1996 Ford Probe problems
The Ford Probe is a liftback coupé produced by Ford, introduced in 1988 and produced until 1997. The Probe was the result of Ford's collaboration with its longtime Japanese partner Mazda, and both generations of Probe were derived from the front-wheel drive Mazda G platform that underpinned the Mazda Capella.
The Probe succeeded the Ford EXP, and the instrument cluster of the first-generation Probe and pop-up headlight mechanisms were borrowed from the FC Series RX-7.
Based on the Mazda MX-6 as a sport compact coupe, the Probe was intended to fill the market niche formerly occupied by the Capri in Europe, and it was originally intended to be the fourth generation Ford Mustang in the North American market as a direct competitor with the Acura Integra, Isuzu Piazza, Nissan 200SX, and the Toyota Celica. During that time, Ford's marketing team had deemed that a front-wheel drive platform (borrowed Mazda GD and GE platforms) would have lower costs for production, and also because the platform had been gaining popularity with consumers.
Mustang fans objected to the front-wheel drive configuration, Japanese engineering, and lack of a V8, so Ford began work on a new design for the Mustang instead. On March 17, 1997, Ford announced the discontinuation of the Probe.
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Common 1996 Ford Probe problems
The Ford Probe is known for several common problems based on complaints from owners of this car. These issues include engine problems, transmission issues, electrical faults, brake problems, and cooling system issues.
- Transmission Issues: Transmission problems are also a common issue with the Ford Probe, with 6 complaints out of 58 total complaints made over 8 model years. The transmission issues include the car slipping out of drive while driving, rough shifting, and transmission failure.
- Electrical Faults: Electrical faults are another common problem with the Ford Probe, with 6 complaints out of 58 total complaints made over 8 model years. The electrical faults include issues with the power windows, power locks, and the electrical system in general.
- Brake Problems: Brake problems are also a common issue with the Ford Probe, with 4 complaints out of 58 total complaints made over 8 model years. The brake problems include issues with the brake system, such as the brake warning light coming on when applying the brakes, and the brake pads wearing out prematurely.
- Cooling System Issues: Cooling system issues are another common problem with the Ford Probe, with 4 complaints out of 58 total complaints made over 8 model years. The cooling system issues include overheating, leaks, and the radiator fan not working correctly.
In summary, the Ford Probe is known for several common problems, including engine issues, transmission problems, electrical faults, brake problems, and cooling system issues. These problems have been reported by Ford Probe owners over 8 model years, with most complaints related to engine issues. If you are considering purchasing a Ford Probe, it is essential to be aware of these common problems and to have them checked by a qualified mechanic before making a purchase.
What was wrong with the Ford Probe?
Problem: There have been lot of complaints about how easy the paint can chip off, particularly around the bumper and bonnet area. There is also some lines and swirls which can form particularly around the front end.
Why did they stop making Ford probes?
Why Was the Ford Probe Taken Off the Market? By 1997, Probe sales had dropped to less than 20,000 as buyer interest was lured away from the coupe and towards the Mustang it was meant to replace. It also lost sales to the Thunderbird and Mazda's Miata, all of which had rear-wheel drive.
How long did the Ford Probe last?
The Ford Probe is a liftback coupé produced by Ford, introduced in 1988 and produced until 1997.
How much do Ford probes go for?
More about the Ford Probe
There are 1 used Ford Probe vehicles for sale near you, with an average cost of $16,995. Prices for a used Ford Probe range from a high of $16,995 to a low of $16,995. Remember that mileage and condition can affect price.
Why did the Ford Probe fail?
By 1997, the Probe's final year, Ford sold less than 20,000 units compared to 108,000 Mustangs. Ford did such a poor job of positioning and marketing the Probe it was almost destined to fail. A third-generation Probe was planned, but that design became the early-2000s Mercury Cougar, also an unsuccessful car.
Why did Ford stop making the Ford Probe?
Why Was the Ford Probe Taken Off the Market? By 1997, Probe sales had dropped to less than 20,000 as buyer interest was lured away from the coupe and towards the Mustang it was meant to replace. It also lost sales to the Thunderbird and Mazda's Miata, all of which had rear-wheel drive.
How long did the Ford Probe last?
The Ford Probe is a liftback coupé produced by Ford, introduced in 1988 and produced until 1997.
Is the Ford Probe fast?
The Probe hit 60 mph in 7.0 seconds, 0.2 quicker than the MX-6. Its quarter-mile clocking of 15.5 seconds at 89 mph also edges out the MX-6's 15.6-second/88-mph performance.
1996 Ford Probe car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Ford Probe problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Power train problems
- Steering problems
- Electrical system problems
- Suspension problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1996 Ford Probe vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1996 Ford Probe
The NHTSA has received 86 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1996 Ford Probe. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1996 Ford Probe vehicles.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-11-05
- VIN: 1ZVLT20A7T5
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: REPLACED RIGHT LOWER CONTROL ARM ASSEMBLY WITH A NEW PART FROM O'REILLY AUTOPARTS STORE ON 8/31/10 AND ON 11/05/10 THE BALL JOINT CAME COMPLETELY OUT OF THE NEW CONTROL ARM MAKING AN EXTREMELY UNSAFE DRIVING CONDITION. DEFECTIVE NEW PART, REPLACED IT AGAIN ON 11/09/10 WITH ANOTHER NEW REPLACEMENT PART FROM O'REILLY AUTOPARTS STORE. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-10-10
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: 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
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-07-11
- VIN: 1ZVLT22B8T5
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: LT FRONT SPRING BROKE & PUNCTURED THE INSIDE SIDEWALL OF THE TIRE MAKING IT GO FLAT. *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-06-10
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FAILURE. SECOND TIME. THIS NEEDS TO BE ADDRESSED VERY EXPENSIVE TO REPAIR. *TR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-01-11
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 1FMDU34X7TU
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: 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
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-11-10
- VIN: 4M2DV11W2TD
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: 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
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-06-29
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1FMDU34X0TZ
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: 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
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-10-20
- VIN: 1ZVLT20A9T5
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: 1996 FORD PROBE SE AUTO TRANSMISSION FAILURE,SAME AS MAZDA 626 ALL OF THESE CARS HAVE THE SAME PROBLEM THAT COST THOUSANDS TO FIX,CHECK THE INTERNET,WHY HASN'T THERE BEEN A RECALL?
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-07-17
- VIN: 1ZVLT20A3T5
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD AND AS SOON AS I GOT UP TO SPEED PAST 30 MILES PER HOUR IT KICKED INTO TO GEAR REALLY HARD AND I COULD FEEL THE TRANSMISSION BARELY SLIPPING INTO GEAR..AND HAD TO HAVE THE WATER PUMP FLUSHED IT WAS OVER HEATING THOUGHT IT WAS THE THERMOSTAT BUT IT WAS CHECKED AND FINE SO I HAD TO REPLACE THE WATER PUMP...WAS MISSING A MOTOR MOUNT ON ONE SIDE AND THE OTHER WAS CORRODDED.. WHEN I ARE DRIVING DOWN THE ROAD I CAN HEAR MY CAR 4 BLOCKS AWAY..BRAKES AREN'T RIGHT THEY DON'T PRESS DOWN LIKE THEY SHOULD AND HALF THE TIME THEY JUST DON'T WORK...IF I AM LUCKY, I HAVE TO START BRAKING AROUND 2 BLOCKS AWAY, I MAY STOP IN TIME. I PURCHASED THIS CAR ON JULY 16,2006 AND THIS ALL HAPPENED STARTING JULY 17,2006. PAYMENTS HAVE BEEN MADE ON TIME AND HAVE HAD TWO ESTIMATES AS THEY REQUESTED FOR ALL THE REPAIRS BUT THEY STILL ARE STATING I HAVE TO COME UP WITH HALF THE MONEY UPFRONT AND THEN THEY WILL TACT ON THE REST TO THE END OF MY BILL I OWE TO PAY OFF THE CAR. *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-12-20
- VIN: 2FMDA5148TB
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: 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.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-03-30
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I HAVE A 96 FORD PROBE THAT THE TRANSMISSION WAS BAD. IT WAS AN AUTOMATIC . WITH IT BEING AN AUTOMATIC IT WOULD SEEM THAT THEY WOULD NOT GO BAD COMPARED TO A MANUAL TRANSMISSION. I'VE BEEN READING THAT A LOT OF THE MAZDA/FORD TRANSMISSION ARE TERRIBLE AND PEOPLE HAS HAD PROBLEMS WITH THE TRANSMISSION WHICH IS THE CD4E. I WOULD LIKE TO JUST LIKE TO LET OTHER PEOPLE KNOW THEY ARE NOT THE ONLY ONE WITH THE SAME PROBLEM OF THE CD4E. I'VE HAD IT FIXED HOWEVER THE MECHANICS MUST STILL NOT HAVE IT EXACTLY CORRECT CAUSE ITS STILL IS NOT WORKING RIGHT. SO NOW I HAVE TO TAKE IT BACK IN FOR THEM TO LOOK OVER AGAIN. *NM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-12-11
- VIN: 2FALP74W1TX
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ON SUNDAY DECEMBER 11, 2005 WHILE TRAVELING ON THE HIGHWAY I EXPIRED A SUDDEN SPIKE IN TEMPERATURE ON MY 1996 FORD CROWN VICTORIA. AFTER TAKING MY CAR TO A FORD DEALERSHIP I WAS INFORMED THAT MY "PLASTIC" INTAKE MANIFOLD HAD CRACKED. I HAVE RESEARCHED THE CURRENT INVESTIGATION AND HAD NEVER RECEIVED ANY SORT OF CUSTOMER NOTIFICATION FROM FORD. I HEARD ABOUT THE MANIFOLD ISSUE FROM A FELLOW EMPLOYEE. THE TOTAL COST OF REPAIRS FOR THIS FAULTY MANIFOLD WAS $978.00. I FEEL IF THEY KNEW THEY NEEDED TO UPDATE IT WITH AN ALUMINUM MANIFOLD THAN THEY KNEW THE PLASTIC ONES WERE FAULTY.*JB
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-01-01
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: 1996 FORD PROBE TRANSMISSION PROBLEMS ( SAME AS MAZDA 626 TRANSMISSION . ITS BEEN REBUILT 2 TIMES ALREADY AND NOW NEEDS A 3RD , ONLY 120000 MILES AND ALL THAT!!! COSTS THOUSANDS AND THOUSANDS AND THOUSANDS OF DOLLARS!!! *JB
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-06-03
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1FMEU15N8TL
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: 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.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-05-23
- VIN: 1FALP62WXTH
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: 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.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-11-24
- VIN: 1ZVLT20A8T5
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I OWN A 96 FORD PROBE WITH A CD4E TRANSMISSION WITH ONLY 66000 MILES ON IT. A FEW DAYS MY TRANSMISSION STARTED TO ACT UP. IT WOULD REV HIGH THEN SHIFT INTO 2ND GEAR, WHEN ATEMPTING TO SHIFT INTO 3RD GEAR, IT JUST WOULDN'T. THIS CAUSES MY CAR TO ONLY GO A BLISTERING SPEED OF 45MPH?!? THIS TRANSMISSION , THE CD4E, IS PRODUCED BY MAZDA AND IS ALSO IN THE 626. I SEARCH THE WEB TO SEE IF ANYONE HAD THE SAME PROBLEMS AND NOW I WANT TO GET RID OF MY CAR I FELL IN LOVE WITH 4 YEARS AGO. THERE ARE THOUSANDS OF PEOPLE WITH THE SAME TRANSMISSION PROBLEMS FROM 94-TO 99. THOUSAND OF REPORTED PROBLEMS BUT NO RECALL? WE NEED SOMEONE TO TAKE ACTION AGAINT MAZDA AND THE PROBLEM TRANSMISSION.*AK
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-11-03
- VIN: 19UUA568X3A
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING A LOUD NOISE WAS HEARD COMING FROM THE REAR. CONSUMER PULLED OVER, AND NOTICED THAT THE PASSENGER SIDE REAR RIM EXPLODED. CONSUMER CHANGED THE TIRE, AND DROVE THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-10-12
- VIN: 1ZVLT22B5T5
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: INTERMITTENTLY VEHICLE FAILED TO START. ENGINE CRANKED BUT WOULDN'T TURN OVER. ALSO WHILE DRIVING VEHICLE STALLED. MECHANIC REPLACED THE GROUND WIRE AND DISTRIBUTOR, BUT THE PROBLEMS STILL EXISTS.*AK
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1ZBLT22V0T5
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: THE VEHICLE LOST POWER STEERING WHEN A TURN WAS MADE. *JB
EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-06-21
- VIN: PLEASE FILL
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: CONSUMER STATES THAT WHILE DRIVING THEIR IS A LOUD CLICKING NOISE. HAD VEHICLE SERVICED. THE CV JOINTS HAD BROKEN, GOT PART REPLACED. PROBLEM REOCCURED TWICES SINCE THEN. DEALER CONTACTED. TS
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-04-17
- VIN: 1ZVLT20A1T5
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: WITHOUT WARNING, THE TRANSMISSION COMPLETELY FAILED. I LOST ALL ABILITY TO MOVE IN ANY OF THE FORWARD GEARS, AND STRUGGLED TO GET THE CAR TO THE SIDE OF THE HIGHWAY. ON THE SHOLDER, I DISCOVERED I COULD ONLY MOVE IN REVERSE, ALL OF THE FORWARD GEARS WERE INOPERABLE. THE CAR WAS TOWED TO LEEMYLES, AND THEY PERFORMED $2,200 IN REPAIRS. THIRTY DAYS LATER, THE TRANSMISSION COMPLETELY FAILED AGAIN, FORTUNATELY LEEMYLES HONORED THEIR WARRANTY AND PERFORMED ANOTHER COMPLETE REPAIR. IT IS NOW WORKING, BUT I AM AFRAID. I HAVE SEARCHED THE WEB AND DISCOVERED THAT THIS PARTICULAR TRANSMISSION HAS A DOCUMENTED HISTORY OF FAILURE. I REQUEST THE NHTSA REVIEW THIS COMPLAINT, COUPLED WITH WHAT I SUSPECT ARE A LARGE QUANTITY OF SIMILAR COMPLAINTS, AND FORCE FORD TO REIMBURSE ME FOR THE EXPENSES I INCURRED IN REPAIRING THIER FAULTY MACHINERY.*AK
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-05-21
- VIN: 1ZVLT20A3T5
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: LEFT FRONT COIL SPRING BROKE (DUE TO DEFECTIVE MATERIAL AND/OR CORROSION) GOING OVER CURB. TIRE PUNCTURED; CAR NOT DRIVEABLE. TOWED TO LOCAL FORD DEALER FOR REPLACEMENT OF FRONT COIL SPRING & COMPONENTS. SPENT ADDITIONAL $$ TO HAVE CORRESPONDING RIGHT FRONT COIL SPRING REPLACED (AS SAFETY PRECAUTION) ALTHOUGH DEALER DID NOT SUGGEST DOING SO. FORTUNATE NOT TO HAVE BEEN ON EXPRESSWAY DRIVING AT HIGH RATE OF SPEED. *AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-04-14
- VIN: 1ZVLT20A6T5
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: CD4E TRANSMISSION FAILED DUE TO INHERANT DESIGN PROBLEM.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-01-15
- VIN: 1ZVLT22BXT5
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THERE IS OIL LEAKING INTO THE SPARK PLUG CYLINDERS. A TUNE UP WAS PERFORMED, HOWEVER, THE PROBLEM WAS NOT SOLVED. OIL CONTINUES TO SEEP INTO THE SPARK PLUG CYLINDERS, AND THIS IS CAUSING A DEGRADATION IN PERFORMANCE AS WELL AS ROUGH OPERATION. WHAT IS MOST INTERESTING, HOWEVER, IS THAT MY CAR IS NOT THE ONLY ONE WITH SUCH A PROBLEM. SEVERAL FORD PROBE OWNERS HAVE INFORMED ME THAT THEY HAVE SIMILAR PROBLEMS WITH THEIR CARS AS WELL (DIFFERENT MODEL YEARS).*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-06-01
- VIN: 1ZVLT20A5T5
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: VEHICLE STALLS AND HESITATES WHILE TRAVELING ON HIGHWAY. TRANSMISSION STALLS. DEALERSHIP IS AWARE OF PROBLEM.*AK CONSUMER STATES ENGINE RUNS ROUGH, STALLS, AND MAKES A TICKING NOISE, THE OIL PUMP AND MOTOR WERE REPLACED. THE TRANSMISSION IS SLIPPING, THIS IS A REPLACEMENT TRANSMISSION. *SLC
1996 Ford Probe recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 1996 Ford Probe.
- Manufacturer: AJ MOTORSPORT
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN AJ MOTORSPORT COMBINATION LAMPS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. COMBINATION LAMPS NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: LACK OF AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS IN THE LAMPS WILL DECREASE LIGHTING VISIBILITY TO OTHER DRIVERS AND MAY POSSIBLY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: AJ MOTORSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER REIMBURSEMENT FOR THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 31, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT AJ MOTORSPORT AT 626-618-2026.
- Manufacturer: PRO-A MOTORS, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.
- Manufacturer: SPX FILTRAN
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: CERTAIN SPX FILTRAN FUEL FILTERS WITH A 45-DEGREE ANGLE INLET TUBE, MODEL 800F350-S1, SOLD AS REPLACEMENT FILTERS FOR 1993-1997 FORD PROBE,1993-2001 MAZDA 626 AND MX-6, AND 1983-1994 LOYAL, 3-DOOR COUPE, HATCHBACK, SEDAN, WAGON, BRAT, DL, GL, GL-10, RX, XT, AND XT6 PASSENGER VEHICLES WITH EFI OR TURBO ENGINES. THESE FILTERS ARE PACKAGED AS WIX, NAPA, AND CARQUEST BRAND FUEL FILTERS. CERTAIN SPX FILTRAN FUEL FILTERS WITH A 90-DEGREE ANGLE INLET TUBE, MODEL 800F300-S2, SOLD AS REPLACEMENT FILTERS FOR 19983-1994 SUBARU VEHICLES WITH EFI OR TURBO ENGINES. THESE FILTERS ARE PACKAGED AS WIX, NAPA, AND CARQUEST BRAND FUEL FILTERS. FUEL MAY LEAK FROM THE FILTER DUE TO NON-CONFORMING BRAZING WELDS WHERE THE INLET TUBE IS CONNECTED TO THE FILTER CAN.
- Consequence: IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A VEHICLE FIRE CAN OCCUR.
- Remedy: SPX WILL NOTIFY ITS CUSTOMERS AND PROVIDE A FULL REFUND. THE RECALL BEGAN SEPTEMBER 27, 2005. OWNERS MAY CONTACT MR. CHRIS GREESON AT 704-869-3733 OR CONTACT THE WIX INFORMATION HOTLINE AT 800-949-6698.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: THE SUPPLEMENTARY AIR BAG INFLATABLE RESTRAINT CAUTION LABEL LOCATED ON THE DRIVER SIDE SUN VISOR DOES NOT CONTAIN THE STATEMENT, "DO NOT INSTALL REARWARD FACING CHILD SEATS IN ANY FRONT PASSENGER SEAT POSITION." THIS DOES NOT COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 208, "OCCUPANT CRASH PROTECTION."
- Consequence: CONSEQUENCE OF NON-COMPLIANCE: OPERATORS COULD FAIL TO NOTICE AND HEED THE WARNING LABEL.
- Remedy: A NEW CAUTION LABEL, WITH INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS, WILL BE SENT DIRECTLY TO OWNERS. OWNERS CAN INSTALL THE LABEL OR, IF THEY WISH, CAN HAVE THEIR DEALER INSTALL THE LABEL FOR THEM.
Negative 1996 Ford Probe car reviews
Positive 1996 Ford Probe car reviews
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We bought this car used and found out that it had been wrecked. However, I have had no real problems with it. It drives great and is very fun. I would not recommend this car if you have older kids as there is not enough leg room in the back. Personally, I drive this car every day and I love it. Besides, I feel like a teenager when I am driving it!
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This car is amazing! It's so much fun to drive and I haven't had any issues with it. The only thing I wish is that it had a 6-speed transmission.
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I absolutely loved my GT for the past four years, but unfortunately, I have to part ways with it due to limited cargo space. This car is incredibly peppy and has exceptional handling, making it a joy to drive. The stereo system is also top-notch, with a factory sub that adds a nice low end. Although the factory CD player was not up to par and had to be replaced, regular maintenance kept the car in great condition. I did have to replace the water pump, which was a bit pricey, and both CV joint cases, which may have been my fault. It's important to keep an eye on the alignment to avoid going through tires too quickly. Overall, this has been my favorite car to date!
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I bought my 96 GT Probe new and have loved most everything. Although, I do wish there were lights in the glove box and trunk, and on the GT model. Come on Ford! My only problem has been leaky oil gaskets found when replacing the timing belt and a tune-up at 80,0000 miles. There was also a problem with the power window, but it was fixed under warranty. Other than that, it has driven like a dream and looks very sleek, especially with the rear spoiler.
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This car sounds like a great choice! It handles really well, gets almost 30 mpg around town, and has fair acceleration. The only downside is that with a manual transmission, you might knock drinks out of the single cupholder. Additionally, the interior materials could be of better quality. However, I have only had a few minor repairs, such as the oil sending unit, which were a bit annoying but nothing major.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1996 Ford Probe problems:
Advice buying Ford Probe? Any problems? — Car Forums at ...
Aug 7, 2002 ... Tires wear out. Brakes wear out. O2 sensors wear out. Water pumps wear out. Timing belts wear out. Refrigerant seals wear out. Most of these ...
Ford Probe Problems: Expert Q&A on 1996 SE Transmission & More
Sep 28, 2010 ... Until the trany gets worse deal with the engine items first. Go to a ford dealer and get the computer reprogrammed with the latest calibration ...
1996 Ford Probe Problems and Complaints - 5 Issues
Problem with your 1996 Ford Probe? Our list of 5 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1996 Ford Probe.
Q&A: 1997 Ford Probe GT - Common Problems, Interior, Fuel Pump ...
Jun 9, 2007 ... I have a 1997 Ford Probe GT 6 cyl. There is a problem in the fuel pump circuit. The fuse is good, and when I jump spots - Answered by a ...
How trustworthy is a Ford Probe? : r/Ford
Sep 27, 2023 ... The v6 manual probes are reliable and tons of fun. The probe is the “it's more fun to drive a slow car fast, than a fast car slow”. That engine ...
Other years of Ford Probe
Are you having problems with your 1996 Ford Probe?
Elmo Marvin 2024-11-20
I've been the proud owner of a '96 GT since 1999 and have thoroughly enjoyed driving it. Unfortunately, today the transmission gave out at only 72,000 miles. Apart from some interior rattles, the car has been trouble-free. I've always been a fan of Ford products, but now I'm not so sure. A friend suggested selling it at 75,000 miles, and I almost made it. While I liked the car, I didn't appreciate the bad transmission that had been flushed just 15,000 miles ago. I think it's time to try something foreign now!
Ezequiel Shanahan 2024-09-05
This car is not only reliable but also fast. It has one of the best fuel consumptions ever, as I managed to make it to Wisconsin and back on just $60 worth of gas, which is like 33 mpg!!!
Rex Lind 2024-08-01
I love the sound of this car's engine once it passes 3000rpms, and the handling is pretty good for a FWD. However, if you're looking for a sports car, why would you choose a FWD? It's a fun drive, but unfortunately, the reliability is not great. There seems to be one problem after another. If you own a Probe, you can expect to spend 90% of your money on the car due to its poor reliability. That being said, the Mazda engine is excellent in that car, and that's definitely a plus.
Jesus Hansen 2024-04-20
Hello! I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to reach out regarding my car. I have taken great care of it, performing all scheduled maintenance and ensuring it is in good condition. Unfortunately, at 75,263 miles, I experienced an issue with the transmission. After some research, I discovered that this is a common problem with the Probe model. I reached out to Ford to see if they could assist me, but they informed me that there is currently no program in place to help with this issue. While the cost of repairing the transmission is quite high, I understand that this is a complex issue. I just wanted to share my experience with you and advise caution if considering purchasing this model. Thank you for your time!
Luther Swaniawski 2024-03-09
The car handles well around turns. It may not be the fastest, but for 118hp, it's pretty quick. The only issues I've had are with the exhaust pipe and muffler, which I had to replace twice, and a faulty battery coil.