The problem
The rivets holding the rear outboard belt d-rings were not heat treated properly causing the heads of the rivets to fracture under load and fail to hold the d-rings to the straps. This does not conform to the requirements of fmvss no. 210, "Seat belt assembly anchorages."
The risk
Consequence of non-compliance: this condition can reduce the restraining capabilities of the safety belt in the event of an accident.
The fix
Dealers will install a reinforcement plate on the rear outboard seat belt assembly anchorages involved in this campaign.
Contacts
System: interior; restraint; belt anchor and attachment; fmvss no. 210. Vehicle description: passenger vehicles. 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 96V045000.
- 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.