1997 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 1997 Ford Probe problems
Based on complaints from owners of the 1997 Ford Probe, several common problems have been identified:
- Rear Brake Caliper Problems:
Complaints suggest that the rear brakes of the Ford Probe can stick or seize up, indicating rear brake caliper issues. If loosening the calipers does not solve the problem, new calipers may be needed.
- Paint Problems:
Many owners have complained about the paint chipping easily, especially around the bumper and bonnet areas. Additionally, lines and swirls can form, particularly around the front end. Addressing these issues may require sanding down and re-spraying the affected areas.
- Clutch Slipping:
Some Ford Probe owners have experienced issues with the clutch slipping, even in cars with low mileage. Resolving this problem typically involves fitting a new clutch, which can be a costly repair.
- Sunroof Noise:
An annoying noise from the sunroof has been reported, caused by the sunroof frame rubbing against the roof. This issue can be fixed by placing foam between the sunroof frame and the roof to prevent them from rubbing together.
- Window Seal Failure:
Problems with window seal failure have been noted, particularly due to frameless windows. Leaning on the window or closing the door by pushing the window can lead to seal issues. Replacing the seal and avoiding putting pressure on the window can help prevent the seal from becoming loose.
- Brake Warning Light:
If the brake warning light comes on when applying the brakes, owners are advised to check the brake fluid levels. The sensor may be overly sensitive, requiring topping up the brake fluid to resolve the issue.
These common problems reported by owners of the 1997 Ford Probe highlight various issues ranging from mechanical components like brakes and clutch to cosmetic concerns like paint problems. Addressing these issues promptly can help maintain the performance and appearance of the vehicle.
Are Ford probes expensive to maintain?
Ford Probe Repair: Service and Maintenance Cost. The annual maintenance cost of a Ford Probe is $425.
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.
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.
How long did the Ford Probe last?
The Ford Probe is a liftback coupé produced by Ford, introduced in 1988 and produced until 1997.
What happened to all the 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.
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.
1997 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
- Electrical system problems
- Power train problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1997 Ford Probe vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1997 Ford Probe
The NHTSA has received 52 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Ford Probe. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1997 Ford Probe vehicles.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-06-01
- VIN: 1FMEU17L5VL
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: INCIDENT LIKE MANY OTHERS I HAVE HAD MY 1997 FORD EXPEDITION XLT BLOW A SPARK PLUG OUT OF THE CYLINDER HEAD. THE VEHICLE WAS RUNNING FINE AND TROUBLE FREE WHEN A POP FROM UNDER THE HOOD AND A LOUD BANGING NOISE CAME FROM THE ENGINE HEAD. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE REPAIR SHOP ; WHO IN TURN CALLED THE LOCAL FORD DEALER. THE REPLY WAS THEY NEVER HEARD OF THIS PROBLEM BEFORE. MY LOCAL SERVICE TECH SAID THE REPAIR KIT ALONE WOULD COST $1,000,00. TO REPAIR IT HE SAID THAT FORD HAD ONLY USED 3 THREADS IN THE HEAD THAT FAILED, BUT ARE NOW REPLACING THEM WITH A 7 THREAD HEAD., THIS TELLS ME THAT THEY ARE VERY AWARE OF THE PROBLEM BUT ARE WILLING TO LEAVE THEIR CUSTOMERS OUT TO DRY.. I GUESS THE SCARY PART ABOUT THAT IS I STILL HAVE 4 MORE 3 THREAD SPARK PLUG HOLES TO WORRY ABOUT BLOWING OUT,.I ABSOLUTELY FEEL THIS SHOULD BE THE RESPONSIBILITY OF FORD MOTOR COMPANY WHO IS LOOKING FOR THE AMERICAN PUBLIC TO BUY IT'S TRUCKS. DAMAGE RESULTING IT WILL COST ME AS LITTLE AS $2,500.00 TO REPAIR THE CURRENT PROBLEM ( AND NO GUARANTY IT WON'T HAPPEN AGAIN). OR UP TO $5,500.00 TO REPLACE THE BUILT TOUGH 5.4 TRITON ENGINE. *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-09-09
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: I HAVE A 1997 FORD PROBE GT 6 CYLINDER. THE OVER DRIVE LIGHT KEEP FLICKERING OVER DRIVE OFF AND THEN CHECK ENGINE LIGHT STAYS ON FOR DAYS. I HAD THIS CHECKED OUT AND THE TPS THROTTLE POSITION SENSOR CHECK OUT BAD SO I HAD THIS REPLACED. THIS PROBLEM STILL EXIST. I WENT TO SEVERAL SERVICE STATIONS THEY ALL SAY I DON'T KNOW. I WOULD JUST IGNORE THIS BUT THE SLOWS DOWN TO LOWER GEAR THIS IS SCARY. I LOVE THIS FORD PROBE IS THERE ANYTHING I CAN DO. I FOUND A SIGHT ON THE INTERNET AND RELAYED A INTERCOOLING FOR THE TRANS, IS THIS CORRECT!!! *NM
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-07-27
- VIN: 1FMFU18L5VL
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: DRIVER SIDE TIE-ROD SEPERATION '97 FORD EXPEDITION WHILE DRIVING AT 50 MPH ON HIGHWAY. LOSE OF STEERING CONTROL. SERIOUS ACCIDENT AVOIDED ONLY BECAUSE OF EMERGENCY BRAKING.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-05-15
- Fire: 1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: 1997 EXPEDITION SPONTANEOUSLY CAUGHT FIRE IN THE DRIVEWAY 45 MINUTES AFTER IT HAD BEEN DRIVEN. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT AND POLICE CAME AND PUT OUT WHAT WAS ALMOST A CATASTROPHIC HOUSE FIRE. THE TRUCK WAS A TOTAL LOSS. TO REPLACE IT WITH SOMETHING COMPARABLE WE BOUGHT A 99 EXPEDITION. WE WERE OUT $8000 IN THE TRADE. THE OLDER EXPEDITION HAD ONE CAR PAYMENT LEFT ON IT BEFORE THE FIRE. NOW I AM HORRIFIED THAT WE HAVE ANOTHER ON IN THE DRIVEWAY.*AK
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2004-05-14
- VIN: 1ZVLT20A1V5
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: THE AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION (CD4E) HAS BEEN ACTING UP, OVERDRIVE LIGHT ON DASH STARTS FLASHING WHIH THEN CAUSES HARSH SHIFTING AND POWER LOSS IN TRANNY AND ENGINE. I HAVE READ HUNDREDS OF COMPLAINTS ABOUT THESE TRANSMISSIONS AND BELIEVE IT SHOULD BE THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE MANUFACTURER TO TAKE CARE OF THESE PROBLEMS. *AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: LTR REQUEST A COPY OF THE NHTSA REPORT RE AN AIRBAG PROBE OF THE 1997 FORD ESCORT. ATTY REPRESENTING CLIENT INJURED WHEN AIRBAG DID NOT DEPLOY IN A 1997 FORD ESCORT. *MR *NM
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-11-17
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I HAVE HAD TO REPLACE THE DISTRUBUTOR WHICH CAUSED IT TURN OVER, BUT NOT START, AND CLUTCH WITH IN ONE MONTH. ALSO MY CHECK ENGINE LIGHT KEEPS COMING ON AN DTHEY CAN'T FIGURE OUT WHY, AND MY CRUISE CONTROL DOES NOT WORK. *AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-07-02
- VIN: 9999
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: PROBLEMS WITH RUBBER HOSE, RUST AND CORROSION TO THE METALLIC BRAKE LINES.*MR *CB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-07-14
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: CONSUMER STATES THERE IS A PROBLEM ,WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE SHUT DOWN, FORCING THE CONSUMER TO PULL OUT OF THE ROAD. *AK
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-06-11
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1ZVLT20A6V5
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: INVOLVED IN AUTOMOBILE ACCIDENT IN LEXINGTON KY APPROXIMATE SPEED AT 20 MPH CRASHED THE FRONT OF VEHICLE AND THE AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOYED FRONT OF VEHICLE SUSTAINED MAJOR DAMAGE. *NLM
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-10-05
- VIN: 1ZVLT20A4V5
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: ENGINE PROBLEMS SINCE OWNING CAR. CAR CRANKS BUT WON'T START. HAS HAPPENED TOO MANY TIMES TO COUNT SINCE I'VE OWNED THE CAR. THE INCIDENT DATE I CHOSE WAS THE FIRST TIME IT HAPPENED. IT HAPPENED THE FIRST TIME 2 MONTHS AFTER A RECALL REPAIR HAD BEEN DONE AND HAS CONTINUED UNTIL TODAY. THE VEHICLE COMPONENT I CHOSE IS A GUESS SINCE THE PROBLEM HAS NEVER BEEN DETERMINED. MANY THINGS HAVE BEEN REPLACED BUT THE PROBLEM PERSISTS.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-10-04
- VIN: 1FTDF0721VK
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ENGINE REPLACEMENT/ I HAVE BEEN A FIRM BELIEVER IN FORD PRODUCTS AND STILL BELIEVE THAT FORD MAKES A GOOD PRODUCT...I AM VERY DISAPPOINTED IN THE POSITION I WAS PLACED IN LAST WEEK...I HAVE ALWAYS MAINTAINED MY FORD TRUCK THE BEST THAT I COULD AND NEVER HAD A MAJOR PROBLEM WITH IT FOR THE 6 YRS I HAVE OWNED MY TRUCK...I HAVE EXPERIENCED A FEW STALL OUTS A FEW TIMES BUT NOTHING THAT I TOOK TO SERIOUS, I FIGURED MAYBE A SPARK PLUG PROBLEM...THE FACT THAT MY ENGINE WOULD NEED REPLACEMENT AT 86000 IS BEYOND ME. LOOKING INTO THE COMPLAIANCE INVETIGATIONS SUMMARY I REALIZED THAT I AM IN COMPANY WITH MANY OTHER CONSUMERS WITH THE SAME COMPLAINT...I FEEL THAT THIS A DEFECT IN THE MANUFACTURES ENGINE AND THAT I SHOULD NOT HAVE TO PAY FOR A DEFECT ENGINE. MR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1ZVLT20A6V5
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: THE CATALYTIC CONVERTER FAILED TWICE.THE SECOND FAILURE WAS 50000 MILES AFTER THE FIRST. *YH
STEERING,EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-02-01
- VIN: 1FTEE1461VH
- Components: STEERING,EQUIPMENT ADAPTIVE/MOBILITY
- Summary: I AM GETTING IN TOUCH WITH YOU TO LET YOU KNOW ABOUT A VERY SERIOUS PROBLEM WITH THE AFTER MARKET STEERING EXTENSION DEVICE PUT ON ALOT OF HANDICAPPED VEHICLES, THIS PART IS PUT ON THESE CARS AND TRUCKS TO HELP ASSIST THE DRIVER IN TURNING THE STEERING WHEEL . THE PROBLEM WITH THIS PART IS THAT IS NOT SAFE . WHEN THE STEERING WHEEL IS TAKEN OFF OF THE SPLINED SHAFT THE NEW PIECE IS PUT ON AND DOES NOT EVEN HAVE A SPLINED CENTER TO FIT TIGHT ON THE SHAFT AND THE ONLY OTHER THING TO HOLD IT TIGHT IS 2 SET SCREWS. IF ONE OF THESE SET SCREWS WOULD WORK LOSE OR IF THE STEERING WHEEL WERE TURNED TO HARD THESE SET SCREWS WOULD WORK LOOSE AND THE STEERING WHEEL WOULD TURN BUT THE WHEELS WOULDN'T , OR THE OTHER WAY AROUND . I HAVE TALKED TO A AUTO REPAIR SPECIALIST ALONG WITH THE HEAD MECHANIC SUPERVISOR AT A FORD DEALERSHIP AND BOTH MEN SAID THAT THIS PART IS NOT VERY SAFE AND THEY WOULD NT WANT IT ON THEIR CAR OR TRUCK , I ALSO TALKED TO THE PERSON WHO INSTALLED THIS PART HE NO LONGER USES THIS ALUMINUM PART BECAUSE IT IS NOT STRONG ENOUGH FOR THIS KIND OF STRESS THAT A STEERING WHEEL GOES THROUGH . I HOPE THAT YOU CAN MAKE THESE PARTS REPLACED BY THE COMPANIES SO THAT NO ONE WITH A MODIFIED HANDICAPPED STEERING COLUMN EXTENSION DOES NOT GET KILLED OR KILL SOMEONE ELSE , I WAS LUCKY TO FIND IT EARLY BUT MAYBE SOME ONE ELSE WON'T BE. THANK YOU SINCERELY [XXX]. *AK PARTS OF THIS DOCUMENT HAVE BEEN REDACTED TO PROTECT PERSONALLY IDENTIFIABLE INFORMATION PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-09-20
- VIN: 1FTJE34F7VH
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: I FIXED THIS ONCE WITH GLUE AND REPLACED. THE ACTUATOR BROKE THE DOOR AGAIN. THIS CAN BE A SERIOUS SAFETY PROBLEM CONSIDERING IF WILL MAKE WINDOW DEFROSTER NON FUNCTIONAL. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1ZVLT2088V5
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY, VEHICLE SUDDENLY STALLED, WHICH REQUIRED CONSUMER TO STEER WITHOUT POWER, VEHICLE WAS TOWED AND THE MECHANIC INFORMED CONSUMER THAT NOT ONLY WAS THERE A PROBLEM WITH THE TIMING BELT, BUT THE TIMING BELT TENSIONER AS WELL, APPARENTLY AN EXTERNAL SPRING IN THE TIMING BELT TENSIONER BROKE OFF AND GOT CAUGHT IN THE TIMING BELT, CONSUMER STATES IN FEBURARY 1999 HE RECEIVED A RECALL NOTIFICATION (98S30) IN WHICH HE COMPLIED FOR THE SAME MECHANICAL FAILURE, AND TWO YEARS LATER THE PROBLEM OCCURS AGAIN, CONSUMER BELIEVES THAT THE WORK WAS NEVER PERFORMED AND IS REQUESTING REIMBURSEMENT FOR THE CHARGES HE HAS INCURRED.*JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1ZVLT2088V5
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY, VEHICLE SUDDENLY STALLED, WHICH REQUIRED CONSUMER TO STEER WITHOUT POWER, VEHICLE WAS TOWED AND THE MECHANIC INFORMED CONSUMER THAT NOT ONLY WAS THERE A PROBLEM WITH THE TIMING BELT, BUT THE TIMING BELT TENSIONER AS WELL, APPARENTLY AN EXTERNAL SPRING IN THE TIMING BELT TENSIONER BROKE OFF AND GOT CAUGHT IN THE TIMING BELT, CONSUMER STATES IN FEBURARY 1999 HE RECEIVED A RECALL NOTIFICATION (98S30) IN WHICH HE COMPLIED FOR THE SAME MECHANICAL FAILURE, AND TWO YEARS LATER THE PROBLEM OCCURS AGAIN, CONSUMER BELIEVES THAT THE WORK WAS NEVER PERFORMED AND IS REQUESTING REIMBURSEMENT FOR THE CHARGES HE HAS INCURRED.*JB
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-09-10
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1ZVLT20A3Z5
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING ABOUT 2 MPH CONSUMER'S VEHICLE WAS HIT BY ANOTHER VEHICLE GOING ABOUT 45 MPH, IMPACT WAS ON THE DRIVER SIDE NEAR FRONT OF VEHICLE. NEITHER AIRBAG DEPLOYED. CONSUMER HIT HER HEAD ON WINDSHIELD.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1ZVLT22BXV5
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: OIL FROM ENGINE IS LEAKING ONTO SPARK PLUGS. MANUFACTURER HAS BEEN NOTIFIED.*AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1ZVLT20A3V5
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: FORD (HQ AND DEALER) HAVE BEEN REPEATEDLY CONTACTED ON THESE ISSUES. FORD'S INTERNAL REVIEW BOARD ISSUED ARULING STATING THAT NO COMPENSATORY ACTION IS APPROPRIATE. FORD ISSUED AN OFFER TO HAVE A DISTRICT REPRESENTATIVE OVERSEE A REPRESENTATIVE WITHIN FOURTEEN DAYS OF THEIR RULING, WHICH I DID NOT RECEIVE UNTIL THE OFFER HAD EXPIRED. I HAVE TAKEN THE VEHICLE TO ANOTHER FORD GARAGE WITH SIMILAR DENIAL OF ANYTHING WRONG BEING WRONG WITH THE VEHICLE. THEIR IS OBVIOUSLY SOMETHING WRONG WITH THE BRAKES - THEY SQUEAL ALMOST CONTINUOUSLY. ALSO, THE ENGINE / TRANSMISSION POWER LOSS, VIBRATIONS, AND INTERMITTENT HESITATIONS HAVE INCREASED SINCE MY OWNERSHIP OF THE VEHICLE. I AM INTERESTED TO SEE IF OTHER CONSUMERS HAVE EXPERIENCED SIMILAR PROBLEMS AND HOW THESE PROBLEMS HAVE BEEN RECTIFIED. THE ISSUE WITH THE BAR IN THE SEAT DEVELOPED WITHIN SIX MONTHS, I HAVE SIMPLY DEALT WITH IT, UNTIL NOW AS I HAVE READ ON YOUR SITE THAT OTHER CONSUMERS HAVE HAD THIS SAME PROBLEM. I REQUEST THAT I BE CONTACTED FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY, AT THIS TIME, BY THE NHTSA, AS I DO NOT WISH TO DEAL WITH FORD OR THE INDICATED DEALER(S) ANY LONGER. ALSO, THE PA. ATTY GENERAL'S OFFICE - CONSUMER AFFAIRS, WAS CONTACTED WITH NO ACTION OTHER THAN "DOCUMENTATION OF THE INCIDENT".AT. NO SAFETY DEFEC TLISTED IN SUMMARY. *AK
SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-05-01
- VIN: 1ZVLT20A0V5
- Components: SEATS
- Summary: METAL BAR HAS PROTRUDED THROUGH DRIVER'S SEAT ON RIGHT, UPPER SIDE AND CONTACTS DRIVER'S BACK.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-09-14
- VIN: 1FDLE40S2VH
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: THIS IS THE SECOND FIRESTONE TIRE IN A WEEK THAT HAS HAD THE TREAD COME OFF. WE HAVE OVER ONE HUNDRED OF THESE TIRES ON OUR FLEET AND NEED TO DECIDE IF WE SHOULD REMOVE THEM.( DOT NUMBER: TIRE SIZE: LT225/75R1 )
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1MELM51U1TA
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WHEN DRIVING VEHICLE UNDER A SLIGHT PUDDLE OF WATER LIGHTS ON DASHBOARD ILLUMINATE, AND VEHICLE STALLS OUT, CAUSING LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL.*AK
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-01-01
- VIN: 1ZVLT20A7V5
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: A MECHANIC SAID THE CHOPPED TIRES ARE THE RESULT OF HOW THEY ARE MANUFACTURED. HE SAID THEY SHOW THE SAME CHARACTERISTICS AS THE 2 FIRESTONE TIRES THAT ARE NOW RECALLED. THERES LOTS OF TREADS LEFT BUT I WAS TOLD TO REPLACE THEM BECAUSE THEY ARE UNSAFE.( DOT NUMBER: TIRE SIZE: P195/65R14 )
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-08-15
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: CONSUMER WAS TRAVELING IN A 1997 FORD PROBE. FIRESTONE FIREHAWK TIRE SIZE P205/55R15, DOT#W2MJFXM426. ORIGINAL TIRES ON VEHICLE. PASSENGER'S FRONT TIRE BLEWOUT. TIRE SHOP STATED THAT IT WAS BOUND TO HAPPEN WITH ALL TIRES. *AK *SLC
1997 Ford Probe recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 1997 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: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES. AN EXTERNAL SPRING IN THE TIMING BELT TENSIONER CAN BREAK AND GET CAUGHT IN THE TIMING BELT.
- Consequence: THIS CONDITION CAN RESULT IN POSSIBLE ENGINE STALLING.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE TENSIONER AND REPLACE IT IF NECESSARY.
Negative 1997 Ford Probe car reviews
Positive 1997 Ford Probe car reviews
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I got my Probe GT 08/2007 and I've put over 40,000 miles on it, only having to change the oil and put gas in it. Despite only getting 17 or 18 mpg, it's still running like new to this day!
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The style is great! With the seats down, you can fit a full-size bed in the car. It looks sporty, so you feel proud to drive it. The only problem is that the check engine light comes on after 40K miles. However, after having it checked out and finding nothing wrong, we simply disconnect the battery to reset the lamp.
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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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After nearly 6 years of ownership, I still get goosebumps from the choir-like tones one hears from the engine bay all the way to the 7500 RPM redline. The power is very good when needed, yet the car is very mildly tempered when you're just taking it easy. This car is just a blast to drive hard or be the daily commuter. I don't imagine I'll ever sell this car.
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Great car for the money!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1997 Ford Probe problems:
Q&A: 1997 Ford Probe GT - Common Problems, Interior, Fuel Pump ...
Jun 9, 2007 ... Wish you much luck. Ask Your Own Ford Question.
1997 Ford Probe Problems and Complaints - 4 Issues
Problem with your 1997 Ford Probe? Our list of 4 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1997 Ford Probe.
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 and Complaints - 7 Issues
Top Ford Probe Problems · Engine Runs Rough, Stalls, Hesitates on Acceleration, Hard Starting, Poor Performance · Ticking Noise from Engine, Stalling, Rough ...
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 1997 Ford Probe?
Bertha Runolfsson 2024-10-02
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.
Tyrell Koss 2024-09-15
After experiencing numerous issues with my previous car, including costly repairs such as a new transmission, I made the decision to purchase a 2004 Toyota Corolla. This car has proven to be reliable and efficient, and I am confident in its performance. While my previous car had a Mazda engine, I have chosen to move on from that experience and focus on the positive aspects of my new vehicle.
Hollis Abshire 2024-09-04
I'm glad to hear that you've had a positive experience with your Probes! Even though your recent accident was unfortunate, it's great to know that your Probe held up well and kept you safe. It's always tough to say goodbye to a beloved car, but I'm sure you'll find another great one soon. Best of luck!
Nikko Turner 2024-07-06
Despite some challenges, this car has served me well. I have put 55K miles on it since purchasing it at 20K miles and have enjoyed driving it. While there have been some maintenance issues, such as the CD player, hydraulics for the hatchback/trunk door, and seatbelt buckles needing replacement, I have taken care of them promptly. Recently, I had to replace the radiator, EEC relay board, and battery cable cover, which cost $350 plus towing. However, I am confident in the car's reliability now that these issues have been addressed. Although some parts can be expensive and difficult to find, I am committed to keeping this car running smoothly. In the future, I plan to invest in $1500 worth of emissions parts, including oxygen sensors, to ensure the car continues to run efficiently. Overall, I am pleased with this car and its performance, and I look forward to continuing to drive it.
Deon Dach 2024-05-02
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!!!