Recall 96V-135
FORD MOTOR COMPANY recalled the 1995 to 1996 Ford Crown Victoria and 1 other model: Steering (linkages).
At a glance
- Campaign number
- 96V-135
- Reported
- July 18, 1996
- Vehicles affected
- 72,000 estimated by the manufacturer
Source: NHTSA recall records
What is wrong
The pitman arms were not fully lubricated at the assembly plant. The "ball joint" at the outer end of the pitman arm can become contaminated and corrode.
The risk
Such corrosion can result in abnormal wear of the joint, resulting in separation of the joint. Loss of steering control can occur increasing the risk of a vehicle accident.
The fix
Dealers will inspect the vehicles and if the joint is found to have significant wear, the arm will be replaced. Those pitman arms not replaced will have the "ball joint" fully greased.
Notes from the manufacturer
System: steering; linkages; arm; pitman. Vehicle description: police interceptors, commercial fleet, taxi, limousines, or livery/trailer tow packages. Owner notification: owner notification is expected to begin august 19, 1996. Note: owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact ford at 1-[removed]. Also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-[removed].
Affected vehicles
- Ford Crown Victoria 1995 to 1996
- Lincoln Town Car 1995 to 1996