Hello:

I have tired to search the internet for this answer, I have a 1991 Mercury Sable that is now flashing an air bag code. I think it's a code "44" meaning, it flashes four times, then a short pause then 4 more times.

It just started doing this. I went on a business trip for three weeks, when I returned, the car had sat for those three weeks. Then it started doing it.

Here are some facts about the car:
I know the battery is wore out, I need to replace it, it has gotten to the point where it just won't start without a jump, Im working on finding the funds to replace the battery.

It has 207,000 miles on it.

Now, on my 94 Ford Escort, for the last three years, each winter when the car is cold, you go to turn the steering wheel, and it makes this horrible creeking noise. It will do this until you get the car warmed up.
I have suspected the rack and pinion steering assembly, but Im not sure, I have taken it to a few mechanics, and none of them can find the problem. Partually because by the time I drive it to the auto repair shop, the car has warmed up and its not doing it anymore.

It has passed inspection each time with this problem.

But it didn't do this when I bought the car and Im wondering what it could be. I thought it may need to be greased, but I couldn't find any grease ports.

The car has 125,000 miles on it.

Any help would be appricated it.

Thanks in advance!

If the Escort has power steering, I would have the power steering system flushed and new ATF fluid added. In my 2000 Taurus, I use Amsoil Universal Synthetic ATF, which is Mercon and Mercon V rated. If your fluid is dark and thick, that could be the problem. The important thing is to get it changed, regardless of whether you use conventional or synthetic ATF.

Walmart carries Mobil 1 Synthetic Multi-Purpose ATF, which is Mercon/Mercon V rated. Synthetics are clearly superior, especially in cold weather. Get a battery squeeze bulb at Advance Auto ($2.49) and suck the fluid down to just above the large hose level. Refill with fluid, start engine, allow to circulate, and repeat several times. Replacing a power steering unit and gear assembly can cost $1,500 or more.

Remember to change your transmission fluid and filter every 30,000 miles on your Ford products.

I'll do that, in fact I was going to have the trans flushed in November anyway, I'll get the power steering flused then too. We'll see if that helps. The power steering flued is rather dark grey, I haven't checked the consistency, but I will do so now.

Thanks for the reply.

Mercon and Mercon V are red. Grey is not good and will lead to pump and gear failure.

Don't know what to really advise about Code 44. It could be a connector issue or even related to the car's computer. Each component to the system needs to be checked out.