Throttle body system failure causing inappropriate vehicle deceleration while driving. This condition happens without warning and can cause another vehicle to rear end you. I have already had one throttle body replaced due to this condition in 2013 and my vehicle is having the same problems again. The computer program that cuts the engine to idle speed should be disabled until a permanent fix to this problem can be corrected. In the current mode, these vehicles are unsafe to drive.

- South Point, OH, USA

The contact owns a 2005 Ford Thunderbird. While driving approximately 35 mph, the vehicle lost power without warning. The vehicle was restarted, but completely shut down. The vehicle was towed to a local dealer, but the exact cause of the failure was unable to be diagnosed. The failure recurred and the check engine indicator illuminated. The vehicle was taken back to the dealer where it was diagnosed and the fuel pressure was replaced. The failure recurred and the vehicle was taken back to the dealer where the rear module and fuel pump were replaced. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was 44,168. Updated 11/17/16

- Hixson, TN, USA

The contact owns a 2005 Ford Thunderbird. While driving approximately 25 mph on an incline, the accelerator pedal was depressed, but the vehicle failed to accelerate. The contact was able to coast the vehicle over to the side of the road. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the throttle body, valve cover gasket, and two coils unplugged and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 19,787. Updated 09/22/16

- Brimfield, MA, USA

Letter from constituent regarding an ongoing throttle problem with his 2005 Ford Thunderbird; information provided to NHTSA that may be the bases of a recall of the Thunderbird. The consumer stated in early August of this year, a yellow mechanic wrench light appeared on the dashboard at the time of start up. The consumer immediately stopped the vehicle, and made an appointment at the dealer. After a complete check-up, the vehicle was released to the consumer after the computer diagnostic system failed to reveal anything wrong. The next day, while driving 70 mph on the freeway while passing a slow moving truck, the wrench light illuminated again and the vehicle went into drive safe mode and immediately slowed down to 45 mph. The consumer was able to maneuver to the side of the road. Once the consumer made it to the dealer, the vehicle was left running, so the mechanic could do a computer diagnostic check. It was determined after testing, the throttle body and motor assembly were defective and replaced at a cost of $964.27. Updated 03/31/14

- Venice, FL, USA