NHTSA Opens Probe of Windshield Wipers in Ford Expedition for Potential Defect

WASHINGTON June 20, 2005; The AP reported that the government has opened an investigation into a potential defect affecting windshield wipers on the Ford Expedition, officials said Monday.

Ford Motor Co. said the problems could affect about 650,000 vehicles from the 1999 to 2001 model years.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has received 20 complaints about allegations that water leaking into the vehicle near the windshield during rain or snow showers has caused the wipers and other electrical components to malfunction.

Ford spokeswoman Kristen Kinley said the company was cooperating with the investigation in an attempt to learn what is causing the problems. She said there had been no injuries or accidents associated with the issue.

NHTSA also said it was investigating potential problems involving the malfunction indicator lamp in the 2004 Land Rover Discovery II -- part of Ford's Premier Automotive Group.

Larry Rosinski, a Land Rover spokesman, said there have been reports of the malfunction indicator lamp in the onboard display near the dashboard failing to illuminate. He said it involves nearly 51,000 vehicles and the problem is likely a software issue.

Rosinski said there have been no accidents or injuries reported.