Two problems related to front suspension upper ball joint have been reported for the 1996 Mercury Grand Marquis. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
1996 Mercury Grand Marquis LS, VIN: 2melm75wxtx647727 front tie rod separation from wheel when front passenger side seal ball joint snaps in half. Estimated speed at time of ball joint failure was between 1-5 mph in a parking lot. First noticed when backing out of parking space, handling was poor, tie rod separated completely. Car is being serviced by nys dot certified c and d automotive, state route 104, ontario, NY 14519. This vehicle was in late June, early July of 1999 for a replacement of the front drivers side ball joint seal due to loud noises coming from front drivers side wheel area and quivering steering feel.
Upper ball joints failed at 70,000 miles. Dealer stated that was normal.