Engine Noise Problems of Mercury Villager

Engine oil light intermittently flashing when engine is cold (after starting). Oil light goes off after engine is warmed up. Intermittent excessive "engine noise" when engine is cold (after starting). Mercury dealership indicates "sludge" in engine, recommends replacement of engine. Last oil change at 29000 miles and previously at 24600 miles. Dealership is indicating engine damage is due to inadequate maintenance (I. E. Oil change frequency). Ford issued a letter January 1997 (recall 96m89) which describes "piston slap" noise problem and offered to extend engine warranty to 7 years or 100,000 miles. Dealership is contending that the engine damage is not due to this recall but owner maintenance. I would like to know if you can provide additional detail on the 96m89 recall notice and whether or not the engine defect covered by the recall could precipitate the engine damage I am experiencing at 40,700 miles. While I understand this issue is not safety related any assistance you could provide would be appreciated.

See all problems of the 1996 Mercury Villager 🔎.

Engine oil light intermittently flashing when engine is cold (after starting). Oil light goes off after engine is warmed up. Intermittent excessive "engine noise" when engine is cold (after starting). Mercury dealership indicates "sludge" in engine, recommends replacement of engine. Last oil change at 29000 miles and previously at 24600 miles. Dealership is indicating engine damage is due to inadequate maintenance (I. E. Oil change frequency). Ford issued a letter January 1997 (recall 96m89) which describes "piston slap" noise problem and offered to extend engine warranty to 7 years or 100,000 miles. Dealership is contending that the engine damage is not due to this recall but owner maintenance. I would like to know if you can provide additional detail on the 96m89 recall notice and whether or not the engine defect covered by the recall could precipitate the engine damage I am experiencing at 40,700 miles. While I understand this issue is not safety related any assistance you could provide would be appreciated.

I was getting on the expressway over in the passing lane the van made a noise I turn down the radio to listen I lost pressure the van shut down . I had oil ,water I just dont under stand what happen I was told that I need an engine never had a warning sign and I always keep my oil change and other item acorrding manufacuturer.