I called Ford Corp's customer svc @ 1-800-392-3673 & spoke with rep., "Anthony, " at 4:56 pm on Thursday, 11/10 about the online Ford recalls for my vehicle. He said he checked Ford's recalls and found that there literally are recalls on the exact 1999 Ford Contour SE sedan that I own but in checking the VIN number for my specific vehicle found that my vehicle is NOT included in the recalls, even though my vehicle literally has the specific, possibly life-threatening, defects included in the recall: (1) "[1999 Ford Contour SE] built with automatic transmissions which utilize a park/lock solenoid. It is possible to rotate the ignition key to the lock position and remove the key without the shift lever and transmission being in park position and remove the key without the shift lever and transmission being in park. These vehicles do not comply with the requirements of FMVSS No. 114, 'Theft Protection.' 'This could result in a crash and possible personal injury'. Dealers will inspect these vehicles. Vehicles that have units with ignition keys removable in gear positions other than park, WILL HAVE THE STEERING COLUMN REPLACED." Anthony clearly stated that Ford will NOT do ANYTHING (!) to correct this recall defect (stating that NOTHING (!) was EVER done on my vehicle's recall defect), but ADVISED ME to immediately as possible take the vehicle to a dealer and have the dealer repair the defect problem (by replacing the steering column, etc.) AT MY OWN PERSONAL EXPENSE, not Ford's. (2) "FORD's Federal-Mogul Chassis Products is recalling 'aftermarket ball joint assemblies shipped between 11/09 and 3/26'... These ball joint assemblies are missing the intended prevailing torque (self-locking) feature. If the incorrect nut was to become loose, the joining members may loosen leading to a separation of the ball joint. This may result in loss of vehicle control, possibly resulting in a vehicle crash. Federal Mogul WILL NOTIFY OWNERS and replace the parts FREE OF CHARGE. The recall BEGAN on 5/22." (3) Passenger vehicles not equipped with the anti-lock braking system (ABS)."A pressure conscious reducing valve (PCRV) in the rear brakes may be subject to corrosion and result in malfunction, when operated in areas that use salt compounds on the roadway for de-icing or dust control. If both PCRV's malfunction, vehicle handling could be adversely affected during braking as a result of the rear wheels locking, increasing the risk of a crash.'Dealers will install improved PCRVs in the rear brake system. This recall was expanded in September to include 1999 and 2000 Ford Contour..."
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