1994 Ford Tempo: ball joint or control arm failure

Filed Mar 21, 2004 · Suspension · WA

Because of an extremely poor design the r. R. Control arm rusts through totally on the 1994 ford tempo. I believe this is caused by a poorly placed exhaust release perforation, designed into the muffler by the manufacturer. My control arm failed at 15 MPH. I was advised by the mechanics that fixed it ($300 plus later) that a failure at highway speed would have been catastrophic for anyone in the vehicle at the time. I was also advised this is a common problem. I contacted ford months ago about this problem, they denied it was one.

Filed Apr 3, 2000 · Engine · TX

The location of drain hole in the muffler has caused control arms and fuel tank to rust. Vehicle was taken to the dealership. No repairs were made to the vehicle. Owner noticed the rusting about a month ago.*ak.et.

Filed Jun 26, 1999 · Fuel system, Suspension · WA

While having pfe sensor replaced, it was noted that rear control arm and left rear corner of gas tank "badly rusted". Mechanic believes in part due to acidic water coming from drain hole of muffler. Rusting is so bad rear control arm looks charred. Mechanic also noted he had "never seen anything like this". Have been advised to do no long distance driving, that risk of fire is great and if control arm rusts further, risk of breaking away from wheel could cause accident.

Filed Nov 16, 1998 · Fuel system · NC

In sept. An odor of gasoline was noted. Upon further investigation it was found that gasoline was seeping from an area on the upper back left hand corner of the tank where rust was occurring due to condensate from the condenstate vent hole in the exhaust being aimed at the upper left corner of the gas tank. In checking with used part companies this same rust pattern was showing on all tanks of this model and make. The rust was occurring from the outside in and gas seeping with no visible leakage occuring to have it register on the gas gauge. If odor had not been detected then there could have been an explosion if the car had been driven and a spark had occured. In nov. A break occurred with the left rear lower control arm where the same rust had formed due to this condensate being aimed at the control arm. The right control arm does not show this same problem. The placement of the gas tank with the condensate vent being aimed at these two critical parts appears to be a safety hazard. Have there been any other reports of this problem?

Filed Dec 7, 1995 · Steering · OH

Inner and outer tie rods continually fail causing damage wheel and tires. Tt