The problem
Vehicle description: passenger vehicles. If the ball joint assembly in the rear knuckle, where the lower control arm attaches, is displaced longitudinally from its installed position, it can cause higher stress levels in the knuckle casting. If this occurs, the casting could fracture, allowing the corner of the vehicle to drop, and the lower control arm could contact the inside of the rear wheel.
The risk
In some cases, directional control of the vehicle could be reduced.
The fix
Dealers will replace both rear suspension knuckles. Owner notification began April 19, 2001. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Ford at 1-800-392-3673.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 01V-121 (01V121000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | 01S15 |
| Manufacturer | Ford Motor Company |
| Component | Suspension › Front › Control arm › Lower ball joint |
| Report date | April 11, 2001 |
| Owners notified | April 19, 2001 |
| Vehicles affected | 8,100 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Plus 2 other model/year combinations not covered on this site.
Owner complaints about the suspension
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 01V-121 repair free?
Yes. Ford dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will replace both rear suspension knuckles. Owner notification began April 19, 2001. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact Ford…
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 8,100 vehicles built in a certain window. Check your 17-character VIN with our VIN recall check or at nhtsa.gov/recalls.
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.