The problem
These vehicles are originally sold or currently registered in the following states: alaska, iowa, minnesota, nebraska, north dakota, and south dakota. The vehicles involved are 1992-1994 tempo/topaz vehicles with 3.0l engines; 1994 tempo/topaz with 2.3l engines; 1992-1995 taurus/sable with 3.8l engines; 1994-1995 taurus/sable with 3.0l engines and 1992-1994 Lincoln continental vehicles with 3.8l engines. During high winds, heavy, blowing and drifting snow, and low temperatures, the engine cooling fan can become blocked or frozen with snow. The fan motor May not rotate and could overheat.
The risk
This condition can cause smoke or flames from the fan and/or shroud, the fan electrical wiring, or the fan motor resulting in a vehicle fire.
The fix
Dealers will install an electrical jumper harness containing an automatic resetting circuit breaker to protect the fan motor low speed circuitry from overheating.
Recall details
| NHTSA campaign | 97V-019 (97V019000) |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer number | 97S66 |
| Manufacturer | Ford Motor Company |
| Component | Engine and engine cooling › Cooling system › Fan |
| Report date | February 25, 1997 |
| Owners notified | March 31, 1997 |
| Vehicles affected | 75,200 |
| Initiated by | NHTSA investigation |
Vehicles covered
Owner complaints about the engine & cooling
Frequently asked questions
Is the recall 97V-019 repair free?
Yes. Ford dealers will fix the problem at no cost: Dealers will install an electrical jumper harness containing an automatic resetting circuit breaker to protect the fan motor low speed circuitry from overheating.
How do I know if my car is included?
Not every vehicle of the listed model years is affected — the recall covers 75,200 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.