Investigation EA02008: 1997 Ford Escort

Status

CLOSED

Opened

Jun 10, 2002

Closed

Dec 11, 2002

Model years

1997

Subject

Water intrusion into airbag monitor

Component: Air bags

Summary

By letter of december 6, 2002, ford notified the agency that it would conduct a safety recall on all 1997 ford escort and mercury tracer vehicles.ford found that electrical shorting of the integrated air bag monitor (iabm)due to liquid intrusion of water or engine coolant can occur in the subject vehicles.ford and lincoln mercury dealers will install a protective shield over the iabm and apply nyogel grease to it's electrical connector.see ford's december 6, 2002 defect and noncompliance information report for details.

An NHTSA investigation looks into whether a safety defect exists. Opening one is not a finding. Outcomes can include a recall, closure without action, or further inquiry.

Model years covered

• 1997 Ford Escort543 complaints