1992 Mercury Topaz Electrical system Problems
- Complaints
- 11about this part
- Share
- 18%of 62 total for the year
- Median mileage
- 61,000miles
- Trend
- Not enough dataFewer than 15 complaints, too few for a reliable trend.
NHTSA recorded 11 complaints about the electrical system of the 1992 Mercury Topaz, 18% of the 62 complaints for this model year. Where a mileage was given, the median is 61,000 miles. 3 a fire, according to the filers. 1 recall campaign on record is filed under a similar system.
Fewer than 15 complaints name this part, so treat the figures as a rough indication only.
Example complaints
Selected from NHTSA records; personal details are removed. They are consumer reports, not findings.
“The ignition switch fell apart 3 times on the Topaz since 1995, the switches I bought at ford dealership was the exact same one that fell apart. First the accessories stop worked one at a time, A/C, turn signals, radio, air conditioning. Then I pull it out and replaced the switch, I carry an extra one in t car and have the replacement down to 45 minutes. I replaced the switch now when the second sign of failure occurred. I have a small pouch with all the tools. I need to change the part and have the bolts and screws marked that I have to take out. …”
NHTSA complaint #10195557, filed 2007-07, 76,000 miles“Vehicle caught on fire from the steering wheel. When the vehicle was started flames burst out from the steering wheel. The vehicle was recalled (96v-071000) but the consumer never received the notice. The ignition switch was the cause of the fire.”
NHTSA complaint #10044838, filed 2003-10, 46,000 miles“This vehicle is not covered under recall# 96v071000 concerning electrical system: ignition switch. Ignition switch must be maneuvered for some electrical system parts to function. For instance, air conditioner will come on by maneuvering the ignition switch. Also, electric seat belts/power windows/ turn signals, and brake lights don't operate.”
NHTSA complaint #10037961, filed 2003-08“The driver's side passive restraint system(shoulder belt) locked up and became non-operational. Whenever the vehicle is started there is a horrible nosie that is emitted from the shoulder belt assembly unit. The same identical problem occured with the shoulder belt on the passenger's side.”
NHTSA complaint #555799, filed 2000-10Related recalls
- 96V071000Apr 25, 1996The ignition switch could experience an internal short circuit.Covers: Mercury Topaz 1988–1993, Ford Thunderbird 1988–1993, Mercury Cougar 1988–1993 +12 more
Electrical system: other model years
| Year | Complaints | Share of year |
|---|---|---|
| 1994 | 7 | 11% |
| 1993 | 13 | 18% |
| 1992 | 11 | 18% |
| 1991 | 12 | 30% |
| 1990 | 21 | 44% |
| 1989 | 13 | 28% |
| 1988 | 7 | 33% |
| 1987 | 7 | 44% |
| 1986 | 2 | 22% |
| 1985 | 1 | 20% |
| 1984 | 7 | 70% |
Other parts of the 1992 Mercury Topaz
16 complaintsEngine cooling
14 complaintsBrakes
5 complaintsTransmission and drivetrain
5 complaintsVisibility (wipers, defrost, mirrors)
5 complaintsSeats
4 complaintsFuel system
3 complaintsVehicle speed control
3 complaintsSteering
2 complaintsBody and structure
2 complaintsEquipment
1 complaintsExterior lighting
1 complaints
← All problems reported for the 1992 Mercury Topaz
About this data. Data from NHTSA (ODI) complaints, recalls, TSBs and investigations, updated Oct 29, 2026. Complaints are unverified consumer reports and may be duplicated or inaccurate.
To check a specific vehicle for open recalls, use its VIN at nhtsa.gov/recalls. Methodology