I have experienced accelerated front tire wear, and associated noise and vibration on this vehicle, with current mileage at 37000 miles. I have had the wheels balanced religiously every 5000-6000 miles since I bought it. I first noticed the wear and vibration at about 25000 miles. I took the vehicle in to have the wheels balanced and was told that the ball joints were loose and out of specification. I then returned the vehicle to the dealer to have the vibration and wear problem addressed under warranty. The dealer told me that there was nothing wrong with the vehicle, and that the noise was simply due to tire wear. When I indicated that a third party shop had found loose ball joints, the dealer stated that they were in spec, and then recommended front end alignment which I had performed. The vibration and noise from the front tires continued after the alignment was done. At this rate, I will have to replace the tires and likely the ball joints on this vehicle prior to reaching 40000 miles. Several other complaints to NHTSA are very similar to my experience with this vehicle.

- Topeka, KS, USA

Vehicle has a constant "thumping" noise in front end at any speed as well as vibration. While driving at in town speeds and controlled highway speeds, the vibration tapers off but noise increases. During acceleration vibration is severe. Vehicle has been in dealership shop at least 3 times for this, each time I'm told a tire rotation will fix the problems...each time it does not. Vehicle is scheduled to be brought back to shop 12/22/05 again for same problem.

- Baytown, TX, USA

Brakes, shocks, rear axle, cruse control, alignment

- Pleasanton, CA, USA

Vehicle front suspension assembly was, according to Ford dealer, designed so poorly that excessive and unsafe tire wear patterns were to bee expected. Several other customers with same complaints were in dealer's waiting room the same day. I have exhausted all avenues to work with Ford, up to Ford detroit customer service.

- Grand Prairie, TX, USA

While driving approximately 60 mph front of vehicle suddenly dipped. This caused vehicle to skid and crash into a ditch. Vehicle was totaled. The cause of this was undetermined.

- Cairo, GA, USA