For the exact same reason as they put a recall on them: they corrode and fail. Of course, even though the part number is the same as the SAE springs (or whatever springs the SVT uses), the recall doesn't apply to the SVT. My left rear spring has gone already.

I have been told by a Ford mechanic that works under the table in his spare time, that half of his business comes from springs on Contours, Mystiques and Foci.

Seriously, do a search, and there are tons of references to this. While the struts are out, might as well put the new ones in.

98 Silver Frost SVT 97 BMW 540I Sport, six speed "Blue is for sky, black is for soil, and white is for simplicity, purity and hope for the future" "A coveted car should never stunt your life, but should make it more rich and interesting."