One problem related to gas recirculation valve (egr valve) has been reported for the 1997 Mercury Grand Marquis. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Plastic manifold cracked open releasing all cooling fluid driving 30 mph, outside temp 58 degrees. . . Despite the unwise - if not stupid - decision to save costs by manufacturing one of the hottest parts on a car, plastic, this car should definitely be recalled for that reason, and the dealership should be told to repair this defect at their cost or to reimburse customers who already had to pay this $ 600. 00+ for replacing this part with a metal one.