The contact owns a 1997 Mercury Grand Marquis. While driving in reverse, the contact heard a loud abnormal noise and the suspension collapsed on the front driver side. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic who diagnosed that the lower ball joint separated and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 112,000.

- Milford, OH, USA

The consumer owns a 1997 Mercury Grand Marquis. While driving and using the steering wheel there was a squeaking noise. The consumer had taken the vehicle to the mechanic who suggested that there was no lubrication on the ball joints nor was there any way to lubricated them due to the design. The mechanic said that the ball joints should be alright for a while. No repairs or corrections were made at that time. On another occasion while driving 29 mph uphill, the left front ball joint cracked and dropped to the ground damaging the tie rod and ball joint assembly and the left front tire. The vehicle continued to travel for approximately 20 to 30 feet after the vehicle dropped to the ground and the driver lost directional control of the vehicle. This happened without warning. The vehicle was towed to the dealership. The dealer said that the other side was affected as well. The dealer repaired both front ball joints along with the tie rod assembly. Note: Failed components are available for inspection upon request. (11/211/05) the consumer found the coolant crossover cracked on intake.

- Cincinnatti , OH, USA

Driving right front wheel feel off car. Right front ball joint came apart and whole wheel assembly came off. Lower ball joint broke and pulled out of the socket. The technician replaced both lower ball joints. The manufacturer was contacted but refused to provide any assistance because the vehicle's warranty was expired.

- Pittsburgh, PA, USA

Sudden failures of ball joints and steering linkages.

- Everett, MA, USA

Ball joints separated when vehicle was on a floor jack and consumer was under vehicle.

- Baltimore, MD, USA

While driving at 2 mph, the front passenger wheel separated from the vehicle. Vehicle was towed to the independent shop. The mechanic determined the lower ball joint had came apart.

- Pittsburgh, PA, USA

Ball joint on right front broke and made tire go flat.car was inoperable, and had to be towed to mechanic.

- Chicago, IL, USA

While reversing in the driveway the lower ball joint fell off. The dealer replaced the lower ball joint.

- Hillsboro, MO, USA