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The occupancy sensor is something I hadn't even thought of. Because it's in the track and the fact that the seats are very similar, I would probably agree with the idea that the bolt pattern is probably the same to the track. Does the ford system require a calibration of the sensor after being toyed around with? My only issue is that, as I'm sure you're aware, the early first gens had issues with the passenger seat and it's squeaking issue. Mine definitely has that issue and was hoping to eliminate that as a fringe benefit of swapping in new seats. I have not performed the full procedure of the TSB regarding that seat squeak issue, but imagine it would be a good time to do that if swapping out the seats. I took the seat out a couple of years ago and put some thick felt tape in places where it seemed like the squeak could be occurring, but didn't do the widening of the hole where the track meets the body. My quick fix improved the initial issue significantly, but it is still present at odd times when a passenger is present. On a side note, any tips/tricks on that TSB procedure that have prevented comebacks? I've already tracked down two different cars that have the exact seats that I'm looking for, and the prices are actually more reasonable than I was expecting. It's sort of annoying that they're both in the northern midwest though. Definitely wouldn't want to commit to something like that unless I was 100% sure on the compatibility.

I like the idea of finding 2nd gen (2010-2012) fusion leather and installing it in my first gen SEL. The seats in my 2011 SEL were so much better than the seats are in my 2007. Granted, it seems that the leather in my 07 is significantly more durable, as it is in very good condition overall for having 145k miles on it, including the drivers seat. The leather is clearly much softer in the second gen as the color was already wearing off my light colored leather in the 2011 after only 50k miles, but still. I'll take the trade off for the huge comfort upgrade, including the option for the power passenger seat, which I cringe at not having for my front seat passenger(s). In addition, it also seemed like the driver's seat allowed a slightly lower seating position in my 2011, as my head is in contact with the headliner in the 2007 when the seat height is at absolute minimum. Issues I'm foreseeing: Airbag compatibility? female seat belt buckle electrical connector change? (I haven't actually checked whether it's a part of the seat assembly, or if it's bolted to the floor) Insight on this?

I agree completely. Two of the Bridgestone OEM tires that came on our new car we purchased last year had high road force values, causing a really unpleasant feel on the highway. The dealer(s) wouldn't touch it, and always seem to not know how to handle tire related issues (which I personally find to be unacceptable, as a former dealership service writer (non-FoMoCo). I popped into my local Firestone, and they not only replaced the tires, no questions asked, no fee, but they upgraded me to a higher-end Bridgestone with a longer tread life at my request, for no cost. I, as someone who's been on both sides of the counter for these types of issues, would advise that you contact Hankook. In the case of a treadlife issue, there may be only a prorated credit awaiting you, but that's much better than paying full price. I'd be extremely surprised if they didn't refer you to a local Hankook dealer for a tire prorate evaluation. I'd actually sort of recommend Sears Auto Center if you've got one near you. Their POS makes it really easy for them to do an accurate proration, and that would also give you some history with them if you ever need warranty tire service when you're travelling, versus a small independent shop. I'm assuming they still sell Hankook, of course.