I purchased a 1997 Mercury Sable in July 1977 from don jackson spartan Lincoln Mercury dealer. I have had continuous trouble with the transmission, the brakes, the "plastic" bucket holding reserve antifreeze (cracked and leaked antifreeze) and now the windshield wipers work when they want to work (intermittently and steadily). When I contacted don jackson Lincoln-Mercury at those times when the parts acted up to ask them if there had been any recalls or problems (and I cited each area each time I called), I was told there were no problems reported in any of these areas with the 97 Sable. I found there on the internet that there are many. I have paid $2000 for the transmission repair, $550 for brakes, $80 for the antifreeze bucket, and went to purchase a wiper motor ($85) when I was told by the auto store clerk to check the internet, which I am now doing. I find that jackson spartan L/M dealer has not been honest with me and I was not notified by don jackson spartan L/M of these fallacies. What can I do?

- Hampton, GA, USA

Car overheated, taken to mechanic who diagnosed blown headgasket - retooled headgasket. Also replaced water pump, radiator, plugs, plug wires, coil, thermostat, since headgasket problem - car has needed to be repaired constantly. Still has cylinder 1 misfire. Car is 5 yrs old. Seems like excessive prblems for a car that new.

- Clearwater, FL, USA

Consumer stated had to flush radiator out at least five times because of dirty water, it is written in owner's manual that the radiator should be flushed 1 time every 100,000 miles. While flushing the radiator, water got into the transmission and the transmission had to be replaced several times. Consumer states that ever since recall 98823 was completed on vehicle, radiator has constantly needed flushed, now causing problems with the transmission. Consumer heard a noise in the front wheel area, dealer replaced right front wheel bearing.

- Lakelinden, MI, USA