One problem related to front seat recliner has been reported for the 1996 Mercury Sable. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Two boxes (about 30-40 lbs each) in trunk slid forward upon hard, emergency braking from about 25 mph. Boxes slammed into right rear fold down seat back, causing seat back to open. Boxes entered into right rear seating area. Toddler in child seat on left rear side. No injuries.