2009 Mercury Grand Marquis

Certain vehicles serviced as part of recall 2013-287 (13S08) or special service campaign 13R01 may require re-inspection and repair. The service procedure may have resulted in over-extension of one part of a collapsible joint in the intermediate steering shaft. This could potentially result in the shaft becoming disconnected, resulting a loss of steering, which could increase the risk of a crash causing injury and/or damage to property. Correction: Dealers will inspect the intermediate shaft connection and replace the intermediate shaft if necessary.

On certain 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), the steering column lower intermediate shaft can become severely corroded.  This could cause the swing link joint to become stiff or seized.  As a result, the upper intermediate shaft could collapse, allowing the steering column lower bearing to separate, causing a loss of steering capability.  A loss of steering control could result in a crash causing property damage and/or personal injury.  Correction: Dealers will replace the steering lower intermediate shaft.  The upper intermediate shaft and steering column lower bearing will be inspected and, if necessary, repaired or replaced.  If the steering column lower bearing has separated, a retainer clip will be installed.