Problem started with a siezed ignition switch in september 1998. Replaced switch. In augaust 1999 switch begain to fail. I had to wiggle the key to get my digital instruments to function (intermittant). On about 14 aug. 99 I wiggled the switch and smoke rolled up from under the dash. I was able to turn off the ignition switch before the wireing ignited. When I checked to see what smoked I saw a purple/white wire to the ignition switch with its insulation melted off. I could see it melted through the wireing bundle up to the fire wall under the dash. My wireing diagram isn't all inclusive but the wire is in the brake indication circuit. The vehicle also has the stalling problem, brake vaccume assist problem , had the power steering hose leak, ( 3 serious safety problems that I saw on your web page) had 2 AC compressors fail, fuel pump fail, power steering pump fail.
1990 Mercury Sable electrical problems
21 complaints (13% of all complaints for this car). 1 crash reported.
- owner complaints
- 21
- of this car's complaints
- 13%
- crashes
- 1
- recalls
- 0
Which part fails
- Wiring: interior/under dash4
- Ignition4
- Wiring: front underhood3
- Starter assembly3
- Wiring2
- Alternator/generator/regulator2
- Ignition: switch1
At what mileage
Complaints by mileage at the time of the problem.
Mercury Sable electrical problems in other years
Specific symptoms reported on the 1990 Mercury Sable electrical
Phrases found in the owners' own descriptions, so one complaint can mention several symptoms.
Related recalls
No recalls on record for this model year.
What 1990 Mercury Sable owners say
Most recent owner complaints, unedited.
Outer cv boots failed.
Recall 89v171000. The interior and headlights get dim, and intermittently go on and off, the alternator was replaced and the problem still exists.
The panel light wiring is defective, causing the check engine light/air bag light/brake light, and sometimes the seat belt lights to work intermittently. Sometimes they stay on and won't go off. Dealer not aware of the problem.
While driving electrical system will partially shut down.
Starter failed and replaced.
Starter replaced.
Hile driving vehicle at speed 30mph, compartment fire under the dash, saw smoke coming out.
While parked, an electrical short in the dash, caused the vehicle to catch on fire.
The vehicle caught on fire while being driven. The flames started in the ignition area.
Questions about the 1990 Mercury Sable electrical
Does the 1990 Mercury Sable have electrical problems?
Owners have filed 21 complaints about the electrical of the 1990 Mercury Sable, 13% of all its complaints.
At what mileage do 1990 Mercury Sable electrical problems start?
Not enough complaints include the mileage to tell.
Was there a recall on the 1990 Mercury Sable electrical?
There is no recall for this problem on this model year.
What year does the Mercury Sable have the most electrical problems?
The Mercury Sable model years with the most electrical complaints are 1993 (46 complaints), 1995 (32 complaints) and 1994 (29 complaints).
Other 1990 Mercury Sable problems
Engine 30Steering 24Body 23Transmission 17Airbags 14Acceleration 12Seat belts 12Suspension 11Brakes 10Lights 9Fuel system 6Visibility 5Locks 3Wheels 3Tires 2
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