The problem
Cracks have been found in the front safety belt outboard anchor tabs due to a combination of hydrogen embrittlement of the tab and stress introduced during attachment of the anchor tab to the seat frame. This does not conform with the requirements of fmvss no. 210, "Seat belt assembly anchorages."
The risk
Consequence of non-compliance: a fracture or separation in this area would reduce the load that the anchor and the front safety belt anchorages could sustain, increasing the risk of injury in a vehicle collisoin.
The fix
Dealers will inspect and install an anchor tab reinforcement or replacement of the complete front seat belt assembly if an anchor tab is found to have fractured.
Contacts
System: interior; restraint; belt anchor and attachment; fmvss no. 210. Vehicle description: passenger vehicles. Note: a small number of vehicles built at the cuautitlan, mexico assembly plant from september 4 through september 8, 1995, are also included. Note: owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time, should contact ford at 1-800-392-3673. Also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-800-424-9393.
What to do
- Check your VIN. Enter it at nhtsa.gov/recalls - it shows whether this recall applies to your vehicle and whether the repair has been done.
- Call a dealer. Any authorized Ford, Mercury dealer will do the repair free, whether or not you bought the vehicle there. Quote campaign 95V228000.
- Ask about parts and a loaner. If parts aren't available yet, ask what to do in the meantime.
- Keep your paperwork. If you paid for this repair before the recall, you may be able to get reimbursed - here's how.