The problem
The wire harness for the power lumbar feature on the seat is underneath the front seat cushion support wires. The support wires on the driver seat can contact and damage the insulation harness resulting in a high resistance electrical short through the support wires.
The risk
Consequence of defect: over heating of the support wires could result, and melting, smoke, or possible igntion of the surrounding materials could occur.
The fix
Dealers will inspect the seats on the affected vehicles. If no damage is found, the driver seat wire harness will be covered with a protective convolute tubing, wrapped with electrical tape and the harness will be rerouted. If damage is found, the wire harness will be replaced.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 96V-064 (96V064000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Ford Motor Company |
| Component | Seats |
| Report date | April 16, 1996 |
| Owners notified | May 29, 1996 |
| Vehicles affected | 31,000 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the seats
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 96V-064 repair free?
Yes. Ford dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will inspect the seats on the affected vehicles. If no damage is found, the driver seat wire harness will be covered with a protective convolute tubing, wrapped with electrical tape and the harness will be rerouted.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 31,000 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.