The problem
When in the secondary latched position, the driver door latches May open when subjected to transverse loads less than that specified in FMVSS no. 206, "door locks and door retention components."
The risk
The driver's door, when closed only to the secondary latched position, May not sustain a 1,000 pound transverse load.
The fix
Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the driver door latch.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 96V-070 (96V070000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Ford Motor Company |
| Component | Latches/locks/linkages › Doors › Latch |
| Report date | April 22, 1996 |
| Owners notified | May 15, 1996 |
| Vehicles affected | 73,500 |
| Initiated by | Manufacturer |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the locks & latches
- 1996 Ford Aerostar door lock & latch problems 6
- 1996 Ford Crown Victoria door lock & latch problems 6
- 1996 Ford Explorer door lock & latch problems 34
- 1996 Ford Thunderbird door lock & latch problems 4
- 1996 Lincoln Town Car door lock & latch problems 6
- 1996 Mercury Cougar door lock & latch problems 3
- 1996 Mercury Grand Marquis door lock & latch problems 1
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 96V-070 repair free?
Yes. Ford dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will inspect and, if necessary, replace the driver door latch.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 73,500 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.