1979 Ford Ltd problems
The Ford LTD (pronounced ell-TEE-dee) is a range of automobiles manufactured by Ford for the 1965 to 1986 model years. Introduced as the highest trim level of the full-size Ford model range (then the Ford Galaxie 500), the LTD moved the Ford range upmarket, offering options and features previously reserved for Mercury and Lincoln vehicles. For much of its production life, the LTD competed against the Chevrolet Caprice (atop the Chevrolet Impala); the Mercury Marquis served as its divisional counterpart from 1967 until 1986.
For its first three generations, the LTD served as the largest Ford vehicle in North America. Initially debuting as a two-door and four-door hardtop sedans, the LTD range at various times would also include two-door and four-door pillared sedans, a two-door convertible, and a five-door station wagon (in woodgrain trim, as the LTD Country Squire). In South America, Ford manufactured the 1966 Ford Galaxie 500 into the 1980s using the Ford LTD nameplate.
From 1977 to 1979, the full-size LTD was joined by the intermediate-segment Ford LTD II (replacing the Ford Torino/Gran Torino range). For 1979, the LTD was downsized; while remaining a full-size car, it became externally smaller than the LTD II. For 1983, the LTD became a mid-size car as it replaced the Ford Granada, with the previous full-size car renamed the Ford LTD Crown Victoria (renamed Ford Crown Victoria for 1992).
For 1986, the mid-size LTD was replaced by the Ford Taurus as Ford expanded its use of front-wheel drive vehicles, with both lines sold for 1986.
Social links
Common 1979 Ford Ltd problems
The 1979 Ford LTD is known for several common problems, primarily related to its exterior styling, interior design, and mechanical components.
Exterior Styling and Weak Interior Design
The exterior styling of the 1979 Ford LTD has been a subject of debate, with many considering it less than appealing. The car's boxy and bland appearance was not a favorite among consumers, and even the Landau version, which featured a vinyl roof, did not significantly improve its visual appeal. This lack of attractiveness led to disappointing sales, despite the car's solid functional nature.
Interior Design
The interior design of the 1979 Ford LTD was also considered weak, with a basic and uninspiring layout. The interior was viewed as a significant downgrade compared to the exterior, with plain wheel covers, a lack of decorative trim, and the same blue vinyl base interior found in the base model. This unappealing interior design, combined with the car's exterior styling, contributed to its disappointing sales.
Engine and Transmission Problems
The 1979 Ford LTD was known for engine and transmission issues, particularly with the standard 302 V8 engine, which had 129 horsepower and 223 lb-ft of torque.
Stalling Issues
The 1979 Ford LTD was also known for stalling issues, which could occur while driving. These stalling issues were often related to mechanical problems with the engine or transmission, and could be caused by a variety of factors, including issues with the carburetor, fuel system, or ignition system.
Despite these common problems, the 1979 Ford LTD was known for its lasting durability and solid performance. While it may not have been a favorite among consumers due to its exterior and interior design, the car's functional nature and reliability made it a popular choice for those looking for a dependable vehicle.
How much is a Ford LTD worth?
A: The average price of a Ford LTD is $16,910.
Why was the Ford LTD discontinued?
In addition to slow sales, potential model overlap with the Fairmont (and LTD) led to the discontinuation of the LTD II station wagon after 1977. For 1979, the LTD II effectively became obsolete upon the introduction of the downsized Ford LTD.
How much is a 1977 Ford LTD worth?
Sedan
| 1977 Ford LTD | Specs | Price |
|---|---|---|
| (base) | Specs: 5.8L, Leaded Petrol, 3 SPEED AUTOMATIC | Price: $4,400 - $6,270 |
| Silver Monarch | Specs: 5.8L, Leaded Petrol, 3 SPEED AUTOMATIC | Price: $4,840 - $7,150 |
What engine did the Ford LTD have?
The base engine was the 302 cid V8. The next largest engine was Ford's 351 CID V8, the most common choice. Still larger was Ford's 400 CID V8. Topping the range was the 429 cid V8, which was replaced by the 460 CID V8 for 1974.
How much is a 1977 Ford LTD worth?
Sedan
| 1977 Ford LTD | Specs | Price |
|---|---|---|
| (base) | Specs: 5.8L, Leaded Petrol, 3 SPEED AUTOMATIC | Price: $4,400 - $6,270 |
| Silver Monarch | Specs: 5.8L, Leaded Petrol, 3 SPEED AUTOMATIC | Price: $4,840 - $7,150 |
Why was the Ford LTD discontinued?
In addition to slow sales, potential model overlap with the Fairmont (and LTD) led to the discontinuation of the LTD II station wagon after 1977. For 1979, the LTD II effectively became obsolete upon the introduction of the downsized Ford LTD.
What engine did the Ford LTD have?
The base engine was the 302 cid V8. The next largest engine was Ford's 351 CID V8, the most common choice. Still larger was Ford's 400 CID V8. Topping the range was the 429 cid V8, which was replaced by the 460 CID V8 for 1974.
What did LTD stand for in Ford cars?
Ford introduces two new luxurious. Standard size cars The 1975 Ford LTD Landau The 1975 Ford LTD back in 1965 Ford introduced the letters LTD. As the top luxury trim of their Galaxy line the two-door
1979 Ford Ltd car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Ford Ltd problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Tires problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1979 Ford Ltd vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1979 Ford Ltd complaints
The NHTSA has received 3 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1979 Ford Ltd.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1985-07-22
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: WHEN I WAS DRIVING IN LAS VEGAS AT LOW SPEED I HEARD A NOISE WHICH WAS AMPLIFIED WHEN CAR WAS DRIVING FASTER. WHEN I STOPED AND I CHECK A WHOLE SKIN OF THE TIRE WAS GONE. I WENT TO REPLACE IT AND WHEN THEY LIFT UP THE CAR ANOTHER TIRE HAD A BIG BUBBLE(12" LONG). I DONT REMEMBER IF A THIRD OR FORTH HAD SAME PROBLEM BUT I END UP REPLACING ALL 4 (DEFINETLY NOT FIRESTONE). SINCE THAN I ALLWAYS CHECK THE TIRES I HAD ON MY CAR. I BELIEVE I WAS LUCKY. BUT THE EXPERIENCE EVEN TODAY GIVE ME THE GUSS BUMPS.( DOT NUMBER: TIRE SIZE: 15 )
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1985-07-22
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: WHEN I WAS DRIVING IN LAS VEGAS AT LOW SPEED I HEARD A NOISE WHICH WAS AMPLIFIED WHEN CAR WAS DRIVING FASTER. WHEN I STOPED AND I CHECK A WHOLE SKIN OF THE TIRE WAS GONE. I WENT TO REPLACE IT AND WHEN THEY LIFT UP THE CAR ANOTHER TIRE HAD A BIG BUBBLE(12" LONG). I DONT REMEMBER IF A THIRD OR FORTH HAD SAME PROBLEM BUT I END UP REPLACING ALL 4 (DEFINETLY NOT FIRESTONE). SINCE THAN I ALLWAYS CHECK THE TIRES I HAD ON MY CAR. I BELIEVE I WAS LUCKY. BUT THE EXPERIENCE EVEN TODAY GIVE ME THE GUSS BUMPS.( DOT NUMBER: TIRE SIZE: 15 )
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Fire: 1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: AFTER STARTING THE VEHICLE, AN ELECTRICAL SHORT IN THE IGNITION SWITCH CAUSED THE STEERING COLUMN TO CATCH ON FIRE. *AK
1979 Ford Ltd recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 9 recalls for different components of the 1979 Ford Ltd.
- Manufacturer: INTERCONTINENTAL AUTO PARTS
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: INTERCONTINENTAL AUTO PARTS IS RECALLING 1,937 FUEL FILTERS, P/NOS ALG 44/1 AND PUROLATOR F10024, SHIPPED BETWEEN JANUARY 14 AND FEBRUARY 13, 2008, SOLD FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE FILTER'S OUTLET CAP MAY NOT BE SECURELY CRIMPED TO THE HOUSING. THIS COULD RESULT IN A SEPARATION OF FILTER'S OUTLET CAP FROM THE HOUSING.
- Consequence: IF THIS CONDITION OCCURS WHILE ATTEMPTING TO START THE VEHICLE, A NO START CONDITION MAY RESULT AND FUEL MAY BE PUMPED ONTO THE GROUND. IF THIS OCCURS WHILE THE VEHICLE IS IN MOTION, THE ENGINE MAY STOP DUE TO INADEQUATE FUEL SUPPLY. IF AN IGNITION SOURCE WERE PRESENT, FUEL LEAKAGE MAY RESULT IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: INTERCONTINENTAL WILL REPLACE THE FUEL FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN DURING MARCH 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT INTERCONTINENTAL AT 800-451-2593.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:PEDALS AND LINKAGES
- Summary: THE INVOLVED VEHICLES WERE PRODUCED WITH BRAKE PUSH-ROD TO BRAKE PEDAL RETAINING PINS WHICH WERE NOT HEAT-TREATED AS SPECIFIED. THIS COULD ALLOW THE BRAKE PEDAL TO BECOME DISENGAGED FROM THE PUSH-ROD.
- Remedy: DEALER WILL REPLACE THE SUSPECT BRAKE RETAINING PIN.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: SOME VEHICLES WERE PRODUCED WITH BRAKE CONTROL VALVES AND BRAKE TUBES INTENDED FOR USE IN VEHICLES WITHOUT TRAILER TOW PACKAGES.
- Remedy: DEALER WILL REPLACE BRAKE CONTROL VALVE AND CONNECTING BRAKE TUBE.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Summary: SOME OF THESE VEHICLES WERE PRODUCED WITH MISINDEXED FRONT BRAKE HOSES WHICH COULD CONTACT A TIRE OR WHEEL IN A FULL-TURN CONDITION. CHAFING AND WEAR TO THE BRAKE HOSE COULD RESULT IN LOSS OF BRAKE FLUID AND FRONT WHEEL BRAKING CAPABILITY.
- Remedy: DEALER WILL INSPECT AND, IF NECESSARY, RE-INDEX THE FRONT BRAKE HOSE. THOSE HOSES SHOWING SIGNS OF ABRASION WILL BE REPLACED, WITHOUT CHARGE TO OWNER.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
- Summary: THE WORD "LIGHTS" WAS OMITTED FROM THE PANEL APPLIQUE IDENTIFYING THE HEADLAMP SWITCH. WITHOUT THIS IDENTIFICATION THE INVOLVED VEHICLES DO NOT CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 101, "CONTROLS AND DISPLAYS".
- Remedy: OWNERS OF THE AFFECTED VEHICLES WILL BE MAILED ADHESIVE BACKED LABELS CONTAINING THE WORD "LIGHTS", ALONG WITH INSTRUCTIONS FOR PROPER INSTALLATION AT NO CHARGE.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:FAN
- Summary: ONE OR MORE OF THE FIVE COOLING FAN BLADES MAY HAVE BEEN IMPROPERLY RIVETED TO THE FAN SPIDER. THIS COULD ALLOW THE BLADES TO SEPARATE FROM THE FAN DURING ENGINE OPERATION.
- Remedy: DEALER WILL INSPECT AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE ENGINE COOLING FAN, WITHOUT CHARGE.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: STEERING: STEERING WHEEL/HANDLE BAR
- Summary: THE LOWER STEERING SHAFT ASSEMBLIES CONTAIN COUPLING RIVET PINS WHICH WERE NOT RIVETED SECURELY ENOUGH DURING MANUFACTURE. CONSEQUENTLY ONE OR BOTH OF THE PINS COULD LOOSEN FROM THE FLANGE OF THE FLEXIBLE COUPLING DURING VEHICLE OPERATION. IF ONE PIN IS LOOSE, FREE PLAY WOULD RESULT. IF BOTH PINS WORK LOOSE, LOSS OF STEERING CONTROL WOULD OCCUR. ALSO, THE SHAFT ASSEMBLY MAY NOT CONTAIN A METAL REINFORCEMENT BETWEEN ONE OR BOTH OF THE RIVET PINS AND THE RUBBER FLEXIBLE COUPLING. AS A RESULT, THE RUBBER FLEXIBLE COUPLING COULD TEAR AND PRODUCE A NOISE OR LOOSE FEELING IN THE STEERING SYSTEM.
- Remedy: THE DEALER WILL INSPECT AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE STEERING SHAFT ASSEMBLY, WITHOUT CHARGE TO OWNER.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
- Remedy: DEALER WILL INSPECT AND, IF NECESSARY, INSTALL PROTECTIVE SHIELDS ON THE REBOUND BUMPER BRACKETS WITHOUT CHARGE TO OWNER.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FUSES AND CIRCUIT BREAKERS
- Summary: THE WINDSHIELD WIPER AND WASHER SYSTEM CONTAINS AN INCORRECT 6 AMP CIRCUIT BREAKER INSTEAD OF THE 8.25 AMP CIRCUIT BREAKER. IF THE SYSTEM IS HEAVILY LOADED, AS IN THE CASE OF A PARTIALLY DRY WINDSHIELD, THE MOTOR CURRENT MAY EXCEED THE 6 AMP BREAKER"S CAPACITY. THIS WOULD CAUSE THE BREAKER TO OPEN, WHICH WOULD RESULT IN WIPER/WASHER FAILURE.
- Remedy: DEALER WILL INSTALL THE CORRECT CIRCUIT BREAKER WITHOUT CHARGE TO OWNER.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1979 Ford Ltd problems:
1979 Ford LTD Reviews - Carsurvey.org
Feb 15, 2009 ... The transmission need work at about 75,000; cost me $200 and some beers that afternoon. The seats needed to be replaced in 2009 after normal ...
Q&A: Troubleshooting 1979 Ford LTD Stalling Issues
Nov 6, 2008 ... From here, your next step is to ask your mechanic if the module that he wants to change is the ignition mdule. He is correct is stating that we ...
1979 f-150... common problems? - Ford Truck Enthusiasts Forums
Jan 23, 2009 ... 1973 - 1979 F-100 & Larger F-Series Trucks - 1979 f-150... common problems? - I'm lookig to purchase a pretty clean 1979 f-150 with a ...
1979 Ford Thunderbird suddenly not starting - Maintenance/Repairs ...
Aug 20, 2011 ... I have a 1979 Ford Thunderbird with a V8 5.0 liter engine. ... common problem, easily fixed…just Key-ON 12V ... When I had my 78 Ford LTD, I had two ...
Curbside Classic: 1977-1979 Ford LTD II S - The Longest Mid-Size ...
Jul 23, 2018 ... Curbside Classic: 1977-1979 Ford LTD II S – The ... problems, I guess they figured there was a ... common as cop cars, my home town used them ...
Other years of Ford Ltd
Are you having problems with your 1979 Ford Ltd?
Leave your review of 1979 Ford Ltd