Structure:body:hatchback/liftgate:support Device/strut

NHTSA campaign 97V137000 · announced August 19, 1997 · filed by Ford Motor Company · 2,200 units affected

The problem

VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: MULTI-PURPOSE PASSENGER VEHICLES. THE LIFTGATE ASSIST GAS CYLINDER BRACKET ON THE RIGHT HAND BODYSIDE OUTER PANEL WAS INCORRECTLY WELDED.

The risk

THE GAS CYLINDER BRACKET MAY NOT PROPERLY SUPPORT THE LIFTGATE INCREASING THE RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY.

What to do

DEALERS WILL REINFORCE THE BRACKET ATTACHMENT WITH TWO POP RIVETS.

Notes

OWNER NOTIFICATION IS EXPECTED TO BEGIN SEPTEMBER 30, 1997.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.

Vehicles covered by this recall

• 1996 Ford Explorer
• 1997 Mercury Mountaineer

Source: National Highway Traffic Safety Administration public recall data. This page reports official records and is not legal or repair advice.