1997 Ford Crown Victoria
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
Have the VIN?
Vehicles › Ford › Crown Victoria › 1997
These records cover every 1997 Ford Crown Victoria. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
11 recalls name the 1997 Ford Crown Victoria. Newest first.
Dorman Products, Inc. (Dorman) is recalling certain model Dorman Steering Shafts, part number 425-359, Solutions Steering Shafts, part number 7-0359, and OE Solutions Steering Shafts, part number 425-359, manufactured April 17, 2014, to September 28, 2015. These aftermarket replacement steering shafts are sold for use in 1995-2002 Ford Crown Victoria…
Risk and remedy
Risk
If the shafts separate during vehicle operation, a loss of steering control would result, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
Remedy
Dorman will notify owners, and dealers will replace the steering shaft, free of charge. The recall began on October 28, 2015. Owners may contact Dorman customer service at 1-800-523-2492, option 5.
Ford IS recalling 225,000 my 1992-2003 econoline, my 1993-1995 taurus sho, my 1992-1998 crown victoria, my 1993 bronco, f-series, my 1995-1997 f-series super duty stripped chassis, my 1992-1998 mercury grand marquis, and my 1992-1995 lincoln town car vehicles. the affected vehicles were previously repaired using a wiring harness that IS not compatible with…
Risk and remedy
Risk
As a result, the fuse IS located in the output circuit rather than in the intended input power feed circuit, and may not offer the intended protection in the event of an electrical short to ground.
Remedy
Dealers will install a new wiring harness, or replace the mating electrical component. the recall began on february 18, 2008. owners may contact ford at 1-800-392-3673.
On certain pickup trucks, passenger vehicles, sport utility vehicles, and motor homes chassis, the speed control deactivation switch may, under certain conditions, leak internally and then overheat, smoke, or burn.
Risk and remedy
Risk
This could result in an underhood fire.
Remedy
Dealers will install a fused wiring harness. owners of the passenger cars included in this campaign will be instructed to return their vehicles to their dealers to have the speed control deactivation switch disconnected as an interim repair. as soon as repair parts are available (expected october 2007), owners will be instructed to return to the dealers for installation of a fused wiring harness. the recall began on august 13, 2007, and mailing completed by september 19, 2007. owners may contact ford at 1-888-222-2751.
On certain passenger vehicles built with electronic traction control, the rear brake line may chafe due to contact between it and a floor pan stiffening rib, and a brake fluid leak may occur.
Risk and remedy
Risk
The brake pedal may develop a "spongy" feel and drops of brake fluid may be observed beneath the vehicle. over time brake performance may be compromised and stopping distances could be extended which could lead to a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect the subject vehicles for contact between the brake tube and floor pan stiffening rib. if contact IS evident, but no abrasion or leaks exist, the brake tube will be repositioned to preclude further contact and potential abrasion. If indication of abrasion or a leak IS evident, dealers will repair the brake line. this campaign began on july 15, 2005. owners may contact ford at 1-800-392-3673.
On certain natural gas vehicles, if a flame from a vehicle interior fire becomes locally directed at the natural gas fuel tank located immediately behind the rear seat, the flame could damage the fiberglass wrap on the tank weakening the tank.
Risk and remedy
Risk
If the strength of the tank IS significantly compromised, it could rupture, increasing the risk of a fire.
Remedy
Dealers will install an insulator behind the current seat back. owner notification began on january 7, 2004. owners should contact ford at 1-800-392-3673.
In order to enhance police office safety, model year 1992-2003 crown victoria police interceptor (cvpi) vehicles will be equipped with shields designed to help protect the fuel tank in high-speed rear-impact crashes. ford also will be offering an optional trunk package designed to improve the safe transport of sharp-edged, heavy equipment in these vehicles.
Risk and remedy
Risk
Some high-speed rear-impact crashes have resulted in fuel tank punctures and fires in cvpi vehicles.
Remedy
Ford has advised us that shield kits have been available since late october and will be installed on police interceptor vehicles at no cost. the optional trank package will be available by the end of 2002. ford has established a new web site at www.cvpi.com to answer additional questions about the safe use of cpvi vehicles.
Vehicle description: passenger vehicles using aftermarket driver's seat belt assemblies that were sold by ford parts departments from january 1, through june 13, 2000. these seat belt assemblies fail to comply with the requirements of fmvss no. 209, "seat belt assemblies." the equipment involved IS service stock seat belt assemblies, model nos. H 9977…
Risk and remedy
Risk
In the event of a collision, these seat belts may not restrain an occupant increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect these vehicles and replace the service seat belt assemblies that were installed in these vehicles from january 1 through june 13, 2000.
Vehicle description: passenger vehicles using aftermarket front passenger side seat belt assemblies that were sold by ford parts departments from january 1, through june 13, 2000. these seat belt assemblies fail to comply with the requirements of fmvss no. 209, "seat belt assemblies." the equipment involved IS service stock seat belt assemblies, model…
Risk and remedy
Risk
In the event of a collision, these seat belts may not restrain an occupant increasing the risk of injury.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect these vehicles and replace the service seat belt assemblies that were installed in these vehicles from january 1 through june 13, 2000.
Vehicle description: certain 1996-1999 ford crown victoria police, fleet, natural gas, and 1996-1999 lincoln town car limousine vehicles that were produced with a lower control arm ball joint containing a one piece bearing; and 1990-1996 ford crown victoria police, fleet, and ngv vehicles and 1990-1996 lincoln town car limousine vehicles that have been…
Risk and remedy
Risk
If this occurs while the vehicle IS moving, reduced steering control could occur, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Dealers will replace the lower control arm ball joints (2).
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 for owners of certain 1995-1997 crown victoria model vehicles with police, taxi, and commercial fleet packages and town car vehicles with the livery package. these…
Risk and remedy
Risk
This could lead to brake fluid loss for the rear brakes and, potentially, increased stopping distances.
Remedy
Dealers will inspect the brake lines for wear, install two new tube bundle clips, and check the brake lines for proper clearances. if the brake lines are worn, the damaged section of the brake line will be replaced.
Vehicle description: police and taxi vehicles. the hood latch striker can wear or become detached from the hood.
Risk and remedy
Risk
Either of these conditions can result in the hood opening without warning while the vehicle IS being operated impairing the driver's visibility.
Remedy
Dealers will install an improved hood latch striker (vehicles with 1992 model hoods) or revised striker plate attaching fasteners (vehicles with 1993-1997 model hoods).
Owner complaints
288 complaints9 involved a crash15 involved a fire18 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Suspension
The contact owns a 1997 Ford Crown Victoria. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel jerked, and the vehicle became difficult to maneuver. Additionally, the contact stated that the seat belt warning light was illuminated, and other unknown warning lights…
The contact owns a 1997 Ford Crown Victoria. The contact stated that while driving at an undisclosed speed, the steering wheel jerked, and the vehicle became difficult to maneuver. Additionally, the contact stated that the seat belt warning light was illuminated, and other unknown warning lights were illuminated. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the lower ball joints failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer was notified of the failure and the contact was informed that the vehicle needed to be diagnosed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 170,000.
- Visibility/wiper
Wiper live 4 in spot eye level cant see in rain replace arm and wiper blade still have spot.
- Engine
The car has a fiber glass intake and my car has about 75,000 miles..a fiberglass intake IS a defected product for this part of a engine,because of the heat.i bought this car new and even paid for the extended warrenty..ford motor co. Should replace this defect part,,for free..i had to park my car over 3 years ago..
- Service brakes
Hydraulic line to rear brake failed (ruptured) causing immediate release of brake fluid underneath driver front floor pan at location of interest mentioned in recall/"safety improvement program". owner was not contacted regarding notice which includes inspection of brake lines, replacement of clips (to avoid wear) and possible replacement of brake line and bleeding if needed.
- Electrical system · Interior lighting
TL* the contact owns a 1997 ford crown victoria. The contact stated that when the headlights were activated, the instrument panel, clock, and radio lights failed to illuminate. The vehicle was not taken to be diagnosed nor repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 151,000.
- Steering
Driving east on allen street in springfield massachusetts steering control locked up resulting in a crash with a gas station pump police crash report ID 15-3725-ac car was totalled out when it caught fire no noise was heard seconds before crash. I have noticed that there was a recall on the replacement parts but wonder if the oem parts could fail resulting in crash.
- Electrical system
TL* the contact owns a 1997 ford crown victoria. While attempting to accelerate, the vehicle stalled without warning. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where the tires, tie rods, ball joints, brakes, and battery were replaced. however, the failure kept recurring. On another…
TL* the contact owns a 1997 ford crown victoria. While attempting to accelerate, the vehicle stalled without warning. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where the tires, tie rods, ball joints, brakes, and battery were replaced. however, the failure kept recurring. On another occasion, the vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic and the vehicle was diagnosed with an unknown electric failure that was not repaired. The manufacturer was not made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 200,000.
- Electrical system · Exterior lighting
1997 ford crown victoria. Vehicle has had repairs done in the past and still receives same problems due to recall. *Ta the consumer stated the vehicle intermittently shut down. a diagnose revealed a problem with the lighting control module. Once it was replaced, the consumer did not experience…
1997 ford crown victoria. Vehicle has had repairs done in the past and still receives same problems due to recall. *Ta the consumer stated the vehicle intermittently shut down. a diagnose revealed a problem with the lighting control module. Once it was replaced, the consumer did not experience any more problems until the summer 2014 when the same problem recurred. Again, the lighting control module was replaced. *Jb
- Suspension · Wheels
A recall on ford crown victoria 1996-1999 built from march 15 1996 - december 14 1998 at the st.thomas assembly plant were produced with a lower control arm ball joint containing a one piece bearing. The lower control arm ball joint separation had reported incidents. after speaking with ford it IS…
A recall on ford crown victoria 1996-1999 built from march 15 1996 - december 14 1998 at the st.thomas assembly plant were produced with a lower control arm ball joint containing a one piece bearing. The lower control arm ball joint separation had reported incidents. after speaking with ford it IS unknown why my vehicle that was built during time frame at the st thomas assembly plant was not included on the recall. it should of been. after speaking with ford it IS unknown why it was not included. the parts mentioned above failed and nearly causing a accident lucky that I was not traveling at a high speed when incident took place. I addressed the safety issues for vehicles that failed to be included. Ford advised me that there was no reporting agency that could add my vehicle. There was every bit of proof that indeed it should of been included on that list. The agent verified my vehicle information and had no reason of why it had not been included. if you have a vehicle built between the above time frame. at the assembly plant mentioned in this recall. make sure that take action regarding these parts to avoid serious accidents. Error was made on that recall. *tr
- Steering · Structure › Frame and members › Underbody shields
The three bolts holding the steering gear box to the frame failed due to corrosion allowing the unit to become separated from the frame leading to a loss of steering control. *tr
- Electrical system · Exterior lighting
Was driving along and the headlights flickered and went out. Over the pass year it has intermittently done the same. It happened again about a month ago and fortunately I had just stopped at a red light. Each time it took about 3 to 5 minutes to come back on. It IS very disconcerting since this IS…
Was driving along and the headlights flickered and went out. Over the pass year it has intermittently done the same. It happened again about a month ago and fortunately I had just stopped at a red light. Each time it took about 3 to 5 minutes to come back on. It IS very disconcerting since this IS a very serious safety issue. So please do not take this lightly, I use the expressway a lot and am driving in very congested traffic most of the time. I do not know what ford has done about this problem since there are so many occurrences with these type of vehicles online. It needs to be addressed before a major accident occurs. Also most people like me cannot afford these expensive repairs that are not due to ordinary wear and tear, but a manufacturer's problem. If no action IS taken it will be quite a disappointment because these cars are very popular and younger people are buying them which becomes more scary in light of the kind of drivers they are. *tr
- Engine and engine cooling
While driving in nj, the manifold blew and made the vehicle inoperative. Luckily, my mechanic came and towed the car to his garage. The mechanic performed a pressure test and determined that the 'plastic manifold' had blown. The origin of the fluid leak was behind the alternator. then we did some…
While driving in nj, the manifold blew and made the vehicle inoperative. Luckily, my mechanic came and towed the car to his garage. The mechanic performed a pressure test and determined that the 'plastic manifold' had blown. The origin of the fluid leak was behind the alternator. then we did some research and found out that this was a problem back in 2004-5. I never knew, nor was I notified about this problem. I am the original owner of the car. the car was just into the ford dealership to diagnose a "check engine" light on, no discussion was made about this manifold problem ... They even checked for any previous technical bulletins. so, now what happens?
- Service brakes, hydraulic
Tl*the contact owns a 1997 ford crown victoria that IS equipped with a police interceptor. while driving approximately 2-3 mph the brakes failed. She applied pressure to the brakes in order to stop the vehicle but it did not stop. When the vehicle did stop in the middle of the street it had to be…
Tl*the contact owns a 1997 ford crown victoria that IS equipped with a police interceptor. while driving approximately 2-3 mph the brakes failed. She applied pressure to the brakes in order to stop the vehicle but it did not stop. When the vehicle did stop in the middle of the street it had to be pushed onto the side of the road. the vehicle was towed to her residence. The vehicle was taken to a local mechanic who advised her of recall 98i001000, service brakes, hydraulic foundation, hoses, lines/piping, and fittings. She called the manufacturer and the dealer who advised her that her vehicle was not part of the recall. The vehicle was not repaired. The vehicle was not drivable. The pre-owned vehicle was purchased in january 2005. The failure and current mileages were approximately 167,000.
- Suspension › Front
I own a 1997 crown victory , with 98015 miles, and within 6 mo. Of each event I have had 3 lower ball joints to falling out. Please tell me if ford doing anything to keep people driving 1997 ford crown victory safe? This IS very dangerous for the person that IS driving and the on coming person, which could be ford motor company ceo, or worst his wife, or my wife !!!!!!!! *Tr
- Engine and engine cooling
I own a 1997 crown vic less than 100 thousand miles. Bought the car 2 years ago at dealership in louisville ky. Found out there was recalls on vehicle after purchase was told carmax was good. Now here I sit with a cracked intake manifold which was recalled, but noone every fixed it. Someone should…
I own a 1997 crown vic less than 100 thousand miles. Bought the car 2 years ago at dealership in louisville ky. Found out there was recalls on vehicle after purchase was told carmax was good. Now here I sit with a cracked intake manifold which was recalled, but noone every fixed it. Someone should be responsible for this, yes was a recall shouldn't there be a law to make someone stand behind the crack intake manifold this was a 1 owner when I bought it with only like 60000 miles,. *Tr
- Suspension › Front › Control arm › Lower ball joint · Suspension › Front › Control arm › Upper ball joint
Tl*the contact owns a 1997 ford crown victoria. The contact stated that while driving 25 mph the front end of the vehicle collapsed. The vehicle was towed to a local mechanic. The mechanic replaced the lower and upper ball joints on the passenger side of the vehicle. The contact called the…
Tl*the contact owns a 1997 ford crown victoria. The contact stated that while driving 25 mph the front end of the vehicle collapsed. The vehicle was towed to a local mechanic. The mechanic replaced the lower and upper ball joints on the passenger side of the vehicle. The contact called the manufacturer regarding the dangers of the lower and upper ball joints. The manufacturer informed the contact that since there isn't a recall there was nothing they could do. the failure could have caused a crash to occur. The failure mileage was 50,017. Updated 04/01/10. *Lj the lower suspension support stuck the pavement and the wheel became detached from the steering mechanism, which made the vehicle uncontrollable. Updated 06/07/10*jb the consumer no longer owns the vehicle as it was involved in an accident and totaled. the accident was not related to the ball joint failure. Updated 06/30/10.*jb
- Vehicle speed control
1997 ford crown victoria cruise control problem *cw the consumer received a recall notice in the mail regarding the speed control deactivation switch. he went to the dealer to have the replacement part installed which only took a few minutes. While driving, the consumer decided to test the cruise…
1997 ford crown victoria cruise control problem *cw the consumer received a recall notice in the mail regarding the speed control deactivation switch. he went to the dealer to have the replacement part installed which only took a few minutes. While driving, the consumer decided to test the cruise control and soon discovered the cruise control did not work. The cruise on light never came on. After the part was installed, the mechanic did not take the vehicle for a test drive. The consumer immediately turned around and drove back to the dealer. The consumer was informed he would have to pay $87.00 for the diagnostic because the trouble shooting/diagnostic was not authorized/covered by the recall. The consumer stated the cruise control was working perfectly before the replacement part was installed. *jb
- Engine and engine cooling › Engine
I was driving home from work and thought a coolant hose had ruptured but after having the vehicle towed to my mechanic's place of business was told that the intake manifold had cracked and required replacement. after researching I found that ford had issued a recall for only a few models even…
I was driving home from work and thought a coolant hose had ruptured but after having the vehicle towed to my mechanic's place of business was told that the intake manifold had cracked and required replacement. after researching I found that ford had issued a recall for only a few models even though most of their 8 cylinder 4.6 engines utilized the same defective "composite" intake manifold. My crown victoria IS a 1997 with 60,000 original miles! *Tr
- Suspension › Front › Control arm
Tl*the contact owns a 1997 ford crown victoria. while driving 25 mph, the driver's side control arm separated from the ball joint. as a result, the vehicle was scraping the ground. the contact IS in the process of taking the vehicle to the dealer for inspection. the manufacturer stated that no…
Tl*the contact owns a 1997 ford crown victoria. while driving 25 mph, the driver's side control arm separated from the ball joint. as a result, the vehicle was scraping the ground. the contact IS in the process of taking the vehicle to the dealer for inspection. the manufacturer stated that no compensation would be provided because the vehicle was not included in the current recall regarding the failure. the failure and current mileages were 85,000.
- Engine and engine cooling
While checking the oil in the car, we noticed a crack in the intake. I was wondering if there has been a recall for this problem like with the firebird intake recalls. *Tr
- Vehicle speed control
Tl*the contact owns a 1997 ford crown victoria. the dealer stated that the vehicle was included in nhtsa campaign ID number 08v051000 (vehicle speed control:cruise control). the speed control switch was deactivated at the cost of $100. she called the manufacturer because the dealer charged her…
Tl*the contact owns a 1997 ford crown victoria. the dealer stated that the vehicle was included in nhtsa campaign ID number 08v051000 (vehicle speed control:cruise control). the speed control switch was deactivated at the cost of $100. she called the manufacturer because the dealer charged her for the repair and was advised to file a complaint with nhtsa. one year later, the contact received another recall notice advising her to return to the dealer to finish the repair. she has not had the repair completed. the contact has a copy of the invoice. the failure and current mileages were unknown.
- Engine and engine cooling › Cooling system
Intake plastic manifold cracked causing loss of coolant. Vehicle had 67660 miles on it. this IS the second crown vic we have owned and it will be the last. The first one's transmission went out just after the warranty ran out. We had to buy a second crown vic due to the steering modifications…
Intake plastic manifold cracked causing loss of coolant. Vehicle had 67660 miles on it. this IS the second crown vic we have owned and it will be the last. The first one's transmission went out just after the warranty ran out. We had to buy a second crown vic due to the steering modifications necessary for my wife to drive and the crown vic IS the only car at the time that could be modified to the necessary standards. *tr
- Vehicle speed control
Unacceptable outcome of 1997 crown victoria ford speed control deactivation program. consumer states that his speed control was working before being deactivated. *nj the consumer decided to test the cruise control and discovered the cruise on light did not come on. *jb updated 10/17/08. *Jb
- Engine and engine cooling
Tl*the contact owns a 1997 ford crown victoria. while driving approximately 45 mph, the engine warning light illuminated on the instrument control panel. the engine then began to overheat. the contact pulled over to further inspect the vehicle and noticed steam near the engine. the vehicle was…
Tl*the contact owns a 1997 ford crown victoria. while driving approximately 45 mph, the engine warning light illuminated on the instrument control panel. the engine then began to overheat. the contact pulled over to further inspect the vehicle and noticed steam near the engine. the vehicle was towed to a dealer and they stated that because the intake manifold was made out of plastic, it failed. the contact would have to pay over $3,000 to have the engine replaced. the vehicle has not been repaired. the failure and current mileages were 91,000.
- Service brakes, hydraulic
Steel brake line on 1997 ford crown victoria rusted out. brake fluid leaked out making the brakes inoperative. had repairs done at local mechanic who said this IS a frequent occurrence. this IS definitely a safety issue. *tr
Defect investigations
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.
- Spark plug ejection from cylinder head
On september 6, 2005, odi received a petition requesting that the agency investigate allegations of engine spark plug ejection in certain model year 1997 through 2004 ford vehicles with triton V-8 and V-10 engines.odi received a total of 474 non-duplicative complaints on the subject vehicles where the complainant, or…
On september 6, 2005, odi received a petition requesting that the agency investigate allegations of engine spark plug ejection in certain model year 1997 through 2004 ford vehicles with triton V-8 and V-10 engines.odi received a total of 474 non-duplicative complaints on the subject vehicles where the complainant, or the dealer repairing the vehicle, reported that a spark plug detached from the cylinder and/or ejected from the engine.as of december 8, 2005, odi IS not aware of any allegations where the alleged defect resulted in a loss of vehicle control, a crash, an injury, or a fatality in any of the 10,319,810 subject vehicles.in addition, odi IS aware of only two incidents where the vehicle stalled without restart.information contained in the odi consumer complaints and obtained from 72 telephone interviews with complainants showed the following:(1) 99% of the complaints were on my 1997 to 2002 subject vehicles.(2) most the complainants reported hearing a loud pop while driving or upon starting up the vehicle followed by a loud, repetitive clicking or popping sound.(3) many of the complainants reported that the popping sound was accompanied by some loss of vehicle power; however, in 99% of the incidents reported, the vehicle did not stall.in the very few incidents where the vehicle did stall, most vehicles could be restarted.(4) only a small percentage of the complainants cited that they smelled gas or a slight burning smell when the incident occurred.(5) in all but a very few incidents, vehicle damage was limited to the engine.in one incident, the complaint reported that the fuel rail was damaged and replaced after one of the spark plugs ejected from the engine; however, the complainant reported that the damage did not result in any type of fuel leak or fire.in another incident, the only incident where a fire was alleged, the complainant reported that no fluid leak was observed, but that a fire resulted after the spark plug had ejected from the engine and he had restarted the vehicle and driven to another location.none of the complainants reported any damage to the vehicle hood.(6) only two complainants reported that they observed what appeared to be some drops of fuel coming from the cylinder where the spark plug had failed or on the spark plug itself; however, each of these complainants reported that there was no smoke or flames as a result of his incident.as the petitioner noted, and odi?s analysis showed, it IS possible for a spark plug to detach from the engine cylinder threads in the subject vehicles.however, odi?s analysis of 474 complaints describing such incidents found only a very few alleged any safety-related consequences.none of these showed any evidence of a serious safety consequence.given the large population and relatively long exposure time of the subject vehicles, the complaint analysis indicates that the risk to motor vehicle safety from the alleged defect IS very low.in view of the foregoing, it IS unlikely that nhtsa would issue an order for the notification and remedy of the alleged defect at the conclusion of the investigation requested in the petition.therefore, in view of the need to allocate and prioritize nhtsa?s limited resources to best accomplish the agency?s safety mission, the petition IS denied.
- Rear brake line failure
In a letter dated february 25, 2005, ford motor company (ford) notified odi that it would be conducting a customer satisfaction program (ford no. 04B26) to correct a rear brake line chafing concern in approximately 44,000 model year (my) 1997 ford crown victoria and grand marquis non-fleet vehicles equipped with…
In a letter dated february 25, 2005, ford motor company (ford) notified odi that it would be conducting a customer satisfaction program (ford no. 04B26) to correct a rear brake line chafing concern in approximately 44,000 model year (my) 1997 ford crown victoria and grand marquis non-fleet vehicles equipped with electronic traction control that werebuilt after march 19, 1997.these vehicles have an additional rear brake line and a mastic patch causing reduced clearance from a stiffening rib in the floor pan.odi?s analysis showed higher complaint and warranty rates related to rear brake line failures in this population than in other subject vehicles and peer mid-sized passenger cars that were evaluated during the investigation.vehicles involved in ford?s program will have the rear brake lines inspected for contact with the floor pan stiffing rib.if there IS contact, but no abrasion or leakage, the brake lines will be repositioned.if there IS abrasion or a leak IS evident the brake line will be repaired.if necessary, both of the rear brake lines will be replaced. Though ford does not admit to a safety-defect in the subject components, odi believes that the facts in this investigation show otherwise because the insufficient clearance in the routing of those brake lines may result in leaks in those lines that may result in increased stopping distances.odi IS designating the campaign a safety recall (nhtsa recall no. 05V-086).because of the low rates of brake line failures in the remaining subject vehicles, a safety-related defect has not been identified in those populations and further use of agency resources does not appear to be warranted.the closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by nhtsa that no safety-related defect exists in those vehicles.the agency reserves the right to take further action if warranted by the circumstances.for additional information, see the attached closing report.
- Rear brake line failure
Odi has received 40 complaints alleging rear brake line failure in the subject vehicles, including 8 that have been received this year.an additional 192 reports and 478 warranty claims have been received from ford.a leak in the rear brake line can cause extended stopping distance.a search of odi's complaint database…
Odi has received 40 complaints alleging rear brake line failure in the subject vehicles, including 8 that have been received this year.an additional 192 reports and 478 warranty claims have been received from ford.a leak in the rear brake line can cause extended stopping distance.a search of odi's complaint database for peer vehicle complaints, using the same brake line failure criteria as for the subject vehicles and the same model years (1995-97), identified only 1 complaint involving general motors caprice/implala/88/98/regal vehicles and only 2 complaints involving chrysler lh-cars.the investigation has been upgraded to an engineering analysis to further evaluate the frequency, scope, and causal factors related to rear brake line failures in the subject vehicle population.
- CNG tank explosion
In september 2002, a fuel cylinder in a natural gas powered vehicle (ngv) exploded during a fire.ford and vrtc test engineers jointly examined the incident vehicle and reviewed testing to determine whether the performance of the pressure relief valve (prd) was proper.the purpose of a prd IS to protect a compressed…
In september 2002, a fuel cylinder in a natural gas powered vehicle (ngv) exploded during a fire.ford and vrtc test engineers jointly examined the incident vehicle and reviewed testing to determine whether the performance of the pressure relief valve (prd) was proper.the purpose of a prd IS to protect a compressed natural gas tank from overpressure by allowing the CNG to vent when the temperature reaches a specific point.the prd was removed from the failed tank and subjected to a yield temperature determination test. It was concluded that a direct flame (from the interior of the vehicle) onto the cylinder (located behind the rear seat in the trunk)compromised the hoop strength of the natural gas cylinder, thus allowing the cylinder to fail prior to the prd releasing at itsdesigned temperature.as a result of this testing and review of the involved vehicle, ford has developed an insulator to insulate the natural gas fuel tank from a locally directed flame projecting from the interior of the vehicle.insulators will be installed behind the back seat on subject vehicles to prevent future failures of this type. Ford's action addresses the concerns of odi.therefore, this investigation IS closed.
- Ball joint separation
See attached report.
- CNG tank exploding in a fire
An explosion of a compressed natural gas (CNG) tank should not be able to occur, as the tank IS fitted with a pressure relief device (prd). This prd should release the CNG in the tank, prior to the pressure reaching the tank burst pressure.the prd did not release in the subject wisconsin police cruiser explosion.nhtsa…
An explosion of a compressed natural gas (CNG) tank should not be able to occur, as the tank IS fitted with a pressure relief device (prd). This prd should release the CNG in the tank, prior to the pressure reaching the tank burst pressure.the prd did not release in the subject wisconsin police cruiser explosion.nhtsa has recovered the prd valve from the tank that exploded and testing will be necessary to establish why this tank safety valve did not release in the very high temperature fire that occurred in the police cruiser.there IS only the single known event, but due to the catastropic force of such an explosion and the potential for injury and loss of life, this investigation IS being upgraded.
- Speed control deactivation switch fires
Based on the low rate of fire incidents (2.5 incidents per 100,000 vehicles sold) where failure of the scds IS involved and the age of the vehicles ? 7 to 11 years ? A safety-related defect trend has not been identified and further use of agency resources does not appear to be warranted.the closing of this…
Based on the low rate of fire incidents (2.5 incidents per 100,000 vehicles sold) where failure of the scds IS involved and the age of the vehicles ? 7 to 11 years ? A safety-related defect trend has not been identified and further use of agency resources does not appear to be warranted.the closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by nhtsa that no safety-related defect exists.the agency reserves the right to take further action if warranted by the circumstances.for additional information, see the attached closing report.
- Fuel-fed fires
The fars data shows that the risk of fire from impact in all directions in the subject vehicles IS the same as all other sedans.the subject vehicles are not over represented with respect to the risk of fire in real-world high-energy crashes.a further discussion of issues related to post crash fires in the subject…
The fars data shows that the risk of fire from impact in all directions in the subject vehicles IS the same as all other sedans.the subject vehicles are not over represented with respect to the risk of fire in real-world high-energy crashes.a further discussion of issues related to post crash fires in the subject vehicles IS set out in the closing report for sq 01-014 and that report IS in the docket for this petition.after reviewing the petition and its supporting materials, as well as information furnished by ford and gm, and information within the agency's possession from previous investigations and other related actions,nhtsa has concluded that futher investigation concerning post-crash fires in the subject vehicles IS not likely to lead to a decision that the vehicles contain a safety defect.
- Post rear end collision fires
There is no summary currently available
- Front seat anchor bolt failure
The driver's seat, of the subject split-seat configuration, IS secured to the vehicle floor pan with four bolts.a single bolt IS located at both the front and rear of each of the two seat tracks.these tracks are located on each side of the seat.if the outboard-forward bolt fails, the seat IS retained by 3 remaining…
The driver's seat, of the subject split-seat configuration, IS secured to the vehicle floor pan with four bolts.a single bolt IS located at both the front and rear of each of the two seat tracks.these tracks are located on each side of the seat.if the outboard-forward bolt fails, the seat IS retained by 3 remaining bolts.when retained by 3 bolts, the rearward movement of the left side of the seat back IS limited to approximately 4 inches.this was determined by ford testing and confirmed by odi.this minimal movement should not cause a driver to experience difficulties controlling the vehicle.ford has developed a kit to repair the seat bolt boss, consisting of a large, 3/16 inch thick washer, contoured to fit inside the floor pan seat bolt boss reinforcement.this fix was added to production vehicles in september, 1997.ford IS currently preparting a technical service bulletin, to be sent to both dealer and operators of police vehicles, announcing the availability of the kit for in-sevice repairs.a safety-related defect trend has not been identified at this time and further use of agency resources does not appear to be warranted.the closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by nhtsa that no safety-related defect exists.the agency reserves the right to take further action on these models if warranted by the circumstances.
Service bulletins
Technical service bulletins and other communications the manufacturer sent dealers about this vehicle. Ask a dealer for the full document by its number.
- 10026401Ford/lincoln mercury: certain 1992-2001 model year crown victoria, grand marquis, and town car vehicles registered in the states of wisconsin and connecticut upgrade modifications for high speed rear impacts.
- 10023943Some 1997-2008 vehicles equipped with a 4.6L 2V, 5.4L 2V, or 6.8L 2V engine--spark plug thread repair procedure--not covered under new vehicle limited warranty. This includes F-53 motorhome chassis. Updated 2/23/10.
- 10018959Extended coverage program 05n04 - extended coverage for composite intake manifold. This program IS being provided as a settlement to a class action lawsuit. The terms of the settlement extend the coverage of the all-composite intake manifold to 7 years from the original warranty start date of the vehicle, with no limit on the number of miles that the vehicle has been driven.
- 10014620Charging system limitations.
- 10014086General (pcm) power train control module programming procedures.
- 10013060Climate control a/c service tech tips.
- 10012945Abrasion of the rear brake tube near the floor pan stiffening rib and the #3 transmission cross member. Advance notice-customer satisfaction program 04b26.
- 10008580Lamp-brake-invadvertent disabling of brake shift interlock.
- 10008279New service part - number 5 needle bearing and race kit - 4r70w transmission - service tip.
- 10008275Malfunction indicator lamp (mil) on with diagnostic trouble codes (dtcs) p0420 and/or p0430.
- 10004951Malfunction indicator lamp (mil) on with diagnostic trouble codes (dtcs) p0420 (catalyst system efficiency below threshold - bank 1) and/or p0430 (catalyst system efficiency below threshold - bank 2).
- 10004889Some dedicated CNG vehicles may exhibit various driveability conditions due to a loss of injector performance, resulting from fuel quality. Loss of power at heavy load, diagnostic trouble codes (dtcs) for lean fuel, rough idle, hard start, plugged catalytic converter and no start condition.
- 10004029Dedicated compressed natural gas (CNG) rough idle or no start when cold vehicles equipped with dedicated 4.6L or 5.4L CNG engine only.
- 10004027Remote keyless entry (rke) - service tips.
- 10003855Police interceptor may exhibit low charging system voltage at idle.
- 10002780Malfunction indicator lamp (mil) illumination with diagnostic trouble codes p0442, p0455, p0456, p0457, p1442 or check fuel cap lamp illuminated with diagnostic trouble code p0457.
- 10002519Possible fuel leak at fill valve - fill valve service part revisions - CNG vehicles only.
- 10001901A possible fuel leak may occur at the fuel fill valve on some CNG (compressed natural gas) vehicles.
- 10000878Installation of optional police interceptor package upgrade kit. Update part 2. Expiration date removed.
- 6091700Some vehicles may exhibit a vibration and / or transmission extension housing bushing damage from sustained high speed operation.
- 6090873Locks failed. Yd
- 6090634Information regarding vibration/extension housing bushing. *Mjs
- 6090184Information on replacing and / or repairing malfunctioning (door, ignition and decklid) locks.
- 6090131Information on diagnosing a vehicle with malfunction indicator lamp illuminated and diagnostic trouble codes p0442 and p0455 stored in continuous memory.
- 6090087Information on identifying non-approved / alternate refrigerants which could cause safety, and performance concerns if installed in ford a/c systems.
- 6090085Service information for musty and mildew type odors coming from the air conditioning / heating system.
- 6090082Information for servicing and diagnosing brake vibration, brake inspection, and brake friction material replacement.
- 6090055Vehicles built between 3/15/1997 and 12/31/1998 and with 4r70w transmissions may experience delayed or no 2-3 upshift, transmission control indicator lamp illuminated with diagnostic trouble code p0782 stored in memory.
- 6089681Subject on a wire harness terminal repair kit available for repairing electrical wiring harnesses.
- 6089616Emission recall for vehicles that were built with a fuel filler-valve which could leak while the vehicle IS being operated which can exceed evaporative emissions standards.
- 636417Guidance for CNG tank inspection for vehicles produced after december 2, 1996. Update.
- 636408Some dedicated CNG vehicles may exhibit driveability conditions of hard start / no start / rough running.
- 636080Transfer service tips for the front wiper motor mount bracket and depressed park output arm.
- 636042Subject regarding alternative fuel vehicle compressed natural gas tank inspection.
- 630628Some vehicles may exhibit an intake manifold crossover (first runner) coolant seepage condition.
- 630515Engine oil system priming procedures, service tips for reports of premature engine failure.
- 630320Some dedicated compressed natural gas (CNG) vehicles may exhibit a rough idle, or no start in cold conditions.
- 630001Some engine assemblies with aluminum cylinder heads repaired in-vehile have been found to leak coolant and/or oil from the cylinder head gasket area.
- 627927Some vehicles may exhibit vacuum or air leaks in the intake manifold and / or engine system causing diagnostic trouble codes p0171 and or p0174.
- 627791Parts and procedure to reduce the potential of fuel tank punctures during rare and extremely high-speed rear impacts.
Every Ford Crown Victoria model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.