1979 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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Common 1979 Ford Thunderbird problems
The 1979 Ford Thunderbird, like many classic cars, is prone to a variety of issues that can affect its performance and reliability. One of the most common problems reported by owners is transmission issues, including slipping and failure to engage.
Another common issue with the 1979 Thunderbird is brake problems, including worn pads and rotors, which can lead to reduced braking performance and potentially dangerous driving conditions.
Engine issues, such as overheating, coolant leaks, and oil leaks, have also been reported in the 1979 Thunderbird. These issues can cause significant engine damage if not addressed promptly.
Body and suspension issues, such as rusted body panels, worn suspension components, and broken springs, have also been reported in Thunderbirds over the years.
In summary, the 1979 Ford Thunderbird is prone to a variety of issues, including transmission problems, brake issues, fuel system problems, engine issues, electrical issues, and body and suspension issues. These problems can be costly to repair, but regular maintenance and inspections can help prevent them and keep the car running smoothly.
What year is the most desirable Thunderbird?
The 1963 Ford Thunderbird Sports Roadster M-Code is a rare classic car and one of the most sought-after Thunderbird versions.
What is the most valuable year Thunderbird?
A: The highest recorded sale was $495,000 for a 1957 FORD THUNDERBIRD CONVERTIBLE on Jan 27 2023.
What engine is in a 79 Thunderbird?
FORD Thunderbird 5.7L V8 3AT (137 HP)
| ENGINE SPECS - 5.7L V8 3AT (137 HP) | |
|---|---|
| Power: | 101 KW @ 3200 RPM 137 HP @ 3200 RPM 135 BHP @ 3200 RPM |
| Torque: | 285 lb-ft @ 1400 RPM 386 Nm @ 1400 RPM |
| Fuel System: | Carburetor |
| Fuel: | Gasoline |
Is the Ford Thunderbird collectible?
The Ford Thunderbird holds a particular spot in the hearts of collectors and devotees. Its verifiable importance, notable plan, and memorable varieties have made it a profoundly sought-after exemplary vehicle.
How much horsepower does a 1979 Ford Thunderbird have?
The car's 302-cid, 130-hp V-8 was standard and 149- and 161-hp versions of the 351-cid V-8 were optional. Regardless of engine choice, shifting was managed by a three-speed automatic transmission.
What is the most valuable year Thunderbird?
A: The highest recorded sale was $495,000 for a 1957 FORD THUNDERBIRD CONVERTIBLE on Jan 27 2023.
What year is the most desirable Thunderbird?
The 1963 Ford Thunderbird Sports Roadster M-Code is a rare classic car and one of the most sought-after Thunderbird versions.
Why did Ford stop making the Thunderbird?
It wasn't a terrible car, but a sad interior combined with divisive styling meant that the Thunderbird's best days were behind it. According to Hagerty, sales dropped off in 2003, with under 15,000 Thunderbirds leaving the dealership lot. Its last model year was 2005.
1979 Ford Thunderbird car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Ford Thunderbird problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Fuel system problems
- Gasoline problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1979 Ford Thunderbird vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
1979 Ford Thunderbird complaints
The NHTSA has received 2 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1979 Ford Thunderbird.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: FUEL LINE BURSED CAUSING THE VEHICEL TO CATICH FIRE. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1994-06-24
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WATER PUMP LEAK (2ND VEHICLE FROM 471584). *AK
1979 Ford Thunderbird recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 4 recalls for different components of the 1979 Ford Thunderbird.
- Manufacturer: INTERCONTINENTAL AUTO PARTS
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
- Summary: INTERCONTINENTAL AUTO PARTS IS RECALLING 1,937 FUEL FILTERS, P/NOS ALG 44/1 AND PUROLATOR F10024, SHIPPED BETWEEN JANUARY 14 AND FEBRUARY 13, 2008, SOLD FOR USE ON THE VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. THE FILTER'S OUTLET CAP MAY NOT BE SECURELY CRIMPED TO THE HOUSING. THIS COULD RESULT IN A SEPARATION OF FILTER'S OUTLET CAP FROM THE HOUSING.
- Consequence: IF THIS CONDITION OCCURS WHILE ATTEMPTING TO START THE VEHICLE, A NO START CONDITION MAY RESULT AND FUEL MAY BE PUMPED ONTO THE GROUND. IF THIS OCCURS WHILE THE VEHICLE IS IN MOTION, THE ENGINE MAY STOP DUE TO INADEQUATE FUEL SUPPLY. IF AN IGNITION SOURCE WERE PRESENT, FUEL LEAKAGE MAY RESULT IN A FIRE.
- Remedy: INTERCONTINENTAL WILL REPLACE THE FUEL FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN DURING MARCH 2008. OWNERS MAY CONTACT INTERCONTINENTAL AT 800-451-2593.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:PEDALS AND LINKAGES
- Summary: THE INVOLVED VEHICLES WERE PRODUCED WITH BRAKE PUSH-ROD TO BRAKE PEDAL RETAINING PINS WHICH WERE NOT HEAT-TREATED AS SPECIFIED. THIS COULD ALLOW THE BRAKE PEDAL TO BECOME DISENGAGED FROM THE PUSH-ROD.
- Remedy: DEALER WILL REPLACE THE SUSPECT BRAKE RETAINING PIN.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: SEATS:MID/REAR ASSEMBLY
- Summary: THE INVOLVED VEHICLES MAY HAVE BEEN BUILT WITH INCORRECT WELD NUTS THAT ATTACH THE REAR PORTION OF THE FRONT OUTBOARD SEAT TRACK TO THE FLOOR PAN. THE INCORRECT NUTS HAVE AN OVERSIZE DIAMETER AND THREAD, AND UPON FRONT SEAT TRACK ANCHOR BOLT INSTALLATION, THE THREADS MAY HAVE BEEN STRIPPED.
- Remedy: THE DEALER WILL INSPECT AND, IF NECESSARY, REPAIR ANY STRIPPED WELD NUTS AND INSTALL LARGER SIZE BOLTS TO ANCHOR THE SEAT TRACK TO THE FLOOR AT NO COST TO OWNER.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: STEERING:GEAR BOX:SHAFT SECTOR
- Summary: THE STEERING GEARS ON THE INVOLVED VEHICLES MAY HAVE BEEN BUILT WITH IMPROPERLY MANUFACTURED SECTOR SHAFTS FROM WHICH THE THREADED PORTIONS OF THE SHAFTS MAY FRACTURE AND SEPARATE. SHOULD THE SECTOR SHAFT FRACTURE, THE PITMAN ARM MAY DISENGAGE FROM THE SPLINED PORTION OF THE SECTOR SHAFT.
- Remedy: THE DEALER WILL INSPECT AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE STEERING GEAR ASSEMBLY OR INSTALL A NEW SECTOR SHAFT IN THE STEERING GEAR ASSEMBLY.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1979 Ford Thunderbird problems:
1979 Ford Thunderbird Reviews - Carsurvey.org
Some clicking noise from the electric seats. Running lumpy and rich, but recent service and change of all filters oil and gearbox oil should fix the problem.
1979 Ford Thunderbird suddenly not starting - Maintenance/Repairs ...
Aug 20, 2011 ... Hi! I have a 1979 Ford Thunderbird with a V8 5.0 liter engine ... I have a 1979 Ford Thunderbird with a V8 5.0 liter engine. ... common problem, ...
Is a 1979 Ford Thunderbird still a good car to use today if it still runs ...
Jul 30, 2018 ... Royal enfields are known to have niggling build quality issues. 3. The Thunderbird 350X is discontinued. Once a vehicle is discontinued, there ...
78 Thunderbird heating problems. - Vintage Thunderbird Club ...
Dec 5, 2020 ... Your heating problem is a common one. Whereas the 351 W uses a bypass hose to allow the engine coolant to pass into the radiator and get cooled ...
1978 Tbird idling issue? - Vintage Thunderbird Club International
Apr 24, 2012 ... VTCI Home Forums Thunderbird Forum 1972-1979 Thunderbirds ... 60fore wrote: Do the cars in question have the dreaded Ford variable venturi carb?
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