When hitting a real bad bump or the metal expansion joint in the road, the speedodmeter needle jumps up to its maximum reading, which is 85 mph. The needle does not go back down until the driver lets off the accelerator, and slows the vehicle down. The speedodometer was replaced in June of 97 for the same reason. The problem has reappeared. The problem has been reported to the dealership. Dealer did not agree to repair free of charge. Vehicle registered to cynthia lewis. Report given by husband.

- Bel Air, MD, USA

The consumer has been experiencing problems with speedometer. Speedometer goes up to 80 mph after the vehicle reaches 30mph. The manufacturer has been contacted.

- Cortage, TX, USA

The original speedometer failed at 27719 miles. The replacement speedometer now has 28333 miles. On 03 November I requested a speedometer be put on my auto. I was not requesting that this work be done under the warranty. I was told that Ford Motor Co has a hold on all orders for speedometers for Ford tarus and merkery Sable. The service manager related that there is a problem with these speedometers and Ford was assessing the problem and a desision would be made shortly as to the method of correcting the problem. The dealer took my name, phone number and added it to an already long list of vehicles with the same problem. Appairently there are a large number of these vehicles operating on the highway with non- working speedomenters.

- Carthage, TX, USA

Speedometer needle reacts normally up to 35-45 mph. After that, the needle bounces between 40-85 mph at any speed above 35mph. A slight noise, similar to an electric rattle can be heard during malfunc- tion. Completed 1500 mile trip and was able to judge speed by using tachometer. Dealer recommends replacing speedometer head and drive cable ($400). Have spoken with others who have had similar problem fixed and problem returns within 10-20K miles.

- Carnegie, PA, USA

Possible odometer fraud.

- San Angelo, TX, USA

Speedometer head is defective. Bounces back and forth where one cannot tell the speed that vehicle is traveling. Repairs have been done and replaced component three times. The problem occurs every 25,000 miles on average. Dealer contacted and problem still exists.

- Macon, GA, USA

Speedeometer failed and was replaced twice in first 60,000 miles.

- Normal, IL, USA

The speedometer was replaced under Mercury's warranty at 30,000. The new speedometer failed 30,000 miles later. We paid $400 to have it repaired so we can use the car but feel something is wrong if it will only last 30,000 miles. We have tried to contact Ford but have been referred to the dealer who of course referred us back to Ford.

- Durham, NC, USA

Speedometer/odometer does not operate properly. Does not accurately give the mileage.

- Washington, DC, USA

Speedometer failed two times.

- Stephens C, VA, USA

Speedometer malfunctioned.

- San Angelo, TX, USA