The 2008 Mercury Mariner was subject to a safety recall primarily concerning a defective steering torque sensor that could lead to a loss of power steering assist.
Main Recall Information
Ford Motor Company initiated a recall for certain model year 2008-2011 Ford Escape and Mercury Mariner vehicles. The core issue lies with the vehicle's steering torque sensor, which might fail to accurately detect the driver's steering input. This malfunction can compromise the electric power steering (EPS) system, potentially resulting in a sudden loss of power steering assist.
This recall affects vehicles manufactured between August 18, 2006, and September 11, 2010. A failure in the steering torque sensor can significantly increase the effort required to steer the vehicle, especially at lower speeds or during parking, posing a safety risk to the driver and occupants.
To provide a clearer overview, here are the key details of the recall affecting the 2008 Mercury Mariner:
| Aspect | Recall Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Ford Motor Company |
| Affected Models | 2008-2011 Mercury Mariner, 2008-2011 Ford Escape |
| Manufacturing Dates | August 18, 2006, through September 11, 2010 |
| Reason for Recall | Steering torque sensor may not properly detect driver steering input |
| Potential Impact | Loss of power steering assist, increased steering effort, increased crash risk |
Practical Insights & Solutions
Owners of a 2008 Mercury Mariner should be aware of the following:
- Recognizing Symptoms: If the power steering assist fails due to this issue, drivers may notice a sudden and significant increase in the effort needed to turn the steering wheel. This is often most noticeable during low-speed maneuvers or when parking.
- Safety Implications: A loss of power steering can make the vehicle difficult to control, particularly in emergency situations, potentially increasing the risk of an accident.
- Owner Action: If you own an affected 2008 Mercury Mariner, it is crucial to contact a Ford or Mercury dealership. They will inspect the steering torque sensor and replace it if necessary. Recall-related repairs are typically performed at no cost to the owner.
- Verifying Your Vehicle: To determine if your specific vehicle is part of this or any other recall, you can use your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). You can check your VIN on official recall lookup tools provided by national automotive safety administrations, such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) in the United States, by visiting NHTSA Recalls.
Regular maintenance and promptly addressing any steering abnormalities are essential for vehicle safety.
