Visibility: power window devices and controlsRecall 98V-012 · 1996 Mercury Villager
FORD MOTOR COMPANY recall 98V-012 covers 57,400 1996 Mercury Villager for a visibility: power window devices and controls problem, reported to NHTSA on March 23, 1998.
Source: NHTSA recall 98V012001 and manufacturer quarterly reports. Started by the manufacturer.
The problem
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MINI VANS. THESE VEHICLES WERE PRODUCED WITH POWER WINDOWS THAT CAN BE CLOSED AFTER THE IGNITION KEY IS TURNED TO THE "OFF" POSITION AND THE RIGHT FRONT (PASSENGER) DOOR IS OPENED. THIS DOES NOT MEET THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS 118, "POWER-OPERATED WINDOW SYSTEMS."
The risk
THERE IS THE POTENTIAL FOR UNSUPERVISED CHILDREN TO OPERATE THE POWER WINDOWS, INCREASING THE RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY TO THE CHILD.
The fix
OWNERS WILL BE PROVIDED WITH A LABEL REMINDING OWNERS NOT TO LEAVE CHILDREN UNATTENDED BECAUSE THE POWER WINDOWS CAN OPERATE FOR 15 MINUTES AFTER THE VEHICLE IGNITION HAS BEEN TURNED OFF UNLESS THE DRIVER'S DOOR IS OPENED. ALSO INCLUDED ARE INSTRUCTIONS DESCRIBING HOW AND WHERE THIS LABEL IS TO BE INSTALLED. IF AN OWNER PREFERS, THEIR DEALER CAN INSTALL THIS LABEL FOR THEM.
OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN DURING APRIL 1998.OWNERS WHO DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE LABEL AND INSTRUCTIONS WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673.ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINSTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).
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, 1995 to July 31, 1996. Not every vehicle in these model years is included; check by VIN.