1988 Ford Ltd problems

Common 1988 Ford Ltd problems

The Ford LTD 1988, also known as the Fairlane and LTD in Australia, is known for several common problems based on complaints from owners of this car.

One common problem is related to the ignition module mounted to the distributor. This module is responsible for controlling the ignition system, and when it fails, it can cause issues with starting the car or intermittent running problems. It is recommended to inspect this module for any signs of wear or damage and consider replacing it if necessary.

Another issue reported by owners is related to the distributor caps. Some engines in the 1988 Ford LTD may have distributor caps that need to be replaced every two years or so. These caps can wear out over time and cause intermittent running problems or difficulty starting the car. It is recommended to check the condition of the distributor cap and replace it if necessary.

The Fairlane and LTD were also criticized for their creaky structure and floaty handling, which were attributed to their humble underpinnings and the use of the EA Falcon wagon’s platform. These issues can affect the overall driving experience and safety of the car.

Additionally, the Fairlane and LTD were priced right up against the Toyota Cressida and Mazda 929, which offered greater refinement and superior build quality. This means that the Ford LTD 1988 may not have been as competitive in terms of quality and refinement compared to its Japanese counterparts.

Another common problem reported by owners is related to the fuel system, especially for cars that have been sitting for years and then put back into use. Fuel system problems can cause symptoms like stalling, shaking, and difficulty starting the car. To solve this problem, the fuel tank may need to be removed and thoroughly cleaned or replaced.

Lastly, if the engine uses an idle air control valve, that’s another common problem that can cause symptoms like stalling, shaking, and difficulty starting the car. Especially if the driver can work around the stalling problems by holding the gas pedal down slightly. Tapping on the IAC with the plastic handle of a screwdriver can help diagnose this problem, and if it has any effect, replacing the IAC valve may be necessary.

In summary, the Ford LTD 1988 is known for several common problems, including issues with the ignition module and distributor caps, creaky structure and floaty handling, competition with Japanese counterparts in terms of quality and refinement, fuel system problems, and issues with the idle air control valve. It is recommended to inspect and address these issues to ensure the safe and reliable operation of the car.

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 many miles can a Crown Vic go?

300K miles

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.

Why do people like the Crown Vic?

The Crown Vic was a very stable platform. Mine was very reliable as long it was taken care of. There was also ample room. I also loved how the rear-wheel drive car excelled at driving in snow and ice.

How much does a Ford LTD cost?

A: The average price of a Ford LTD is $16,910.

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 will a Crown Victoria 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.

Why do people like the Crown Vic?

The Crown Vic was a very stable platform. Mine was very reliable as long it was taken care of. There was also ample room. I also loved how the rear-wheel drive car excelled at driving in snow and ice.

Is the Crown Vic a good first car?

Yes it's a good one. Crown vics are cheap and plentiful. Many will be high miles and not worth a lot, but they are still a good driving car. With proper maintenance, a cheap 200,000 mile Crown Vic has a whole lot of life left in it.

1988 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:

• Electrical system problems
• Power train problems
• Vehicle speed control problems

The graph below shows statistics for all 1988 Ford Ltd vehicle components and the number of complaints received.