Column locking: anti-theft deviceRecall 85V-172 · Ford and Mercury vehicles
FORD MOTOR COMPANY recall 85V-172 covers 4,500 Ford and Mercury vehicles for a column locking: anti-theft device problem, reported to NHTSA on December 26, 1985.
Source: NHTSA recall 85V172000 and manufacturer quarterly reports. Started by the manufacturer.
The problem
The risk
IF THE CAR IS LEFT UNATTENDED WITH THE KEY REMOVED AND THE IGNITION SWITCH NOT IN LOCK POSITION, THE CAR CAN BE EASILY STOLEN. STUDIES HAVE SHOWN THAT STOLEN CARS ARE FREQUENTLY INVOLVED IN ACCIDENTS.
The fix
IGNITION LOCK SWITCH CYLINDER WILL BE REPLACED.
SYSTEM: LOCK, IGNITION SYSTEM, FMVSS 114. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION:PASSENGER CAR.DESCRIPTION DEFECT:THE IGNITION KEY CAN BE REMOVED FROM THE IGNITION SWITCH IN POSITIONS OTHER THAN THE LOCK POSITIONS.FMVSS 114 REQUIRES THAT WHEN THE KEY IS REMOVED FROM THE IGNITION SWITCH THAT EITHER THE STEERING OR TRANSMISSION BE LOCKED.REMOVAL OF THE KEY WHEN NOT IN THE LOCK POSITION LEAVES THE STEERING AND TRANSMISSION IN THE NORMAL OPERATING MODE.
Recall repairs are free. Confirm whether this recall is open on your vehicle by entering its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
Vehicles in this recall
Built from August 1, 1985 to November 1, 1985. Not every vehicle in these model years is included; check by VIN.