Ford Motor Company Recalls 186,200 Contours-Mystiques-Cougars

Recall From: Ford Motor Company

Models:

Ford Contour Years: 1999-2000 Mercury Mystique Years: 1999-2000 Mercury Cougar Years: 1999-2000

Number Involved: 186,200

Dates of Manufacture: August 1998 - March 2000

Defect: Ford has expanded this recall to include later model vehicles. This recall involves passenger vehicles not equipped with an anti-lock braking system (ABS). A "pressure conscious reducing valve" (PCRV) in the rear brakes may be subject to corrosion and result in malfunction when operated in areas that use salt compounds on the roadway for de-icing or dust control. If both PCRV's malfunction, vehicle handling could be adversely affected during braking from rear wheel lockup, increasing the risk of a crash.

Remedy: Dealers will install improved PCRV's in the rear brake system. The manufacturer has reported that owner notification began Oct. 23, 2000. Owners who do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Ford at 1-800-392-3673.

[NHTSA Recall No. 00V075001/Ford Recall No. 00S03 #1]