

TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1994 MERCURY MARQUIS. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 45 MPH, THE TAIL LIGHTS, TURN SIGNAL LIGHTS. AND INSTRUMENT PANEL LIGHTS FAILED. THE FAILURE RECURRED TWICE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE HEAD LIGHT SWITCH AND CONNECTOR PLUG NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 130,000.

Look up ODI 10781588 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

14.2%
ODI 10865158 · 111,000 mi

DRIVING IN THE RAIN HEADLIGHTS WENT OUT TRIED HIGH BEANS CAME ON WENT OUT, ALSO, WIPERS. I PULL LEAVER HELD IN RESET WIPERS WITH OTHER HAND. THEN I PULL DOWN LEVER TO SIGNAL TOO GET OFF ROAD NOCKING HIGH BEANS OFF AGAIN. I ALMOST HIT GARD RAIL,THE LCD RECALL SHOULD BE FOR ALL CARS NOT JUST SOME MY SAFTY AND OTHERS SHOULD HAVE RECALLS.

Look up ODI 10865158 at NHTSA ↗

14.3%
ODI 10340198 · 92,437 mi

2000 MERCURY GRAND MARQUIS - HEADLIGHTS AND TAILLIGHTS GO ON AND OFF THROUGHOUT THE NIGHT WHILE THE VEHICLE IS PARKED AND THE ENGINE IS OFF. *TR

Look up ODI 10340198 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

721.2%
ODI 10381245 · 3,000 mi

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2003 MERCURY MARQUIS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE HEADLIGHTS AND TURN SIGNALS FAILED WHILE HE WAS DRIVING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER WHO STATED THAT THE HEADLIGHT MODULE WAS DEFECTIVE. IT WAS REPLACED SEVERAL TIMES BUT THE FAILURE CONTINUED. THE CONTACT CALLED THE MANUFACTURER WHO OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 3,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 70,000.

Look up ODI 10381245 at NHTSA ↗

541.7%
ODI 10556497 · 45,550 mi

2004 GRAND MARQUIS LS, WHILE DRIVING AT NIGHT THE HEADLIGHTS WOULD TURN OFF ON THERE OWN THEN COME BACK ON 5-10 MINUTES LATER THEN SHUT OFF AGAIN A SHORT WHILE LATER. MY HEADLIGHTS ARE NORMALLY POSITIONED IN THE AUTO LAMP MODE, IT WAS NO HELP TO TURN LIGHT OFF AND TRY IN THE MANUAL MODE THEY JUST CAME BACK ON WHEN IT FELT LIKE IT. IN SIDE DASH LIGHTS AND OUTSIDE PARKING/DRIVING LIGHTS WORKED NORMALLY, EMERGENCY FLASHERS WORKED NORMALLY. IN THE LATEST OCCURRENCE (12/17/2013) MY HEADLIGHTS WENT OUT 5 TIMES IN A 13.5 MILE DRIVE HOME . THIS IS A V…

Look up ODI 10556497 at NHTSA ↗

Power Train:Automatic Transmission
00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

28.3%
ODI 822973

WHEN SHIFTING FROM ONE GEAR TO OTHER AT 30MPH THERE IS A SKIP, AT 40MPH THERE IS VIBRATION. DEALER SAID THAT THE SPARK PLUGS AND WIRING NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. *AK

Look up ODI 822973 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

15.0%
ODI 724906

SHUDDER RESULTS IN A SERIOUS HESITATION - NO POWER TO MOVE VEHICLE.

Look up ODI 724906 at NHTSA ↗

13.2%
ODI 830547

WHEN APPLYING THE BRAKES THEY WENT STRAIGHT TO THE FLOORBOARD. ALSO, THE WINDOW GEARS BROKE AND HAVE BEEN REPLACED. BUT THE PROBLEM IS STILL HAPPENING. IN ADDITION, THERE IS PROBLEM WITH THE IGNITION/ IT IS VERY HARD TO STEER THE VEHICLE DUE TO THE POWER STEERING FAILURE. TRANSMISSION SLIPS AND BANGS INTO GEAR WHEN ACCELERATING. ELECTRICAL FAILURES AS WELL. *AK *ML

Look up ODI 830547 at NHTSA ↗

35.7%
ODI 523598

WHEN COASTING WITH GAS PEDAL RELEASED AT 34 MPH, VEHICLE UNEXPECTEDLY DECELERATES/BRAKES PULSE DOWN SHIFTING OCCURS DUE TO TRANSMISSION DESIGN.

Look up ODI 523598 at NHTSA ↗

310.3%
ODI 10040714

OWNER CAN NOT TELL WHAT GEAR THE VEHICLE IS IN WHEN DRIVING. CONSUMER NOTIFIED THE DEALERSHIP. *AK

Look up ODI 10040714 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

28.7%
ODI 10097446

TRANSMISSION MALFUNCTION, VEHICLE HARD TO SHIFT. *BF THE VEHICLE WAS IN PARK WHEN THE CONSUMER WAS EXITING THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO ROLL FORWARD SUDDENLY KNOCKING THE CONSUMER TO THE GROUND. THE CONSUMER WAS HOLDING ONTO THE INSIDE DOOR HANDLE AND WAS DRAGGED ON HIS STOMACH ABOUT 50 FEET. THE CONSUMER DISLOCATED HIS SHOULDER AND SEPARATED MUSCLE AND TENDON AS WELL AS NERVES FROM THE ROTATOR CUFF. THE DRAGGING ALSO INFLICTED NUMEROUS CUT ON THE CONSUMERS STOMACH AND LEGS. *NM

Look up ODI 10097446 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

Service Brakes, Hydraulic:Antilock/Traction Control/Electronic Limited Slip
00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

14.3%
ODI 480118

REAR WHEELS LOSS TRACTION, CAUSING VEHICLE TO SPIN OUT OF CONTROL, & KEPT SPINNING EVEN AFTER REAR WHEELS REGAINED TRACTION DUE TO DEFECTIVE ABS SYSTEM. *SKD

Look up ODI 480118 at NHTSA ↗

13.3%
ODI 528086

ANTI LOCK BRAKES FAILED.

Look up ODI 528086 at NHTSA ↗

315.0%
ODI 524720

REAR BRAKE PROBLEMS.

Look up ODI 524720 at NHTSA ↗

26.5%
ODI 817115

WHEN PUTTING THE VEHICLE IN REVERSE IT JERKS. WHEN PUTTING FOOT ON THE BRAKE PEDAL, IT ALSO MAKES A BANGING NOISE. TOOK THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER, AND WAS TOLD THAT THE PROBLEM WAS THE ROTORS. *AK

Look up ODI 817115 at NHTSA ↗

23.8%
ODI 10128324 · 139,000 mi

WHEN APPLYING THE BRAKES, THE BRAKE PEDAL WENT ALL THE WAY TO THE FLOOR. I WAS ABLE TO STOP THE CAR AND PULL INTO A PARKING LOT. I STARTED THE VEHICLE BUT WAS UNABLE TO TAKE OUT OF PARK. I THEN REFERED TO THE VEHICLE MANUAL AND FOUND OUT THAT IF THIS HAPPENS THEN I SHOULD CHECK THE BRAKE LIGHTS. THEY WERE OUT SO I CHECKED THE FUSE AND IT WAS BLOWN. I REPLACED IT AND THE BRAKES, LIGHTS AND TRANSMISSION WORKED. I DROVE HOME (16 MILES) AND PARKED THE CAR. ABOUT 30 MINUTES LATER THE CAR WAS ON FIRE. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS CALLED AND WE PUT…

Look up ODI 10128324 at NHTSA ↗

26.9%
ODI 820638

BRAKES: WHEN DRIVING AND ATTEMPTING TO STOP, HAVE TO PUSH THE BRAKE PEDAL COMPLETELY TO THE FLOOR BEFORE THE CAR WILL STOP. CAR HAS BEEN IN SHOP SEVERAL TIMES. THEY BLED THE BRAKES, PUT NEW CALIPERS ON, AND NOW THEY ARE WAITING FOR A MASTER CYLINDER. *AK

Look up ODI 820638 at NHTSA ↗

28.3%
ODI 872436

WHEN PRESSING ON BRAKES, CONSUMER HAS TO PUSH BRAKES HARDER TO GET VEHICLE TO STOP, PEDAL ALMOST GOES TO THE FLOOR. ALSO, BRAKE LINING IS LETTING OUT SOME KIND OF OIL GETTING ON THE HUB CAPS.*AK THE CUSTOMER STATES THE STOPPING DISTANCE IS GREATER NOW THAN WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS NEW. THE PROBLEM REOCCURS FREQUENTLY AND THE CUSTOMER SUSPECTS MANUFACTURER FLAW

Look up ODI 872436 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

13.8%
ODI 885566

WHEN GROUND IS WET THE BRAKE PEDAL WILL GO DOWN TO FLOOR, CAUSING REAR WHEELS TO LOCK UP. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION.*AK

Look up ODI 885566 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

Engine And Engine Cooling
00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

412.9%
ODI 10038174 · 101,789 mi

1996 MERCURY MARQUIS. *PH THE VEHICLES ENGINE/COOLING SYSTEM FAILED. *NLM *JB

Look up ODI 10038174 at NHTSA ↗

59.4%
ODI 10024080 · 63,000 mi

INTAKE MANIFOLD BLEW OUT CAUSING ALL OF THE WATER TO LEAVE THE ENGINE. THIS RESULTED IN ENGINE RUNNING HOT. *MR PH

Look up ODI 10024080 at NHTSA ↗

26.9%
ODI 10014437 · 75,000 mi

MY TRUNK ON MY 1998 MERCURY MYSTIQUE LEAKS WATER WHEN IT RAINS, PASSENGER WINDOW SWITCH DOES NOT WORK,MY CAR HAS JUMPED TIMING TWICE IN A MONTH AND WAS STUCK ON THE INTERSTATE THE SECOND TIME AND HAD TO CALL A TOW TRUCK, HAD TO REPLACE THE WATER PUMP AND BUY THE TIMING KIT TWICE. NOT COUNTING ON ALL THE RECALLS ON THIS CAR WHEN I BOUGHT IT IN 1998 NEW. THE CAR IS IN MY HUSBANDS NAME... WHICH IS MARVIN MINOR. I REALLY DO LIKE MY CAR, BUT IT HAS BEEN A DISAPPOINTMENT TO ME. 8NLM

Look up ODI 10014437 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

311.5%
ODI 10101813 · 62,805 mi

WHILE DRIVING AT 60 MPH ON THE HIGHWAY VEHICLE STOPPED, AND THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT CAME ON. VEHICLE CONTINUOUSLY SHUT DOWN. CONSUMER STATED DEALER COULD NOT FIND ANY DEFECTS.*AK

Look up ODI 10101813 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

13.0%
ODI 10150823 · 36,815 mi

2003 FORD MERCURY MARQUIS LOST ALL POWER AND HAD TO BE TOWED. *TS *JB

Look up ODI 10150823 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

Engine And Engine Cooling:Exhaust System:Manifold/Header/Muffler/Tail Pipe
00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

13.2%
ODI 10002846 · 70,089 mi

WE OWN A 1996 MERCURY GRAND MARQUIS THAT THE INTAKE MANIFOLD FAILED ON 2/28/02 WITH 70,089 MILES ON IT AND THE "96 CROWN VICTORIA AND "97 MERCURY COUGAR HAVE BEEN RECALLED FOR THE SAME PROBLEM OF A FAILURE OF THE "COMPOSITE" ONE AND OURS WAS NOT. WE ENDED UP BEING TOWED 130 MILES. TS

Look up ODI 10002846 at NHTSA ↗

1120.8%
ODI 10003732 · 43,000 mi

VEHICLE WAS AT AN IDLE. CONSUMER HEARD A LOUD BOOM NOISE, THEN SMOKE OR STEAM STARTED COMING FROM UNDER THE HOOD. THE MECHANIC INDICATED THAT THE CAUSE WAS AS A RESULT OF THE INTAKE MANIFOLD BLOWING UP. THE MECHANIC REPLACE THE PLASTIC MANIFOLD WITH A METAL ONE. TS *TT

Look up ODI 10003732 at NHTSA ↗

13.4%
ODI 10156305 · 56,000 mi

DT*: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE DRIVING 45 MPH STEAM WAS NOTICED COMING FROM UNDER THE HOOD. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DETERMINED TO HAVE A CRACK IN THE INTAKE MANIFOLD.

Look up ODI 10156305 at NHTSA ↗

14.2%
ODI 10180931 · 79,105 mi

JULY 15,2005, I TOOK MY GRAND MARQUIS L999, TO GLADES FORD BECAUSE IT WAS STALLING AS IF IT WAS GOING TO CUT OFF. I WAS TOLD, SPARK PLUG #8 AND THE COIL WAS BAD. IT WAS REPAIRED AT A COST OF $337.94 . AUGUST 2005 HAD SAME PROBLEM AND WAS TOLD IT WAS THE MANIFOLD. HAD THIS REPAIRED LL.22.05,COST $960.63. ADVISED BY RICHARD T. DOORMAN ESQ. OF CUNNINGHAM< BOUNDS< YANCE, CROWDER & BROWN LLC, P. O. BOX 66705, MIBIL, AL 36660 TO TAKE MY RECEIPTS TO GLADES FORD OF BELLE, GLADE, FL BEFORE MARCH 16, 2006, I TOOK THE RECEIPTS TO GLADES FORD, JANUARY 2…

Look up ODI 10180931 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

19.1%
ODI 10353654 · 105,000 mi

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 MERCURY MARQUIS. THE CONTACT NOTICED FLUID ON THE GROUND WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS TURNED OFF. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE MECHANIC WHO LOCATED THE FAILURE AS THE INTAKE MANIFOLD. THE VEHICLE WILL BE REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND THE CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 105,000.

Look up ODI 10353654 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

Electrical System:Ignition:Switch
00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

14.3%
ODI 869233

WHEN STARTING IGNITION JAMS. CAN'T START IT OR CUT IT OFF. CONSUMER FELT THIS COULD HAPPEN IN TRAFFIC AND MAY BE DANGEROUS. *AK THE PROBLEM IS FOUND TO BE IN SIDE LOWER STEERING COLUMN ASSEMBLY. *YH

Look up ODI 869233 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

14.2%
ODI 8002115

DRIVER PARKED VEHICLE AND TURNED IT OFF. LATER RETURNING AND TRYING TO START VEHICLE FAILED TO START. IGNITION HAD LOCKED UP STEERING WHEEL, AND WAS UNABLE SHIFT OUT OF PARK. A POLICE PERSON STATED PROBLEM MIGHT BE RELAY SWITCH. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER INFORMATION.*AK

Look up ODI 8002115 at NHTSA ↗

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

00.0%

No examples available for this selection.

Darker cells indicate a larger share of submitted complaints. Components overlap. This measures complaint composition, not failure probability.

Failure mileage by component

Median and middle 50% of usable owner-reported mileages. Ranges require at least five records.

Component failure mileage distribution
ComponentMileage range (25th–75th percentile)MedianUsable recordsExamples
Engine And Engine Cooling:Exhaust System:Manifold/Header/Muffler/Tail Pipe58,337–88,652 mi83,744 mi7
ODI 10003732 · 43,000 mi

VEHICLE WAS AT AN IDLE. CONSUMER HEARD A LOUD BOOM NOISE, THEN SMOKE OR STEAM STARTED COMING FROM UNDER THE HOOD. THE MECHANIC INDICATED THAT THE CAUSE WAS AS A RESULT OF THE INTAKE MANIFOLD BLOWING UP. THE MECHANIC REPLACE THE PLASTIC MANIFOLD WITH A METAL ONE. TS *TT

Look up ODI 10003732 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10088021 · 92,000 mi

WHILE DRIVING 30-40 MPH VEHICLE OVERHEATED AND LEAKED COOLANT. VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A REPAIR SHOP, AND MECHANIC DETERMINED THAT THE PROBLEM WAS CAUSED BY A CRACKED MANIFOLD. *AK

Look up ODI 10088021 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10098963 · 73,674 mi

WHILE DRIVING AT 80 MPH TEMPERATURE GAUGE REACH ED ITS PEAK , FOLLOWED BY SMOKE COMING FROM THE ENGINE. VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A GARAGE, AND THEY REPLACED THE PLASTIC INTAKE MANIFOLD WITH A METAL ONE BECAUSE IT HAD BLOWN. WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS RESTARTED AFTER PART WAS REPLACED COOLANT WAS COMING OUT OF THE EXHAUST SYSTEM. VEHICLE WAS THEN FLAT BEDDED TO ANOTHER GARAGE, AND THEY REINSTALLED THE CYLINDER HEAD, REPAIRED THE TIMING CHAIN, AND REPLACED THE EXHAUST.*AK

Look up ODI 10098963 at NHTSA ↗

Engine And Engine CoolingToo few reports for a range14,000 mi3 (sparse)
ODI 10024080 · 63,000 mi

INTAKE MANIFOLD BLEW OUT CAUSING ALL OF THE WATER TO LEAVE THE ENGINE. THIS RESULTED IN ENGINE RUNNING HOT. *MR PH

Look up ODI 10024080 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10158905 · 2 mi

WHILE DRIVING ON FREEWAY AT FREEWAY SPEED, MY 1997 GRAND MARQUIS, LS WAS RUNNING AT NORMAL TEMP. ALL OF A SUDDEN WITHIN A MATTER OF A MINUTE OR TWO, THE TEMP GAUGE MAXED OUT, CAR STARTED SMOKING, ALL COOLANT WAS LOST. I PULLED OVER IMMEDIATELY, AND UPON INSPECTION I FOUND THAT THE PLASTIC INTAKE MANIFOLD HAD CRACKED APPROX A 3-4" CRACK. I WAS STRANDED, HAD TO TOW MY CAR APPROX 134 MILES TO GET HOME. THIS IS A $269.99 PART NOT TO MENTION THE GASKETS, ANTI-FREEZE AND LABOR INVOLVED TO FIX. I FEEL THIS IS A MANUFACTURER DEFECT AND I SHOULD BE RE…

Look up ODI 10158905 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10178658 · 14,000 mi

ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING SYSTEM. SUSPENSION FRONT WHEEL BEARING. *NM

Look up ODI 10178658 at NHTSA ↗

Vehicle Speed ControlToo few reports for a range70,000 mi1 (sparse)
ODI 10188225 · 70,000 mi

1997 MOUNTAINEER, ENGINE RACE, COULD NOT STOP THE CAR. USED THE BRAKES BUT ENGINE RACED AND BANGED INTO OUR HOUSE IN ORDER TO STOP. THIS WAS THE FOURTH INCIDENT, IN A MONTH TIME. OTHER INCIDENTS WERE HITTING A CAR IN ORDER FOR THE CAR TO STOP. NO ONE WAS HURT, THANK GOODNESS. BUT THIS WAS SCARY. WE WANT TO SELL THE CAR, BUT CAN'T WITH GOOD CONSCIENCE UNTIL WE CAN FIND THE CULPRIT. PLEASE ADVISE OR CONFIRM DIFFICULTY WITH THE CAR. THANKS. *AK

Look up ODI 10188225 at NHTSA ↗

Air Bags:FrontalToo few reports for a range7,000 mi1 (sparse)
ODI 10136248 · 7,000 mi

DT: THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED SO BADLY THAT IT SLAPPED CONSUMER'S GRANDSON''S FACE. HE HAS A PERMANENT SCAR FROM IT. THE AIR BAGS SMOKED UP EVERYTHING LIKE THE VEHICLE WAS ON FIRE. ALSO, CONSUMER'S GRAND DAUGHTER WAS RIDING IN THE BACK SEAT ON THE PASSENGER'S SIDE, AND HER TEETH PRINT WAS IN THE BACK OF THE SEAT. BOTH OF THE CHILDREN WERE IN THEIR SEAT BELTS. CONSUMER FELT THE SEAT BELTS SHOULD HAVE HELD UP BETTER. THIS HAPPENED ON JUNE 18, 2005. THE INTAKE MANIFOLD WAS REPLACED BEFORE THE ACCIDENT. *AK

Look up ODI 10136248 at NHTSA ↗

Engine And Engine Cooling:Cooling SystemToo few reports for a range86,550 mi2 (sparse)
ODI 10023983 · 113,100 mi

WHILE TRAVELING ABOUT 40 MPH IN TRAFFIC WITHOUT ANY WARNING, MY CHECK ENGINE LIGHT FLASHED ON IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWED BY THE HEAT GAUGE MAXING OUT AND A BUZZING NOISE BEGAN SOUNDING. WHAT APPEARED TO BE SMOKE WAS POURING OUT BETWEEN MY HOOD AND COWLING. I MANAGED TO STOP THE CAR AND LIFTED THE HOOD. ANTIFREEZE SMELL WAS STRONG, WATER WAS SHOOTING INTO MY ALTERNATOR AND THE ENGINE WAS EXCESSIVELY HOT. I HAD THE CAR TOWED TO A RELIABLE GARAGE AND THEY DETERMINED THAT THE INTAKE MANIFOLD HAD SPLIT OPEN, BUT THE "SMOKE" WAS ACTUALLY STEAM AND NO F…

Look up ODI 10023983 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10129982 · 60,000 mi

MY 1997 MERCURY GRAND MARQUIS OVERHEATED AND BLEW STEAM AND ANTIFREEZE THROUGHOUT ENGINE COMPARTMENT AND ON TO WINDSHIELD. THIS WAS CAUSED BY THE A CRACK IN THE WATER JACKET PORTION OF THE INTAKE MANIFOLD. I WAS TOLD BY THE DEALER THAT THIS IS A COMMON PROBLEM AND MANIFOLD HAS BEEN REDESIGNED BUT IS NOT COVERED BY A RECALL AND THE REPAIR EXPENSE ($989 PLUS TAX) WOULD BE MY RESPONSIBILITY. HE ALSO STATED THAT THIS IDENTICAL PROBLEM ON POLICE CARS AND SOME OTHERS IS COVERED. A CALL TO FORD MOTOR COMPANY RENDERED SAME RESULTS. I BOUGHT THIS CAR…

Look up ODI 10129982 at NHTSA ↗

Fuel System, Gasoline:Delivery:Hoses, Lines/Piping, And FittingsToo few reports for a range20,000 mi1 (sparse)
ODI 10093947 · 20,000 mi

WHILE DRIVING, CAR BRAKE PEDAL WENT ALL THE WAY TO THE FLOOR SUBSTANTIALLY REDUCING THE ABILITY TO STOP AND THERBY ALMOST CAUSING AN ACCIDENT. UPON INVESTIGATION, FOUND BRAKE FLUID WAS SHOOTING OUT FROM UNDER THE CAR. *NM

Look up ODI 10093947 at NHTSA ↗

Complaint and recall timeline

Explore monthly filing activity alongside recall announcements. Up to ten years of monthly history is available.

1 reports2024-102026-09

Solid line: filed complaints. Dashed amber lines: recall announcement dates for this vehicle selection; markers include all recall components. The latest month is partial. Temporal proximity does not establish causation.

Monthly counts, recall campaigns and complaint examples
Monthly complaint and recall timeline
MonthComplaintsCampaigns announcedExamples
2024-100None

No examples available for this selection.

2024-110None

No examples available for this selection.

2024-120None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-010None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-020None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-030None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-040None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-050None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-060None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-070None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-080None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-090None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-100None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-110None

No examples available for this selection.

2025-120None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-010None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-020None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-030None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-040None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-050None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-060None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-070None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-080None

No examples available for this selection.

2026-09 (partial)0None

No examples available for this selection.

Emerging complaint spikes

Complete months in the latest six months with at least 10 complaints, at least twice the preceding 12-month average, and at least three square-root deviations above that average.

This is a descriptive screening rule, not a statistical defect finding. Publicity and reporting changes can increase submissions.

No complete months meet the spike thresholds for this selection.

Equal-age model-year comparison

Model-wide cumulative reports during the first three or five calendar years, starting with the model year (age 0). Only fully elapsed windows are compared.

Age 0Age 1Age 217 reports

2003: 17 complaints · 2004: 0 complaints

Equal observation windows
Model yearThrough age 0Through age 1Through age 2
200391417
2004000
Date coverage across each selected cohort
Date basis for all complaints in selected model years
YearIncident dates usedFiling date fallbacksExcluded dates
20032922
20041200

Incident date is preferred when valid and no later than filing; otherwise filing date is used. Model year approximates age. Equal observation time does not adjust for sales, distance driven or reporting delays. One complaint linked to multiple model years can appear in each cohort.

Components reported together

Each cell counts unique complaints naming both components. Open a nonzero cell for examples.

Component co-occurrence matrix
ComponentEngine And Engine Cooling:Exhaust System:Manifold/Header/Muffler/Tail PipeEngine And Engine CoolingVehicle Speed ControlPower Train:Automatic TransmissionAir Bags:FrontalEngine And Engine Cooling:Cooling SystemFuel System, Gasoline:Carburetor SystemFuel System, Gasoline:Delivery:Hoses, Lines/Piping, And Fittings
Engine And Engine Cooling:Exhaust System:Manifold/Header/Muffler/Tail Pipe—000
1
ODI 10136248 · 7,000 mi

DT: THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED SO BADLY THAT IT SLAPPED CONSUMER'S GRANDSON''S FACE. HE HAS A PERMANENT SCAR FROM IT. THE AIR BAGS SMOKED UP EVERYTHING LIKE THE VEHICLE WAS ON FIRE. ALSO, CONSUMER'S GRAND DAUGHTER WAS RIDING IN THE BACK SEAT ON THE PASSENGER'S SIDE, AND HER TEETH PRINT WAS IN THE BACK OF THE SEAT. BOTH OF THE CHILDREN WERE IN THEIR SEAT BELTS. CONSUMER FELT THE SEAT BELTS SHOULD HAVE HELD UP BETTER. THIS HAPPENED ON JUNE 18, 2005. THE INTAKE MANIFOLD WAS REPLACED BEFORE THE ACCIDENT. *AK

Look up ODI 10136248 at NHTSA ↗

000
Engine And Engine Cooling0—000000
Vehicle Speed Control00—00000
Power Train:Automatic Transmission000—0000
Air Bags:Frontal
1
ODI 10136248 · 7,000 mi

DT: THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED SO BADLY THAT IT SLAPPED CONSUMER'S GRANDSON''S FACE. HE HAS A PERMANENT SCAR FROM IT. THE AIR BAGS SMOKED UP EVERYTHING LIKE THE VEHICLE WAS ON FIRE. ALSO, CONSUMER'S GRAND DAUGHTER WAS RIDING IN THE BACK SEAT ON THE PASSENGER'S SIDE, AND HER TEETH PRINT WAS IN THE BACK OF THE SEAT. BOTH OF THE CHILDREN WERE IN THEIR SEAT BELTS. CONSUMER FELT THE SEAT BELTS SHOULD HAVE HELD UP BETTER. THIS HAPPENED ON JUNE 18, 2005. THE INTAKE MANIFOLD WAS REPLACED BEFORE THE ACCIDENT. *AK

Look up ODI 10136248 at NHTSA ↗

000—000
Engine And Engine Cooling:Cooling System00000—00
Fuel System, Gasoline:Carburetor System000000—0
Fuel System, Gasoline:Delivery:Hoses, Lines/Piping, And Fittings0000000—

Co-reporting does not establish that one component caused another concern.

Recurring narrative patterns

Specific keyword mentions beyond broad component labels. Matching includes negations and comparisons and does not confirm a diagnosis.

5 patterns with matching reports.

Brake response concerns

4 mentions · 7.5% of complaints

Median mileage: 79,500 mi (2 usable records).

ODI 10093947 · 20,000 mi

WHILE DRIVING, CAR BRAKE PEDAL WENT ALL THE WAY TO THE FLOOR SUBSTANTIALLY REDUCING THE ABILITY TO STOP AND THERBY ALMOST CAUSING AN ACCIDENT. UPON INVESTIGATION, FOUND BRAKE FLUID WAS SHOOTING OUT FROM UNDER THE CAR. *NM

Look up ODI 10093947 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10128324 · 139,000 mi

WHEN APPLYING THE BRAKES, THE BRAKE PEDAL WENT ALL THE WAY TO THE FLOOR. I WAS ABLE TO STOP THE CAR AND PULL INTO A PARKING LOT. I STARTED THE VEHICLE BUT WAS UNABLE TO TAKE OUT OF PARK. I THEN REFERED TO THE VEHICLE MANUAL AND FOUND OUT THAT IF THIS HAPPENS THEN I SHOULD CHECK THE BRAKE LIGHTS. THEY WERE OUT SO I CHECKED THE FUSE AND IT WAS BLOWN. I REPLACED IT AND THE BRAKES, LIGHTS AND TRANSMISSION WORKED. I DROVE HOME (16 MILES) AND PARKED THE CAR. ABOUT 30 MINUTES LATER THE CAR WAS ON FIRE. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT WAS CALLED AND WE PUT…

Look up ODI 10128324 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 523603

THE DESIGN OF THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION RESULTS IN UNINTENDED BRAKING/DECELERATION WHILE COASTING.

Look up ODI 523603 at NHTSA ↗

Matching rule\b(brake fail\w*|brakes fail\w*|brake pedal|braking distance|unintended braking|phantom braking)\b

Fuel smell or leak mentions

2 mentions · 3.8% of complaints

Median mileage: 56,000 mi (1 usable records).

ODI 10190386 · 56,000 mi

TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 MERCURY GRAND MARQUIS. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE PIPE THAT EXTENDS FROM THE FENDER WHERE FUEL IS APPLIED HAS RUSTED OUT. THE FAILURE IS CAUSING A FUEL LEAK. THE CONTACT HAS FOUND LARGE PUDDLES OF GASOLINE UNDERNEATH THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A MECHANIC WHO STATED THAT IT NEEDED A GAS FILLER PIPE. THE MECHANIC ALSO STATED THAT, UNFORTUNATELY, THAT PART IS NO LONGER PRODUCED. THE VIN WAS UNAVAILABLE. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 56,000.

Look up ODI 10190386 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 8003092

CONSUMER SMELLED FUEL FUMES ENTERING INSIDE OF VEHICLE THROUGH THE VENTS. DEALERSHIPWAS AWARE OF PROBLEM. *AK

Look up ODI 8003092 at NHTSA ↗

Matching rule\b(fuel leak\w*|gas leak\w*|gas(?:oline)? smell|smell\w* (?:of )?(?:fuel|gas))\b

Stalling or loss of power

2 mentions · 3.8% of complaints

Median mileage: Unavailable (0 usable records).

ODI 838362

VEHICLE BEEN EXPERIENCING ONGOING/ INTERMITTENT PROBLEM WITH LOSS OF POWER STEERING. VEHICLE BEEN IN/OUT OF DEALER SHOP ON FOUR OCCASIONS, AND INFORMED CONSUMER THAT THEY COULD NOT FIND THE PROBLEM. SEEKING HELP FROM NHTSA IN THIS MATTER. *AK

Look up ODI 838362 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 869522

WHILE TRAVELING AND WITHOUT ANY INDICATION VEHICLE STALLED. DEALER HAS BEEN CONTACTED, COULD NOT FIND CAUSE.*AK THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY STALLS BUT STARTS RIGHT UP AGAIN. DEALER COULD NOT FIND THE PROBLEM. *YH

Look up ODI 869522 at NHTSA ↗

Matching rule\b(stall\w*|loss of power|lost power|engine shut\w* off)\b

Warning lights and dashboard alerts

2 mentions · 3.8% of complaints

Median mileage: 113,100 mi (1 usable records).

ODI 10023983 · 113,100 mi

WHILE TRAVELING ABOUT 40 MPH IN TRAFFIC WITHOUT ANY WARNING, MY CHECK ENGINE LIGHT FLASHED ON IMMEDIATELY FOLLOWED BY THE HEAT GAUGE MAXING OUT AND A BUZZING NOISE BEGAN SOUNDING. WHAT APPEARED TO BE SMOKE WAS POURING OUT BETWEEN MY HOOD AND COWLING. I MANAGED TO STOP THE CAR AND LIFTED THE HOOD. ANTIFREEZE SMELL WAS STRONG, WATER WAS SHOOTING INTO MY ALTERNATOR AND THE ENGINE WAS EXCESSIVELY HOT. I HAD THE CAR TOWED TO A RELIABLE GARAGE AND THEY DETERMINED THAT THE INTAKE MANIFOLD HAD SPLIT OPEN, BUT THE "SMOKE" WAS ACTUALLY STEAM AND NO F…

Look up ODI 10023983 at NHTSA ↗

ODI 10087459

COMPLAINT ABOUT ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING SYSTEM. *MR THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT HAD COME ON. THE MECHANIC FOUND THAT THE "PLASTIC" INTAKE MANIFOLD HAD A STRESS CRACK AND CAUSED LEAKAGE OF ANTIFREEZE INTO THE PLUGS WHICH CAUSED THE DAMAGE. *SC *JB

Look up ODI 10087459 at NHTSA ↗

Matching rule\b(warning light\w*|check engine|dashboard warning\w*|malfunction indicator)\b

Steering assistance concerns

1 mentions · 1.9% of complaints

Median mileage: Unavailable (0 usable records).

ODI 838362

VEHICLE BEEN EXPERIENCING ONGOING/ INTERMITTENT PROBLEM WITH LOSS OF POWER STEERING. VEHICLE BEEN IN/OUT OF DEALER SHOP ON FOUR OCCASIONS, AND INFORMED CONSUMER THAT THEY COULD NOT FIND THE PROBLEM. SEEKING HELP FROM NHTSA IN THIS MATTER. *AK

Look up ODI 838362 at NHTSA ↗

Matching rule\b(power steer\w*|steering assist\w*|steering lock\w*|steering wheel lock\w*)\b