Attachment IV - Questions and Answers

Q. Why are you recalling these vehicles?

A. Although the possibility of fire related to the air induction system is extremely rare, Ford is conducting a voluntary safety recall involving approximately 418,000 2003 Model Year Ford Taurus and Mercury Sables to replace the air filter element. We have received 65 reports of underhood fires involving the air filter.

Q. Have there been any accidents or injuries related to this condition?

A. We are not aware of any accidents. There is one report of a minor injury that is still under investigation.

Q. Which vehicles are affected?

A. Approximately 418,000 2003 Ford Taurus and Mercury Sable vehicles (the entire 2003 model year for these vehicles).

Q. What about vehicles built before the 2003 model year? What about 2004 cars?

A. This action is limited only to the 2003 model year. That's because an investigation by Ford discovered an unintended sub-supplier change to the composition of the air filter element. This change, combined with the physical characteristics of the 2003 Taurus and Sable air induction systems, created a greater susceptibility of the element material to smolder and/or catch on fire.

Other model year Taurus and Sable vehicles were built with the proper, specified air filter element.

Q. Can my existing stock of Motorcraft FA-1683 be used for this Recall?

A. Yes

Q. Is this a voluntary recall?

A. Yes - this is a Ford-initiated voluntary recall.

Q. What about cars currently in dealer inventory?

A. Affected vehicles still in dealer inventory must be repaired before delivery to customers. In addition, dealers are required to repair affected vehicles before allowing sales demonstration drives.