Suspension: rearRecall 96V-252 · 1997 Ford Expedition
FORD MOTOR COMPANY recall 96V-252 covers 25,000 1997 Ford Expedition for a suspension: rear problem, reported to NHTSA on December 18, 1996.
Source: NHTSA recall 96V252000 and manufacturer quarterly reports. Started by the manufacturer.
The problem
THE REAR AXLE TRACK BAR BRACKET CAN SEPARATE FROM THE FRAME DUE TO MISSING WELDS OR INADEQUATE WELD PENETRATION.
The risk
IF BOTH BRACKETS SEPARATE, THE REAR AXLE CAN MOVE LATERALLY UNTIL THE TIRES CONTACT EITHER THE FRAME OR THE WHEELHOUSE RESULTING IN EITHER TIRE DAMAGE OR A SIGNIFICANT REDUCTION IN VEHICLE HANDLING PERFORMANCE.
The fix
DEALERS WILL INSTALL A TRACK BAR BRACKET REINFORCEMENT KIT AND INSPECTION OF THE AXLE TUBES. THE SUSPECT AXLE TUBES DO NOT HAVE A STAMPED DATE CODE ON THE TUBE. AXLES WITHOUT DATE CODES ON THE TUBES WILL BE REPLACED.
OWNER NOTIFICATION:OWNER NOTIFICATION WILL BEGIN JANUARY 20, 1997. 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 1-800-392-3673.ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-800-424-9393.
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 July 22, 1996 to October 10, 1996. Not every vehicle in these model years is included; check by VIN.