1996 Ford F150 4 X 4-both rear brackets connecting the leaf springs (rear of vehicle) to the frame were terrible corroded and cracked. Mechanic was fearful of failure within a month or two. Replacement parts are only available from a Ford dealership. Called local dealership and was assured parts available. Upon arrival at the dealership, not all parts available as demand had been so great they kept running out of the parts. I had to go to a different dealership to obtain the rest of the parts. The replacement parts were of significantly heavier build than original parts. Have since been informed by my mechanic and others that mid 90S Ford 150S and Explorer are losing the brackets en masse. I consider this a significant safety issue as an important chasis component is more than likely to fail. These older trucks are now being handed down to high school kids. A failure at highway speeds will surely lead to inexperienced drivers panicking and over correcting at the time of failure. There was no accident, but based on the demand at a single dealership (I was told at the parts department that they had received 12 request for the very same part in one day. All requests were for either 1996 F150S or 1996 Explorer). I consider that statistically significant and wished to bring it to your attention. Thank you.

- Oregonia, OH, USA

When hitting a bump whileturning a corner or hitting the brakes, the vehicle vibrates and jerks.

- Alamogordo, NM, USA

Majority of problems have been with front and rear suspension in addition to the following: Cambers, slugs, toes, rotors, gear box, springs, drag links, tie rods, bushings, trans cross members, stabilizer barrs, bushings, electrical, computer, transmission, oil leaks, ignition cylinder, and replacement of four wheel drive components. Dealership tells me their hands are tied. Ford Motor Company only "documents" difficulties and I can't get past a customer service representative who can do nothing but put my complaints into a database. Repeated letters and phone calls have gone unresolved and Ford Motor Company has made no attempt at customer service! I was told today that notice would be sent to the local field office where they would contact the dealer service manager and most likely not me directly although I asked that they do so. There have been ten service appointments for these parts to be replaced. I now have another appointment for Aug. 9th - we still have front and rear suspension problems. To date, our truck has been at the service for repairs for a total of 22 days.

- Strongsville, OH, USA