Five problems related to defogger heater have been reported for the 1997 Mercury Sable. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
We own a 1997 Mercury Sable. In June of 2004 our heater core went out and, as the car was under warranty, was replaced by a local car dealership, henry day Ford. The mileage of the car was then 60,468. Since then, we have had to have the heater core replaced an additional 4 times, the last time was may 11, 2005 (mileage 64,995). On June 7, 2005, once again, the heater core seemed to go out. We took it to henry day and they informed us that the head gasket was warped and needed to be replaced. Each time this has occurred, a steam has filled the interior of the vehicle and clouded the windows, making it impossible to see where I am going. It is a very malodorous steam, full of antifreeze. My concern is that this is a safety hazard. I have spoken to several owners of Ford taurus and Mercury Sable vehicles, and most seem to have had a similar problem with multiple heater core problems. This would appear to be a flaw in the vehicle. I am concerned that it will cause an accident for me, and I wonder how many accidents have occurred because of this problem. I am also concerned about my health and the health of my spouse (who has heart problems). We have been nauseated and have had congestion and even some memory problems that seem to occur after inhaling the steam. We would like information on the effects of inhaling this mixture of water and antifreeze.
Consumer took vehicle to dealer for recall repairs on cooling system in February, 2000. 17,000 miles later while driving, consumer turned on the defroster and a green film covered the inside of front windshield, making it impossible to see. Consumer had to roll windows down to see. Dealer replaced heater core.
Heater core for the ventilation system has failed four times since December of 1999. Dealership diagnosed problem, and an independent mechanic has been performing the repairs. Please provide any additional information / documentation.
The consumer has been experiencing problems with heater core. The consumer has replaced heater core three times. The heater core leaks water in the vehicle. The manufacturer has yet to be contacted.
At 55,000 miles the heater core has prematurely malfunctioned and is leaking. Was replaced and the replacement also leaks. Cause unknown.