2005 Mercury Monterey
Safety record from NHTSA: recalls, owner complaints, investigations and service bulletins.
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Vehicles › Mercury › Monterey › 2005
These records cover every 2005 Mercury Monterey. To see whether one car still needs a recall repair, decode its VIN or check it with NHTSA.
Recalls
4 recalls name the 2005 Mercury Monterey. Newest first.
Ford is recalling certain model year 2004-2007 Freestar and Mercury Monterey vehicles manufactured from March 24, 2003, through November 7, 2006, equipped with a third row seat and originally sold in, or currently registered in, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New…
Risk and remedy
Risk
In the event that the vehicle is crashed into from the rear, an unlatched seat may increase the risk of personal injury.
Remedy
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will install new third row seat latch striker mounting brackets, free of charge. The recall began on March 28, 2013. Owners may contact Ford Motor Company Customer Relationship Center at 1-866-436-7332.
Ford IS recalling certain model year 2004 and 2005 ford freestar and mercury monterey vehicles. the torque converter output shaft may fail.
Risk and remedy
Risk
This condition results in a sudden loss of motive power with no warning, increasing the risk of a crash.
Remedy
Ford will notify owners, and dealers will replace the torque converter free of charge. the safety recall began on august 9, 2012. owners may contact the ford motor company customer relationship center at 1-866-436-7332.
Certain aftermarket fuel filters sold under the purolator brand name, p/n f65277, shipped from january 16 through june 2, 2006, for use on the above listed passenger vehicles. due to incorrect design, the quick connectors may not fully seat with the tube interface, even though the person making the connection may believe that the quick connector IS fully…
Risk and remedy
Risk
Failure of this connection could lead to fuel spillage and, in the presence of an ignition source, a fire could occur.
Remedy
Ufi will notify owners and replace the filters free of charge. the recall began on august 4, 2006. owners may contact ufi filters USA at 800-230-5876.
On certain vans equipped with the power liftgate option, the power liftgate motor automatically disengages after the liftgate IS powered open.
Risk and remedy
Risk
In the event of a liftgate strut malfunction, the liftgate can fall freely with no prior warning. Anyone standing beneath the liftgate may be injured if the liftgate falls.
Remedy
Dealers will reprogram the power liftgate module to reduce the likelihood that the liftgate could fall free of charge. the recall began on march 15, 2006. owners may contact ford at 1-800-392-3673.
Owner complaints
119 complaints2 involved a crash7 injuries
What owners report most
Latest complaints
- Power train
The contact's fiancée owns a 2005 Mercury Monterey. The contact stated while his fiancée was driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed and the vehicle failed to respond and inadvertently stopped. The contact’s fiancée pushed the vehicle over the third of a mile by herself…
The contact's fiancée owns a 2005 Mercury Monterey. The contact stated while his fiancée was driving at an undisclosed speed, the accelerator pedal was depressed and the vehicle failed to respond and inadvertently stopped. The contact’s fiancée pushed the vehicle over the third of a mile by herself until she received assistance to push the vehicle to a parking lot. The vehicle was hauled to the contact's residence. The contact stated that upon starting the vehicle and shifting into gear, the vehicle failed to respond. The contact, who is an independent mechanic diagnosed that the transmission needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 95,357.
- Power train
TL* the contact owns a 2005 mercury monterey. The contact stated that while slowing down the vehicle would not accelerate when pressing the accelerator pedal and while switching gears the vehicle would lunge forward. The cause of the failure was not determined. The manufacturer and the local dealer…
TL* the contact owns a 2005 mercury monterey. The contact stated that while slowing down the vehicle would not accelerate when pressing the accelerator pedal and while switching gears the vehicle would lunge forward. The cause of the failure was not determined. The manufacturer and the local dealer forsom lake ford (12755 folsom blvd, forsom lake ca.) was notified of the failure but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 124,000.
- Engine
I purchased my 2005 mercury monterey in feb/march 2018, in july of 2018 I go out to start my van to leave and nothing happens wont start, so we look under the hood every thing seems fine, I call the tow truck to have it towed to the shop, oil spills out all over my driveway, there IS a huge hole in…
I purchased my 2005 mercury monterey in feb/march 2018, in july of 2018 I go out to start my van to leave and nothing happens wont start, so we look under the hood every thing seems fine, I call the tow truck to have it towed to the shop, oil spills out all over my driveway, there IS a huge hole in the engine, so we had a used engine put in march 2019, sept 2019 I go to start my van and nothing, this time I get out and notice a huge puddle of oil.. We get down to look to see why and yet again there IS another hole in the "newer" engine!
- Seats · Structure
TL* the contact owns a 2005 mercury monterey. The contact stated that the carpet on the vehicle's floor was moist. Also, the third row seat latch was so corroded that the contact could see the ground. The contact called westland ford dealer (801) 629-5500 (located at 3450 wall ave, ogden, ut 84401)…
TL* the contact owns a 2005 mercury monterey. The contact stated that the carpet on the vehicle's floor was moist. Also, the third row seat latch was so corroded that the contact could see the ground. The contact called westland ford dealer (801) 629-5500 (located at 3450 wall ave, ogden, ut 84401) and was informed that the vin and state were not included in nhtsa campaign number: 13v081000 (seats). The manufacturer was notified of the failure and referred the contact to nhtsa. The approximate failure mileage was 112,000.
- Engine · Power train › Automatic transmission › Control module (tcm/pcm/tecm)
TL* the contact owns a 2005 mercury monterey. The contact stated that the service engine warning indicator illuminated while shifting from park into reverse. In addition, the vehicle lost power without warning. The vehicle was unable to be driven. Rivertown ford (1680 whittlesey rd, columbus, ga…
TL* the contact owns a 2005 mercury monterey. The contact stated that the service engine warning indicator illuminated while shifting from park into reverse. In addition, the vehicle lost power without warning. The vehicle was unable to be driven. Rivertown ford (1680 whittlesey rd, columbus, ga 31904, (706) 653-7420) indicated that the power train control module needed to be replaced and that the part would need to be ordered. In addition, it was stated that water intrusion caused the failure. The vehicle was not included in a warranty campaign. The contact referenced nhtsa campaign numbers: 06e056000 (fuel system, gasoline) and 12v006000 (power train) as possible causes of the failure. The manufacturer was notified. The vin and failure mileage were not available.
- Structure › Body › Hatchback/liftgate
TL* the contact owns a 2005 mercury monterey. The contact stated that the hatchback closed unintentionally while in use. The contact mentioned that the spare tire could not be reached because the hatchback failed to operate correctly. Fox ford mazda (3560 28TH st SE, grand rapids, mi 49512, (616)…
TL* the contact owns a 2005 mercury monterey. The contact stated that the hatchback closed unintentionally while in use. The contact mentioned that the spare tire could not be reached because the hatchback failed to operate correctly. Fox ford mazda (3560 28TH st SE, grand rapids, mi 49512, (616) 956-5511) informed the contact that a diagnostic test would have to be performed. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was unknown.
- Air bags
Takata recall. Traveling on road approximately 45-50 mph. Tried ro avoid hitting some deer who suddenly ran out from the woods in front if my van. The front passenger tire deflated after it hit the ditch. Then the van swerved into the ditch and flipped over twice. Front windshield came out back window came out. Roof of vehicle was crushed. Passenger side was crushed after the rollover. None of the airbags deployed.
- Air bags
TL* the contact owned a 2005 mercury monterey. While driving approximately 55 mph, the driver lost control of the vehicle. As a result, the vehicle crashed and rolled over multiple times. The air bags did not deploy. The driver sustained lacerations and bruises to the torso while the front…
TL* the contact owned a 2005 mercury monterey. While driving approximately 55 mph, the driver lost control of the vehicle. As a result, the vehicle crashed and rolled over multiple times. The air bags did not deploy. The driver sustained lacerations and bruises to the torso while the front passenger sustained bruises to the right arm. Medical attention was required. A police report was filed. The vehicle was destroyed and towed to an undisclosed location. The cause of the failure was not determined. The manufacturer and local dealer were not notified of the failures. The failure mileage was 110,000.
- Power train
TL* the contact owns a 2005 mercury monterey. The contact stated that the gears failed to shift into drive and reverse without warning. The wheels spun when the failure occurred. In addition, the transmission was replaced prior to the failure by bill estes ford (450 n northfield dr, brownsburg, in…
TL* the contact owns a 2005 mercury monterey. The contact stated that the gears failed to shift into drive and reverse without warning. The wheels spun when the failure occurred. In addition, the transmission was replaced prior to the failure by bill estes ford (450 n northfield dr, brownsburg, in 46112, (317) 852-2231). The failure continued and was taken back to the dealer for further diagnostic testing. The dealer stated that a manufacturer recall had been performed and provided no solution other than stating that the torque converter may need to be replaced. The manufacturer was notified of the failure, indicated that a recall had already been performed, and recommended the vehicle be taken to the dealer for diagnostic testing and repair. The vehicle was unable to be driven. The approximate failure mileage was 145,000.
- Power train
Transmission would not go into reverse in driveway. turned vehicle off and restarted and it went into reverese. I then put in forward gear and as I am driving down road the vehicle dies. no issue with shifting before today. if I put the vehicle in neutral the rpm goes up to 2000. I…
Transmission would not go into reverse in driveway. turned vehicle off and restarted and it went into reverese. I then put in forward gear and as I am driving down road the vehicle dies. no issue with shifting before today. if I put the vehicle in neutral the rpm goes up to 2000. I called ford today with vin # and they told me this vehicle has been fixed per safety recall 11s25 supplement #1. vehicle IS full of fluid and fluid does not have a burnt smell.
- Power train
Vehicle had sudden loss of motive power while driving straight and accelerating to 60mph highway speeds, almost causing multi-car accident. After coasting to shoulder, the transmission would not engage in any forward or reverse gear. This serious safety defect could have lead to the death of…
Vehicle had sudden loss of motive power while driving straight and accelerating to 60mph highway speeds, almost causing multi-car accident. After coasting to shoulder, the transmission would not engage in any forward or reverse gear. This serious safety defect could have lead to the death of myself and my family of five. Towed vehicle to the local dealership who told us they were aware of a recall for the 2005 mercury monterey regarding that issue and ford's recall campaign number IS 11s25. The recall described this exact failure. ("Summary: ford IS recalling certain model year 2004 and 2005 ford freestar and mercury monterey vehicles. The torque converter output shaft may fail.") however, after they entered the vin number for my vehicle, they said the recall was not extended to that vehicle. That IS wrong since this IS a serious safety issue and would cause injury or death. *tr
- Power train
While driving on a busy road I started to lose power and could not go over 30 mph. I coasted home and had to call a tow to the dealership, williamsburg ford. The dealer confirmed that the transmission needed to be replaced. There had been a recall on this vehicle in 2012 for the torque converter…
While driving on a busy road I started to lose power and could not go over 30 mph. I coasted home and had to call a tow to the dealership, williamsburg ford. The dealer confirmed that the transmission needed to be replaced. There had been a recall on this vehicle in 2012 for the torque converter which was replaced by the previous owner. However, it IS obvious that the damage was already done and the transmission went out at 70000 miles which should not happen on any car. I sent you an email previously on this issue and have not heard back. I called ford and they said they wouldn't do anything about it. This IS not right and something should be done. They should stand behind their product when it comes to safety.
- Power train
I was stopped at a four way stop sign in my 2005 mercury monterey. just as I pressed on the gas to move through the intersection, the transmission let go. I was fortunate that I could coast out of harms way. the car IS now immoblie. this IS the second catastrophic transmission failure on…
I was stopped at a four way stop sign in my 2005 mercury monterey. just as I pressed on the gas to move through the intersection, the transmission let go. I was fortunate that I could coast out of harms way. the car IS now immoblie. this IS the second catastrophic transmission failure on this vehicle. transmission failed in july 2012 at 109K miles. car was repaired according to ford specifications. second failure on 11-8-2016 at 170K miles. without warning the transmission disengages and the car does not move forward. a second failure related to the same issue 60K miles after the defect was allegedly corrected IS unacceptable.
- Power train
I submitted a complaint on this vehicle about two weeks ago. I wanted to add some additional information. Just to recap: this 2005 mercury monterey was recalled in 2012 for the torque convertor. The job was completed at a dealership by the previous owner when it had less than 30000 miles. The…
I submitted a complaint on this vehicle about two weeks ago. I wanted to add some additional information. Just to recap: this 2005 mercury monterey was recalled in 2012 for the torque convertor. The job was completed at a dealership by the previous owner when it had less than 30000 miles. The transmission went out again at 70000 miles. Traveling down a busy road I lost power and could not accelerate over 30mph and the rpm's jumped erratically and the transaxle light came on. Towed it to the dealer that confirmed it was the transmission and then towed it to a transmission specialist. They said the transmission was shot and replaced the following parts: master oh kit, band, piston, servo, torque convertor. The total cost was $1814.00. The mechanic confirmed that this should not have happened at 70000 miles and just a few years after the recall. The original torque convertor must have done more damage than what was repaired in 2012. I feel that ford should pay for the transmission rebuild as it IS obviously a result of the original recall.
- Power train
For about 3 weeks the car shuttered between 40 and 50 mph. Then, while driving on a busy road traveling about 45 miles per hour, I began to lose power, the rpm's jumped erratically, and the transaxle light started flashing. I took the car to wiiliamsburg ford (dealership) and they did a diagnostic…
For about 3 weeks the car shuttered between 40 and 50 mph. Then, while driving on a busy road traveling about 45 miles per hour, I began to lose power, the rpm's jumped erratically, and the transaxle light started flashing. I took the car to wiiliamsburg ford (dealership) and they did a diagnostic that indicated a transmission problem 3RD and 4TH gear. I contacted ford as there was a torque convertor recall because of a faulty part causing damage to the transmission. They said the torque convertor was replaced in aug. Of 2012 by the previous owner under the recall. If that corrected the problem the transmission should not have failed at 70000 miles. The torque convertor most likely damaged the transmission before it was replaced and shortened the life. Ford IS telling me that they will not cover this since the torque convertor was replaced but this should not have happened if it was done correctly. *tr
- Power train
Please see attached letter and invoice.
- Power train
You'll be driving down the street or highway and it all of sudden it loses power and the light that means transaxle problem has been detected and shifting may be restricted. Have system services immediately if light remains on. I looked it up with my vin number and I know there IS a recall due to…
You'll be driving down the street or highway and it all of sudden it loses power and the light that means transaxle problem has been detected and shifting may be restricted. Have system services immediately if light remains on. I looked it up with my vin number and I know there IS a recall due to this problem. I looked it up on a site and it said it hadn't been fixed and I called one dealership and they said they don't see where it had been fixed either. Then all of sudden when I discover another dealership that IS closer to me a couple days later and decided to call them to see if they could get me in instead of the first dealership cause it was closer to my house they all of sudden say it was already had been fixed back in 2012. Which IS bull cause I looked it up on a site and it said it hadn't and the first dealership also said it hadn't but now two or thee says later it's strangely in the system when I call the second dealership that I called cause it was closer. That IS very strange and ironic that all of sudden it's now in system that it's been repaired.
- Structure › Body
TL* the contact owns a 2005 mercury monterey. While the vehicle was being serviced by an independent mechanic, it was discovered that the third row seat did not latch due to severe corrosion on the rear driver side wheel well. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the…
TL* the contact owns a 2005 mercury monterey. While the vehicle was being serviced by an independent mechanic, it was discovered that the third row seat did not latch due to severe corrosion on the rear driver side wheel well. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure and stated that the vin was not included in nhtsa campaign number: 13v081000 (seats). The failure mileage was approximately 156,000.
- Structure › Body
TL* the contact owns a 2005 mercury monterey. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 13v081000 (seats). The vehicle was taken to a dealer. The technician stated that the condition of the vehicle did not support the installation of the recalled part due to excessive corrosion in…
TL* the contact owns a 2005 mercury monterey. The contact received notification of nhtsa campaign number: 13v081000 (seats). The vehicle was taken to a dealer. The technician stated that the condition of the vehicle did not support the installation of the recalled part due to excessive corrosion in the wheel well of the rear driver side of the vehicle. In addition, the contact stated that the striker latch had previously detached. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The failure mileage was 141,765.
- Power train
Driving n-i 275 suddenly lost power and had to cross 4 lanes to safety shoulder without causing an accident. Called husband to pick me up to take me to work. Then he had to meet tow truck and drive to dealer to repair van. To make a short detail of all the problems (this problem has happened 3…
Driving n-i 275 suddenly lost power and had to cross 4 lanes to safety shoulder without causing an accident. Called husband to pick me up to take me to work. Then he had to meet tow truck and drive to dealer to repair van. To make a short detail of all the problems (this problem has happened 3 times since the first time ) (lost time from work ) (towing charges) (paying all for repairs ) (rental cars) (time spent to pick-up van,waiting for road services).then told by ford motor that most charges won't be covered. *tr
- Structure › Body › Tailgate
My son and I were putting groceries in the back of the van and the tailgate fell on his head. the automatic lift wouldn't lift up. My son had to physically lift it up. I called the company (mercury) and reported what happened and the gentleman said that there was no recall and he was sorry this happened and hung up. He wouldn't let me ask any questions. the tail gate doesn't open at all now. *tr
- Power train
My 2005 mercury monterey shut down while I was traveling at 65 in heavy traffic. after getting off the highway and restarting it, the transmission shifted hard and the engine missed. *tr
- Power train
2005 mercury monterey van. consumer writes in regards to transmission recall notice and unsatisfactory customer service at dealership. *smd the consumer stated the recall was performed on september 27, 2012. However, on january 7, 2013, the consumer experienced a problem with forward hesitation…
2005 mercury monterey van. consumer writes in regards to transmission recall notice and unsatisfactory customer service at dealership. *smd the consumer stated the recall was performed on september 27, 2012. However, on january 7, 2013, the consumer experienced a problem with forward hesitation, and the inability to back up. The service department determined the problem was electrical and installed a new battery, among other repairs, with a final bill of $235.00. On january 25, 2013, the consumer experienced the same problem again. The service department installed a new turbine speed sensor. Six days later, after the turbine was installed, the consumer experienced the problem again. The vehicle was inspected, and the dealer determined the transmission needed to replaced.*jb
- Electrical system · Engine · Power train
It was raining and my vehicle kept going into neutral and stalling. I'D press the gas, nothing would happen. it wouldn't go into reverse. when I put it in neutral the engine just revved up. putting it park was ok. check engine codes p0715 and p0340 appeared. a flashing check engine light…
It was raining and my vehicle kept going into neutral and stalling. I'D press the gas, nothing would happen. it wouldn't go into reverse. when I put it in neutral the engine just revved up. putting it park was ok. check engine codes p0715 and p0340 appeared. a flashing check engine light (!), and solid check engine light appeared. putting in drive, it would only go into 3RD gear. 1ST gear worked if I moved the prndl to 1. reverse didn't work at all. I could have easily been killed if this happened while driving anywhere but my neighborhood. this IS different from the recent torque converter recall that IS also scary and also results in loss of forward momentum. my problem IS with the pcm. the dealer performed diagnostics and repairs according to ford's tsb 06-14-10 which indicates this IS a common problem on all 1999-2007 ford vans. if they've known about this for 7 years, and it affects nearly a million vehicles, why hasn't it been recalled? surely nhtsa has received complaints about this. I have a friend who had this happen on her 2004 ford van within the last year. she also lost reverse and the car would limp in drive just like mine did. the repair shop knew exactly what to do and repaired her pcm. I've asked her to file a nhtsa complaint as well. this IS a safety concern. I paid my ford dealer to fix because my safety IS at stake, and obviously because the vehicle was performing sub-par, but I feel this particular issue should be covered by ford, not by the customer, just as was done with the recent rear seat rust and torque converter recalls on this same vehicle. this IS no different. it IS beyond normal wear and tear. *tr
- Seats
TL* the contact owns a 2005 mercury monterey. The contact was driving 60 mph when third row seating frame fractured. The vehicle was not taken for inspection or repair. The manufacturer was notified and stated that the vehicle was purchased out of the state, in which they would not acknowledge nhtsa campaign number: 13v081000 (seats). The approximate failure mileage was 170000.
Defect investigations
NHTSA’s Office of Defects Investigation opened these reviews into vehicles including this one.
- Stabilus Rear Liftgate Struts Failing
Please see the attached closing resume summary.It has been attached to this document as a PDF.
- Corrosion of Third-Row Seat Attachment
Ford is conducting a safety recall to repair the third-row seat's latch mechanisms in approximately 196,667 model year (MY) 2004 through 2007 Ford Freestar and Mercury Monterey vehicles (see NHTSA recall 13V-081 for more details).The recall covers vehicles originally sold, or currently registered, in the salt belt…
Ford is conducting a safety recall to repair the third-row seat's latch mechanisms in approximately 196,667 model year (MY) 2004 through 2007 Ford Freestar and Mercury Monterey vehicles (see NHTSA recall 13V-081 for more details).The recall covers vehicles originally sold, or currently registered, in the salt belt states or high corrosion areas of the United States: Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, and Wisconsin.Approximately 100,000 remaining MY 2004-2007 Freestar and Monterey vehicles--those vehicles that were not originally sold, or are not currently registered, in salt belt states--are not included in the recall action. Although these vehicles are the same as the ones described above, they experience significantly lower failure rates because of reduced road salt exposure.ODI is currently aware of only one complaint on vehicle outside of the recall scope.ODI will monitor complaints and take further action if warranted by the circumstances.For owners of vehicles that are outside of the recall scope but exhibit the defect condition, owners (and affected Ford dealers) can contact Ford to request the recall repair.This Engineering Analysis is closed.See attached report and associated recall file for additional information.The ODI reports cited above can be reviewed online at http://www-odi.nhtsa.dot.gov/owners/SearchNHTSAID under the following identification numbers: 10399896, 10410491, 10420028, 10424850, 10433928, 10436592, 10438529, 10440616, 10441489, 10441641, 10442809, 10446564, 10450295, 10450559, 10450587, 10452933, 10453826, 10454977, 10455545, 10456985, 10457423, 10457910, 10458738, 10459042, 10460511, 10461074, 10462910, 10463126, 10463262, 10463366, 10463600, 10464243, 10467003, 10467680, 10468429, 10469188, 10469200, 10470216, 10470510, 10471280, 10471520, 10471813, 10471978, 10472514, 10473087, 10473159, 10477025, 10477387, 10477954, 10478449, 10479247, 10479758, 10480611, 10480665, 10481054, 10481412, 10482213, 10482236, 10482613, 10482620, 10487872, 10489445, 10490515, 10490641, 10490663, 10490744, 10491495, 10492220, 10493470, 10493572, 10496348, 10497631, 10497976, 10498310, 10498433, 10499681, 10499861, 10500495.
- Service Jack Failure
The subject vehicles (SV) are all automatic transmission, front wheel drive vehicles with hand actuated mechanical park brakes. The investigation focused on allegations that the service jack failed and caused the vehicles to fall. The subject scissors-type jack appears to fail at the slotted hinge joints where the…
The subject vehicles (SV) are all automatic transmission, front wheel drive vehicles with hand actuated mechanical park brakes. The investigation focused on allegations that the service jack failed and caused the vehicles to fall. The subject scissors-type jack appears to fail at the slotted hinge joints where the jack screw is located (bends at mid-point). The failures occur while the jack is in use, and vehicle movement (forward or backward) is typically reported coincident with the failure. Ford reported that most MY 2003 Windstar and all MY 2006-2007 Freestar/Monterey also use the subject jack, an additional 223,246 vehicles.NHTSA has received six consumer complaints (VOQs) involving three injury incidents and a fatality.Ford reported 26 complaints for the SVs involving an additional 4 injuries. In the fatal incident, the van fell on a person working on the engine under the otherwise unsupported vehicle; ODI was unable to determine whether the vehicle was adequately chocked or the park brake was properly set. Reported injuries include a broken arm, head and hand injuries, arm and rib bruises, and muscle strains. NHTSA has received just one new report since opening this investigation. The complaint trend in ODI and Ford data is flat if not declining.Ford provides instructions and warnings in the owner's manual, on a placard placed with the jack, and on the jack itself. These instruct consumers to put the vehicle gear selector in Park, properly set the parking brake, chock the opposite wheel, use the jack only for changing a tire, loosen the lug nuts prior to jacking, and to not get under a vehicle supported by the jack only (NHTSA also recommends that jacks only be used for tire changing).In the VOQs, roughly half the consumers were using the jack for something other than tire changing, half had not chocked a wheel, and half had not properly set the parking brake. ODI notes that since the front wheels are drive wheels (with an open center differential) the Park gear cannot provide vehicle stability (longitudinally) when a front wheel is raised. All NHTSA complaints and most of the complaints to Ford involved failures while a front wheel was raised.In response to ODI's inquiry, Ford conducted testing on a 2004 Freestar. Ford's tests showed that when a front tire was raised the service jack held without failing under various scenarios except when a rocking force was applied and the parking brake was not properly set. Based on its testing and its analysis of field data, Ford concluded that the type of jack failure evidenced in this investigation (bending at mid-point) was likely caused by vehicle movement due to an improperly secured vehicle, or other misuse of the jack. Ford notes that rates in this investigation were similar to those in another investigation (EA91-049) which ODI closed. ODI also analyzed jack data for MY 2003 and newer vehicles to compare to the SV population. To assist with this analysis, ODI requested data from the jack manufacturer (actually its successor company) who provided limited data but did identify other models using the same design jack. ODI was unable to identify a significant difference in the incidence of jack failures (including those involving bending failures) between the SVs, other vehicles which used the same jack, or other vehicles where the jack type was unknown or different.A safety-related defect has not been identified at this time and further use of agency resources does not appear to be warranted.Accordingly, investigation PE11-033 is closed. The closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by NHTSA that a safety-related defect does not exist and ODI reserves
- Engine Stalling
The subject vehicles suffered from a design issue whereby water could run down onto the cowling under the hood and located in the area of the windshield wipers and then drip onto a computer module, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM), which could be manifested in a variety of symptoms depending on which part of the…
The subject vehicles suffered from a design issue whereby water could run down onto the cowling under the hood and located in the area of the windshield wipers and then drip onto a computer module, the Powertrain Control Module (PCM), which could be manifested in a variety of symptoms depending on which part of the circuit board became wet or which of the connector pins shorted out.In addition to causing an engine to stall, which may or may not then restart, the water intrusion could also cause the transmission to shift poorly, the vehicle to have erratic power, a malfunction indicator light to come on, or result in an inability to start the vehicle, an inability to shift the vehicle into either forward or reverse. Also the problem could cause a higher than normal idle RPM in Park, or for the radio to malfunction, or the interior lights to stay on.During this investigation ODI was concerned with the effect of the engine stalling or a drastic and sudden loss of power either of which may create a safety risk.In reviewing the actual number of these types of incidents, collectively referred to here as engine stalls, the number was found to be below what would be considered a defect trend.For example, the number of engine stalls identified in Ford's warranty claims for the model year (MY) 2004 subject vehicles, the MY with the most failures, was 200 out of population of 125,865, for a failure rate of 0.16%.The one crash recorded by a complainant to NHTSA, VOQ 10311522, alleged that the engine stalled, due to water intrusion into the PCM, while the road was turning causing her to go off the road and according to the police report the vehicle then hit an embankment and a tree stump. Ford reported in their response that there were three alleged crashes but none of these were validated as being caused by a problem with water intrusion into the PCM causing a stall.Accordingly this investigation is closed.The closing of this investigation does not constitute a finding by NHTSA that a safety-related defect does not exist.The agency will continue to monitor complaints and other information relating to the alleged defect in the subject vehicles and take further action in the future if warranted.
- Transmission Torque Converter Failure
On January 4, 2012 Ford Motor Company submitted a Defect Information Report (NHTSA Recall No. 12V-006) to NHTSA regarding a defect in the performance of the transmission torque converter for approximately 205,896 Ford Freestar and Mercury Monterey vehicles.The supplier of the torque converter manufactured converters…
On January 4, 2012 Ford Motor Company submitted a Defect Information Report (NHTSA Recall No. 12V-006) to NHTSA regarding a defect in the performance of the transmission torque converter for approximately 205,896 Ford Freestar and Mercury Monterey vehicles.The supplier of the torque converter manufactured converters containing a pump shaft spline that did not consistently meet the specified heat treatment requirements.In normal use, the spline may wear excessively and eventually fails without warning.If a torque converter malfunctions due to a sheared pump drive spline, the vehicle will abruptly lose motive power.This problem affected model year 2004 and 2005 Freestar and Monterey minivans.During the investigation NHTSA identified 532 complaints alleging incidents of vehicle stall while driving due to torque converter failure.These failures were sudden and without any prior warning.Of the 490 complaints that reported the speed at the time of the failure:218 (44%) occurred at or above 55 mph; and 344 (70%) occurred at or above 40 mph.Of the 382 complaints that reported the position of the vehicle relative to traffic after it came to a stop following the loss of motive power: 122 (32%) alleged that the vehicle came to a stop in the flow of traffic and remained in the flow of traffic until pushed or towed out of the way; 225 (59%) reported that the vehicle was maneuvered to the side of the roadway and remained there until towed; and 35 (9%) reported that they were able to maneuver to a location away from the flow of traffic, such as a parking lot.Two crashes were allegedly caused by torque converter failure, including an incident in which a Freestar suddenly lost power in 65 mph traffic in an area where there was no shoulder available.As a result, the Freestar stopped in a travel lane and when trailing traffic maneuvered to avoid the stalled vehicle, a four vehicle collision occurred.In these types of circumstances NHTSA believes the defect presents an unreasonable risk to motor vehicle safety and so advised Ford.In its Defect Information Report, Ford refers to its response to NHTSA's Preliminary Evaluation information request, which stated that a vehicle that loses motive power due to torque converter malfunction remains readily controllable; the vehicle will coast during which it can be safely maneuvered and stopped because the engine continues to run.Because the engine continues to run, steering and braking are unaffected, and the vehicle's electrical system and directional signals remain functional.In view of the foregoing, NHTSA does not agree with this statement.This investigation is closed based on Ford's recall.
- Torque converter output shaft failure
Odi has received 227 owner complaints alleging a sudden and unexpected loss of motive power due to an internal transmission failure in the subject vehicles.of those complaints, 124 can be attributed to the torque converter output shaft splines stripping causing a sudden loss of power to the drivetrain.the remaining…
Odi has received 227 owner complaints alleging a sudden and unexpected loss of motive power due to an internal transmission failure in the subject vehicles.of those complaints, 124 can be attributed to the torque converter output shaft splines stripping causing a sudden loss of power to the drivetrain.the remaining 103 complaints experienced a loss of motive power but the specific internal failure cause within the transmission IS not known.odi has upgraded the investigation to an engineering analysis (ea09-016) to continue its assessment of the scope, frequency and safety-related consequences of the alleged defect.
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.
- 10205034Safety recall 13S01 - Corrosion on sheet metal that supports 3rd row seat latch strikeers - requests for recall service action
- 10183770For 2004-2007 Freestar or Monterey vehicles Safety Recall 13S01 has been issued for vehicles that are operated in high corrosion areas for an extended period, where the sheet metal that supports the folding 3rd row seat latch strikers could experience corrosion and may compromise the mounting point for the forward portion of the 3rd row seat. Initially, this condition may result in seat movement when passengers sit on or put weight on the seat, or difficulty latching the front of the seat when in its seating position. If corrosion is severe, the seat latch strikers may become detached from the vehicle. The seat belts and the permanent mounting attachment at the rear of the seat are unaffected.
- 10109070The Powertrain Control/Emissions Diagnosis (PC/ED) manual has been revised for diagnosing electronic throttle bodies (ETBs). The ETC_ACT and ETC_DSD PIDs should not used to diagnose possible ETB concerns. The IDS has a limited refresh rate when reading these PIDs and cannot display quickly enough to validate a concern. The PCM automatically monitors these inputs more accurately and will set diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) when appropriate. Using these PIDs for diagnostics will lead to inaccurate results and improper ETB replacements. If a concern is intermittent and no DTCs are present, refer to historical DTCs and the PC/ED, Section 3 No DTCs Present Index chart for further information.
- 10058103Ford/mercury: safety recall regarding sheet metal support for folding 3RD row seat latch strikers can experience corrosion and will compromise mounting point causing seat to move. Model 2004-07 freestar, monterey.
- 10056468Ford/mercury: sheet metal supporting folding 3RD row seat latch strikers will experience corrosion and compromise mounting point for forward portion of 3RD row seat, if vehicle IS operated in high corrosion areas for extended period. Model 2004-2007 freestar, monterey.
- 10021907Advanced traction control system - short duration activation.
- 10021217Power steering hose leak near cooler extreme cold climate areas only -4 degrees and cooler.
- 10020701Advanced traction control system - duration activation.
- 10019067Rear climate control noises - service tip.
- 10019009ABS light on and dtcs c1175/c1236, c1165/c1235 - rear wheel speed sensor.
- 10018071Restraint control module diagnostic trouble code b2296 - service tip.
- 10017923Service wiring harness replacement guidelines - service tips.
- 10017893Traction control lamp - ABS lamp - ABS self activation with dtc c1288. Updated 11/8/07.
- 10017552A broken outer c/v joint on vehicles built before 5/1/2005.
- 10016808Erratic fluid level reading on transaxle dipstick-leaks-4f50n, AX4N, AX4S transaxle.
- 10016806Dtcs p0760 and p0763-4f50n transaxle-vehicles built before 3/15/2005. This may be due to a shorted transaxle internal harness, caused by a sharp edge on the inside of the side cover casting.
- 10014704Steering wheel.
- 10014636Inability to play home made cd on single cd audio system without MP3 capability.
- 10014607Instrument cluster dtc u1262 and or u1135.
- 10014604Instrument cluster dtc u1130.
- 10014310Weld bonding procedure.
- 10014279Rear brake lining accelerated wear.
- 10014261Power sliding doors and power liftgate inoperative when using the overhead console and/or remote keyless entry transmitter open/close buttons - diagnostic trouble code (dtc) c1999.
- 10014138Safety belt retraction speed.
- 10014086General (pcm) power train control module programming procedures.
- 10014062Rear window defroster grid/integral antenna diagnosis and repair - terminal tab repair.
- 10013417Traction control ABS and park brake lamp. Flicker flash illuminate.
- 10013404Access door wraped or breaking off from the underside of the steering wheel shrod.
- 100133903RD row seat strap breaking.
- 10013369General power train control module (pcm) programming procedures.
- 10012954Safety belt web stop button service.
- 10012947Maf diagnostic service tip - vehicles equipped with egr system module (esm).
- 100113363RD row seat strap breaking (strap used for stowing or accessing the rear seat).
- 10011159Rear window defroster grid/integral antenna diagnosis and repair - terminal tab repair.
- 100111574F50n transaxle no 1-2 upshift and diagnositc trouble code p0732.
- 10010741Accelerated rear brake wear. Oasis.
- 10009328Front blower motor whistle noise.
- 10009321Inoperative electric rear window defroster (heated backlite) grid lines, integral antenna concerns.
- 10008183Groan/buzz/vibration when the gear selector IS in park with the vehicle parked on an incline. This bulletin updates previous bulletin 17358, dated 11/01/2003 to include 2005 models.
- 10004921Beeping sound from the instrument panel when driving at/over 75 mph, traction control off indicator illuminate when vehicle IS not equipped with traction control, and/or diagnostic trouble code b2477 (module configuration failure) stored in the instrument cluster module (icm). This information dated 10/01/2003 has been updated to include 2005 monterey.
Every Mercury Monterey model year
Bars are owner complaints, dots mark years with recalls. Select a year to open its report.