: the contact stated while entering a driveway at 5 mph, an unidentified noise was heard. When attempting to reverse out of the driveway, the rear wheels spun. The contact turned off the ignition and exited the vehicle to inspect the problem. The front right wheel was turned to the right and the linkage was laying on the drive way, and the front wheel was still pointed straight and responded to the steering wheel. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic. The manufacturer was notified. Updated 11/30/2006 -the failure was the tie rod end which failed due to lack of grease. The grease fitting could not be greased.

- Fort Wayne, IN, USA

While driving 18 mph the front passenger side tie rod broke. As a result, the steering failed. No impact reported. Dealer replaced passenger and driver's side outer tie rod end, and passenger side inner tie rod and sleeve.

- Valparaiso, IN, USA

Problems with upper and lower ball joints and tie rods. The parts were replaced, some of them twice. Ford put ungreased parts on. Eventually they dried out again and started squeaking. If not replaced they would possibly break which could cause the driver to lose control, possibly causing injury or death. The front brakes were resurfaced.

- Louisville, KY, USA

The inner and outer tie rod ends have been replaced as well as the upper and lower ball joints.

- Louisville, KY, USA

Consumer states while driving down a road tie rod fell down and consumer lost control of vehicle, wheels were loose could not steer. Took to dealer, dealer stated tie rod was wore and fell off.

- Mountain Top, PA, USA

While driving 5mph and backing into driveway inner tie rod connection broke on right wheel. Dealer contacted.

- Montgomery, IL, USA