1996 FORD Thunderbird Problems & Complaints
Real owner complaints and problems reported to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). View common issues by component.
276
Complaints Reported
Complaints by Component
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
59 complaints
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 FORD THUNDERBIRD. THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING 30 MPH WHEN HE NOTICED AN ABNORMALLY STRONG COOLANT ODOR. THE CONTACT THEN INSPECTED THE VEHICLE AND FOUND THAT THE ANTIFREEZE INTAKE MANIFOLD HAD FAILED. THE INTACT MANIFOLD WAS CRACKED AND CAUSING ANTIFREEZE TO SPILL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER TO BE DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 60,000.
Jul 12, 2011
FIRST MY ENGINE SEEMED TO OVERHEAT A BIT THEN EVERY ONCE IN A WHILE IT WOULD SOUND LIKE THE ENGINE WAS GRINDING ON SOMETHING AND WOULDN'T STOP.. SOUNDED LIKE A BUNCH OF CHAINS IN MY HOOD. BUT THEN ON OCCASIONS THE STUPID THING WOULDN'T SHUT OFF WHEN IT WAS MAKING THE CHAIN SOUND, EVEN WITH MY KEY OUT. IT JUST HAPPENED AGAIN AND NOW THE THING SMELLS LIKE SOMETHING IS BURNING AND I HAVE NO POWER WHAT SO EVER IN MY VEHICLE. BEFORE WHEN IT FINALLY SHUT OFF IT SOUNDED LIKE IT WAS ABOUT TO SPARK. THEN IT WAS MAKING A CLICKING NOISE THAT WASN'T COOL. *TR
Oct 10, 2008
DEFECTIVE INTAKE MANIFOLD. FORD REPLACED ONCE, FREE OF CHARGE @ 48,523 MILES. CRACKED AGAIN @ APPX. 95,700 MILES. FORD REFUSED TO REPLACE FREE OF CHARGE. REPLACED ONE DEFECTIVE MANIFOLD WITH ONE THAT WAS JUST AS DEFECTIVE. THERE WAS A CLASS ACTION SUIT ON THIS MANIFOLD, IT WAS SO BAD. *JB
Aug 03, 2007
TL* - THE CONTACT WANTED TO HAVE REPAIR DONE TO 1996 FORD THUNDERBIRD, HOWEVER SERVICE BULLETIN #97M91, DATED JAN 19, 1998 (NHTSA ITEM NUMBER: 605621) EXPIRED AND FORD CHARGED FOR THE REPAIRS. THE MILEAGE AT THE TIME OF THE FAILURE WAS 80000. THE CONTACT SAID THAT THE SERVICE BULLETIN WAS FOR THE INTAKE MANIFOLD. THE CONTACT WROTE TO FORD. THE REFUSED TO HONOR THE SERVICE BULLETIN. *AK UPDATED 2/6/2007 - *NM
Dec 26, 2006
DEFECTIVE INTAKE MANIFOLD ON 1996 FORD THUNDERBIRD. THE CAR ONLY HAS 84,450 MILES ON IT! COST WAS $1002.02 TO REPAIR. WHY IS THE CONSUMER BEING CHARGED FOR THIS COSTLY REPAIR WHEN THIS IS A KNOWN DEFECTIVE PART FROM THE FORD MOTOR COMPANY?*JB
Sep 13, 2006
+ 54 more complaints for this component
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
47 complaints
DT*: THE CONTACT STATED, WHILE TRAVELING AT 30 MPH THE BRAKES FAILED WHILE PRESSURE WAS APPLIED TO THE BRAKE PEDAL. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A SERVICE DEALER, WHERE A LEAK WAS FOUND ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE FRONT HYDRAULIC BRAKE LINE. THE LINE WAS CORRODED TWO INCHES FROM EITHER SIDE OF A CLIP HOLDING THE BRAKE LINE. NO OTHER CORROSION WAS FOUND ON THE REMAINING BRAKE LINES.
Jul 06, 2006
PROBLEMS WITH BRAKE ROTORS ON VEHICLE ARE WARPED. *MR THE FRONT ROTORS WERE REPLACED, LEFT AND RIGHT (2 TIMES) AND WERE WARPED AGAIN. *SCC *JB
Nov 14, 2003
WHILE DRIVING CONSUMER WENT TO PRESS ON BRAKES AND PEDAL WENT TO FLOOR. BRAKES WOULD NOT STOP VEHICLE.CONTACTED DEALER, AND DEALER STATED HOSE WAS OFF BRAKES. *AK
Jul 03, 2001
SINCE VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED IN 1999, I HAVE REPORTED TO FORD MOTOR AND BUDGET CAR SALES THE PROBLEM WITH THE BRAKE SYSTEM, BRAKES JAM, VEHICLE GOES BACKWARD AND JERKS FORWARD WHILE SITTING IN TRAFFIC. FORD MOTOR CO. REFUSES TO TAKE RESPONSIBILTY FOR THE MANUFACTURING DEFECT AND BUDGET AUTO SALES SAYS THEY CANNOT FIND THE PROBLEM AND I NEED TO WAIT UNTIL "SOMETHING HAPPENS" THIS VEHICLE IS A DEATH TRAP AND I IMPLORE SOMEONE TO ASSIST ME IN GETTING THESE DEFECTS CORRECTED BEFORE SOMEONE IS KILLED.*AK
Mar 26, 2001
SINCE THE PURCHASE OF THIS VEHICLE (1996 FORD SABLE) I HAVE HAD PROBLEMS..THE CAR SHUTS OFF AT SPEEDS OF 10MPH, WHILE SITTING IN TRAFFIC, OR ATTEMPTING TO ACCELERATE. I HAVE REPORTED THIS PROBEM TO NHTSA, THE DEALER, FORD MOTOR CO. AND THE LOCAL NEWSPAPER, THE DEALER SAYS HE CAN NOT FIX IT UNTIL IT DUPLICATES WHILE HE HAS IT...AGAIN HE SAYS "WAIT UNTIL SOMETHING HAPPENS" , I ASKED IF HE WERE WAITING FOR SOMEONE TO BE INJURED OR KILLED HE SAID UNFORTUNATELY THAT'S WHAT WILL HAVE TO HAPPEN IN ORDER TO LOCATE THE PROBLEM. I FIND THIS TO BE A LUDICRUOUS ANSWER, FORD MOTOR COMPANY SHOULD TAKE RESPONSIBLITY FOR MANUFACTURER DEFECTS. FORD MOTOR COMPANY REFUSES TO CORRECT THESE DEFECTS.*AK
Mar 26, 2001
+ 42 more complaints for this component
POWER TRAIN
21 complaints
TRANSMISSION SLIPS AT TAKEOFF, CAUSING CAR TO STOP IN LANE OF ONCOMING TRAFFIC. *AK
Sep 21, 2001
SHIFT INTERLOCK ENGAGED - TOTAL LOSS OF USE. SHIFT INTERLOCK REQUIRES BYPASS BY TURNING IGNITION TO JUST BEFORE ACC COMES ON, SHIFTING TO NETRUAL, AND STARTING CAR. IF YOU SHIFT TO PARK REQUIRES YOU START PROCESS AGAIN. LOSS OF HIGH MOUNT BRAKE LAMP AND BOTH TAIL LIGHTS. HIGH MOUNT BULBS REPLACED, AS WELL AS THE TAIL LAMP LIGHTS, TO NO AVAIL.*AK
Jul 03, 2001
PROBLEMS WITH SLIPPING TRANSMISSION. *AK
Aug 03, 2000
TRANSMISSION FAILED CAUSING GEAR CHANGING PROBLEMS. MJS
Sep 22, 1999
TRANSMISSION HESITATION STARTED AT 1,671 MILES, FINAL REPAIR AT 26,069 OF THE FAULTY TORQUE CONVERTER. MJS
Aug 31, 1999
+ 16 more complaints for this component
VISIBILITY
18 complaints
THE DRIVER NOTICED THAT THE BLOWER WAS INOPERATIVE. THE BLOWER FAILS TO TURN ON SOMETIMES AND IT STICKS ON HIGH AT ALL TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION. THE MECHANIC INFORMED THE DRIVER THAT THE ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER DETAILS. *NM
Feb 17, 2005
CLIMATE CONTROL MODULE FAILED, AS A RESULT, DEFROSTER AND DEFOGGER FAILED, CAUSING IMPAIRED VISION. *BF THE CONSUMER'S VEHICLE EXHIBITED THE SAME SYMPTOMS STATED IN RECALL 96V-007000, BUT IS NOT INCLUDE IN THE RECALL DUE TO VIN. *NM
Oct 12, 2004
THE CLIMATE CONTROL MODULE FAILED. AS A RESULT, THE DEFROSTER AND DEFOGGER FAILED, CAUSING IMPAIRED VISION. RECALL 96V007000) WAS ISSUED, HOWEVER THIS VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL DUE TO VIN. *AK
Aug 30, 2004
MULTI FUNCTION SWITCH CONTROLLING (FLASHER, WIPER, DIMMER/BRIGHT LIGHT AND WIDOW WIPERS) IS DEFECTIVE. MY 1995 COUGAR (SISTER TO A T-BIRD) ALSO HAS THE SAME PROBLEM. I AM NOT SURE WHAT YOU WANT FOR THEM. IF IT MEANS IS THE PART ORIGINAL. THE ANSWER IS YES. WHY ASK THIS UNDER VEHICLE? SHOULD IT BE UNDER EQUIPMENT? COULD YOU CHECK ON MY PREVIOUS COMPLAINT WITH MY 95 COUGAR AND SEE IF IT IS ANSWERED CORRECTLY? ALL PARTS WERE ORIGINAL ON THAT VEHICLE ALSO. *JB
Mar 26, 2003
WIPERS OCCASIONALLY FAIL TO OPERATE WHEN SET TO INTERMITTENT SETTINGS.
Sep 17, 1999
+ 13 more complaints for this component
TIRES
13 complaints
TIRE ON 2 CASES BLEW THE TREAD AND BELT, THE LATER OF THE TWO INCIDENCES WHICH RESULTED IN A CRASH THAT TOTALED THE VEHICLE, AND RESULTED IN TWO INJURIES TO BOTH THE DRIVER AND THE PASSENGER. BOTH NEEDED TO BE HOSPITALIZED.*AK
Jul 03, 2007
WHILE TRAVELING 70MPH ON HIGHWAY, VEHICLE WAS VIBRATING INSIDE OF STEERING COLUMN. HE WAS ABLE TO PULL OVER TO SHOULDER. RIGHT REAR TIRE TREAD SEPARATED. *AK FIRESTONE FR680 P215/70R15 AND DOT #W2M31PN266. *YH
Mar 08, 2002
TWO ORIGINAL TIRES SEPARATED ONE MONTH APART, I REPLACED THE ORIGINALS WITH A NEW SET OF FOUR OF THE SAME MODEL AND SIZE, ONE OF THESE HAS NOW SEPARATED, 3 OF 8 TIRES HAVE GONE BAD. THE TIRE AIR PRESSURE WAS MAINTAINED PROPERLY, PERIODIC ROTATION AND BALANCE AND TWO ALIGNMENTS WERE PERFORMED WITH THE LATEST SET.. I BELIEVE THAT THERE SHOULD BE AN INVESTIGATION AND A RECALL, THE REGIONAL ASST. MGR. (PETE SHEPARD @ 480-443-0606) WILL NOT REFUND EVEN A PRO-RATED PORTION OF MY MONEY. I HAVE HAD TO PURCHASE A COMPLETE NEW SET OF TIRES FROM ANOTHER MFG. TO ENSURE THE SAFETY OF MY FAMILY. *AK (DOT NUMBER: WLM3F6H169 TIRESIZE: 215/70R-15)
Dec 28, 2000
FIRESTONE TIRE (P215 70 R15) EXPERIENED TREAD SEPARATION. *SLC
Nov 28, 2000
BOTH REAR TIRES DEVELOPED BUBBLES, BROKEN BELTS AND FAILED AT THE SAME TIME.*AK( DOT NUMBER: )
Oct 27, 2000
+ 8 more complaints for this component
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
13 complaints
THERE IS A WHITRE CLOUDY FILM ON THE HEADLIGHTS CREATING POOR VISABILITY AT NIGHT.*AK
Dec 06, 2004
96 FORD THUNDERBIRD HEADLIGHT SWITCH SHORTINGSMOKING HEADLIGHTS OUT. KEVIN VANOY, ASTORG FORD PARKERSBURG, WV SAYS THIS IS COMMON. HE ORDERED PART SAID MECHANIC SEPARATED WIRES AND ORDERED PARTS. SAID NO MORE PROBLEMS DRIVE AWAY. LIGHTS STILL GO OUT MELTING WIRES. GLEN DETHY CARRIAGE FORD CLARKSVILLE, IN ORDERS PARKERSBURG TO SEND PARTS TO IN, BUT WILL CHARGE $100 EXTRA TO INSTALL, NEITHER DEALER WOULD RUN A HOT WIRE WITH A CABIN SWITH TO LET CUSTONMER SAFELY HAVE LIGHTS. BOTH DEALERS SENT CUSTOMER BACK ON ROAD WITH DANGEROUS LIGHT SWITCH.
Apr 20, 2004
THIRD BRAKE LIGHT ASSEMBLY KEEPS MELTING. OCTOBER 2000 26,000 MILES FIRST NOTICED MY THIRD BRAKE LIGHT HAD MELTED THE ENTIRE ASSEMBLY INCLUDING THE LIGHT SOCKETS, WAS TOLD THEN THAT IT WAS A KNOWN PROBLEM, AFTER MUCH ARGUING AND WRITING THE BBB FORD FINALLY AGREED TO REPLACE IT AT NO COST TO ME. NOW 2003 AT 32,800 MILES ASSEMBLY IS MELTED AGAIN, AGAIN I WAS INFORMED THAT FORD WILL NOT REPLACE IT THE COST IS MINE. I SAID THEN AND I STILL BELIEVE THIS A PRODUCT DEFECT ON FORDS PART. I DO NOT BELIEVE I SHOULD HAVE TO PAY FOR A DEFECTIVE PART, APART WHICH IS THE SAME PART THAT IS IN THERE NOW AND WILL MELT AGAIN IN A YEAR OR TWO AND I WILL HAVE TO REPLACE IT AGAIN. THE LINK BELOW SHOWS PICTURES OF A FORD THUNDERBIRDS THIRD BRAKE LIGHT DAMAGE AFTER THE ASSEMBLY AND WIRE HARRNESS HAS MELTED. THIS SEEMS TO BE A FIRE HAZARD.W.MN12PERFORMANCE.COM/MN12HOWTO/3RD_BRAKE_LIGHT/3RD_BRAKELIGHT.HTML. *AK
Jul 28, 2003
WITHOUT WARNING, AND AT SPEED, HIGH BEAM HEADLAMPS FAILED LEAVING NO FORWARD VISIBILITY. PREVIOUSLY REPLACED THE COLUMN MOUNTED MULTI-FUNCTION SWITCH TO CORRECT THE SAME PROBLEM. SUSPECT DESIGN/ENGINEERING FLAW WITH SWITCH. *AK
Dec 12, 2001
HEADLIGHT LENSES CLOUD UP, WHICH REDUCES LIGHT BEAMS. *JB
Apr 12, 2001
+ 8 more complaints for this component
STEERING
12 complaints
RACK AND PINION STEERING SHAFT/TIE ROD FAILED AFTER RIGHT FRONT TIRE GLANCED A STANDARD STREET CURB CAUSING THE DRIVER TO LOOSE CONTROL AS THE VEHICLE SKIDDED ACROSS FIVE LANES OF TRAFFICE BEFORE COLLIDING WITH OPPOSING TRAFFIC. OWNER HAD RODS TESTED, AND TESTS SHOW NUMEROUS IMPURITIES AND METALLIC FLAWS.
Aug 18, 1998
RACK AND PINION STEERING SHAFT/TIE ROD FAILED AFTER RIGHT FRONT TIRE GLANCED A STANDARD STREET CURB CAUSING THE DRIVER TO LOOSE CONTROL AS THE VEHICLE SKIDDED ACROSS FIVE LANES OF TRAFFICE BEFORE COLLIDING WITH OPPOSING TRAFFIC. OWNER HAD RODS TESTED, AND TESTS SHOW NUMEROUS IMPURITIES AND METALLIC FLAWS.
Aug 18, 1998
RACK AND PINION STREERING ROD/TIE ROD END BROKE WHEN WHEELS CRASHED INTO CURBS.
Jul 13, 1998
STEERING WHEEL EXPERIENCES EXTREME VIBRATION.
Feb 18, 1998
WHILE DRIVING ON ANY HIGHWAY AT DIFFERENT TIMES IN A CORNER OR TURN IN ROAD, THE STEERING JUST GOES AWAY; IT FEELS LIKE THE STEERING WHEEL IS NOT CONNECTED TO THE LINKAGE FOR A SPLIT SECOND, BUT THEN IT RETURNS AND IT DOESN'T HAPPEN AGAIN. BROUGHT VEHICLE TO DEALER SEVERAL TIMES. DEALER SAID THAT THERE WA SNOTHING WRONG WITH STEERING. *AK
Nov 21, 1997
+ 7 more complaints for this component
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
11 complaints
MY 1996 MERCURY VILLAGER DEVELOPED A FAILURE IN THE AIR FLOW SENSOR (PART $330) THAT RESULTED IN VEHICLE STALLS, INCLUDING STOPS ON THE HIGHWAY, THAT NEARLY RESULTED IN CRASHES. THE REQUIRED REPAIRS EXCEEDED $500. I KNOW FORD HAS A SIMILAR RECALL OUT NOW FOR THE 1997-2003 (/) MODELS). *TR
Dec 07, 2007
THE CONSUMER NOTICED THE FUEL LINE WAS LEAKING GAS. AN INDEPENDENT SHOP REPLACED THE FUEL RAIL. DEALER NOTIFIED. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION. *JB
Dec 16, 2003
PLASTIC FUEL PRESSURE LINE FROM THE FUEL TANK TO THE HARD LINE RUPTURED FROM RUBBING THE FLOOR PAN. ALSO FOUND THE HARD LINE CHAFING ON THE INBOARD SIDE OF THE ROCKER PANEL WHERE IT CHANGES DIRECTION TO THE FUEL TANK. *LA
Oct 03, 2003
THE PLASTIC PART OF THE FUEL LINE (LOCATED ON THE PASSENGER SIDE IN FRONT OF THE RIGHT REAR WHEEL) RUBS ON THE UNDERBODY OF THE CAR CAUSING A SUDDEN LARGE FUEL LEAK. THESE PLASTIC LINES ARE A PART OF THE METAL FUEL LINES AND ARE LOCATED ON EACH END OF THE METAL LINES. THERE WAS NO WARNING OF GAS SMELL PRIOR TO THE LARGE LEAK. I HAVE THE PART. I NOTIICE YOU HAVE AN IDENTICAL COMPLAINT (ODI:754600).
Jan 16, 2003
WHILE AT A STOP INTAKE MANIFOLD BLEWOUT WITH NO WARNING, AND STARTED TO LEAK. CONSUMER STATED THAT EARLIER WHILE AT A STOP SAME THING HAPPENED. INTAKE MANIFOLD BLEWOUT, AND STARTED TO LEAK. DEALER NOTIFIED.*AK
Aug 14, 2002
+ 6 more complaints for this component
AIR BAGS
10 complaints
AIR BAG FLASHING CODE
Oct 22, 2019
WHEN DRIVING THE AIR BAG LIGHT BEGAN BLINKING THE HORN AND CRUISE CONTROL SWITCHESYSTEM STOPPED WORKING IN MOTION FAILURE OF THE CLOCK SPRING
Jan 19, 2016
1996 FORD EXPLORER, 4X4. DRIVING IN DESERT WENT OVER A BUMP A LITTLE FAST, WHICH SET OFF MY AIRBAGS. MY RIDER IS IN THE HOSPITAL FOR BROKEN NOSE, CHEEK AND SOME KIND OF SMOKE INHALATION. MY WINDSHIELD IS BROKEN BECAUSE THE BAG HIT THE MIRROR WHICH THEN HIT THE WINDSHIELD. MY STEERING WHEEL IS DESTROYED, CRUISE CONTROL AND HORNS ARE OUT OF SERVICE. BEFORE I COULD DRIVE THE CAR AGAIN I HAD TO CUT THE AIRBAGS OUT. WHAT THE HELL IS THIS! NO DAMAGE TO THE CAR EXCEPT WHAT THE AIRBAGS DID. I WANT THIS ALL FIXED AT FORD'S EXPENSE. I HAVE HAD THIS CAR 10 YEARS WITH NO PROBLEMS EXCEPT; RECALLED TIRES, STEERING BARS AND BRAKES (ALL RECALL). *TR
Jan 18, 2008
TRAVELING APPROXIMATELY 30-35 MPH ACCIDENT OCCURRED, NEITHER AIR BAG DEPLOYED. LOCATION OF I MPACT NOT GIVEN. *AK
Feb 04, 1998
AIR BAG INDICATOR LIGHT COMES ON.
Apr 16, 1997
+ 5 more complaints for this component
EQUIPMENT
9 complaints
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 FORD THUNDERBIRD. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 25 MPH WITH THE AIR CONDITIONER ACTIVATED THE FAN BLOWER STOPPED FUNCTIONING. THE CONTACT STATED THE FAILURE ALSO OCCURRED WHEN THE HEAT OR DEFROSTER WAS ACTIVATED. THE FUNCTIONS WOULD ALSO OPERATE ERRATICALLY CAUSING THE FAN BLOWER TO GO FROM HIGH TO LOW ON ITS OWN. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO A DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND CONFIRMED THAT NHTSA RECALL CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER: 96V007000 (EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:AIR CONDITIONER) WAS RELATED BUT THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE 123,100.
May 10, 2011
HEATER/AIR CONDITIONING BLOWER HAS FAILED. RELATED RECALL 96V007000; CONSUMER'S VEHICLE NOT INCLUDED DUE TO VIN. *AK
Jun 17, 2003
WHEN TURNING ON THE AIR CONDITION AND SETTING THE BLOWER ON HIGH, THE A/C WOULD NOT TURN OFF. DEALER IS AWARE OF THE PROBLEM. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER INFORMATION. MR
Nov 01, 2002
CLIMATE CONTROL BLOWER SOMETIMES BLOWS ERRACTICALLY ON HIGH, AND SOMETIMES IT DOESN'T BLOW AT ALL. THIS PROBLEM WAS DISCUSSED IN RECALL 96V007000/ MANUFACTURER'S RECALL 95S32. CONSUMER HAS CONTACTED MANUFACTURER REGARDING RECALL. THIS VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN RECALL DUE TO VIN. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER DETAILS.*AK
Aug 30, 2001
WATER WAS GETTING INTO AIR CLEANER.
Oct 27, 1997
+ 4 more complaints for this component
STRUCTURE
8 complaints
OPENING DOORS FROM THE INSIDE, LITTLE BY LITTLE, BOTH DOORS FAILED TO OPEN FROM THE INSIDE, HAD TO LEAVE WINDOW OR WINDOWS OPEN TO STICK HAND OUT TO OPEN DOOR FROM THE OUTSIDE. FAILURE OF THESE DOORS TO FUNCTION PROPERLY AT SOME POINT IF BATTERY WOULD GIVE OUT WOULD LEAVE US LOCKED IN, BUT FORTUNATELY THAT DID NOT HAPPEN DUE TO US REMEMBERING TO LEAVE AT LEAST ONE WINDOW OPEN. AFTER SOME MINOR REPAIR, FOUND OUT PLASTIC PARTS WORE OUT AND ONLY ONE DOOR CAN BE UNLOCKED FROM THE OUTSIDE. *TR
Mar 17, 2008
THE DRIVER SIDE DOOR HINGE MALFUNCTIONED WHICH MADE THE DOOR INOPERATIVE. *NLM
Apr 17, 2003
CONSUMER STATES THAT THE MANUAL DOOR LATCHES WILL NOT CLOSE PROPERLY. DEALER IS AWARE OF THE PROBLEM PLEASE PROVIDE ADDITIONAL INFORMATION. TS
Nov 07, 2002
ELECTRIC DOOR LOCKS FAILED.
Sep 22, 1997
SUNVISOR HITS DRIVER IN HEAD WHEN ATTEMPTING TO ADJUST.
Sep 11, 1997
+ 3 more complaints for this component
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
8 complaints
WHEN DRIVING AT 25 MPH AND WITHOUT ANY PRIOR WARNING VEHICLE WILL SHUT COMPLETELY OFF, CAUSING LOSS OF ALL POWER. ALSO, AFTER ATTEMPTING TO RESTART, VEHICLE WILL RESTARTEASILY. CONSUMER HAS CONTACTED DEALER. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER DETAILS.*AK
Aug 23, 2001
THIS M/V HAS BEEN WORKED ON AT LEAST 15-20 TIMES FOR THE SAME PROBLEM IN THE BEGINING CAR WAS TAKEN TO SULLIVAN BROS WHILE UNDER WARRENTIE AND FOUND NOTHING WRONG. SINCE 7-2000 THIS CAR WAS AT TWO DEALERS AND THE COST CLOSE TO $800,00 CAR STILL HAS SAME PROBLEMS. STALLS THE PAST WEEK THIS CAR HAS ALMOST BEEN IN TWO ACCIDENTS AS THE CAR HAS STALLED WHILE MAKING LEFT TURN INTO ON COMING LANES. CAR STALLS AND EVERY THING GOES DEAD. SINCE AUGUST THE CAR HAS BEEN WORKED ON AT SHIRETOWN FORD INC 147 SAMOSET ST PLYMOUTH MA #02360 STILL WAITING FOR PHONECALL TO BRING CAR BACK AGAIN WHAT CAN I DO. *AK
Oct 26, 2000
AFTER DRIVING VEHICLE THEN PARKED IT AND SMOKE WAS COMING FROM UNDER THE HOOD. A TECHNICIAN TOLD CONSUMER THAT FIRE STARTED BECAUSE OF AN ELECTRICAL WIRING SHORTING OUT. *AK
Jul 14, 2000
THE VEHICLE BROKE DOWN AND THE TOLL TRUCK BROUGHT THE VEHICLE BACK TO THE OWNER'S HOUSE. VEHICLE SAT FOR 13 HOURS. AFTER THAT THE VEHICLE HAD CAUGHT ON FIRE. OWNER COULD NOT TELL FROM WHERE THE FIRE CAME FROM BECAUSE OF THE SMOKE. SHE CALLED THE FIRE DEPARTMENT AND THEY SAID THAT THE FIRE STARTED FROM THE WIRE IN THE CONSOLE AREA FROM WHERE THE POWER WINDOWS ARE OPERATED. OWNER DID NOT UNDERSTAND HOW THE WIRES BECAME HOT BECAUSE THE VEHICLE WAS SHUT OFF FOR 13 HOURS, ENOUGH TIME FOR VEHICLE TO COOL OFF. THIS IS THE THIRD NUMBER THAT OWNER GAVE TO CONTACT HER, THE NUMBER IS 734-485-5839. *AK
Jul 02, 1998
ALTERNATOR FAILED.
Sep 19, 1997
+ 3 more complaints for this component
SUSPENSION
7 complaints
WHILE DRIVING 5 MPH FRONT DRIVER SIDE WHEEL CAME COMPLETELY OFF. *AK CONSUMER STATED IT WAS THE FRONT BALL JOINT THAT CAUSED THAT WHEEL TO COME OFF. *YH
Mar 22, 2002
WHILE DRIVING AT SPEEDS BETWEEN 65- 70 MPH VEHICLE WILL SHAKE AND VIBRATE . DRIVER CAN FEEL IT IN STEERING AND ACCELERATOR PEDAL. DEALER CANNOT FIX DEFECT, AND CLAIMS THAT IS HOW VEHICLE IS DESIGNED. *AK
Apr 05, 2000
WHEN DRIVING THE VEHICLE AT HIGHWAY SPEED THE STEERING WHEEL VIBRATES, AND IT ALSO VIBRATES AT LOW SPEED WHEN BRAKING. ON WARM DAYS, WHEN STARTING AND STOPPING IN TRAFFIC ONE CAN SMELL RAW GASOLINE INSIDE AND AROUND THE OUTSIDE OF THE CAR, BUT THERE ARE NO LEAKS IN THE VEHICLE. *AK
Apr 08, 1998
WHILE GOING 40MPH, WOULD EXPERIENCE A VIBRATION IN STEERING WHEEL. HAD TAKE VEHICLE TO DEALER & INFORMED THAT ITS A PROBLEM THAT HAPPENS IN THUNDERBIRDS SOMETIMES. CANNOT LOCATE PROBLEM OF VIBRATION. *AK
Nov 17, 1997
VEHICLE HAS CONSTANT DRIFT/PULL TO THE RIGHT, CREATING TIRES THAT BECOME FEATHERES, THUS MAKING VEHICLE DANGEROUS TO DRIVE. *AK
Apr 20, 1997
+ 2 more complaints for this component
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
6 complaints
WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED. VEHICLE REVVED EVEN WHILE THE CONSUMER HAD BOTH FEET ON THE BRAKE. CONSUMER PULLED OVER TO THE SIDE, WENT THROUGH A GUARD RAIL, AND FINALLY STOPPED WHEN THE VEHICLE HIT A TREE. VEHICLE WAS TOTALED. *AK *TC
Nov 17, 2004
CONSUMER STATES VEHICLE SUFFERED SUDDEN ACCELERATION WHEN SHIFTED FROM PARK INTO DRIVE, VEHICLE COLLIDES WITH GARAGE DOOR. DEALER HAS BEEN NOTIFIED. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION. TS
Jan 17, 2003
PULLED UP TO A GAS STATION PUMP AND ALMOST CAMING TO A COMPLETE STOP, AND VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED. REAR WHEELS WERE SPINNING WHEN BRAKES WERE APPLIED. IN ORDER TO STOP VEHICLE FROM REVVING, CONSUMER PUT TRANSMISSION IN NEUTRAL AND PUMPED THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL. CONTACTEDTHE DEALER, AND DEALER COULDN'T FIND THE CAUSE OF THE PROBLEM.*AK
May 23, 2000
ACCELERATOR CABLE BROKE CAUSING LOSS OF POWER ON THE INTERSTATE.
Mar 14, 1999
ON THE AIR INTAKE WATER COMES IN AND IF THE DRIVER PUSHES THE ACCELERATOR TOO HARD THE VEHICLE WILL STALL. *AK
Feb 20, 1998
+ 1 more complaint for this component
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
4 complaints
ON 06/03/2005, A GOVERNMENT OWNED, 1996 FORD BRONCO, WAS OBSERVED ON FIRE WHILE PARKED IN A PARKING GARAGE. THE VEHICLE HAD BEEN TURNED OFF AND PARKED FOR APPROXIMATELY EIGHT HOURS WHEN THE FIRE OCCURRED. THE FIRE WAS OBSERVED AT THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE, AND BURNED FOR SEVERAL MINUTES BEFORE IT COULD BE EXTINGUISHED. THE FIRE WAS BELIEVED TO HAVE BEEN CAUSED BY THE CRUISE CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH.
Jun 27, 2005
CAR HAS APPARENTLY HAD A RECALL ON THE PLASTIC INTAKE MANIFOLD FOR 7 YEARS. I HAVE OWNED THE CAR FOR OVER 2 YEARS, BUT HAVE NEVER RECEIVED ANY INFORMATION ON THIS DEFECT. WHILE DRIVING THE CARE APX. 60 MILES FROM MY HOME, MY DAUGHTER AND I WERE LEFT STRANDED WHEN THE INTAKE MANIFOLD STARTED FOUNTAINING WATER AND ANTIFREEZE ALL OVER MY ENGINE. THE CRACK IS BIG ENOUGH THAT NO LIQUID WOULD STAY IN THE CAR, AND I COULD NOT BABY IT HOME. IT TOOK AN ENTIRE DAY STRANDED IN A STRANGE CITY TO FIND SOMEONE WHO WOULD HAUL THE CAR ALL THE WAY TO MY HOME. FORD MOTOR COMPANY WILL NOT HONOR RECALL BECAUSE IT EXPIRED 4 MONTHS PRIOR TO INCIDENT.*AK
Apr 26, 2004
INTAKE MANIFOLD IS CRACKED AND LEAKING ENGINE COOLANT. I HAVE NOT HAD THE VEHICLE REPAIRED DUE TO THE COST. I SEARCHED THE INTERNET FOR RECALLS ON THIS AND FOUND THE TSB# 97M91. I CALLED FORD AND SPOKE WITH PHILOMENA, ID #3157 AND WAS TOLD THIS WAS AN EXTENDED WARRANTY AND THAT THEY HAD NOTIFIED ME IN WRITING IN FEBRUARY 98. FOUND THE LETTER ON THE INTERNET IN A PDF FILE DATED MAY 1998. SO, ACCORDING TO FORD, THEY NOTIFIED ME A FEW MONTHS BEFORE THEY WERE NOTIFIED????? I NEVER RECEIVED ANY RECALL NOTICE OR ANY INFORMATION ON THIS. I'M SURE IF I WOULD HAVE, I WOULD HAVE TAKEN IT TO THE DEALERSHIP TO GET IT CORRECTED (WHO WOULDN'T?). MY WARRANTY ON THIS ENDING FEB. 17, 2003==WAS TOLD I WAS 6 MONTHS TOO LATE TO GET IT COVERED UNDER WARRANTY. IS THERE SOMETHING I CAN DO ABOUT THIS - OR AM I OUT OF $675.80?
Jan 15, 2004
ENGINE LIGHT FAILED.
Sep 03, 1997
SEAT BELTS
4 complaints
RIGHT FRONT SEAT BELT LOCKS AND WILL NOT RELEASE UNTIL YOU UNHOOK AND LET IT RETRACT COMPLETELY.
Mar 03, 1998
SEAT BELT DOES NOT RELEASE PROPERLY.
Dec 30, 1997
WHEN VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN A REAR END COLLISION THE DRIVER'S SIDE SEAT BELT DID NOT LOCK UPON IMPACT, CAUSING INJURIES TO THE DRIVER. THE VEHICLE WAS TOTALED. *AK
Jun 09, 1997
REAR LEFT SHOULDER HARNESS FAILS TO BUCKLE PROPERLY IN THE LATCHING MECHANISN. HAS TAKEN THE CAR TO DEALERSHIP, BUT THEY FAILED TO FIX THE PROBLEM. *AK
Mar 26, 1997
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
3 complaints
DT: THE DRIVER'S SIDE DOOR OPEN'S PROPERLY BUT DOES NOT CLOSE AS IT SHOULD. THE CONSUMER THINKS THE DOOR IS CLOSED CLOSE UNTIL NOTICING THAT THE DOOR AJAR LIGHT IS ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. *AK *NM
Jul 08, 2005
DRIVER'S SIDE DOOR WILL NOT REMAIN CLOSED DURING NORMAL OPERATION OF VEHICLE. THERE IS A RECALL (96V070000) FOR DOOR LATCH. HOWEVER, DEALERSHIP AND MANUFACTURER HAVE INFORMED CONSUMER THAT HIS VEHICLE IS NOT INCLUDED IN RECALL DUE TO VIN. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION/ATTACHMENTS.*AK
May 08, 2001
THERE WAS RECALL 96V07000/ DOOR LOCKS AND LATCHES. CONSUMER HAD DOOR LOCKS AND LATCES REPLACED, AND CHARGED CONSUMER BECAUSE OF VIN NOT BEING INCLUDED. *AK
Nov 09, 2000
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
2 complaints
ENGINE CHECK LIGHT WAS ILLUMINATING ON DASHBOARD. CONTACTED DEALER, DEALER HAS DETERMINED THAT HEAD GASKET WAS LEAKING FLUIDS ONTO OXYGEN SENSOR, CAUSING ENGINE CHECK LIGHT TO ILLUMINATE. ALSO, NOTE HEAD GASKET NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. *AK
May 04, 2001
OIL GAUGE PRESSURE VARIES, BROUGHT IN TWICE DURING WARRANTY, THEY REPLACED ENGINE DUE TO SLAPPING ROD, GOT CAR BACK OIL PRESSURE ON GAUGE STILL VARIES HIGH & LOW. *AK
Jun 10, 1999
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VISIBILITY,STRUCTURE
1 complaint
INTAKE (PLASTIC) CRACKS ;LEAVING FAMILY AND I STRANDED ON 30 MILE STRETCH OF HIGHWAY WITH NO HOUSES OR BUSINESS. TOWED TO STATION AND FIXED RECALLED INTAKE. TAXI COST HOME AND BACK 2 DAYS LATER TO RETRIEVE CAR SOON STARTED HAVING HEATER COIL LEAKS AND OVERHEATING;ANTIFREEZE CAUSING HEADACHES. ALMOST $1000.00 TO REPLACE 30 DOLLAR PART(DASH BOARD AND CONSOLE REMOVED AND AIR CONDITION UNIT DISCONNECTED AND RECHARGED) DEALER TOOK COST OF NEXT 2 REPLACEMENT HEATER COILS AND IT STILL NEEDS 4TH;NO HEAT;STILL LEAKS ANTIFREEZE INSIDE CAR. INTAKE MANIFOLD(PLASTIC) CRACKED AGAIN;OVERHEATED AND BURNT ME THIS TIME ALSO CAUSING SERIOUS DAMAGE TO CAR;VERY COSTLY WHICH I GUESS WE THE CONSUMER WILL HAVE TO BEAR. HOW MANY COMPLAINTS DOES IT TAKE? *TR
Jul 14, 2007
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
DT*: THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SPEED CONTROL DEACTIVATION SWITCH WAS LEAKING FLUID. THERE IS A NHTSA RECALL ON OTHER FORD VEHICLES. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL. WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A SERVICE DEALER, THE REPAIR WERE MADE FOR A FEE. ALSO EVERY 25000 MILES, THE OIL PAN GASKET NEEDED TO BE CHANGED DUE A SMALL LEAK. THE MECHANIC WAS UNABLE TO DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF THE PROBLEM. THIRD, THE EXHAUST AND INTAKE MANIFOLDS WERE LEAKING CAUSING A NOXIOUS SMELL INSIDE THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS THEN TAKEN TO THE SAME SERVICE DEALER. THE DEALER REPLACED BOTH MANIFOLDS, AND DETERMINED THAT THERE WAS AN OIL LEAK DRIPPING ONTO THE EXHAUST SYSTEM.
Jun 22, 2006
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY,STRUCTURE,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
1 complaint
COMPLIANT IS THAT THROUGH MY INSURANCE PROVIDER I WAS ALERTED TO TWO RECALLS THAT SHOULD BE AT LEAST LOOKED INTO ON MY AUTO. THE FIRST IS THE BLOWER ON THE CLIMATE CONTROL BEGAN TO WORK ERRATICALLY AND NOW IT DOES NOT WORK AT ALL. MEANING THAT MY DEFROSTING DOES NOT WORK AT ALL. THE OTHER AND MORE SERIOUS IS THAT THE DRIVERS SIDE DOOR LATCH STICKS AT SMACKS AGAINST THE PEG AND DOES NOT LATCH PROPERLY OR AT ALL, UNLESS THE LATCH IS MANUALLY LIFTED. BOTH OF THESE ARE RECALLS FOR OTHER T-BIRDS BUT SOMEHOW MINE SLIPPED THROUGH. VIN IS [XXX]. IF THESE ARE SUCH COMMON PROBLEMS WHY WEREN'T ALL THE T-BIRDS RECALLED? I AM LOOKING AT OVER 600.00 TO REPLACE THESE PARTS. WHICH IS IRRITATING WHEN FORD SHOULD BE FIXING IT'S KNOWN PROBLEMS. *NM UPDATED 07/16/2012 * JS INFORMATION REDACTED PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6)
Apr 11, 2006
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,EQUIPMENT
1 complaint
INTAKE MANIFOLD WAS REPLACED ON 1996 THUNDERBIRD IN 2000. IT IS NOW CRACKED, AND AFTER SPENDING 550.00 TO FIND THAT OUT, THERE IS NOTHING FORD WILL DO EVEN THOUGH IT IS ON CAMPAIGN (97M91). NOW I CAN NOT DRIVE MY CAR.
May 25, 2005
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN
1 complaint
THE 1996 FORD THUNDERBIRD'S HEAD GASKET BLEW AND TRANSMISSION IS SLIPPING. IT HAS BEEN USING WATER SINCE WE BOUGHT IT FROM THE DEALER. *LA
Oct 08, 2003
SUSPENSION,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
1 complaint
THE FRONT SPRINGS ARE DEFECTIVE AND BREAK THUS COLLASPSING THE STRUTS AND MAKING THE VEHICLE HARD TO HANDLE. THE PLASTIC INTAKE MANIFILD COOLANT CHANNEL WALLS ARE TO THIN AND TEND TO BLOW-OUT. FINALLY, THE BACKLIT REAR REFLECTOR TENDS TO BURNOUT TO OFTER FOR A INTEGRATED PART. THE VEHICLE WILL NOT PASS INSPECTION BECAUSE THE REFLECTOR IS AN INTEGRATED PART OF THE TAIL LIGHT ASSEMBLY. THE COST OF REPLACEMENT IS PROHIBITIVE SO THE REFLCTOR REMAINS BURNED OUT ON MANY OF THE OTHER T-BIRDS I SEE ON THE ROAD CAUSING A PROBLEM WITH THE VEHICLE'S VISIBILITY. THE ILUMENATOR IN THE REFLECTOR SHOULD BE SERVICABLE. *AK
Jun 11, 2001
SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,POWER TRAIN
1 complaint
4/97 VEHICLE PULLS TO RIGHT. DEALER ALIGNED FRONT END. 1/98 VEHICLE PULLS TO RIGHT AND VIBRATES AT HIGHWAY SPEED. DEALER SAYS IT IS A TIRE PROBLEM, ONE TIRE REPLACED. 5/99 VEHICLE STILL PULLS TO RIGHT AND VIBRATES AT HIGHWAY SPEED AND WHILE BRAKING. FRONT ROTORS WARPED AND PADS WORN. ROTORS TURNED AND PADS REPLACED BY GOODYEAR SERVICE CENTER. 9/99 VEHICLE PULLING TO RIGHT AND VIBRATING AT SPEED AND DURING BRAKING. FRONT ROTORS WARPED AND PADS WORN AGAIN. DEALER CLAIMS IT IS OWNERS DRIVING STYLE. ROTORS TURNED AND PADS REPLACED AT OWNERS EXPENSE. 10/00 VEHICLE PULLS TO RIGHT AND VIBRATES. ROTORS FEEL WARPED AGAIN. APPOINTMENT WITH DEALER TO REPAIR. 10/16 TRANSMISSION HAS A SHUDDER IN 3RD AND 4TH GEAR DURING LIGHT TO MODERATE ACCELERATION. DEALER SAYS PROBABLY TORQUE CONVERTER. UNKNOWN AT THIS TIME IF THIS WILL BE CONSIDERED AN WARRANTY ITEM OR ROUTINE MAINTENANCE.
Oct 18, 2000
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
1 complaint
WHILE DRIVING 30MPH & APPLYING THE BRAKES TO AVOID HITTING A VEHICLE THAT STOPPED. HOWEVER, VEHICLE HAD NO BRAKE LIGHTS, AND IT REARENDED VEHICLE IN FRONT DUE TO NO BRAKES. VEHICLE TOWED TO DEALERSHIP & MECHANIC INDICATED BRAKES WERE GONE. PIN IN THE BRAKES HAD BROKEN WHICH CAUSED THE BRAKES TO BE INOPERATIVE. *AK
Aug 03, 2000
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,TIRES
1 complaint
VEHICLE IS A LEMON. ENGINE WAS LEAKING OIL AND MAKING NOISE. DEALERSHIP TOLD CONSUMER THAT THE CRANKSHAFT INSIDE HAD TO BE REPLACED. ALSO THE TIRES HAD TO BE CHANGED EVERY THREE MONTHS BECAUSE TREADS ON TIRES WORE OUT. *AK
Apr 19, 2000
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
ENGINE CHECK LIGHT ON, DEALER REPLACED MASS AIR FLOW SENSOR. RETURNED TO DEALER 4 TIMES FOR GAS MILEAGE DOWN 10-20%, LOW IDLE AND STALLS, POOR DRIVEABILITY - FORD AND DEALER STATE CAR IS NORMAL - ALL DATA FROM PURCHASE DATE AVAILABLE - CLEARLY SHOWS NEGATIVE CHANGE AT TIME OF PART REPLACEMENT
Apr 07, 2000
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
1 complaint
BOTH CYLINDER HEADS AND INTAKE MANIFOLD FAILED CAUSING COOLANT LIGHT TO COME ON AND OFF WHILE DRIVING. NLM
Mar 30, 2000
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
1 complaint
OIL IN MY ENGINE POURED OUT AND ENGINE LOCKED UP WOULD NOT KEEP OIL IN IT. HAD TO REPLACE BRAKES TWICE I ONE YEAR BECAUSE OF BRAKE FLUID LEAKAGE THEN FINALLY IT GOT SO BAD HAD TO REPLACE THE ROTORS ON FRONT END, MY TEMPERATURE GAUGE FOR THE OUTSIDE JUST HAPPEN TO START GOING CRAZY ONE DAY AS I WAS DRIVING ALONG ON A TRIP TO THE BEACH AND HAS BEEN IN CORRECT EVER SINCE. AND BY THE WAY I AM STILL MAKING PAYMENTS ON THIS VEHICLE. I HAS BEEN MORE TROUBLE THAN A JOY. *AK
Mar 16, 2000
SEATS
1 complaint
DRIVER'S SEAT WILL SHIFT OR MOVE BACK AND FORTH WHEN ACCELERATING, TURNING A CURB OR BRAKING, CAUSING SAFETY HAZARD. *AK
Oct 01, 1999
VISIBILITY,EQUIPMENT
1 complaint
AIR CONDITIONER IS STUCK IN THE ON POSITION. THIS PROBLEM CAUSES CONSUMER NOT TO BE ABLE TO READ THE TIME. ALSO, DEFROSTER DOES NOT WORK. *AK
Sep 23, 1999
AIR BAGS,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
1 complaint
REAR ENDED ANOTHER VEHICLE AND AIR BAG DEPLOYED, BREAKING THE WINDSHIELD AND MIRROR. ALSO, CRUISE CONTROL BUSTED.CONSUMER CONTACTED MANUFACTURER. *AK
Aug 04, 1999
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
1 complaint
VEHICLE WAS HIT ON LEFT MIDDLE AND WAS BUMPED INTO SOMEONE ON THE RIGHT AT ABOUT 20MPH, AND NEITHER DRIVER'S SIDE OR PASSENGER'S SIDE AIRBAGS DEPLOYED. ALSO THE DRIVER'S SEATBELT CAME LOOSE. DEALER HAS VEHICLE NOW. *AK
Mar 04, 1999
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
1 complaint
DRIVING VEHICLE WHEN IT STARTED LEAKING COOLANT. NO OVERHEATING. VEHICLE TOWED HOME. NEXT DAY AT DEALER & INTAKE MANIFOLD REPAIRED DUE TO A CRACK. VEHICLE STARTED TO GET WORSE. VEHICLE DIED. ENGINE CHECK LIGHT CAME ON. MOISTURE ON SPARK PLUGS & IGNITION WIRES. *AK
Aug 27, 1998
SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,TIRES
1 complaint
WHILE DRIVING 50 MPH OR GREATER THE STEERING WHEEL VIBRATES AND SHAKES VIGOROUSLY, CAUSING THE VEHICLE TO SWAY LEFT TO RIGHT. BEEN IN THE DEALER 8 TIMES. DEALER REPLACED 4 SETS OF TIRES/ROTORS. PROBLEM STILL OCCURRING. DEALER CANNOT DETERMINE PROBLEM. *AK
May 14, 1998
WHEELS
1 complaint
REAR RIGHT WHEEL CAME OFF.
Jan 23, 1997
STEERING,SUSPENSION,SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
1 complaint
WHILE DRIVING VEHICLE PULLS TO THE RIGHT, ALSO WARPED FRONT BRAKE ROTORS, CAUSING BRAKES TO VIBRATE AND AIR CONDITIONING MALFUNCTIONED. *AK
Oct 15, 1996
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,SEATS
1 complaint
CONSUMER WAS INVOLVED IN A REAR END COLLISION AND THE FUEL SWITCH IN THE TRUNK DID NOT WORK AFTER THE COLLISION , THE VEHICLE WAS ABLE TO START BACK UP AFTER THE COLLISION AND THER DRIVER'S SIDE SEAT DID NOT LOCK UPON IMPACT. *AK
Sep 30, 1996
Frequently Asked Questions
How many problems does the 1996 FORD Thunderbird have?
The 1996 FORD Thunderbird currently has 276 owner-reported complaints according to NHTSA database. These complaints are organized by component to help identify common issues.
What are the most common problems with 1996 FORD Thunderbird?
The most common problems reported for the 1996 FORD Thunderbird are organized by component above. Each component section shows owner-reported issues, crash reports, and fire incidents to help identify patterns and problem areas.
Where does this 1996 FORD Thunderbird problem data come from?
All problem and complaint data for the 1996 FORD Thunderbird comes directly from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database. These are real complaints submitted by actual vehicle owners.
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