1993 Ford Festiva Suspension Problems

“Dt: the contact stated while pulling out of the driveway the left front double wheel assembly fell of the vehicle when the left front control arm lower ball joint broke. The vehicle has the same problems as indicated in the recall; however it is not included in the recall due to the VIN. The vehicle has been seen by a dealer who determined both control arms, both lower ball joints, and the left axle seal need to be replaced. There was NHTSA recall campaign 96e017000 regarding the suspension. Updated 02/07/06.”

“The lower control arm bolt on one side of this Ford Festiva fell out (it didn't break, but backed itself out). We have 6 other festivas ('91-'93) which we checked, but none of them had the loose bolt - nevertheless, we replaced all these bolts in all 7 cars, and torqued them to the factory setting. We were very fortunate that an astute driver was able to get this car under control without an accident. We thought we should advise you in the event there have been any similar complaints.”

“The contact owns a 1993 Ford Festiva. While backing out of the driveway at an unknown speed, the driver side wheel detached from the vehicle. The wheel sustained a dent in the metal covering. The dealer stated that the front control arm failed and needed to be replaced. The contact paid for the repair. Soon after the repair was performed, he learned of NHTSA campaign id number 96e017000 (suspension: front:control arm). The contact would like to be reimbursed for the repair costs. The purchase date was unknown. The current mileage was 126,000 and failure mileage was 113,628. …”