Ford Thunderbird problems
The Ford Thunderbird (colloquially called the T-Bird) is a personal luxury car manufactured and marketed by Ford Motor Company from model years 1955 to 2005 (with a 1997–2002 hiatus), across 11 generations. Introduced as a two-seat convertible, the Thunderbird was offered variously as a four-seat hardtop coupe, four-seat convertible, five-seat convertible and hardtop, four-door pillared hardtop sedan, six-passenger hardtop coupe, and five-passenger pillared coupe, with the final generation designed again as a two-seat convertible.
Ford targeted the two-seat Thunderbird as an upscale model, but the 1958 model year design introduced a rear seat and arguably marked the expansion of a market segment eventually known as personal luxury cars, positioned to emphasize comfort and convenience over handling and high-speed performance.
Overview
The Thunderbird entered production for the 1955 model year as a sporty two-seat convertible. Unlike the Chevrolet Corvette, it was not marketed as a sports car. Ford positioned the Thunderbird as an upscale model and it is credited in developing a new market segment, the personal luxury car. For 1958, the Thunderbird was redesigned with a second row of seats. Succeeding generations became larger until the line was downsized in 1977, again in 1980, and once again in 1983. Sales were good until the 1990s when large two-door coupes became unpopular. Thunderbird production ended in 1997, then briefly resumed as a two-passenger, marketed from 2002 to 2005.
From its introduction in 1955 to its final phaseout in 2005, Ford produced over 4.4 million Thunderbirds.
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Ford Thunderbird model years
Common Ford Thunderbird problems
The 2002-2005 Ford Thunderbirds are known to have several common problems, primarily related to the engine and electrical systems.
One of the most common issues is the failure of the Coil on Plug (COP) or spark plugs. The COP system, which replaces the traditional distributor with individual coils attached to each spark plug, can fail due to oil or water seeping into the spark plug enclosure. This can cause a variety of problems, including stalling, rough idling, poor acceleration, and loss of power, leading the car to go into 'limp' mode.
Another common problem is electrical issues, with 27 complaints recorded for the 2002-2005 Thunderbirds. These issues include coils fouling spark plugs, causing the engine to run roughly, and stalling. Additionally, there have been 14 complaints about cooling system problems, including cooling fan failure.
The 2002 Thunderbird has 59 complaints, mostly about engine issues, while the 2003 Thunderbird has 6 complaints related to coil failure. The 2005 Thunderbird has 5 complaints about running roughly, sputtering, and losing acceleration.
The 2002-2005 Ford Thunderbirds rank 26th in reliability out of 44 Ford models, with 230 complaints made over 12 model years, primarily about engine issues.
In summary, the 2002-2005 Ford Thunderbirds have several common problems, primarily related to the engine and electrical systems. These issues can be expensive to repair and may affect the car's performance and reliability.
What year is the most desirable Thunderbird?
Though the pre-boomer market share as a whole is decreasing, '02–05 Thunderbirds are a popular choice among this segment and outstrip buyers of the original 1955–57 Thunderbird (18 percent vs. 16). Special editions of this Thunderbird get the most attention across all demographics.
Are Thunderbirds expensive to maintain?
Ford Thunderbird Repair & Maintenance Costs
The annual maintenance cost of a Ford Thunderbird is $433. Repair and maintenance costs vary depending on age, mileage, location and shop.
Are Thunderbirds good cars?
Ford Thunderbird Ratings Overview
27 car owners like you reviewed their Ford Thunderbird. The average rating is a 4.4 out of 5 stars.
What are the problems with a 2002 Thunderbird?
Top 2002 Ford Thunderbird Problems
- Extended Warranty on Ford Ignition Coils. 65 people have reported this. ...
- Check Engine Light Due to Oil Leak in Valve Cover Gasket. 32 people have reported this. ...
- Revised ignition coil available with improved water and oil sealing. ...
- Battery Light Due to Damaged Alternator Wire Harness Connector.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Ford Thunderbird years
We have researched Ford problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Ford Thunderbird cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Ford Thunderbird model years:
- Ford Thunderbird 1993
- Ford Thunderbird 1994
- Ford Thunderbird 1995
- Ford Thunderbird 1996
- Ford Thunderbird 1992
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Ford Thunderbird model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Ford Thunderbird years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Ford Thunderbird car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Ford Thunderbird , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Service brakes problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Electrical system problems
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Ford Thunderbird vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Thunderbird model years
A total of 152 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Thunderbird model years
There were a total of 168 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Thunderbird model years
There were a total of 166 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Thunderbird model years
There were a total of 18 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 2771 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Ford Thunderbird . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Ford Thunderbird vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Ford Thunderbird 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2024-10-17
- Date Complaint: 2024-10-17
- VIN: 1FAHP60A25Y
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2005 Ford Thunderbird. The contact stated that while driving at 30 MPH over a speed bump, the contact heard a loud grinding noise with no warning light illuminated. The contact stated while the vehicle was parked, the contact noticed fuel leaking from the fuel tank with no warning light illuminated. The vehicle was taken to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the fuel pump failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the vehicle stalled with no warning illuminated. The vehicle was towed to the dealer where it was diagnosed that the fuel tank failed and needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The approximate failure mileage was 33,118.
Ford Thunderbird 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-03
- Date Complaint: 2023-09-05
- VIN: 1FAHP60A62Y
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: The contact owns a 2002 Ford Thunderbird. The contact stated while driving 5 MPH and attempting to make a turn, the steering wheel seized. There was no warning light illuminated. The contact was able to turn the steering wheel while using excessive force and veered to the side of the roadway. The contact stated that he restarted the vehicle; however, the vehicle stalled after driving approximately 3-feet. The contact stated that he restarted the vehicle; however, the vehicle stalled while driving. The vehicle was towed to the residence. The contact stated that the vehicle was undrivable. The dealer and the manufacturer were not notified of the failure. The vehicle was not diagnosed nor repaired. The failure mileage was approximately 75,000.
Ford Thunderbird 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-03
- Date Complaint: 2023-09-05
- VIN: 1FAHP60A62Y
- Components: STEERING,ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2002 Ford Thunderbird. The contact stated that while driving approximately 15 MPH and making a left turn, the power steering suddenly failed and the steering wheel would not turn in either direction, before the vehicle suddenly stalled. The vehicle was later towed to the residence. The cause of the failure was not yet determined. The local dealer and manufacturer were notified of the failure but no assistance was offered. The failure mileage was 70,000.
Ford Thunderbird 1990
- Date Of Incident: 2020-01-01
- Date Complaint: 2023-07-27
- VIN: 1FAPP604XLH
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: The contact owns a 1990 Ford Thunderbird equipped with Goodyear Tire, Tire Line: Viva 3 A/S, Tire Size: 250/70/R15, DOT Number: PJ34KB1R0219. The contact stated while driving 40 MPH, she became aware that the rear driver’s side tire was shaking abnormally. The contact took the vehicle to the Walmart where the tires were purchased and was informed that there were blisters on each tire and the tires needed to be replaced. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer had not been informed of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 151,000.
Ford Thunderbird 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2022-05-26
- Date Complaint: 2022-05-26
- VIN: 1FAHP60A95Y
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: Dash board cracked few places by Windshield. It's really Between WINDSHIELD AND DASHBOARD. ANY RECALLS OR COMPLAINTS? [XXX] THANK YOU. [XXX] INFORMATION Redacted PURSUANT TO THE FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT (FOIA), 5 U.S.C. 552(B)(6).
Ford Thunderbird 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2021-09-22
- Date Complaint: 2021-09-27
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: The contact owns a 2004 Ford Thunderbird. The contact stated while driving at an undisclosed speed, the contact approached a stop sign and the vehicle stopped as needed; however, after the contact depressed on the accelerator pedal, the vehicle began to misfire and shuddered for several minutes. The contact took the vehicle to the local dealer who inspected the vehicle and diagnosed that the failure was related to TSB 05-16-2 (moisture build up on the plugs and on the cylinder) that caused the vehicle to misfire. The vehicle was not repaired. The manufacturer was made aware of the failure. The failure mileage was approximately 40,526.
Ford Thunderbird 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2020-06-21
- Date Complaint: 2021-06-23
- VIN: 1FAHP60A55Y
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: Sudden unintended acceleration on two occasions. Car only has 11,000 miles
Ford Thunderbird 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2021-05-06
- Date Complaint: 2021-05-06
- VIN: 1FAHP60A35Y
- Components: AIR BAGS,WHEELS,SEATS
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING MY CAR ON THE HIGHWAY LAST EVENING, THE LEFT SHOULDER AIRBAG WAS DEPLOYED. I IMMEDIATELY PULLED THE CAR TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD. I NOTED THAT THE LEFT FRONT TIRE WAS FLAT. MY HUSBAND CHANGED THE TIRE. UPON REMOVING THE WHEEL WE NOTED THAT THE TIRE WAS COMPLETELY NORMAL, BUT THE RIM WAS FRACTURED ON THE INTERNAL ASPECT. THE SEAT WAS DAMAGED FROM THE DEPLOYED AIRBAG. IT APPEARS THAT THE RIM IMPLOSION SET OFF THE LEFT SHOULDER AIRBAG. HAD IT BEEN THE CHEST AIRBAG, I WOULD HAVE HAD AN ACCIDENT. I CALLED THE LOCAL DEALER AND THEY TOLD ME THAT THEY HAVE NEVER HEARD OF THIS. I HAD 4 NEW TIRES PLACED ABOUT 1 MONTH AGO AT COSTCO IN ALBUQUERQUE. THE CAR HAS ONLY 16,000 MILES ON IT. I HAVE OWNED IT FOR THEEE YEARS. PRIOR OWNER AN ELDERLY MAN- DRIVE IT 10,000 MILES OVER 13 YEARS. I AM NOT AWARE OF EVER ANY DAMAGE TO THE WHEEL OR HITTING ANYTHING WITH IT. I WAS DRIVING 60 MPH WHEN THIS OCCURRED.I HAVE INCLUDED A PICTURE OF THE INSIDE OF THE TIRE RIM.
Ford Thunderbird 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2006-01-01
- Date Complaint: 2020-10-14
- VIN: 1FAHP60AX4Y
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: HAVE REPLACED VIA FORD DEALER THROTTLE CONTROL SENSOR TWICE. FIRST REPAIR 2007. SECOND REPAIR 2014, AND NOW IN 2020. I AM FACING SAME PROBLEM AGAIN. OBVIOUSLY THE CONTROL SYSTEM IS DEFECTIVE. THE PROBLEM TRIGGERS VEHICLE LIMP MODE WHILE DRIVING AND IN PARK.
Ford Thunderbird 2004
- Date Of Incident: 2020-06-16
- Date Complaint: 2020-08-26
- VIN: 1FAHP60A44Y
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 FORD THUNDERBIRD. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE INSIDE THE VEHICLE, AN ABNORMAL ODOR APPEARED AS THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHO CHANGED THE OIL AND NOTICED FUEL LEAKING FROM THE FUEL TANK. THE CONTACT MENTIONED THAT THE FAILURE WAS CURRENTLY STILL BEING EXPERIENCED. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. A DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE CONTACT MENTIONED NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 05V113000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE) AS A POSSIBLE SOLUTION TO THE FAILURE. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE HOWEVER NO FURTHER ASSISTANCE WAS PROVIDED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 89,000.
Ford Thunderbird 1996
- Date Of Incident: 2002-10-02
- Date Complaint: 2019-10-22
- VIN: 1FALP62W6TH
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: AIR BAG FLASHING CODE
Ford Thunderbird 2005
- Date Of Incident: 2019-09-20
- Date Complaint: 2019-09-23
- VIN: 1FAHP60A85Y
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: THROTTLE BODY SYSTEM FAILURE CAUSING INAPPROPRIATE VEHICLE DECELERATION WHILE DRIVING. THIS CONDITION HAPPENS WITHOUT WARNING AND CAN CAUSE ANOTHER VEHICLE TO REAR END YOU. I HAVE ALREADY HAD ONE THROTTLE BODY REPLACED DUE TO THIS CONDITION IN 2013 AND MY VEHICLE IS HAVING THE SAME PROBLEMS AGAIN. THE COMPUTER PROGRAM THAT CUTS THE ENGINE TO IDLE SPEED SHOULD BE DISABLED UNTIL A PERMANENT FIX TO THIS PROBLEM CAN BE CORRECTED. IN THE CURRENT MODE, THESE VEHICLES ARE UNSAFE TO DRIVE.
Ford Thunderbird 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2018-10-27
- Date Complaint: 2019-08-19
- VIN: 1FAHP60A42Y
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: THE CLUSTER LIGHTS HAVE GONE OUT ON MY 2002 FORD THUNDERBIRD. WHEN THIS ACTUALLY HAPPENED I REALLY DON'T KNOW SINCE THE CAR IS MAINLY A SHOW CAR AND WHILE DRIVING THE CAR AT DUSK COMING BACK FROM A CAR SHOW THE CLUSTER LIGHTS DID NOT COME ON. WE PARKED THE CAR AND ONLY DROVE IT DURING DAYLIGHT HOURS. THEN THE FUEL SYSTEM QUIT WORKING SO WE HAD TO HAVE THE CAR TOWED TO A DEALER. AFTER DOING SOME RESEARCH I FOUND THAT THIS ISSUE COULD CAUSE HEADLIGHT FAILURE, TAILLIGHT FAILURE, TURN SIGNAL FAILURE, TILT STEERING WHEEL FAILURE, PARKING LIGHTS FAILURE, AND DRIVING LIGHTS FAILURE. WHEN DRIVING THE CAR AT NIGHT YOU CANNOT TELL HOW FAST YOU ARE GOING AND YOU ALSO HAVE THE RISK OF YOUR TURN SIGNALS, HEADLIGHTS AND TAIL LIGHTS GOING OUT. YOU CAN GOOGLE FORD THUNDERBIRD AND FIND INFORMATION WHERE OTHER OWNERS OF THIS CAR HAVE HAD SIMILAR EXPERIENCES. I BELIEVE THIS CAR NEEDS TO HAVE A RECALL SINCE THEY CANNOT BE DRIVEN AT NIGHT OR REALLY ANYTIME. WHICH IS A RISK NOT ONLY TO ME BUT ANY OTHER VEHICLE AROUND ME. I TOOK THE CAR TO A DEALER TO GET THE CAR LOOK AT AND FOR THEM TO RUN A DIAGNOSTIC TEST ON THE CAR AND THEY TOLD ME IT WAS A NETWORK PROBLEM AND IS VERY EXPENSIVE TO DIAGNOSE. HE SAID IT COULD TAKE HOURS TO DAYS TO FIGURE IT OUT CONSIDERING THE COMPUTER AND NETWORK SYSTEM ON THE CAR. THE SERVICE MAN ALSO TOLD ME THEY DID NOT LIKE TO WORK ON THIS CAR BECAUSE OF THIS ISSUE. HE ALSO STATED THAT WAS THE REASON FORD QUIT MAKING THIS VEHICLE. I HOPE YOU CAN SEE THE SAFETY ISSUES THIS VEHICLE CREATES. FROM SPEAKING WITH OTHER DEALERS FORD KNOWS ABOUT THIS ISSUE. THERE IS A WEBSITE ABOUT THE CLUSTER PROBLEMS IT IS : WWW.THUNDERBIRDSPECIALTIES.COM/2002-2005THUNDERBIRD-INSTRUMENT-CLUSTER-PROBLEMS/. THERE ARE SEVERAL OTHERS ON THE INTERNET ABOUT THIS ISSUE AND OTHER ISSUES WITH THE CAR.
Ford Thunderbird 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2019-03-13
- Date Complaint: 2019-03-14
- VIN: 1FAHP60A72Y
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD THUNDERBIRD EQUIPPED WITH A FIRESTONE TEMPA SPARE TIRE, SIZE: T185-60-R17 (NA). WHILE CLEANING THE VEHICLE, THE CONTACT FOUND THAT THE SPARE TIRE THAT WAS STORED IN THE TRUNK WAS BLOWN OUT AND THE TIRE WIRES, RUBBER, AND CORDS WERE EXPOSED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND ADVISED THE CONTACT TO VISIT FIRESTONE TO HAVE THE TIRE REPLACED. THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE TIRE WAS NO LONGER MANUFACTURED. THE CONTACT WAS CONCERNED THAT THERE WAS NO TIRE AVAILABLE TO REPLACE THE SPARE TIRE. THE VEHICLE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 3,500 AND THE TIRE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 2. *DT*JB
Ford Thunderbird 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2016-09-06
- Date Complaint: 2019-02-25
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1FAHP60A22Y
- Components: AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE
- Summary: MY DAUGHTER WAS IN A ROLLOVER ACCIDENT ON 09 -06 -2016 IN A 2002 FORD THUNDERBIRD CONVERTIBLE. THE AIR BAG DID NOT SUFFICIENTLY DEPLOY & SHE WAS SEVERELY INJURED AS A RESULT. SHE WAS ON INTERSTATE 95N NEAR MANNING, SC WHEN A SEMI TRUCK DID NOT SEE HER & CAME INTO HER LANE GRAZING THE CAR. SHE HAD TO GO OFF THE ROAD OR THE TRUCK WOULD HAVE CRUSHED HER. THE THUNDERBIRD ROLLED OVER & SHE WAS SEVERELY INJURED.
Latest 5 recalls Ford Thunderbird
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 60 recalls for different components of the Ford Thunderbird.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Ford Thunderbird 1993
- Report Received Date: 2009-04-07
- Manufacturer: SABERSPORT
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
- Model: Ford Thunderbird 1992
- Report Received Date: 2009-04-07
- Manufacturer: SABERSPORT
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
- Model: Ford Thunderbird 1997
- Report Received Date: 2009-04-07
- Manufacturer: SABERSPORT
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
- Model: Ford Thunderbird 1995
- Report Received Date: 2009-04-07
- Manufacturer: SABERSPORT
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
- Model: Ford Thunderbird 1996
- Report Received Date: 2009-04-07
- Manufacturer: SABERSPORT
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: SABERSPORT IS RECALLING 16,270 COMBINATION CORNER AND BUMPER LAMP ASSEMBLIES OF VARIOUS PART NUMBERS SOLD FOR USE AS AFTERMARKET EQUIPMENT FOR VARIOUS PASSENGER VEHICLES. THESE HEADLAMPS FAIL TO CONFORM TO THE REQUIREMENTS OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, "LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT." THESE LAMPS DO NOT CONTAIN THE REQUIRED AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS.
- Consequence: DECREASED LIGHTING VISIBILITY MAY RESULT IN A VEHICLE CRASH.
- Remedy: SABERSPORT WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER A FULL REFUND FOR THE NONCOMPLIANT COMBINATION LAMPS. THE SAFETY RECALL BEGAN ON MAY 11, 2009. OWNERS MAY CONTACT SABERSPORT AT 1-909-598-7589.
Latest negative Ford Thunderbird car reviews
Latest positive Ford Thunderbird car reviews
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Vehicle year: 1992
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to share my experience with my car. I bought it back in 2002 and it's been pretty reliable overall. Of course, I've had to replace a few things like the alternator, brake pads/shoes, battery, and tires, but nothing too major. Recently, I noticed a slight leak in the rear axle and I've had to top up the antifreeze every few months, but it's not a big deal. I'm actually thinking about installing new headlights because the current ones are pretty yellow. Oh, and I changed the transmission fluid last summer. Just wanted to let you know that all the warning lights are working perfectly fine! Let me know if you have any questions.
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Vehicle year: 1994
I received my V6 bird back in 2008 for free, but it needed some repairs due to previous neglect and having 180,000 miles on it. However, I consider these repairs to be normal given the age and neglect. After replacing the water pump, radiator, hoses, heater core, T-stat, front end rebuild including rack and pinion and power steering pump, brakes rotors flexlines and calipers, alternator, and a paint job, the car was just like new. I have taken it on long cross-country trips without any trouble, and it gets about 110 miles a day, 5 days a week for my commute. At 285,000 miles, it failed smog and needed new valve guides, so I had the cylinder heads rebuilt. This improved the oil consumption from 1 quart every 500 miles to 1/2 quart every 3,000 miles. I also had to replace the catalytic converters, EGR valve, mass air flow sensor, air intake temp sensor, and computer temp coolant sensor. After all that, the smog guy said it was running cleaner than most new cars. At 285,000 miles, this is considered normal maintenance. Then, at about 305,000 miles, it started missing randomly and needed a new distributor drive gear. So, I changed the coil and ignition control module and fuel pump for reliability since these parts won't last forever. As it needs to be reliable, I don't want to break down 2,500 miles away from home. By doing preventive maintenance and fixing it in the driveway, it's easier to find problems than out on the road. Today, it has 348,000 miles and is running great. I would drive it 3,000 miles without hesitation. The truth is, if you're committed, your car will last as long as you want, unless rust is present. I don't want to spend $30,000-$40,000 for a new car and have debt. Spend $1,500 a year and keep your car cheaper than a new one. At this point, I just do routine maintenance, drive to work and weekend trips, and go on vacation without any worries. Also, the V8 requires less maintenance. Yes, the V6 needs head gaskets at 200,000 miles, but that's really high mileage and normal. I have never replaced this transmission.I've heard that it's unusual, but I change the fluid every 20,000 miles. Maybe there's something to that. The cooler line also has an in-line filter that I change every time with the pan filter, using Ford Mercon 5 fluid. It really matters, so don't use cheap transmission fluid. The best or funniest part is that as the years go by, the parts get cheaper. Go figure - newer cars have more expensive parts, while older cars have cheaper parts. The transmission and lower end of the engine are original, as is the rear differential. It looks like a new car with the paint job, and it runs/drives like a new car too. I'll probably keep it forever, or until corrosion takes over underneath. This car also stops on a dime - wow! It's got 4-wheel disc and ABS, unheard of in 1994. It turns great for how heavy it is.
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Vehicle year: 1995
This is my favorite car out of all the ones I've owned. I purchased this beauty brand new in '94 and have been extremely satisfied with it. Apart from a dealer who couldn't diagnose a brake issue when it was new, I haven't had any problems with it at all. This car is a great highway cruiser and seems to be content at around 85mph. I can't bear to part with it. I only drive it to keep it running, about 3000 miles annually.
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Vehicle year: 2002
This car is truly special. When you get behind the wheel, you feel like the King or Queen of the road. It always turns heads, more than any BMW, Mercedes, Lexus, or Corvette. I can't wait for winter to be over so I can take it out again. I love everything about this car, and to those who don't appreciate it, they are missing out. For those who share my passion for this car, I look forward to seeing you in the spring!
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Vehicle year: 1992
Hi there! Thank you for sharing your experience with us. We bought the car because we wanted to keep up with our friends who had new cars. We were pleasantly surprised by how effective the air conditioning was, how smooth the ride was, and how well it cornered. We mostly kept it in the garage, but we never had a hard time starting it. In fact, it would start without even pushing on the gas pedal! Compared to our 1983 Mustang, it was like driving a Cadillac. We always had problems with the Mustang trying to get it started, but not with the Thunderbird. We'll miss it, but it's no longer appropriate for us to drive anymore. The interior looks the same as it did in 1992, and we're proud to say that no one has ever smoked in the car either. Thank you for letting us share our story with you!
Are you having problems with your Ford Thunderbird?
Clyde Runolfsson 2025-05-05
Vehicle year: 1994
Hi there! I noticed that you've been reading about how great these cars are, but I have a different experience. In my opinion, there are some defects in Ford cars that they never admit to, such as issues with the clear coat, transmission, interior trim, brakes, and the modules in the steering column that tend to go bad every other year. I've had to deal with these problems since my car was new, and it's made me hesitant to purchase a domestic car again.
Norris Stamm 2025-04-28
Vehicle year: 1993
The bumper paint is peeling, and some parts are coming off the dash, but despite that, it's still a comfortable car, even without the leather interior. It's acceptably fast, and even after 122k miles, it's still running smoothly and reliably. Although the transmission doesn't cater to those with a need for acceleration, it's a big car that doesn't feel all that big. I've even carried three full computers and three people in the car before, with room to spare.
Paxton Kunde 2025-03-27
Vehicle year: 2004
I bought my silver 2004 T-Bird in 2016 with only 56k miles on it. Now, it has 106k miles on it, but it still looks new and gets a lot of attention. The ride is good, and the handling is exceptional. On long trips, I have gotten as much as 26mpg. However, I did have to replace all 8 coils, which was not cheap, even though my brother is a mechanic and I got them at his cost. I also had to replace all 8 spark plugs because I kept getting
Osbaldo Botsford 2025-03-18
Vehicle year: 1993
I remember purchasing this car when I was only 17 years old with 80K miles in 2001. It was a beautiful car, loaded with features that I loved. Although it was a V-6 and a bit underpowered, I was still excited to have it. Unfortunately, I experienced some issues with the car after the first week. I had to replace the O2 sensors which cost me about $200. Then, the suspension needed repair which was a bit expensive at $1500. The multifunction switch also died, which made it difficult to switch the high beams off. It cost me around $300 to fix, but I just disconnected them. The transmission was also beginning to slip. One day, while driving a friend to the airport which was about 100 miles away, the engine suddenly stopped working. I was able to get the car towed and even got some value for trade in. Although I had taken great care of the car, it gave me nothing but problems and eventually died at 96k miles.
Kevin Ferry 2025-03-04
Vehicle year: 1992
I bought this car when I was 18 and absolutely loved it! The only thing is that it's a little plain and square. But, let me tell you, you can burn rubber quite easily with it and it can go up to 130! I would also highly recommend getting a better stereo. Trust me, this is the perfect car for any teenage guy and it's sure to impress the ladies!