Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[NHTSA closes rollaway investigation into 1.56M Ford SUVs]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/11/nhtsa-closes-rollaway-investigation-into-1-56m-ford-suvs/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/11/nhtsa-closes-rollaway-investigation-into-1-56m-ford-suvs/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/11/nhtsa-closes-rollaway-investigation-into-1-56m-ford-suvs/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2002 Ford Explorer - front three-quarter view, maroon

It's taken four years of study, but the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has finally closed the books on its investigation into rollaway accusations surrounding 1.56-million Ford SUV models.

The probe, which centered on the 2002-2005 Ford Explorer, 2002-2005 Mercury Mountaineer and 2003-2005 Lincoln Aviator, ends without the federal agency calling for a recall. According to The Detroit News, the investigation was closed due to a "low number of complaints" - NHTSA documented 180 such complaints that resulted in 14 crashes and six minor injuries, but the number of incidents have been slowing. The suspected defect rate for the trucks' automatic transmissions was found to be 4.4 per 100,000 units, and the brake-shift interlock mechanism failure rate was judged to be even lower at 3.4 per 100k.

NHTSA closes rollaway investigation into 1.56M Ford SUVs originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 11 Mar 2013 14:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2002 ford explorer2002 mercury mountaineer2003 lincoln aviatoraviatorexplorerfordlincolnmercurymountaineernational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsarollawayMon, 11 Mar 2013 14:17:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20497058/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/11/nhtsa-closes-rollaway-investigation-into-1-56m-ford-suvs/20497058/article-detail.xml 20497058 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/2002-ford-explorer-maroon_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/2002-ford-explorer-maroon.jpg <![CDATA[Ford finally issues recall for 230K minivans over rust problems]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/10/ford-finally-issues-recall-for-230k-minivans-over-rust-problems/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/10/ford-finally-issues-recall-for-230k-minivans-over-rust-problems/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/03/10/ford-finally-issues-recall-for-230k-minivans-over-rust-problems/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



The rust issue in the rear wheel wells of 2004-2007 Ford Freestar and Mercury Monterey minivans has finally led to a recall. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration began an investigation into the matter in 2011, said investigation being upgraded to an engineering analysis a year later while NHTSA tried to figure out how many model years should be included in the assessment.

Ford has decided to recall all of the 230,000 minivans potentially affected, namely those sold in salt-belt states and countries like Canada. The excess rust in the rear wheel wells was also able to prevent the third-row seats from locking to the floor of the minivan. To repair the problem, owners can take their minivans to dealers, and the dealers will place new panels in the wheel wells, replace the third-row seat mounting brackets and relocate the latches to an area away from any corrosion.

Ford says it will begin notifying owners during the last week of March.

Ford finally issues recall for 230K minivans over rust problems originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 10 Mar 2013 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fordfreestarmercurymontereyNational Highway Traffic Safety AdministrationnhtsarecallrustSun, 10 Mar 2013 11:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20496119/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/10/ford-finally-issues-recall-for-230k-minivans-over-rust-problems/20496119/article-detail.xml 20496119 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/fordfreestarrecall_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/fordfreestarrecall.jpg <![CDATA[NHTSA investigating 725k Ford, Mercury vehicles for stalling issue]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/25/nhtsa-investigating-725k-ford-mercury-vehicles-for-stalling-iss/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/25/nhtsa-investigating-725k-ford-mercury-vehicles-for-stalling-iss/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/02/25/nhtsa-investigating-725k-ford-mercury-vehicles-for-stalling-iss/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Owners of Ford Escape, Mercury Mariner, Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan models, listen up. According to a report on Automotive News, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has opened an investigation into these four vehicles totaling an estimated 725,000 units. The investigation appears to center around a malfunctioning throttle body on non-hybrid models of the 2005-2012 Escape and 2011-2012 Fusion. With Mercury dying off after the 2011 model year, this probe will also apply to the 2005 through 2011 Mariner and the 2011 Milan. There has been some discussion around the Escape stalling issue for some time now, but this investigation appears to be larger in scope than before.

Though not a recall yet, NHTSA's Office of Defects Investigation (ODI) has received 123 complaints of stalling or surging vehicles, while Ford itself has logged 1,472 complaints. The investigation report, which is posted below, seems to indicate that a faulty circuit board for the throttle body could cause the vehicle to go into limp mode, which, according to NHTSA, could cause complaints of both stalling and surging.

Continue reading NHTSA investigating 725k Ford, Mercury vehicles for stalling issue

NHTSA investigating 725k Ford, Mercury vehicles for stalling issue originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 25 Feb 2013 17:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>escapefordford escape stalling problemford safetyfusionmarinermercurymilannational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsanhtsa investigationMon, 25 Feb 2013 17:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20476921/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/25/nhtsa-investigating-725k-ford-mercury-vehicles-for-stalling-iss/20476921/article-detail.xml 20476921 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/2012-ford-escape_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/2012-ford-escape.jpg <![CDATA[NHTSA closes probes on Jeep Grand Cherokee, Ford Freestar and Mercury Monterey]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/09/nhtsa-closes-probes-on-jeep-grand-cherokee-ford-freestar-and-me/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/09/nhtsa-closes-probes-on-jeep-grand-cherokee-ford-freestar-and-me/http://www.autoblog.com/2013/01/09/nhtsa-closes-probes-on-jeep-grand-cherokee-ford-freestar-and-me/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2011 Jeep Grand Cherokee

The Detroit News reports the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has officially closed its investigations into 2012 Jeep Grand Cherokee, 2004-2005 Ford Freestar and Mercury Monterey models. The separate probes found no issues that pose safety concerns. NHTSA began investigating certain Grand Cherokee SUVs over complaints that power steering hoses could detach during operation, thereby increasing the risk of a vehicle fire. Of the 24 reports of failure, none alleged smoke or fire in the engine bay, and Chrysler has since modified the power steering cooler assembly to reduce the likelihood of the failure.

Meanwhile, certain Ford Freestar and Mercury Monterey vehicles garnered a government probe after receiving complaints that the models were equipped with faulty scissor jacks. The agency had received six reports of the jacks failing or causing injuries, including one incident that resulted in a fatality. But NHTSA says the jack failure rate is similar to those found in other vehicles. In those six cases, the government agency found the jacks were being used for something other than changing a tire, and investigators could not determine whether the emergency brake was set or the rear tires were properly chocked.

NHTSA closes probes on Jeep Grand Cherokee, Ford Freestar and Mercury Monterey originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 Jan 2013 17:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fordfreestargrand cherokeejeepmercurymontereynational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsaWed, 09 Jan 2013 17:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20423499/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2013/01/09/nhtsa-closes-probes-on-jeep-grand-cherokee-ford-freestar-and-me/20423499/article-detail.xml 20423499 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/grand-cherokee-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/01/grand-cherokee-628.jpg <![CDATA[NHTSA upgrades Ford floor mat unintended acceleration probe]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/17/nhtsa-upgrades-ford-floor-mat-unintended-acceleration-probe/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/17/nhtsa-upgrades-ford-floor-mat-unintended-acceleration-probe/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/12/17/nhtsa-upgrades-ford-floor-mat-unintended-acceleration-probe/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Ford badge

According to a Bloomberg report, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has upgraded an investigation into complaints of unintended acceleration lodged against Ford vehicles. The investigation began in June of 2010 when just three complaints had been received and it only concerned the Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan, but this was at a time when the phrase "unintended acceleration" made grown men go pale. With 49 additional complaints received since then, the investigation has been reclassified as an engineering analysis - the last phase before a recall - and it has been expanded to include the Lincoln MKZ, making for a total of "around 480,000" units affected between the three sedans from the 2008 to 2010 model years.

The ostensible cause is that floor mats are trapping the accelerator pedal, but according to a Ford statement at the time, the entrapment is due to owners placing the optional all-weather floor mats, or aftermarket floor mats, on top of the car's standard floor mats. NHTSA has backed up that assessment, pinning the blame on "unsecured or double stacked floor mats."

On the face of it, it would appear that NHTSA has upgraded the status not because of Ford's error, but owner error, and Ford has stated publicly that it is "disappointed" in NHTSA's move. On top of NHTSA still being skittish after that other unintended acceleration debacle, it could be seen to be taking its time investigating all of the variables: it's reported that Ford changed its accelerator pedal design in 2010, a "heel blocker" in the floorpan has been considered a potential culprit in how the floor mats could be trapping the pedal, some drivers have said the floor mats weren't anywhere near the pedal, and according to a report in the LA Times, in "a letter sent by Ford to NHTSA in August 2010, the automaker said it found three injuries and one fatality that 'may have resulted from the alleged defect.'"

If that last part is true, that's strange enough by itself; in June 2010 there were apparently only three complaints in total, but two months later Ford was supposedly saying there might - let's emphasize might - be three injuries and a death involved. This sounds like the kind of thing that could take a while to sort out. Ford has said it is cooperating fully with the investigation.

NHTSA upgrades Ford floor mat unintended acceleration probe originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 17 Dec 2012 08:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>engineering analysisfordfusioninvestigationlincolnmercurymilanmkzNational Highway Traffic Safety Administrationnhtsaunintended accelerationMon, 17 Dec 2012 08:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20404352/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/17/nhtsa-upgrades-ford-floor-mat-unintended-acceleration-probe/20404352/article-detail.xml 20404352 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/ford-badge_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/ford-badge.jpg <![CDATA[Ford marks 5 million Sync-equipped vehicles over 5 years]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/08/ford-marks-5-million-sync-equipped-vehicles-over-5-years/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/08/ford-marks-5-million-sync-equipped-vehicles-over-5-years/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/11/08/ford-marks-5-million-sync-equipped-vehicles-over-5-years/#commentsFiled under: , ,



It's pretty amazing how much in-car technology has advanced in recent years, and Ford's Sync system has been at the forefront of vehicle connectivity and infotainment. Since its debut on the 2008 Ford Focus, Ford says more than five million of its vehicles have been equipped with Microsoft-developed technology.

Back when Sync was shown off in 2007, smartphones were just in their infancy (the iPhone was unveiled two days later), and Sync allows customers to upgrade their mobile devices without having to replace any equipment inside the vehicle. Over the years, Ford has expanded the technology to include new features such as AppLink that adds Sync-enabled apps-like Pandora, iHeartRadio, Stitcher and Vehicle Health Report.

Down the road, Ford says Sync will get even more personal through the use of cloud computing and vehicle sensor data. Read more in the press release below.

Continue reading Ford marks 5 million Sync-equipped vehicles over 5 years

Ford marks 5 million Sync-equipped vehicles over 5 years originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 08 Nov 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fordford synclincolnmercurymicrosoft syncsyncThu, 08 Nov 2012 08:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20372045/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/08/ford-marks-5-million-sync-equipped-vehicles-over-5-years/20372045/article-detail.xml 20372045 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/12/applink-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/12/applink-630.jpg <![CDATA[NHTSA probing 2000-2003 Ford Taurus and Mercury Sable models over throttle issue]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/29/nhtsa-probing-2000-2003-ford-taurus-and-mercury-sable-models-ove/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/29/nhtsa-probing-2000-2003-ford-taurus-and-mercury-sable-models-ove/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/10/29/nhtsa-probing-2000-2003-ford-taurus-and-mercury-sable-models-ove/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



A potential issue with the speed control cable collar has got the 2003-20003 Ford Taurus and Mercury Sable under the spotlight of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. If the collar breaks it can cause the throttle to be stuck open.

The issue is limited to vehicles with the 3.0-liter V6 Duratec. There are just 50 complaints so far out of 310,000 cars, but the NHTSA has begun an investigation into whether a recall should be issued.

NHTSA probing 2000-2003 Ford Taurus and Mercury Sable models over throttle issue originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Oct 2012 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fordmercuryNational Highway Traffic Safety AdministrationnhtsasabletaurusMon, 29 Oct 2012 11:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20362912/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/29/nhtsa-probing-2000-2003-ford-taurus-and-mercury-sable-models-ove/20362912/article-detail.xml 20362912 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/03taurusses_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/03taurusses.jpg <![CDATA[Ford's J Mays feels vindicated by Fusion reception]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/25/fords-j-mays-feels-vindicated-by-fusion-reception/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/25/fords-j-mays-feels-vindicated-by-fusion-reception/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/09/25/fords-j-mays-feels-vindicated-by-fusion-reception/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

Ford designer J Mays with 2013 FusionIt's hard to think back now, but the same man overseeing the design of the 2013 Ford Fusion also presided over a rather lackluster period in Ford design, highlighted by vehicles like the Five Hundred and Freestyle. With the redesigned Fusion receiving high praise, J Mays tells Automotive News that he feels vindicated from criticisms suggesting he's not a daring enough designer.

When Mays took over as lead of design in 1997, he admits to having quite an ego ("My head would barely fit through the door some days. I've long since gotten over myself") and the workload to match. With the Blue Oval's portfolio full of premium brands like Aston Martin, Jaguar, Land Rover and Volvo at that point, along with the bread-and-butter Ford, Lincoln and Mercury models, Mays certainly had quite the challenge.

It was in the mid-2000s that Mays took over just the premium brands, and took on the new title of Chief Creative Officer. At the time, Mays endured some criticism for looking backwards to retro styling, rather than setting a new standard for American car design - criticism that Mays says he is free from with the all-new Fusion.

It's also significant to point out the big names in car design came through the doors of Ford's design house under Mays. Names like Ian Callum (now of Jaguar), and Henrik Fisker, who was then at Aston Martin but has now gone on to start his own carmaker.

Mays, who spent time at BMW, Audi and Volkswagen told AN that American carmakers don't have to imitate Europe's luxury automakers to provide premium products (perhaps a bit ironic considering that even cheerleaders of the sedan admit the new Fusion has an awful lot of Aston Martin design language up front). While the Fusion has been well-received, Mays still has his hands full trying to maintain the "One Ford" global design language, matching that up with truck design, and finding an identity for Lincoln. All we can say is, it ain't easy being J Mays.

Ford's J Mays feels vindicated by Fusion reception originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 25 Sep 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2013 ford fusionaston martindesignfordfusionj maysjaguarland roverlincolnmaysmercuryTue, 25 Sep 2012 16:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20332821/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/09/25/fords-j-mays-feels-vindicated-by-fusion-reception/20332821/article-detail.xml 20332821 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/j-mays-with-2013-fusion_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/09/j-mays-with-2013-fusion.jpg <![CDATA[Automakers tussle over owners of 'orphan' makes]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/10/automakers-tussle-over-owners-of-orphan-makes/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/10/automakers-tussle-over-owners-of-orphan-makes/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/10/automakers-tussle-over-owners-of-orphan-makes/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , , ,



When General Motors put down several of its brands in recent years, it also let loose thousands of brand-loyal customers who will eventually need another car.

R.L. Polk Associates estimates there are more than 18 million cars from 16 discontinued makes on the road today. Those "orphan owners" have sales-hungry competitors seeing dollar signs. GM is offering Saturn owners $1,000 cash toward a Chevy Cruze, Cadillac CTS or a GMC Acadia. Ford is giving its Mercury lease customers a chance to get out of their contracts with no early-termination penalty and offering to waive six remaining payments if they drive off in a Ford or Lincoln.

Edmunds.com research shows the efforts are paying off somewhat for GM, with 39 percent of Pontiac owners, 37 percent of Hummer owners and 31 percent of Saturn owners taking delivery of another GM-branded vehicle. But that leaves as much as 69 percent of owners going elsewhere. Ford, Honda and Toyota seem to be attracting many former GM owners.

As Forbes points out, if you're driving an orphaned nameplate, you just might be able to use that to your advantage when shopping for a new vehicle.

Automakers tussle over owners of 'orphan' makes originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 May 2012 08:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fordgeneral motorshummerlincolnmercuryorphanorphan carspontiacThu, 10 May 2012 08:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20233204/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/10/automakers-tussle-over-owners-of-orphan-makes/20233204/article-detail.xml 20233204 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/solsticecoupe-rev2000-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/solsticecoupe-rev2000-opt.jpg <![CDATA[NHTSA upgrades investigation into Ford Freestar, Mercury Monterey rust issues]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/27/nhtsa-upgrades-investigation-into-ford-freestar-mercury-montere/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/27/nhtsa-upgrades-investigation-into-ford-freestar-mercury-montere/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/04/27/nhtsa-upgrades-investigation-into-ford-freestar-mercury-montere/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2006 Ford Freestar

If you are still stuck driving a prematurely rusty 2004 Ford Freestar or Mercury Monterey minivan, you have our deepest sympathies. But for all your suffering, you might still gain some small measure of satisfaction from Ford.

Remember the investigation launched by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration last year? Well, the good news is that NHTSA has upgraded the issue to a full-fledged engineering analysis, according to The Detroit News. Specifically, the Feds are trying to figure out whether there's any difference between the 2004 models, vehicles that have engendered 22 reports concerning rust in the rear wheel wells, and 2005-2007 models, for which there are no registered complaints. (A 2006 model is pictured above.)

More than 82,000 vehicles are potentially affected by the rust problems, according to the report, with symptoms including difficulty latching the rear seats and anchor plates that have detached from the vehicle.

NHTSA upgrades investigation into Ford Freestar, Mercury Monterey rust issues originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 27 Apr 2012 18:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2004 ford freestar2004 mercury montereyfordfreestarmercurymontereynational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsarustFri, 27 Apr 2012 18:31:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20226153/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/04/27/nhtsa-upgrades-investigation-into-ford-freestar-mercury-montere/20226153/article-detail.xml 20226153 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/2006-ford-freestar-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/04/2006-ford-freestar-opt.jpg <![CDATA[NHTSA probing nearly 2 million Ford Taurus and Mercury Sable models over stuck throttles]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/13/nhtsa-probing-nearly-2-million-ford-taurus-and-mercury-sable-mod/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/13/nhtsa-probing-nearly-2-million-ford-taurus-and-mercury-sable-mod/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/03/13/nhtsa-probing-nearly-2-million-ford-taurus-and-mercury-sable-mod/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2005 Ford Taurus in motion

According to Reuters, The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has trained its gaze on nearly two million Ford Taurus and Mercury Sable models over a potential stuck throttle issue.

This past Sunday, March 11, NHTSA announced it would investigate 360,000 Taurus sedans from the 2005 and 2006 model years after the government safety regulator received 14 complaints of a stuck throttle due to cruise control cable detachment. A day later, The Detroit News reported that NHTSA has expanded its investigation to include all 2001 through 2006 Taurus and Sable models for a total of 1.92 million vehicles, and in a letter to Ford, said that it has located a total of 30 such complaints.

Reuters says at least one complaint noted that the Taurus' engine can race to 4,000 RPM after the car is shifted into Park or Neutral, and there were further complaints indicating that affected models were difficult to slow. In certain cases, the transmission had to be shifted into Neutral or the engine turned off to stop the car.

Ford is reportedly cooperating with the NHTSA probe and no recall has been announced.

NHTSA probing nearly 2 million Ford Taurus and Mercury Sable models over stuck throttles originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 13 Mar 2012 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2001 ford taurus2002 ford taurus2003 ford taurus2004 ford taurus2005 ford taurus2006 ford taurusfordmercurymercury sablenational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsasablestuck throttletaurusTue, 13 Mar 2012 09:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20191199/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/13/nhtsa-probing-nearly-2-million-ford-taurus-and-mercury-sable-mod/20191199/article-detail.xml 20191199 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/2005-ford-taurus-in-motion_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/2005-ford-taurus-in-motion.jpg <![CDATA[1954 Mercury XM 800 Concept is retro-cool in execution, detail and design]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/1954-mercury-xm-800-concept-is-retro-cool-in-execution-detail-a/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/1954-mercury-xm-800-concept-is-retro-cool-in-execution-detail-a/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/02/09/1954-mercury-xm-800-concept-is-retro-cool-in-execution-detail-a/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

1954 Mercury XM 800 Concept

The true jewels of most auto shows are often hidden, requiring a bit more legwork to find. During our third pass of the Chicago Auto Show, we stumbled upon a display from the Classic Car Club of America. Tucked away in a corner behind low aluminum railing, we found a stunning full-size two-door hardtop: the 1954 Mercury XM 800 Concept.

When it was first introduced at the 1954 Detroit Auto Show, the XM 800 made quite an impact. Mechanically speaking, it was fitted with a 312 cubic inch engine rated at 270 horsepower. A Ford-O-Matic automatic transmission, sending power to the rear wheels, was standard. Its design was noted for an expansive greenhouse offering passengers an almost 360-degree outside view. Benson Ford, running the Lincoln-Mercury Division at the time, pushed for the XM-800's basic design to be added to the Mercury lineup. The plan to move forward was only extinguished because the automaker switched gears to work on Edsel.

The fiberglass XM 800 traveled extensively in 1954 and 1955, making appearances at most major car shows and special exhibitions (including the Chicago Auto Show). It even had a featured role in Hollywood, appearing in the 20th Century Fox production Woman's World. In the late 1950s, the concept car was gifted to the University of Michigan's Automotive Engineering Lab to be used for training and design inspiration. Ten years later, the Mercury ended up in storage outside a barn on a farm in central Michigan. Thankfully, the deteriorating concept car caught the eye of an enthusiast who purchased it and began a 20-year frame off, nut-and-bolt restoration.

Today, the 1954 Mercury XM 800 is considered to be one of the most significant concept cars ever produced. It recently sold at the RM Auction for $429,000. Check out the press release for its interesting history and our gallery for some beautiful design.

Continue reading 1954 Mercury XM 800 Concept is retro-cool in execution, detail and design

1954 Mercury XM 800 Concept is retro-cool in execution, detail and design originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Feb 2012 16:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1954 mercury xm 800 conceptchicagochicago 2012chicago auto showclassic car club of americamercurymercury conceptmercury xm 800xm 800 conceptThu, 09 Feb 2012 16:01:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20168316/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/02/09/1954-mercury-xm-800-concept-is-retro-cool-in-execution-detail-a/20168316/article-detail.xml 20168316 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/1954-mercury-xm-800-concept_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/02/1954-mercury-xm-800-concept.jpg <![CDATA[Ford recalling 244k Escape models, 200,000+ Freestar and Mercury Monterey minivans]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/11/ford-recalling-244k-escape-models-200-000-freestar-and-mercury/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/11/ford-recalling-244k-escape-models-200-000-freestar-and-mercury/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/11/ford-recalling-244k-escape-models-200-000-freestar-and-mercury/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2001 Ford Escape front three-quarter view

Ford is recalling nearly half a million vehicles in two separate actions announced today by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Just over 244,000 Ford Escape crossovers from model year 2001 and 2002 are being recalled for potentially leaky brake master cylinder reservoir caps, while nearly 206,000 2004 and 2005 Ford Freestar and Mercury Monterey minivans may have defective torque converter output shafts.

NHTSA says that in the case of the Escape, leaking brake fluid could cause corrosion on an electrical connector in the antilock brake system wiring harness, leading to "melting, smoke or a fire." Ford will begin notifying owners the week of Jan. 23, although a parts delay is expected to postpone repairs. "Ford will instruct owners to park their vehicles outside until such time as parts become available," says NHTSA.

The minivan recall is scheduled for the second quarter of 2012, and will result in dealers inspecting and replacing the torque converter in affected vehicles.

Read the full NHTSA recall reports after the jump.

Continue reading Ford recalling 244k Escape models, 200,000+ Freestar and Mercury Monterey minivans

Ford recalling 244k Escape models, 200,000+ Freestar and Mercury Monterey minivans originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 11 Jan 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2001 ford escape2002 ford escapeescapeescape recallfordford escapeford freestarfreestarfreestar recallmercurymercury montereymontereymonterey recallnhtsarecallWed, 11 Jan 2012 11:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20146152/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/11/ford-recalling-244k-escape-models-200-000-freestar-and-mercury/20146152/article-detail.xml 20146152 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/fordescape09hr-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/01/fordescape09hr-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Feds open investigation into Chevy Express, Ford Freestar rust issues]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/28/feds-open-investigation-into-chevy-express-ford-freestar-rust-i/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/28/feds-open-investigation-into-chevy-express-ford-freestar-rust-i/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/28/feds-open-investigation-into-chevy-express-ford-freestar-rust-i/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

2003 Chevrolet Express

'Tis the season... for road salt. And with that, comes rust. And what does rust bring? Well, for Ford and General Motors, a National Highway Traffic Safety Administration investigation. According to The Detroit News, NHTSA is looking into potential recalls issues with Chevrolet Express vans and Ford Freestar minivans.

The feds have received five complaints that rust has caused leaking fuel filler pipes on 2003 Express vans. Separately, seven complaints have been filed over excessive rust in the rear wheel wells of 2004 Ford Freestar and Mercury Monterey minivans. The Freestar and Monterey went out of production in 2007. Neither issue has resulted in any crashes or injuries, according to the report.

Feds open investigation into Chevy Express, Ford Freestar rust issues originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 28 Dec 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2003 chevrolet express2004 ford freestar2004 mercury montereychevroletchevyexpressfordfreestarmercurymontereynational highway trafiic safety administrationnhtsarustWed, 28 Dec 2011 16:00:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20136381/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/28/feds-open-investigation-into-chevy-express-ford-freestar-rust-i/20136381/article-detail.xml 20136381 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/2003-chevrolet-express-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/2003-chevrolet-express-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Ford recalling 126,000 Fusions and Milans over wheel separation concern]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/09/ford-recalling-126-000-fusions-and-milans-over-wheel-separation/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/09/ford-recalling-126-000-fusions-and-milans-over-wheel-separation/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/12/09/ford-recalling-126-000-fusions-and-milans-over-wheel-separation/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2010 Ford Fusion

Ford has announced a recall of certain Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan vehicles after an investigation by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. A total of 128,616 2010 and 2011 models equipped with steel wheels may have been manufactured with wheel studs that could crack and split over time. If that happens, the vehicle may experience a wheel separation.

According to The Detroit News, the company is aware of a total of 30 wheel separation incidents, one of which occurred on the front of the vehicle. Even so, no injuries have been reported as a result of the defect.

The problem apparently stems from the fact that the mounting pads on the vehicles' steel wheels may have been faulty from the factory. In addition, the wheel mounting face on rear disc brakes may not have been installed properly. Ford will inspect the rear disc face and replace them as necessary. In addition, the company will replace all of the vehicle's wheel studs free of charge. Head to the NHTSA website for more information, and click past the jump to view the full recall notice.

Continue reading Ford recalling 126,000 Fusions and Milans over wheel separation concern

Ford recalling 126,000 Fusions and Milans over wheel separation concern originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 09 Dec 2011 11:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 ford fusion2010 mercury milanfordford fusion recallfusionmercurymercury milanmercury milan recalllmilanrecallFri, 09 Dec 2011 11:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20124513/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/12/09/ford-recalling-126-000-fusions-and-milans-over-wheel-separation/20124513/article-detail.xml 20124513 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/2010-ford-fusion-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/12/2010-ford-fusion-628.jpg <![CDATA[eBay Find of the Day: Mercury Marauder two-door convertible]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/31/ebay-find-of-the-day-mercury-marauder-two-door-convertible/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/31/ebay-find-of-the-day-mercury-marauder-two-door-convertible/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/31/ebay-find-of-the-day-mercury-marauder-two-door-convertible/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Mercury Marauder Convertible Concept

Never underestimate what you'll see on eBay Motors. Take this unique creation, for example. Near as we can tell, it's the same 2002 Mercury Marauder that was modified into a two-door convertible by Ford for the 2002 Chicago Auto Show. According to the seller, this car still boasts its Eaton supercharger bolted to a 4.6-liter V8 engine, and at the time of its debut, the engine was rated at a lofty 335 horsepower. We have a hard time believing that the extra ponies would do much to offset the weight of the additional frame stiffeners and top mechanism on the car, however.

The vehicle is currently offered for sale by a dealer in Lansdale, Pennsylvania, though the listing is mum on how the convertible managed to make its way from Ford's Windy City show stand into the seller's inventory. If you like what you see, the machine can be yours for the princely sum of $75,000 or best offer. Head over to eBay Motors to take a gander at the listing.

eBay Find of the Day: Mercury Marauder two-door convertible originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 31 Aug 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2002 mercury marauder convertible conceptauctionchicago auto showconceptebay motorsmaraudermarauder convertiblemarauder convertible conceptmercurymercury maraudermercury marauder convertibleWed, 31 Aug 2011 18:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20031199/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/31/ebay-find-of-the-day-mercury-marauder-two-door-convertible/20031199/article-detail.xml 20031199 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/mercury-marauder-convertible-630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/mercury-marauder-convertible-630.jpg <![CDATA[NHTSA escalates probe of Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan wheel issues]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/01/nhtsa-escalates-probe-of-ford-fusion-and-mercury-milan-wheel-iss/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/01/nhtsa-escalates-probe-of-ford-fusion-and-mercury-milan-wheel-iss/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/08/01/nhtsa-escalates-probe-of-ford-fusion-and-mercury-milan-wheel-iss/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2010 Ford Fusion Hybrid

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is investigating certain 2010 Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan models for a possible wheel-stud failure. According to Reuters, a total of 317,315 of the mid-sized sedans are being investigated for a default that causes the vehicles' wheel studs to fracture and break over time. This can cause a wheel to detach itself, potentially leading to a serious accident. So far, there have been 29 complaints and 128 warranty claims associated with fractured studs, according to NHTSA, as well as four instances of a wheel actually separating from the vehicle.

Ford, meanwhile, is investigating the root cause of the defect at this time while NHTSA upgrades its efforts from a preliminary investigation to an engineering analysis. A recall could result should the manufacturer or government regulators decide that the issue is widespread. NHTSA opened its preliminary investigation into the matter six months ago. The Fusion and Milan twins have were previously investigated for sticking accelerator pedals.

NHTSA escalates probe of Ford Fusion and Mercury Milan wheel issues originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 01 Aug 2011 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fordford fusionford fusion wheel studsfusionmercurymercury milanmilannational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsaMon, 01 Aug 2011 13:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20006013/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/08/01/nhtsa-escalates-probe-of-ford-fusion-and-mercury-milan-wheel-iss/20006013/article-detail.xml 20006013 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/2010-ford-fusion-hybrid_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/08/2010-ford-fusion-hybrid.jpg <![CDATA[Translogic drives wood-burning Mercury Beaver XR-7]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/31/translogic-drives-wood-burning-mercury-beaver-xr-7/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/31/translogic-drives-wood-burning-mercury-beaver-xr-7/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/31/translogic-drives-wood-burning-mercury-beaver-xr-7/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2010 Mercury Beaver XR-7

You read the title right, we're talking about the Mercury Beaver XR-7. No, Mercury never officially built a car called the beaver. This is the brainchild of upstate New Yorker Chip Beam, who owns and operates Beaver Energy, LLC. It runs on gases created by wood pellets fermented in a 2,400-degree furnace and fed to a supercharged Ford 4.6-liter V8.

By all accounts, it gets down the road just fine, and has pretty close to full power. The best part is, you can grow the fuel yourself and avoid patronizing big oil, if that's your thing. The only drawback that we can see to the Mercury Beaver XR-7 is the PVC pipe jungle occupying the space that would be the trunk under normal circumstances.

Still, if you're willing to smell like a mountain man and look like a bad Back to the Future knockoff, this ride is right up your alley. Click past the jump to see Translogic's take on this modified Merc.

Continue reading Translogic drives wood-burning Mercury Beaver XR-7

Translogic drives wood-burning Mercury Beaver XR-7 originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 31 Jul 2011 18:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 mercury beaver xr7beavermercurytranslogicwoodwood burningwood pelletsSun, 31 Jul 2011 18:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20005249/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/31/translogic-drives-wood-burning-mercury-beaver-xr-7/20005249/article-detail.xml 20005249 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/mercury-beaver-xr7-lead_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/mercury-beaver-xr7-lead.jpg <![CDATA[eBay Find of the Day: Mercury Cougar-turned-Veyron replica for $89K]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/20/ebay-find-of-the-day-mercury-cougar-turned-veyron-replica-for/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/20/ebay-find-of-the-day-mercury-cougar-turned-veyron-replica-for/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/20/ebay-find-of-the-day-mercury-cougar-turned-veyron-replica-for/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Mercury Cougar Bugatti Veyron Replica

We're glad to see that Mercury vehicles are continuing to make themselves useful even after the brand's demise. One enterprising soul in Palm Bay, Florida took it upon himself to craft another 2002 Mercury Cougar into the image of a Bugatti Veyron. The project took Mike Duff around nine months to complete, including all of the exterior body work and slathering the interior with leather. Outside, the body is stitched from plenty of fiberglass and composites on a steel tube frame, and the finished product looks pretty similar to a legitimate Veryon.

Unfortunately, the vehicle's drivetrain won't be setting any world records anytime soon; the car still uses the same beating heart as the 2002 Cougar. The 2.5-liter V6 is good for 170 ponies - a far cry from the nearly 1,000 horsepower available from the legendary W16 in the Veyron.

There are a few plusses, however. For one, Duff's creation can seat four people comfortably, and we're guessing it costs significantly less to own and operate. Speaking of price tags, this faux-Bugatti can be yours for the princely sum of $89,000. Check it out on eBay Motors.

eBay Find of the Day: Mercury Cougar-turned-Veyron replica for $89K originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 20 Jul 2011 07:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bugattibugatti veyroncougarebay motorsmercurymercury cougarmercury cougar bugatti veyron replicaveyronveyron replicaWed, 20 Jul 2011 07:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19994983/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/20/ebay-find-of-the-day-mercury-cougar-turned-veyron-replica-for/19994983/article-detail.xml 19994983 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/03-cougar-veyron-1311103646-1311108257_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/03-cougar-veyron-1311103646-1311108257.jpg <![CDATA[Ford recalls Five Hundred, Mercury Montego sedans over fuel tank woes]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/18/ford-recalls-five-hundred-mercury-montego-sedans-over-fuel-tank/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/18/ford-recalls-five-hundred-mercury-montego-sedans-over-fuel-tank/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/07/18/ford-recalls-five-hundred-mercury-montego-sedans-over-fuel-tank/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2007 Mercury Montego Premier

Ford has announced through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration that it is recalling nearly 3,000 examples of its Five Hundred and Mercury Montego (pictured) sedans from the 2007 model year.

The action, which affects 2,945 vehicles, is due to potentially defective welds between the filler neck and the fuel tank, a condition that could result in a fuel leak or the smell of gasoline reaching the occupants. In the worst-case scenario, a leak could cause a fire. Cars with the affected fuel tank problem could see an illuminated dashboard warning light as a result of the evaporative emissions leak being detected.

Ford will inspect and replace the fuel tank at no cost to owners (those who have already had the procedure done at-cost can apply for reimbursement), and the Dearborn automaker will begin notifying Five Hundred and Montego owners beginning August 15. Check out the official NHTSA press release after the jump for further details.

Continue reading Ford recalls Five Hundred, Mercury Montego sedans over fuel tank woes

Ford recalls Five Hundred, Mercury Montego sedans over fuel tank woes originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 18 Jul 2011 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>five hundredfordford five hundredford five-hundredford recallmercurymercury montereymercury recallnational highway traffic safety administrationnhtsaMon, 18 Jul 2011 08:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19993066/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/07/18/ford-recalls-five-hundred-mercury-montego-sedans-over-fuel-tank/19993066/article-detail.xml 19993066 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/2007-mercury-montego-premier_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/07/2007-mercury-montego-premier.jpg -1 2