Vehicle stalled 7 times at various speeds. Vehicle was taken to dealer 5 times, ignition module was replaced twice, multi-function switch once ,and starter once.
The worst 1990 Mercury Topaz problems
Ranked by number of owner complaints. Mileage and cost come from what owners wrote.
Problems by type
Tap a problem to see which part fails, at what mileage and in which other years.
- Electrical21
- Engine7
- Acceleration6
- Brakes6
- Steering4
- Lights3
- Seat belts3
- Fuel system2
- Suspension2
- Locks1
- Seats1
- Tires1
- Transmission1
- Wheels1
Specific symptoms reported on the 1990 Mercury Topaz
Recalls 1
Electrical system: ignition
- What is wrong
- The ignition switch could experience an internal short circuit.
- Risk
- This condition could cause overheating, smoke, and possibly fire in the steering column area of the vehicle.
- Remedy
- Dealers will replace the ignition switch.
Recall number 96V071000 · Recall details
See all 1 recalls for the 1990 Mercury Topaz
Defect investigations
Rear brk adjuster failure
1984 - 1991 ford tempo/mercury topaz
PE96005
Rear brake system failure
There is no summary currently available
DP96002
Failed passive restraint
We have received numerous reports which allege a malfunction or failure of the passive restraint system.additional reports allege that the passive restraint system failed to restrain/adequately protect the occupant during an accident
EA90008
Technical service bulletins for the 1990 Mercury Topaz 37
Bulletins tell dealers how to fix known problems. A warranty extension means the manufacturer pays for that repair for longer.
- Some vehicles may exhibit heater core leaks
- Information regarding transmission fluid usage charts
- Information regarding the new transmission cooler flusher- service tip
- Subject on a wire harness terminal repair kit available for repairing electrical wiring harnesses
- Information on identifying non-approved / alternate refrigerants which could cause safety, and performance...
- Information on the new flush and fill tool available through rotunda
- Experiencing a whine / buzz type noise in the speakers of the entertainment radio or two-way radio on...
- Ford motor company now recommends sae 5W-30 viscosity grade for servicing any ford gasoline-powered...
- Ford motor company has released a new electrical grease ( F8AZ - 19G208-AA ) to reduce the possibility of...
- Information on tire company telephone numbers for customer assistance
1990 Mercury Topaz fuel economy
Official EPA estimates in miles per gallon (MPGe for electric). Ranges cover trims that share the same engine.
| Engine | Drive | City | Highway | Combined |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2.3L 4‑cyl | FWD | 18-21 | 24-30 | 21-24 |
| 2.3L 4‑cyl | 4WD | 17 | 22 | 19 |
What 1990 Mercury Topaz owners say
Most recent owner complaints, unedited.
Headlight covers made of plastic became yellow, and makes night driving difficult. Please provide any further information.
The vehicle's tpi module is defective and is causing the vehicle to stall intermittently, consumer request that the manufacturer replace this component at their expense. Nlm
When driving vehicle will cut off without prior notice. Then, it takes a minute or two to start it over. Dealership was aware of the problem.
Vehicle caught on fire. Fire started in the steering column. Vehicle experienced the same problem as manufacturer's recall 7774/ignition switch. Ford advised consumer that this vehicle was not part of the recall.
Copies of form o.m.b. No. 2127-0008 sent via us mail, and e-mail to: http://www.the federal safety agency.dot.gov
Brother had driven the car to get it washed. Then drove to a restuarant, and the car started smoking and caught on fire. Called fire department to extinguish the fire.
Right headlight lense cover came off while driving. Nm
Alternator lead to the battery melted.
Idles to fast ,beyond high idle ,uncontrolable speed while driving
Compare the 1990 Mercury Topaz
Other model years
Questions about the 1990 Mercury Topaz
Is the 1990 Mercury Topaz reliable?
Owners have filed 48 complaints about the 1990 Mercury Topaz, close to a typical Topaz model year.
What is the most common problem with the 1990 Mercury Topaz?
Electrical system, with 21 complaints. Next is engine (7).
How many recalls does the 1990 Mercury Topaz have?
1 recall, covering electrical system.
Was there a recall on the 1990 Mercury Topaz electrical?
Yes, 1 recall: 96V071000. Check your VIN to see if your car still needs the free repair.
What year does the Mercury Topaz have the most electrical problems?
The Mercury Topaz model years with the most electrical complaints are 1990 (21 complaints), 1991 (13 complaints) and 1993 (13 complaints).
What gas mileage does the 1990 Mercury Topaz get?
Official estimates for the 1990 Mercury Topaz range from 19 to 24 mpg combined. The most efficient version (2.3L 4-cyl, FWD) gets 18-21 city and 24-30 highway.
VIN decoder
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