1999 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 1999 Ford Probe problems
The Ford Probe, produced from 1988 to 1997, was a result of Ford's collaboration with Mazda. While the car had its strengths, there were several common problems reported by owners.
- Acceleration Problems and Fuel Smell: If you experience serious acceleration problems accompanied by a strong fuel smell, it might be due to a faulty catalytic converter. The only solution is to replace it with a new one.
- Rear Brake Calliper Problems: The Probe is known for rear brake calliper issues, which can cause the brakes to stick or seize up. If loosening the callipers doesn't solve the problem, you may need to replace them.
- Easy-to-Chip Paint: The Probe's paint, particularly around the bumper and bonnet area, is known to chip off easily. While T-Cut can reduce lines and swirls, the only fix for chipping is sanding down and re-spraying.
- Clutch Slipping: Some Probes have issues with the clutch slipping, even in cars with low mileage. The only solution is to replace the clutch, which can be quite costly.
- Sunroof Noise: An annoying noise from the sunroof is often due to the sunroof frame rubbing against the roof. This can be solved by fitting some foam or other protective insulant between the sunroof frame and the roof.
- Window Seal Failure: Frameless windows can lead to window seal failure, especially if pressure is applied to the window or the door is closed by pushing the window. Fitting a new seal and avoiding pressure on the window can help prevent this issue.
- Brake Warning Light: If the brake warning light comes on when applying the brakes, it's likely due to a sensitive sensor. Checking and topping up the brake fluid should resolve the issue.
These common problems, while not exhaustive, provide a general overview of the challenges faced by Ford Probe owners. It's essential to be aware of these issues when considering purchasing a Ford Probe, particularly if it's a high-mileage vehicle. Regular maintenance and inspections can help mitigate these problems and ensure the car's longevity.
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.
Was 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.
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.
1999 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:
- Exterior lighting problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1999 Ford Probe vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1999 Ford Probe complaints
The NHTSA has received 1 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1999 Ford Probe.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: ONCOMING CARS HAVING OVERLY BRIGHT HEADLIGHTS CAUSE NIGHT BLINDNESS. BOTH BLUE AND WHITE EXTRA BRIGHT LIGHTS DO THIS. PROPERLY AIMED LIGHTS STILL SHINE INTO ONCOMING DIRVERS WHEN THEY GO OVER HILLS AND BUMPS. THE WORSE SITUATION IS RAIN AND ON ICE WHEN THE LIGHT ALSO REFLECTS OFF THE ROAD SURFACE GIVING THE ONCOMING DRIVER NOWHERE ON THE ROAD AHEAD THAT CAN BE VIEWED. THE COLOR IS NOT AS IMPORTANT AS THE AMOUNT OF LIGHT. I AM SURPRISEDED THESE ARE NOT COVERED IN MOST STATE'S LAWS ALREADY. *AK
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1999 Ford Probe problems:
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