The contact owns a 1999 Ford Expedition. After driving the vehicle for approximately three minutes and then parking, the contact noticed smoke underneath the hood. She lifted the hood and noticed flames coming from the driver's side of the vehicle. The failure originated at the master cylinder. The VIN was unknown. The current and failure mileages were 130,000.

- Lutz, FL, USA

Last Thursday my brakes failed due to a rupture in the hydraulic fluid steel tubing. The vehicle is a heavy SUV, and being an active sailor, I use the vehicle to tow boat trailers. We had just hooked up a loaded boat trailer, and as I got back into the car, I noted that the brake pedal went to the floor. We proceeded about 300 yards on a level side road and tested the brakes with the same result. We noted a lot of brake fluid under the car. We had the vehicle towed to newport Ford in middletown, Rhode Island. They showed me the rupture site, and the rust over the entire system of steel tubing. They indicated that they would have to replace the entire tubing to all four (4)wheels, for a cost of over $700. They also indicated to me that this type of failure is quite common. The dealership handles about 2-3 incidents per month. I asked why the tubing was not copper, and they indicated that many american car manufacturers have switched from copper to steel. We were very fortunate that the failure occurred at the beginning of the trip, for if it had happen going down a major hill in the center of newport, there could have been grave consequences. I have two comments. One is that if this failure is as common as I was told, I would hope there would be a major policy change and a recall. Cars often recalled, for rather minor issues, and I think this is much more serious.

- Newport, RI, USA

Frankly, I need your advice on a matter of great concern I bought a 1999 Ford Expedition from waldorf Ford in Oct 2002. Recently I had a break down; I had three spark plugs blow-out, yesterday I was told that three cylinders are gone due from the damage of the spark plugs. The assistant team mgr said it would cost $6000 to get a new engine or get a new vehicle; I couldn't believe my ears. These trucks are lemons and I believe itS time that Ford take responsibility for their actions and recalls these engine. I guess they are waiting for someone to get killed. My truck lost power in the middle of rush hour and I was nearly rear ended. Other noted problems: The emergency brake cable stays on, the engine light stays on while driving and the brakes pads and shoes are worn out at a higher rate.

- Waldorf, MD, USA

On several occasions the vehicle experienced extended stopping distance when braking. The vehicle was taken to the dealer but they were unable to duplicate the problem. B

- New Braunfels, TX, USA

The rear brakes seized, which caused the vehicle not move.

- Toronto Onterio, 00, USA