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Ford Lacks Parts for Recall Repair

Supply problem affects passenger cars; truck supplies adequate

By Joe Benton
ConsumerAffairs.com

October 19, 2007      Spanish

The automaker claims to be making every effort to provide the parts but has failed to give dealers the needed quantity to be installed on the cruise control switch system in some recalled vehicles.

Ford's recall of 3.6 million cars and trucks announced in August covered more than a dozen models built from 1992 to 2004. The automaker has recalled more than 10 million vehicles since 1999 because of engine fires linked to the cruise control systems in trucks, vans and sport utility vehicles.

Vehicles that are affected by the parts shortage include the 1992-1997 Lincoln Town Car, 1992-1997 Ford Crown Victoria, 1992-1997 Mercury Grand Marquis, 1993-1998 Lincoln Mark VIII, 1993-1995 Taurus SHO and 1994 Mercury Capri.

A Ford spokesman said there have been no supply problems for parts for SUVs and pickup trucks covered by the recall.

Ford had promised in August that it expected the parts to be available for the passenger cars in early October.

The spokesman blamed the problem on demand for the part exceeding supply as Ford owners rushed to dealers in an effort to eliminate the fire hazard.

Dealers are installing a fused wiring harness into the speed control electrical system as part of the recall. Owners can take their vehicles to a dealer to have the cruise control deactivated until the parts arrive.

Owners with questions about the recall can call Ford at 888-222-2751.

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