2003 Ford Windstar

Issue: 
This recall is for aftermarket replacement rear window glass produced by Vitro Automotriz. Certain rear window glass may not have been properly tempered. If the window breaks, the glass may separate into large pieces instead of very small ones. 
Note: This is a voluntary recall that is not being conducted under the requirements of the Motor Vehicle Safety Act. 

Safety Risk: 
Glass that breaks in to large pieces could create a risk of injury. 
 
Corrective Actions: 
The company will notify consumers by mail and instruct them to inspect the designation code marked on the rear window glass. Products affected by this recall have the designation “DOT 287” along with the lettering “VMR” (Replacement Market) and a date code that is before July 2019. This information is printed on the bottom corner of the glass. Consumers should contact Vitro's customer service at 1-412-995-6457 or argbacklites@vitro.com to arrange for replacement of the glass.

On certain vehicles that had rear axle reinforcement brackets installed as part of safety recall 2010-284, the brackets may not have been installed properly, which could limit the effectiveness of the recall service repair in addressing the safety defect.  Safety recall 2010-284 was conducted to address the risk that the combined effects of corrosion and stress can lead to a complete fracture of the axle.  If the rear axle fractures, and the reinforcement brackets were not installed properly, vehicle handling may be adversely affected, increasing the risk of a crash.  Correction: Dealers will inspect the rear axle reinforcement brackets that were installed as part of recall 2010-284.  If one or both brackets are found improperly installed, the dealer will replace the rear axle.

On certain vehicles, the subframe may not have been properly e-coated during the manufacturing process.  As a result, the subframe of vehicles originally sold, or currently registered, in areas of heavy road salt usage during winter months (Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland & Labrador), may rust over time, resulting in reduced durability of the front lower control arm rear attaching brackets and body mount attachments at the rear of the front subframe.  A separation of a front lower control arm rear attaching bracket may result in a lower control arm separation.  A separation of both front subframe rear body mounts may result in diminished vehicle directional control.  Either condition could result in reduced steering control, which may lead to a crash causing property damage and/or personal injury.  Correction: Dealers will inspect the front lower control arm rear attaching brackets and body mount attachments at the rear of the front subframe.  If the front lower control arm rear attaching brackets are not cracked, perforated, or exhibiting significant metal loss, and if the front subframe at the rear body mount locations are not cracked with metal separation aft of the rear body mount, and if the front subframe is not cracked or perforated in the area between the rear body mount and the front lower control arm rear attaching bracket, the vehicle will be returned to its owner and the owner will be notified when to return for installation of reinforcement brackets.

On certain vehicles registered and operated in areas where road salt is used on the roadways during winter months for extended time periods (Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and  Newfoundland-Labrador), the rear axle may corrode and fracture.  If the rear axle fractures, vehicle handling may be adversely affected, creating the risk of a crash.  Correction: Dealers will install rear axle reinforcement brackets.

On certain vehicles, the speed control deactivation switch may overheat, smoke, or burn, potentially resulting in an underhood fire.  The condition may occur either when the vehicle is parked or when it is in operation.  Correction: Dealers will install a new switch or fused wiring harness.  Note: This is an expansion of recall 2005028 (05S28) for vehicles not previously included in the campaign.