Window & Wiper complaints by model year
Which parts fail
Components named in complaints (power windows, windshield, wipers, mirrors, sunroof).
Mileage when the problem started
What owners report
While driving at various speeds the consumer would hear a loud noise coming from the brakes. When brake pedal was depressed it would go to the floor and there would be extended stopping distance. Different brake components have been replaced several times but the brakes continue to fail. The windshield molding flapped while driving. The driver's front door rattled while driving. The dealer lubed the window tracks.
Our windshield wipers sporatically turn on and startle driver. They have been doing this since about two months after we bought vehicle. Ford is aware of this danger but cannot find a replacement part. They know the multifunction switch is defective on many of the vans but will not replace until presumably some time in October. My wife and I feel this is a hazard. They will go on as if they are on a 15 second delay and do this for 10 minutes straight, then stay off for the next hour. Ford says pull the fuse to the wipers if it gets annoying.
The vehicle automatic door locks automatically lock the doors this has happened innumerable occasions. This began shortly after purchase of the vehicle in 1998, and continues today. The doors ar not to lock if the keys are in the ignition, and they do. This has occurred while driving the vehicle, while it is parked, when entering, and exiting the vehicle. The interior doors do not override the locks, and in an emergency, one would be unable to exit the vehicle if they were to lock. Usually this occurs most often when the doors are being closed; and if the battery is unhooked, and reconnected, it May remedy the situation for several days. The rear automatic windows go out when you press the buttons to make them go in, and the rear wiper stays down as if the window is unlocked. That can be remedied by unlocking the window, and relatching it, it usually stays up for 2-3 days. …
Both passenger/driver side rear manual popped out. Windows do not close properly, and can be opened from the outside in the locked position. A person can wedge a hand between the glass and weather seal in the locked position. Protrudes appx 3/4 inches out of alignment from fixed automatic rear window. Dealship stated that no adjustment could be made, and thats its normal on this model.
While driving down the highway, driver side front window 'popped', shattered, then flew inward on me. Police inspection of vehicle did not find any slugs, was not driving under a bridge, nor no cars next to me.
Sun visor assembly breaks after short period causing it to drop into drivers vision and drastically interfere with ability to see oncoming traffic. Replacement cost is $97.00 for one sun visor. Mercury Villager owners club reports this as a constant problem with this vehicle.
Consumer's wife was driving on highway when heavy rain commenced. Driver started to roll up window when window stopped just before it reached the top. Driver's hand was caught between the frame and the window, trying to get the window up. Driver received minor cuts while trying to free her hand from the window. Vehicle was in the dealer shop on several occasions before this incident occurred. Codition was never resolved.
The sliding door opens while driving even after slamming shut. Consumer states this has happened several times over a 2 week period, while driving down the road, usually after reaching 40 MPH the door would just unlatch,also left tyrn signal doesnot work, brakes were replaced, rear glass wiper wiper had to be replaced, most of the power locks had to be repaired, and the rear hatch latch had to be replaced, right rear brake light had to be repaired, also rear bench seat and the automatic seat belts have beeninspected.
Related recalls (1)
Visibility › Power window devices and controls
Vehicle description: Mini vans. These vehicles were produced with power windows that can be closed after the ignition key is turned to the "off" position and the right front (passenger) door is opened. This does not meet the requirements of FMVSS 118, "power-operated window systems."
Remedy: Owners will be provided with a label reminding owners not to leave children unattended because the power windows can operate for 15 minutes after the vehicle ignition has been turned off unless the driver's door is…
Frequently asked questions
Which Mercury Villager years have window & wiper problems?
By NHTSA complaints, the 1995 (19), 1996 (18), 1998 (6) and 1999 (6) model years. Window & Wiper complaints make up 5% of all complaints for the 1995.
Is there a recall for Mercury Villager window & wiper problems?
Yes — 1 recall, including 98V012001 (power window devices and controls, Mar 23, 1998). Recall repairs are free at authorized dealers; check a specific car with the VIN recall check.
At what mileage do Mercury Villager window & wiper problems start?
Across all years, half of the complaints with a recorded mileage happened before about 53,000 miles; 67% happened before 50,000 miles.
What part fails most often?
Owners most often name the windshield wiper/washer (15 mentions), followed by the windshield (15).
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.