2002 Ford Crown victoria problems
The Ford Crown Victoria ("Crown Vic") is a full-size sedan that was marketed and manufactured by Ford. The successor to the Ford LTD Crown Victoria, two generations of the model line were produced from the 1992 until the 2012 model years. The Ford counterpart of the Mercury Grand Marquis, the Crown Victoria was the largest sedan marketed by Ford in North America, slotted above the Ford Taurus. The Crown Victoria Police Interceptor (1992–2011) was marketed specifically for law-enforcement use; a long-wheelbase Crown Victoria sedan (2002–2011) was marketed primarily for taxi cab fleets.
The Crown Victoria was produced on the rear-wheel drive, body-on-frame Ford Panther platform, sharing its chassis with the Grand Marquis and Lincoln Town Car. From 1997 until their 2011 discontinuation, the three model lines were the sole four-door sedans produced in North America with a full-length frame, rear-wheel drive, and a standard V8 engine. While the front and rear crumple zones were engineered into the vehicle, it was one of Ford's products that were not of unibody construction for the entire generation. The Crown Victoria was the last car made using the Ford Panther platform.
For its entire production, the Crown Victoria was produced by Ford Canada alongside the Grand Marquis at St. Thomas Assembly in Southwold, Ontario. From 1991 until 2011, over 1.5 million cars (including Police Interceptors) were produced by St. Thomas Assembly prior to its closure. A 2012 Crown Victoria (intended for Middle East export) was the final vehicle produced by the facility. Following the discontinuation of the model line, the Crown Victoria was not directly replaced, with the full-size Ford Taurus serving as the next basis for Ford police cars.
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Common 2002 Ford Crown victoria problems
The Ford Crown Victoria, particularly the 2002 model, has been reported to have several common problems based on complaints from owners. Here are some of the most frequently reported issues:
- Headlights Turn Off While Driving: This issue has been reported in the 2004 Ford Crown Victoria, where the headlights turn off while driving. This can be a significant safety concern and may require replacement of the lighting control module.
- Spark Plug Problems: Spark plug issues are common in the Ford Crown Victoria. Some owners have reported that spark plugs can become loose or even ejected, particularly in the 2003 model year. This can result in misfiring and poor acceleration.
- Intake Manifold Gasket Leaks: Leaks in the intake manifold gasket are another common problem, particularly in the 2004 model year. This can result in coolant leaks behind the alternator, which can lead to overheating and other engine problems.
- Lockup Torque Converter Failure: Some owners have reported issues with the lockup torque converter, particularly when driving uphill or at certain speeds. This can result in stumbling or hesitation, and may require replacement of the torque converter.
- Check Engine Light Issues: The check engine light is another common issue in the Ford Crown Victoria. This can be due to a variety of problems, including misfiring, faulty sensors, or issues with the emissions system.
- Engine Problems: Engine problems are a common complaint among Ford Crown Victoria owners, with issues ranging from misfiring to overheating. These problems can be costly to repair and may require extensive engine work.
- Cooling System Problems: Cooling system problems, such as leaks or overheating, are another common issue in the Ford Crown Victoria. These problems can be caused by a variety of factors, including faulty hoses, leaks in the cooling system, or issues with the radiator.
- HVAC Problems: HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) problems are also common in the Ford Crown Victoria. These problems can range from issues with the climate control system to problems with the air conditioning.
- Steering Problems: Steering problems, such as difficulty steering or vibrations in the steering wheel, have been reported by some Ford Crown Victoria owners. These problems can be caused by a variety of factors, including issues with the power steering system or problems with the wheels or tires.
It's important to note that not all Ford Crown Victorias will experience these problems, and the frequency and severity of these issues can vary. However, these are common complaints among owners of this vehicle, and potential buyers should be aware of these issues when considering purchasing a 2002 Ford Crown Victoria.
What was the worst year for the Crown Victoria?
Reliability has been a staple in the Ford Crown Victoria's reputation over the years. This comes from Ford's sturdy design, emphasizing durability and easy maintenance. However, reliability wasn't always consistent for the car. The worst year for Crown Victoria in terms of reliability was arguably 2008.
How long do Crown Vic engines last?
Anything can happen at any age or mileage, but generally speaking, the 4.6 OHC modular engine as installed in most Crown Vics, Grand Marquis, and Town Cars are good for a minimum of 300K miles with an oil change every 6K miles.
Are Crown Vics cheap to fix?
Ford Crown Victoria
For one, it is one of the least expensive cars to maintain due to how easy they are to repair. Not only that, finding parts for a Crown Vic is like shooting fish in a barrel.
What are the recalls on a 2002 Ford Crown Victoria?
2002 Ford Crown Victoria Recalls
(Dorman) is recalling certain model Dorman Steering Shafts, part number 425-359, Solutions Steering Shafts, part number 7-0359, and OE Solutions Steering Shafts, part number 425-359, manufactured April 17, 2014, to September 28, 2015.
What was the worst year for the Crown Victoria?
Reliability has been a staple in the Ford Crown Victoria's reputation over the years. This comes from Ford's sturdy design, emphasizing durability and easy maintenance. However, reliability wasn't always consistent for the car. The worst year for Crown Victoria in terms of reliability was arguably 2008.
How long do Crown Vic engines last?
Anything can happen at any age or mileage, but generally speaking, the 4.6 OHC modular engine as installed in most Crown Vics, Grand Marquis, and Town Cars are good for a minimum of 300K miles with an oil change every 6K miles.
What are the recalls on a 2002 Ford Crown Victoria?
2002 Ford Crown Victoria Recalls
(Dorman) is recalling certain model Dorman Steering Shafts, part number 425-359, Solutions Steering Shafts, part number 7-0359, and OE Solutions Steering Shafts, part number 425-359, manufactured April 17, 2014, to September 28, 2015.
Are Crown Vics easy to maintain?
For one, it is one of the least expensive cars to maintain due to how easy they are to repair. Not only that, finding parts for a Crown Vic is like shooting fish in a barrel.
2002 Ford Crown victoria car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Ford Crown victoria problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Suspension problems
- Power train problems
- Electrical system problems
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2002 Ford Crown victoria vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2002 Ford Crown victoria
The NHTSA has received 102 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2002 Ford Crown victoria. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2002 Ford Crown victoria vehicles.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-06-12
- VIN: 2FAFP74WX2X
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: Driving down the roadway at 55 mph a spark plug in cylinder 2 blow out. The car started making a popping noise and started to lose power. After a while the car shut off. The car was able to restart and be driven home. Upon inspection by a mechanic they found the spark plug had came dislodged and shot out of the cylinder and caused damage to the cylinder head the ignition coil and fuel rail. A new Heli coil was installed. A year later while in Texas driving down the road around 35 mph car made a pop noise and shot a spark plug out of cylinder 5 cause the car to lose power and start smoking with a heavy smell of fuel. Car was stopped and inspected. Found a spark plug was blown out of cylinder 5 with damage to the ignition cylinder and fuel rail. repaired the heli coil and placed with new spark plug ignition coil and fuel rail. 2019 while driving down road at 75 mph vehicle makes a loud pop and starts to lose power. Upon inspection by mechanic find spark plug blown out of cylinder 1 with damaged ignition coil. Having mechanic is now replacing both cylinder heads on the engine.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-08-25
- VIN: 2FAFP73W92X
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD CROWN VICTORIA. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 45 MPH AND ATTEMPTING TO MAKE A TURN, THE TURN SIGNALS AND HEADLIGHTS FAILED TO WORK, EXCEPT WHEN THE BRAKE PEDAL WAS DEPRESSED. THE CONTACT ALSO NOTICED THAT THE TAIL LIGHTS DID NOT WORK AND THE DASHBOARD WAS BLACKED OUT. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A LOCAL DEALER WHO WAS UNABLE TO SCHEDULE THE VEHICLE FOR A DIAGNOSTIC EVALUATION. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURES AND STATED THAT THERE WAS NO RECALL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 38,000. UPDATED 10/06/16*LJ ** UPDATED 10/19/16*LJ *TR
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-07-28
- VIN: 2FAFP74W12X
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD CROWN VICTORIA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE HEADLAMPS DID NOT ILLUMINATE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE LIGHTING CONTROL MODULE WAS DEFECTIVE AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE CONTACT REFERENCED NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 15V861000 (EXTERIOR LIGHTING); HOWEVER, THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 197,000.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-12-29
- VIN: 2FAFP73W92X
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD CROWN VICTORIA. WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH AND PROCEEDING TO STOP AT A RED LIGHT, THE ENGINE STALLED AND THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS ABLE TO RESTART AFTER NUMEROUS ATTEMPTS. THE FAILURE RECURRED NUMEROUS TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE MANIFOLD WAS FRACTURED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 81,218.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-12-30
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 2FAFP71W52X
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I HAD DRIVEN UP A STEEP MOUNTAIN DIRT ROAD TO SERVE SOME LEGAL PAPERS, AFTER REACHING THE TOP, I CONTINUED DOWN THE OTHER SIDE TO THE ADDRESS I WAS LOOKING FOR. I THOUGHT I STARTED SMELLING SOMETHING BURNING, IT SMELLED ELECTRICAL. WHEN I ARRIVED AT THE ADDRESS, I STOPPED THE CAR AND SHUT IT OFF WHILE I WAS SPEAKING WITH THE RESIDENT. MY WIFE YELLED AT ME THAT THE CAR WAS ON FIRE, IT STARTED FILLING UP WITH SMOKE FAST, MY WIFE AND DOGS WERE STILL IN THE CAR. I OPENED THE DRIVERS DOOR TO POP THE HOOD WHILE MY WIFE STARTED GETTING THE DOGS OUT, I THEN NOTICED IT WAS MY FLOOR THAT WAS BURNING, JUST ABOUT UNDER THE GAS PEDDLE, A HOLE HAD BURNED THROUGH AND THE METAL WAS GLOWING RED WHERE THE PADDING HAD BURNED AWAY. I POURED A CUP OF COFFEE TO PUT THE FIRE OUT WHILE THE RESIDENT GOT SOME WATER FOR ME. THE PADDING AND RUBBER MAT HAD BURNED AWAY AND A HOLE ABOUT 3 INCHES LONG HAD MELTED AWAY FROM THE FLOOR BOARD. THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER IS DIRECTLY BENEATH THE HOLE BUT THERE DOESN'T SEEM TO BE ANY HOLES IN THE CONVERTER AND THERE IS A EMPTY SPACE ABOUT 1.5 - 2 INCHES FROM THE MELTED HOLE TO THE CONVERTER. WE LET EVERYTHING COOL DOWN BEFORE DRIVING HOME, HOWEVER THE ENTIRE WAY HOME, (49 MILES) WE WERE AFRAID THE CAR WAS GOING TO BURST INTO FLAMES. ONCE WE WERE BACK ON THE PAVED ROADS AND WERE ABLE TO DRIVE THE NORMAL SPEED LIMIT, THERE WERE NO MORE ISSUES NOR ANY FURTHER BURNING, JUST THE LINGERING SMELL. I LOOKED UP AND FOUND A RECALL FOR AN ISSUE IN THE SAME LOCATION HOWEVER THAT WAS FOR 2003 - 2005 VEHICLES. *JS
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-01-02
- VIN: 2FAFP74W52X
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: TL** THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD CROWN VICTORIA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, THE FRONT DRIVER AND PASSENGER SEAT BELT BECAME UNLATCHED SPORADICALLY. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE FAILURE COULD HAVE BEEN DIRECTLY RELATED TO NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 01V227001 (SEAT BELTS). THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 50,000.
STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-07-17
- VIN: 2FAFP71W72X
- Components: STEERING,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: BOUGHT THE CAR FROM A FELLOW FRIEND HE ADVISED ME THAT THE CAR HAS HAD A ISSUE WITH THE STEERING WHERE THE STEERING WHEEL HAS PLAY TO IT AND ITS VERY DANGEROUS WHEN I DRIVE OVER 50MPH IM SCARED I MAY CRASH CAUSE THE CAR MOVES LEFT TO RIGHT, AND THE ABS BRAKES HAVE A PROBLEM THE BRAKE JUMP WHEN I HIT THEM IDK WHAT TO DO IM LOW ON FUNDS AND I WANT TO KNOW IF THIS IS A DEFECT THESE CARS ARE KNOWN FOR STEERING AND BRAKES DEFECTS..... *TR
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-06-02
- VIN: 2FAFP74W22X
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: POWER STEERING STARTED CATCHING AND COULDN'T TURN THE STEERING WHEEL SMOOTHLY. HIT A CURB WITH MY TIRE AND ALMOST HIT ANOTHER CAR. STILL JAMMING BUT I DON'T HAVE ENOUGH MONEY TO TAKE IT INTO A DEALERSHIP. HELP! *TR
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-08-21
- VIN: 2FAFP71W62X
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD CROWN VICTORIA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE STEERING FAILED AND THE WHEEL BECAME TIGHT. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED BY THE CONTACT AND THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT NOTIFIED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 140,000.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-04-03
- VIN: 2FAFP74WX2X
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD CROWN VICTORIA. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 75 MPH, THE DRIVER'S SEAT BELT CAME UNDONE. THE CONTACT RE-SECURED THE SEAT BELT AND THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE CONTACT HAD TO PURCHASE A SEAT BELT EXTENSION IN ORDER TO KEEP THE SEAT BELT BUCKLED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE DEALER WAS NOT NOTIFIED OF THE ISSUE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED AND INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE VEHICLE WAS OUT OF THE VEHICLE SAFETY WARRANTY AND HE WOULD HAVE TO REPLACE THE SEAT BELT HIMSELF. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 40800.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-02-01
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY
- Summary: POWER WINDOWS FRONT ELECTRIC WHEN YOU TOUCH REAR WINDOW BUTTON THE DRIVERS WINDOW GOES DOWN. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-11-24
- VIN: 2FAFP74WX2X
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THE ENGINE STALLED WHILE DRIVING, FOR NO APPARENT REASON. DRIVER (MY RETIRED MOTHER, AGE 72) HAD TO GET CAR OFF ROAD AND RESTART CAR TO CONTINUE. THE POWER STEERING DISABLED WHEN THE CAR ENGINE STALLED. THIS HAS HAPPENED MULTIPLE TIMES (2-3) OVER THE PAST MONTH, AND THE LOCAL FORD DEALERSHIP CANNOT REPLICATE THE PROBLEM AND IS UNABLE TO CORRECT IT. ON ANOTHER OCCASION THERE WAS A THUMPING NOISE AND THE CAR SLOWED CONSIDERABLY, BUT THEN PICKED BACK UP AGAIN. THE "ENGINE HEAT/THERMOMETER" LIGHT HAS FLASHED ALSO, BUT THE ENGINE TEMPERATURE HEAT IS NORMAL. I CONSIDER THIS A VERY DANGEROUS SITUATION FOR MY MOTOR IF IT WOULD HAPPEN IN A HEAVILY CONGESTED, HIGH TRAFFIC AREA AND COULD CAUSE A VEHICLE CRASHES. IT IS A VERY STRESSFUL SITUATION.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-08-26
- VIN: 2FDFP72972X
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: I HAD BEEN DRIVING 250 MILES OR SO AND DROVE DOWN A LONG WINDING INCLINE, AS THE ROAD FLATTENED OUT I HEARD A NOISE FROM THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. THE NOISE SOUNDED LIKE A HOLE IN THE FIRST PART OF THE EXHAUST SYSTEM. I FOUND A SAFE PLACE TO PULL OVER AND TURNED OFF THE VEHICLE. THERE WAS A SLIGHT ODOR OF NATURAL GAS AS THIS VEHICLE IS FUELED WITH NATURAL GAS. AFTER THE ODOR PASSED, I OPENED THE HOOD TO FIND THAT THE #2 IGNITION COIL MOUNT WAS BROKEN, AND THE COIL AND SPARK PLUG ASSEMBLY WERE LOOSE IN THE SPARK PLUG WELL. MY INITIAL THOUGHT WAS THE SPARK PLUG HAD LOOSENED AND EJECTED. I ATTEMPTED TO RE-INSTALL THE SPARK PLUG BUT THE THREADS IN THE CYLINDER HEAD WERE INEFFECTIVE. THE SPARK PLUG HAD BLOWN OUT OF THE CYLINDER HEAD. I HAVE SUBSEQUENTLY FOUND OUT THAT THIS IS NOT AN UNCOMMON DEFECT FOR THESE FORD ENGINES. THE REPAIR INVOLVED REAMING AND TAPPING THE SPARK PLUG HOLE AND PLACING AN INSERT IN THE HOLE. THE SPARK PLUG COIL HAD TO BE REPLACED TOO. THE REPAIR COST WAS $450 AND THE REPAIR SHOP WARNED THAT THIS MAY HAPPEN AGAIN. THIS IS A DESIGN DEFECT THAT COULD POTENTIALLY BE DANGEROUS UNDER DIFFERENT CIRCUMSTANCES. IF I WAS NOT ABLE TO STOP IN A SAFE PLACE FAIRLY QUICKLY, THERE COULD HAVE BEEN MORE FUEL AIR MIXTURE ACCUMULATION UNDER THE HOOD AND SINCE THE SPARK PLUG WAS STILL OPERATIVE, AN IGNITION SOURCE WAS PRESENT TOO. *TR
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-08-01
- VIN: 2FMZA51452B
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: 2002 FORD WINDSTAR REAR AXLE PROBLEM WE WERE DRIVING ON 78E AND WERE APPROXIMATELY 30 MINUTES BEFORE ALLENTOWN. ALL OF A SUDDEN WE HEARD A CRACK, SMELLED SMOKE, AND HEARD METAL SCRAPING. THE CAR STARTED FISHTAILING AND MY HUSBAND VIRTUALLY HAD NO CONTROL OF THE CAR AS THE WINDSTAR REPEATEDLY CROSSED 2 LANES AND ALMOST HIT THE MIDDLE BARRIER AND THEN FISHTAILED TOWARD THE OTHER SIDE. LUCKILY THERE WERE NO CARS OR TRUCKS IN FRONT OR IN BACK OF US AND WE WERE AT A SLIGHT UPHILL. FINALLY, MY HUSBAND WAS ABLE TO GAIN CONTROL OF THE VAN AND PULL OVER TO THE SMALL SHOULDER WHICH WAS BARELY BIG ENOUGH TO FIT THE VAN. WE CALLED 911 AND AAA. WHILE WE WAITED ON THE SIDE, WE FEARED THAT WE COULD GET HIT IN THE EVENT THAT A TRUCK OR CAR SWERVED TO THE SIDE. WE WERE SHOCKED TO FIND OUT THAT THE REAR AXLE WAS CRACKED AND THE REAR TIRES WERE CAVED IN. MY AUTO DEALER GILBOY IN WHITEHALL OFFERED TO TOW AND REPAIR THE PROBLEM, BUT ONLY AT MY EXPENSE. FORD EXPLAINED TO ME THAT THERE WAS NO COVERAGE FOR THIS SITUATION BECAUSE THE VEHICLE IS OUTSIDE OF WARRANTY AND THERE CURRENTLY IS NO RECALL FOR THIS PROBLEM. BOTH GILBOY AND FORD TOLD ME THEY WERE NOT AWARE OF THIS PROBLEM WITH THE REAR AXLE. I HAD 3 CHILDREN IN THE CAR, 2 OF WHICH WERE MY OWN. THIS WAS THE SCARIEST MOMENT OF MY LIFE AS I FEARED WHAT POTENTIALLY COULD HAPPEN. LUCKILY, SOMEONE FROM ABOVE WAS LOOKING AFTER US BUT I FEAR THE NEXT FORD WINDSTAR OWNER MAY NOT BE SO LUCKY. PLEASE DO NOT WAIT FOR SOMEONE TO GET KILLED BEFORE TAKING ACTION. PLEASE HAVE THE PROBLEM CORRECTED AS SOON AS POSSIBLE AND ALERT ALL FORD WINDSTAR OWNER OF THE SERIOUS POTENTIAL RISK. *TR
SUSPENSION,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-08-25
- VIN: 2FAFP71WX2X
- Components: SUSPENSION,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD CROWN VICTORIA. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 45 TO 50 MPH ON NORMAL ROAD CONDITIONS PRESSURE WAS APPLIED TO THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL. THE "ABS" WARNING LIGHT INDICATOR ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL AND THE DRIVER WAS ABLE TO COAST INTO THE EMERGENCY LANE. THE WARNING INDICATOR REMAINED ILLUMINATED UNTIL THE ENGINE WAS TURNED OFF. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO CONFIRMED THAT THE FAILURE WAS RELATED TO THE REAR DRIVE SHAFT AXLE. NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 04V328000 (SUSPENSION;REAR) WAS RELATED TO THE FAILURE; HOWEVER, THE VIN WAS EXCLUDED FROM THE RECALL. THE VEHICLE IS IN THE PROCESS OF BEING REPAIRED. THERE WERE CONCERNS OF THE SAFETY RISK INVOLVED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 120,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-06-17
- VIN: 2FAFP74W72X
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: 1. WHILE DRIVING ,LED CIRCUITBOARD ,( UNDER DASHBOARD)BURNED UP EMITTING SMOKE INTO THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT. IT BURNED A ONE INCH HOLE IN THE CIRCUITBOARD PLASTIC COVER . 2. FAILURE,THE PART BURNED UP, IT MAY HAVE BURNED BEFORE ALSO,BECAUSE WE HAVE HAD A BURNING SMELL BEFORE. 3. CAR WAS PARKED,TURNED OFF FOR ABOUT ONE-HALF HOUR , THEN DRIVEN 6 MILES HOME.,NO ADDITIONAL SMOKE WAS SEEN AT THIS TIME. PART HAS BEEN REMOVED BY OWNER .OLD PART IS AVAILABLE,PART # F8VB-14A597-AB. FUSE DID NOT BLOW AND CAR IS DRIVABLE WITH PART REMOVED. I THINK THIS PART IS A COMPONENT OF THE FACTORY INSTALLED ALARM SYSTEM. *TR
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-05-10
- VIN: 2FMZA51482B
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: ABS AND BRAKE LIGHTS HAS CONTINUED TO BE ON AND CRUISE CONTROL HAS STOPPED WORKING. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-02-10
- VIN: 2FAFP74W32X
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD CROWN VICTORIA. WHILE DRIVING BETWEEN 55-60 MPH ON NORMAL ROAD CONDITIONS, THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO HESITATE AND VIBRATE. IN ADDITION, THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL AND REMAINED LIT UNTIL THE ENGINE WAS TURNED OFF. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER FOR DIAGNOSTIC TESTING AND STATED THAT THERE WAS AN INTERNAL COIL SHORTAGE. THE MISFIRE CYLINDER 5, COIL PACK, AND SPARK PLUGS WERE REPLACED IN THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON A SEPARATE OCCASION FOR THE IDENTICAL FAILURE AND THE MISFIRE CYLINDER 7, COIL PACK, AND SPARK PLUGS WERE REPLACED AT THAT TIME. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 67,425 AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 68,045. UPDATED 03-27-09 *BF UPDATED 03/31/09.*JB
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-01-28
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING THE LOW BEAMS WENT OUT ON CAR,20 MINUTES LATER HIGH BEAMS WENT OUT. ALL OTHER LIGHTS WORK PROPERLY, HEADLIGHTS HAVE NOT WORKED SINCE. CURRENTLY IN THE PROCESS TO REPLACE PART. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-08-01
- VIN: 1FAFP34P92W
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: I HAVE SEVERAL ISSUES, BOTH BACK DOOR WINDOWS HAVE FALLEN OFF TRACK AND WON'T STAY UP. THIS HAPPENED IN SEPTEMBER OF 07 AND A FEW MONTHS LATER THE SECOND REAR WINDOW DID THE SAME. I HAVE TO USE CLEAR PACKAGING TAPE TO HOLD THEM UP. THE KEY TO THE IGNITION WILL NOT TURN UNLESS I USE SOMETHING WITH A HARD END AND TAP IT SEVERAL TIMES. WHEN THE IGNITION PROBLEM FIRST HAPPENED IN SEPTEMBER OF 2006 I CALLED FORD ROAD SIDE SERVICE AND THEY RECOMMENDED TAPPING THE KEY SEVERAL TIMES AND SAID THEY HAD A GROWING COMPLAINT OF THIS. MY TRUNK LOCK LATCH OFTEN GETS STUCK TOO. JAN OF 2003 THE RADIO SHORTS IN AND OUT, I NEVER KNOW IF IT'S GOING TO STAY ON. LASTLY THE PASSENGER REAR DOOR LOOK DOESN'T LATCH, I THINK THIS HAPPENED IN LATE 2003 OR EARLY 2004. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-04-11
- VIN: 2FAFP71W22X
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: JUST CRUISING THROUGH A PARKING LOT ON MY WAY INTO WORK AND HAD A SPARK PLUG BLOWOUT. DAMAGED THE SPARK PLUG COIL AS WELL. HAD TO BUY A NEW COIL, AND A HELICOIL KIT TO RE-TAP THE SPARK PLUG HOLE. *TR
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-02-28
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 2FAFP73W42X
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD CROWN VICTORIA. THE CONTACT OPENED THE HOOD, BUT IT FAILED TO OPEN AUTOMATICALLY. HE PLACED HIS HAND ON THE FENDER AND THE HOOD SUDDENLY FELL AND SLAMMED DOWN ON HIS HAND. THE CONTACT SUSTAINED SEVERAL BRUISES, CUTS, AND BLISTERS. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 56,000. UPDATED 03/18/08. *LJ THE CONSUMER STATED AT THE TIME OF THE INCIDENT THE HOOD WAS RAISED TO THE FULL CAPACITY AND VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE DEALER STATED STRUTS WERE REPLACED AT CONSUMER'S EXPENSE. UPDATED 03/18/08 *TR UPDATED 4/2/08 *CN UPDATED 04/02/08 *TR
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-01-24
- VIN: 1FMZU72E82U
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: 1) I NOTICED THAT MY RPMS WERE NOT RETURNING TO NORMAL AND MY VEHICLE WAS UNABLE TO STOP COMPLETELY. 2) I OWN A 2002 FORD EXPLORER XLS 4X4 WITH THE SOHC 4.0 LITER ENGINE. THE THROTTLE CABLE STUCK IN THE OPEN POSITION CAUSING THE ENGINE TO SURGE UNCONTROLLABLY AT APPROXIMATELY 5000 RPMS. I HAD TO TURN OFF MY IGNITION TO AVOID CRASHING THE VEHICLE INTO NEARBY TRAFFIC. OTA HAS RECEIVED REPORTS OF THIS PROBLEM, NHTSA ACTION NUMBER: PE05037, BUT CLOSED THE CASE ON NOVEMBER 2, 2005. THIS IS A SERIOUS DEFECT THAT COULD HAVE RESULTED IN A SERIOUS CRASH. I BELIEVE THAT OTA SHOULD ISSUE A RECALL FOR THIS PROBLEM AS IT DID FOR CAMPAIGN #03V280000. 3) I WILL BE CONTACTING FORD TOMORROW TO RESOLVE THIS PROBLEM. MY VEHICLE IS CURRENTLY NOT SAFE TO DRIVE. *TR
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-11-24
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: 2002 FORD CROWN VICTORIA LEFT REAR WHEEL SEPARATED FROM THE VEHICLE. *KB THE VEHICLE WAS DAMAGED AS A RESULT OF THE WHEEL COMING OFF. OHIO TRAFFIC CRASH REPORT# 10-89-0577. *JB
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-12-01
- VIN: 1FMZU73E22Z
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: I PUT MY KEY IN, TURNED IT ON AND WENT TO SHIFT IN TO DRIVE AND THE SHIFTER CAME RIGHT OUT OF THE STEERING COLUMN. THE VEHICLE WAS IN BETWEEN GEARS.*CN
2002 Ford Crown victoria recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 5 recalls for different components of the 2002 Ford Crown victoria.
- Manufacturer: Dorman Products, Inc.
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: Dorman Products, Inc. (Dorman) is recalling certain model Dorman Steering Shafts, part number 425-359, Solutions Steering Shafts, part number 7-0359, and OE Solutions Steering Shafts, part number 425-359, manufactured April 17, 2014, to September 28, 2015. These aftermarket replacement steering shafts are sold for use in 1995-2002 Ford Crown Victoria, Mercury Grand Marquis, and Lincoln Town Car vehicles. These steering shafts may separate during operation if the integral fastener is loose or missing and if the interfacing vehicle shaft is compressed in length.
- Consequence: If the shafts separate during vehicle operation, a loss of steering control would result, increasing the risk of a vehicle crash.
- Remedy: Dorman will notify owners, and dealers will replace the steering shaft, free of charge. The recall began on October 28, 2015. Owners may contact Dorman customer service at 1-800-523-2492, option 5.
- Manufacturer: UFI FILTERS USA
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: CERTAIN AFTERMARKET FUEL FILTERS SOLD UNDER THE PUROLATOR BRAND NAME, P/N F65277, SHIPPED FROM JANUARY 16 THROUGH JUNE 2, 2006, FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. DUE TO INCORRECT DESIGN, THE QUICK CONNECTORS MAY NOT FULLY SEAT WITH THE TUBE INTERFACE, EVEN THOUGH THE PERSON MAKING THE CONNECTION MAY BELIEVE THAT THE QUICK CONNECTOR IS FULLY ATTACHED.
- Consequence: FAILURE OF THIS CONNECTION COULD LEAD TO FUEL SPILLAGE AND, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FIRE COULD OCCUR.
- Remedy: UFI WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 4, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT UFI FILTERS USA AT 800-230-5876.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
- Summary: ON CERTAIN NATURAL GAS VEHICLES, IF A FLAME FROM A VEHICLE INTERIOR FIRE BECOMES LOCALLY DIRECTED AT THE NATURAL GAS FUEL TANK LOCATED IMMEDIATELY BEHIND THE REAR SEAT, THE FLAME COULD DAMAGE THE FIBERGLASS WRAP ON THE TANK WEAKENING THE TANK.
- Consequence: IF THE STRENGTH OF THE TANK IS SIGNIFICANTLY COMPROMISED, IT COULD RUPTURE, INCREASING THE RISK OF A FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL AN INSULATOR BEHIND THE CURRENT SEAT BACK. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN ON JANUARY 7, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
- Summary: IN ORDER TO ENHANCE POLICE OFFICE SAFETY, MODEL YEAR 1992-2003 CROWN VICTORIA POLICE INTERCEPTOR (CVPI) VEHICLES WILL BE EQUIPPED WITH SHIELDS DESIGNED TO HELP PROTECT THE FUEL TANK IN HIGH-SPEED REAR-IMPACT CRASHES. FORD ALSO WILL BE OFFERING AN OPTIONAL TRUNK PACKAGE DESIGNED TO IMPROVE THE SAFE TRANSPORT OF SHARP-EDGED, HEAVY EQUIPMENT IN THESE VEHICLES.
- Consequence: SOME HIGH-SPEED REAR-IMPACT CRASHES HAVE RESULTED IN FUEL TANK PUNCTURES AND FIRES IN CVPI VEHICLES.
- Remedy: FORD HAS ADVISED US THAT SHIELD KITS HAVE BEEN AVAILABLE SINCE LATE OCTOBER AND WILL BE INSTALLED ON POLICE INTERCEPTOR VEHICLES AT NO COST. THE OPTIONAL TRANK PACKAGE WILL BE AVAILABLE BY THE END OF 2002. FORD HAS ESTABLISHED A NEW WEB SITE AT WWW.CVPI.COM TO ANSWER ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS ABOUT THE SAFE USE OF CPVI VEHICLES.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
- Summary: ON CERTAIN NATURAL GAS MODEL VEHICLES, A T-FITTING THAT CONNECTS FUEL TANKS #3 AND #4 CAN DEVELOP A LEAK WHEN THE SOLENOID VALVES ARE ENERGIZED, SUCH AS WHEN THE IGNITION SWITCH IS IN THE ON POSITION OR DURING REFUELING.
- Consequence: A GAS LEAK OF SUFFICIENT QUANTITY CONCENTRATED IN AN AREA TO CREATE A COMBUSTIBLE MIXTURE AND IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE COULD RESULT IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A REDESIGNED "T" FITTING ON #4 FUEL TANK AND TESTED FOR LEAKAGE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN SEPTEMBER 13, 2002. OWNERS WHO DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-866-436-7332.
Negative 2002 Ford Crown victoria car reviews
Positive 2002 Ford Crown victoria car reviews
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I put the vehicle in service on January 1, 2002 and it has just about 80,000 miles on it at this point. I have mounted new tires, replaced brake pads, replaced two windshields, done a tune up and normal maintenance. Ford even replaced one sensor without charge. The vehicle has been problem-free and I am very happy with it. While it may not be a drag racer, its mid-range acceleration is impressive for its size and weight. The handling, including braking, is very competent for a car this size. Even with the older steering (it is not rack and pinion), the feedback and control are fine. We get a lot of bad weather, i.e. snow, but the traction control and ABS help. While it may not be as good as AWD or front-wheel drive, it is not bad for rear-wheel drive.
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The CV is a fantastic car on the highway. The ride is smooth and solid, and with the optional handling package, it's firm enough for decent handling. The 5 passenger sport appearance package (LX Sport for 2002) makes for a much sportier appearance. For those of us who think that a column-mounted shifter is too stodgy, the floor shifter is a nice option.
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This is my second CV. I chose the base model for the standard axle ratio, which provides a lifetime of economy. The car has new airbags and seatbelt features, making it a safe and reliable choice. It is a pleasure to drive and we even replaced our SUV with it because nobody wanted to drive the SUV anymore after experiencing the comfort of the CV. The car is almost fast, tracks well, is very quiet, and has good brakes. Additionally, our car has adjustable pedals which keep smaller drivers away from the airbag and it has traction control that really works.
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This car is both fun and functional. It comfortably accommodates adults in the rear seat without any feeling of being cramped. It accelerates to highway speeds (65 MPH) effortlessly, even on the shortest of on-ramps. The trunk is spacious enough to hold more than you could ever pack! I can't understand why anyone would choose a cramped little Honda over this car, especially when you can get it for about the same price. This car has zero defects and the fit and finish is perfect. Additionally, I get 25 MPG on the highway and 21 MPG around town with this rear-wheel drive V-8!
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This is the first Ford auto I've owned. So far, I haven't had any major problems. The service has been acceptable, although you may have to wait for long periods. The car is very comfortable to drive long distances. Although my wife thinks it's too big!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2002 Ford Crown victoria problems:
2002 Ford Crown Victoria Problems and Complaints - 9 Issues
Problem with your 2002 Ford Crown Victoria? Our list of 9 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2002 Ford Crown Victoria.
Ford Crown Victoria Questions - How many miles before breakdown ...
Jul 4, 2010 ... Best Answer. I have 2001 CV Sport 204,000. Original motor and Trans runs great. Intake manifold replaced 160,000 common problem until 2002 model ...
Reliability? : r/CrownVictoria
Dec 21, 2022 ... Extremely reliable, and pretty easy to work on for most stuff. There's some typical Ford shenanigans to deal with when working on them, but you' ...
I'm considering buying a Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor ...
Nov 1, 2019 ... How reliable are these vehicles? What are some common issues I should look out for? And what is their generally accepted lifespan?
Steering Shafts 1995-2002 | Steering, Suspension and Brakes ...
CrownVic.net is a forum and information center dedicated to the Ford Crown Victoria ... A common problem with 1995-2002 crownvics is ... I'm ...
Other years of Ford Crown victoria
Are you having problems with your 2002 Ford Crown victoria?
Joel Stroman 2024-09-23
I recently found the perfect Crown VicLX Sport after a long search. It's monochromatic red with all the options and a tan leather interior. This car has so many great features! It seems like the 2002 model had everything going right for it. By the way, my other vehicle is a 1993 Mercury Cougar XR7 with a 302 V8.
Stevie Harvey 2024-09-02
The car has the handling and performance package, which in my opinion, makes it more lively and enjoyable to drive than the standard Crown Victoria. However, it seems that the car is in need of a complete update if Ford wants to keep selling this last big cruiser.
Leonard Streich 2024-08-05
In the two years I've owned the CV, it has been plagued with issues. However, I can confidently say that I have dealt with each problem effectively. The bad emission sensors required a trip back to the dealer within two weeks, but I was able to resolve the occasional engine troubles on my own. Last week, when the serpentine belt broke, causing the electrical system to fail, the steering to quit working completely, and the engine to overheat, I was able to handle the situation calmly and efficiently. While the CV may not have the best traction in PA winters, I have found ways to manage it. As for the concerns about the gas tank, I have not experienced this personally, but I understand the importance of safety. Despite the super bland exterior styling, I still believe that the CV is a reliable car.
Mark Graham 2024-07-24
This car may be old-fashioned boat anchor technology, but it reliably cranks and goes every time. The fuel mileage is respectable for the size and weight of the vehicle, ranging from 18-20 in the city/suburban areas to 22-27 on the highway. They don't build cars like this anymore, which is both sad and grateful. It's sad because it's a very reliable car and great for long-distance road trips, but grateful because this car is navigated more than driven and is a festival of squeaks and rattles. The resale value may tank early, so if you buy one, plan to drive the wheels off it.
Riley Kerluke 2024-07-24
I bought this car after totaling a 626 in a rear ender. The car is great out on the road. It's like a land yacht on long interstate trips and I got 27.3 mpg on one trip from GA to upstate NY. However, around town here in Savannah, it's a different story. Potholes and washboard surfaces can be challenging for the old live axle, and it can be a handful to park and maneuver around the squares in Savannah. And then, of course, when gas went up to $4 a gallon, even the fair mileage wasn't looking too good.