The contact owns a 1997 Mercury Sable. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic for a safety inspection, where the mechanic notified her that the brake lines were corroded and the ball joints were detaching from the vehicle. Also, the mechanic advised the contact that the vehicle was unsafe to drive. The vehicle was not repaired. The approximate failure mileage was 73,000.

- Worcester, MA, USA

Ball joint and tie-rod replacements needed very frequently (1-2 times a year). On both a 1997 Sable wagon and 1999 Sable sedan. Each vehicle has had several ball joints and tie-rods replaced, some covered by mfg as the frequency was so often. Each time we have been told that the ball-joint and/or tie-rod, on one side or the other, needs to be replaced due to "safety" requirements. If this is the case than the frequency has me concerned that if the 'issue" was not caught in time there could be an injury or death. The 1997 Sable wagon went in for a starter replacement today 3/16/06 and we were told that the lower outer tie-rod needed to be replaced. This tie-rod was replaced 11K miles ago on 12/3/04 and the car was inspected on 12/5/05.

- Londonderry, NH, USA

Consumer has problem with suspension. Vehicle sits so low to the ground that in snow like weather, brakes freeze up, and perform poorly until car is fully warmed up. Consumer now believes that her claims were too hasty and that all low riding cars have this problem, car simply is not suited for country driving conditions.

- Perryville, KY, USA