1997 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 1997 Ford Thunderbird problems
Based on complaints from owners of the 1997 Ford Thunderbird, common problems include:
- Cupholder Design: The cupholders in the 1997 Thunderbird are noted to need improvement, reflecting a common complaint about the interior design of the car.
- Headlight Design: A few owners have expressed dissatisfaction with the headlight design of the 1997 Thunderbird, indicating a subjective issue with the aesthetics of the car.
- Reliability: Despite some complaints, many owners have praised the Thunderbird for its reliability, highlighting it as one of the most reliable cars they have owned.
- Acceleration: Owners have reported that the Thunderbird has good acceleration, providing a smooth and powerful driving experience when needed.
- Exterior Styling: The exterior of the Thunderbird is generally well-received, with comments about its sporty appearance and timeless body style that appeals to many drivers.
- Comfort: The Thunderbird is appreciated for its roomy interior and comfortable seats, making it suitable for long trips and providing a pleasant driving experience.
These common problems reflect a mix of subjective preferences and objective issues that owners have experienced with the 1997 Ford Thunderbird.
What year is the most valuable Thunderbird?
Marilyn Monroe's 1956 Ford Thunderbird Sold for $490,000
That's not far from the most valuable Thunderbird ever sold: the first 'Bird to roll off the production line in 1954 sold for $660,000 at a Barrett-Jackson auction in 2009. Of course Marilyn Monroe drove a Ford Thunderbird. It makes perfect sense.
What is the most sought after Thunderbird?
1962 Thunderbird Sports Roadster: This restricted creation model is one of the most sought-after Thunderbirds by collectors. It included the powerful "M-Code" V8 motor, creating 430 pull, making it a genuine muscle vehicle of its period.
How long did the Ford Thunderbird last?
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.
Why did Ford stop making Thunderbirds?
Kennedy would include 50 Thunderbirds in his 1961 inaugural procession, and the car had a starring role in a few classic films including “American Graffiti'' from 1973 and “Thelma and Louise'' from 1991. Sales of the Thunderbird began to drop in the 1990s and Ford ultimately decided to discontinue the car in 1997.
How fast is a 1997 Thunderbird?
The speed limiter is 105mph for two reasons, crappy tires and drive shaft.
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.
Why was the Thunderbird popular?
Yet the vehicle left a legacy for its speed, agility and then later its luxury and comfort. The Thunderbird or T-Bird was referenced in pop culture regularly showing the cultural significance of the vehicle. The vehicle showed Ford Motor Company's ability to carve out its own niche and build something unique.
How long did the Ford Thunderbird last?
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.
1997 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:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Hydraulic problems
- Service brakes problems
- Suspension problems
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1997 Ford Thunderbird vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1997 Ford Thunderbird
The NHTSA has received 196 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1997 Ford Thunderbird. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1997 Ford Thunderbird vehicles.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-09-01
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: 1997 FORD THUNDERBIRD. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO VEHICLE VIN# NOT LISTED ON DEFECTIVE BRAKE PADS/ROTORS RECALL NOTICE. *SMD
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,POWER TRAIN,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-10-01
- VIN: 1FALP62W0VH
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,POWER TRAIN,STRUCTURE
- Summary: I SMELL GAS WHEN DRIVING AT HIGH SPEED OF 60 AND ABOVE ON FREEWAY MOSTLY. ONCE IN A WHILE I CAN SMELL IT WHEN DRIVING AT LOWER SPEEDS OF 25 -30MPH. I USED TO THINK THAT I HAD SPILLED GAS ON THE OUTSIDE OF CAR WHEN IT FIRST STARTED HAPPENING, BUT NOW A YEAR LATER, I STILL SMELL GAS AND I DO SMOKE IN MY CAR, BUT WHEN I SMELL THE GAS, I WILL PUT THE CIGARETTE OUT. IS THERE SOME KIND OF RECALL ON THIS PROBLEM, THAT CAN REPAIR IT. I HAVE PUT $4000.00 INTO RESTORING THE CAR AND I AND PUTTING ANOTHER $800.00 INTO IT NEXT WEEK, NOVEMBER 2013, TO REPLACE ALL OF THE BELTS AROUND THE ENGINE. I HAVE ALREADY REBUILT THE TRANSMISSION FOR $1800.00 AT AAMCO, AND PUT A $2200.00 PAINT JOB ON IT, BEFORE I KNEW OF THE GAS SMELL. I HAVE ALSO REPLACED ALTERNATOR AND BATTERY. AM I FIGHTING A LOSING BATTLE WITH THIS CAR? *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-08-10
- VIN: 1FALP62W6VH
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: IN THE MIDDLE OF AUGUST I SMELT GAS WHEN I DROVE. AND THE SMELL HAS BECOME STRONGER AND STRONGER. TODAY (10/10/2011) I WENT TO A VEHICLE REPAIR SHOP AND WAS TOLD THE LEAKING IS ON THE TOP OF FUEL TANK AND COULD NOT BE REPAIRED IN THE SHOP. I CHECKED ONLINE AND FOUND MANY PEOPLE HAVE EXPERIENCED THIS VERY DANGEROUS LEAK. PLEASE CLICK THE LINK: HTTP://WWW.CARGURUS.COM/CARS/DISCUSSION-T872_DS478881. THIS CAR MUST BE RECALLED FOR FUEL LEAKING. *KB
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-07-15
- VIN: 1FALP6248VH
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD THUNDERBIRD. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT START. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED HOME AND WAS NOT TAKEN TO HAVE THE FAILURE DIAGNOSED. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT PRIOR TO THE FAILURE, THE VEHICLE WOULD DECELERATE WHILE DRIVING AT VARIOUS SPEEDS. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 86,000.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-07-03
- VIN: 1FALP62W1VH
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE PLASTIC INTAKE MANIFOLD ON MY 1997 FORD THUNDERBIRD CRACKED SPILLING OUT ALL MY COOLANT AND CAUSING MY ENGINE TO OVERHEAT, THIS IS A DESIGN FLAW THAT SHOULD BE COVERD BY FORD MOTOR COMPANY, THIS HAPPEND WHILE DRIVING DOWN GRATIOT AVE. IN ROSEVILLE MI AT 40 MILES PER HOUR WITH NO PREVIOUS WARNING, THIS FAILURE HAPPEND 7/3/2011 SATURDAY OVER THE FORTH OF JULY WEEKEND, WHERE I COULDN'T GET IT TO A OPEN FORD DEALERSHIP, NOW I CONNOT USE MY VEHICAL FOR WORK MONDAY 7/4/2011. WILL THIS REPAIR BE COVERD BY FORD MOTOR COMPANY? *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-10-05
- VIN: 1FALP62W9VH
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary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
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-05-01
- VIN: 1FALP62W5VH
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: I HAVE A 1997 FORD THUNDERBIRD THAT HAS A MANIFOLD PROBLEM. I AM BEING TOLD BY FORD THAT IT DOESN'T FALL UNDER THE RECALL FROM 2005 BECAUSE IT WASN'T BUILT IN THE RIGHT PLANT. I HAVE READ A LOT OF INFORMATION THAT ALL OF THE 1997 T-BIRD HAVE THIS PROBLEM AND NEED TO BE FIXED. NOT ONLY IS DOES MY CAR NOT RUN RIGHT, BUT I ALSO AM NOT FACING REPLACING MY CATALYTIC CONVERTER, AS WELL DUE TO THE LEAKAGE. WE ARE TALKING ABOUT $1700 IN REPAIR. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-02-27
- VIN: 1FALP62W9VH
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WHEN I BOUGHT THE CAR, A YEAR AGO, IT RAN GREAT. ONE DAY AS I AS COMING UP A HILL, MY CAR STARTED SHAKING. IT WAS A CRACKED INTAKE MANIFOLD, THAT OF WHICH FORD WAS IN A CLASS ACTION LAWSUIT IN 2005. WHICH COVERED A "SELECT FEW" OF THUNDERBIRDS. HOWEVER NOW THAT MY MANIFOLD CRACKED, THERE "NOT AT FAULT." WE HAD THE CAR FIXED, ONLY TO LEARN AFTERWARDS THAT FORD HAD SEVERAL ISSUES ABOUT THE FAULTY INTAKE. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-06-12
- VIN: 1FALP6242VH
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: ENGINE IDLE RACING. CAN'T STOP UNLESS PLACED IN NEUTRAL, WHERE CAR WOULD RUN OVER 2000 RPM. DEALER REPLACED IDLE AIR CONTROL AND POWER CONTROL MODULE. DEALER STATED THAT IDLE AIR CONTROL BURNS OUT THE POWER TRAIN CONTROL MODULES ON MANY V-6 FORD ENGINES. CAR HAD ONLY 34,518 MILES CHECKED OTHER SURGES THAT THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE OF RACING ENGINES IN ACCIDENTS OF V-6 MOTORS AND FORD REFUSING ANY RECALLS FOR POSSIBLE FIRE OF IDLE AIR CONTROL AND THE BURNING OUT OF POWER TRAIN CONTROL MODULE. *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1901-01-01
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: 1997 FORD THUNDERBIRD WITH SHIFTING PROBLEMS. CONSUMER STATES THAT THE SHIFTER LEVER AFTER PRESSURE ON BRAKE PEDAL DOES NOT RELEASE SHIFTER HANDLE. HE HAD THE BRAKE LIGHT/RELEASE SWITCH REPLACED AND PROBLEM STILL EXISTS. *KB THE CONSUMER HAD DIFFICULTY REMOVING THE SHIFTER OUT OF PARK.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-09-13
- VIN: 1FALP62W0VH
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: PLASTIC INTAKE MANIFOLD FAILURE. *JB
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-09-12
- Fire: 1
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: MY WIFE DROVE HER 1997 FORD THUNDERBIRD TO WORK TODAY. SHE PARKED HER CAR IN THE COMPANY GARAGE AND WALKED INTO WORK. THE CAR THEN BEGAN TO BURN AND TOTALED THE CAR. AFTER HAVING IT TOWED TO A LOCAL GARAGE, BASED UPON THE KNOWLEDGE OF THE MECHANIC, TO WHOM, I HAVE USED TO SERVICE MY VEHICLES FOR OVER 10 YEARS, TOLD ME THAT THE INTENSITY OF THE FIRE WAS NEAR THE STEERING COLUMN, AND AND POWER STEERING SWITCHES. UPON RESEARCHING THE ABOVE FACTS, FOUND THE RECALL ABOUT THE VARIOUS FORD TRUCKS AND THIS SIMILAR PROBLEM. WE HAVE LIABILITY INSURANCE ON THIS CAR, AND NOW WE HAVE LOST THE CAR TO NO FAULT OF OUR OWN. ARE THERE OTHER FORD CARS WITH THE SAME PROBLEM?
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-09-06
- VIN: 1FALP62W0VH
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD THUNDERBIRD. WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH, IN HEAVY TRAFFIC THE CONTACT NOTICED SMOKE RISING FROM UNDER THE HOOD. THE TEMPERATURE GAUGE NEEDLE SHIFTED TO THE HOT INDICATOR. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE REPAIR SHOP AND THE MECHANIC STATED THAT THE ENGINE WAS LEAKING COOLANT AND THE PLASTIC INTAKE MANIFOLD WAS CRACKED. THE POWERTRAIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 73,500. *UPDATED 12/12/07 *BF UPDATED 12/12/07
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-06-01
- VIN: 1FALP62WXVH
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT'S DAUGHTER OWNS A 1997 FORD THUNDERBIRD. WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH, THE VEHICLE OVERHEATED AND THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT ANTIFREEZE WAS LEAKING. HER DAUGHTER NOTICED A CRACK ON THE INTAKE MANIFOLD, WHICH SHE BELIEVED MAY BE THE CAUSE OF FAILURE. AS OF AUGUST 31, 2007, THE DEALER HAS NOT INSPECTED THE VEHICLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 57,000 AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 60,000.
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
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-11-02
- VIN: 1FALP62W8VH
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: MY MECHANIC HAS INFORMED ME OF A DANGEROUS SITUATION WITH MY AUTOMOBILE THAT COULD LEAD TO AN ACCIDENT. ALL THE BALL JOINTS IN THE FRONT END ARE WORN EXCESSIVELY. HE SAYS THE EXCESSIVE WEAR IS A RESULT OF THE DUST SEALS DISINTEGRATING ALLOWING DIRT AND WATER TO ENTER THE BALL JOINTS. HE INDICATED THAT THIS IS PROBABLY A RESULT OF THE USE OF INAPPROPRIATE OR DEFECTIVE MATERIALS FOR THE SEALS. I AM GOING TO HAVE THE BALL JOINTS REPLACED. I WILL ASK THE MECHANIC TO KEEP THE OLD PARTS FOR ME. *NM
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-10-13
- VIN: 1FALP62W9VH
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE PERFORMING GENERAL MAINTENANCE ON THE VEHICLE, IT WAS DETERMINED THE PLASTIC SEALS ON ALL FOUR UPPER AND LOWER BALL JOINTS AS WELL AS THE SEALS ON THE STABILIZER BAR WERE FRACTURED AND DETERIORATING. THE MANUFACTURER WAS ALERTED.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-04-06
- VIN: 1FALP62W6VH
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: INTAKE MANIFOLD SPLIT CAUSING COOLANT LEAKAGE. *NM
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-11-15
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: DT: THE CONTACT STATED THE FLOOR SHIFTER WAS STICKING IN PARK WHEN THE WEATHER WAS COLD. IT TOOK FIVE TO TEN MINUTES TO MOVE THE SHIFTER INTO OTHER GEARS. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALERSHIP FOR INSPECTION. THE DEALER SAID THE PART WAS UNAVAILABLE, AND THEY WOULD HAVE TO GO TO A JUNK YARD TO LOCATE ANOTHER SHIFTER. NO REPAIRS HAVE BEEN MADE. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1901-01-01
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: 1997 FORD THUNDERBIRD MOTOR DIED WHILE DRIVING.*MR ***NOT IN REPOSITORY. *NM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-10-25
- VIN: 1FALP62WXVH
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: I PURCHASED THIS 1997 FORD THUNDERBIRD LX SPORT AS A USED VEHICLE IN OCT. 2002. I NOTICED THAT DURING THE FIRST FEW WEEKS OF OWNING THIS VEHICLE IT WOULD INTERMITTENTLY LEAK A SUBSTANTIAL AMOUNT OF COOLANT ONTO MY DRIVEWAY BUT I COULD NEVER SEE WHERE IT WAS COMING FROM. SOMETIMES IT WOULD GO FOR DAYS WITHOUT LEAKING AND THEN ONE DAY THERE WOULD BE OVER A QUART OF COOLANT ON THE DRIVEWAY. I BROUGHT THE CAR INTO A SHOP THAT PUT THE CAR ON A LIFT TO LOOK FOR THE LEAK BUT THEY COULD NOT FIND ONE. I CONTINUED TO DRIVE THE CAR AND ADD COOLANT EVERY TIME THE "LOW COOLANT" LIGHT APPEARED ON THE DASH PANEL. IN MAY 2005 I WAS ON THE 91 FREEWAY AND SUDDENLY WITHOUT WARNING THE "LOW COOLANT" LIGHT CAME ON AND THE TEMP CAME UP QUICKLY SO I TRIED TO CHANGE LANES TO THE RIGHT TO EXIT THE FREEWAY AND THE BACK OF THE CAR BROKE LOOSE AND I ALMOST TURNED SIDEWAYS. I FOUND OUT LATER THAT THE REAR TIRES AND WHEEL WELLS WERE SOAKED IN COOLANT. THIS WAS THE FIRST TIME THAT I FOUND OUT THAT MY INTERMITTENT LEAK THAT NO ONE COULD FIND WAS MY INTAKE MANIFOLD AT THE BASE OF THE THERMOSTAT HOUSING. I WENT TO RANCHO SANTA MARGARITA FORD AND ASKED ABOUT RECALLS AND THEY TOLD ME THAT THE RECALL FOR THE INTAKE MANIFOLD HAD EXPIRED A COUPLE OF MONTHS AGO AND THAT THERE WAS NOTHING THAT THEY COULD DO. I CALLED FORD MOTOR CO. CUSTOMER RELATIONS AND WAS TOLD THE SAME THING. THE CAR NOW SITS PARKED UNREPAIRED. I CANNOT AFFORD TO PAY ALMOST TWO THOUSAND DOLLARS TO CORRECT FORDS ENGINEERING BLUNDER. *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-10-13
- VIN: 1FALP62W1VH
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: INTAKE MANIFOLD CRACKED CAUSING COOLANT TO LEAK OUT. FORD WILL NOT REPAIR UNLESS I PAY FOR IT. CLASS ACTION LAW SUIT PENDING. FORD AGREED TO REPLACE ON VEHICLES 7 YEARS OLD OR LESS. MY VEH IS 8 YEARS OLD WITH 26000 MILES. BAD DESIGN FOR INTAKE. *NM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-02-01
- VIN: 1FALP62W9VH
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: DT: 1997 FORD THUNDERBIRD LX V8 4.6 LITERS. 1997 FORD THUNDERBIRD LX HAD A COOLANT LEAK. THE PLASTIC INTAKE MANIFOLD OVERHEATED. COULD SMELL ANTIFREEZE WHEN GETTING OUT OF VEHICLE. THE ANTIFREEZE WAS LEAKING IN THREE PLACES. VEHICLE HAD THE ORIGINAL PARTS. THE CONSUMER WAS THE SECOND OWNER OF THE VEHICLE. HAD NOT CONTACTED THE MANUFACTURER. DID HAVE SOMEONE LOOK AT VEHICLE , WHO CONFIRMED THAT THE INTAKE MANIFOLD WAS PLASTIC AND VEHICLE WAS LEAKING ANTIFREEZE, AND THAT THE O RINGS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. MANUFACTURER WAS AWARE OF THIS PROBLEM. THE CONSUMER FOUND ON THE INTERNET THAT A TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETINS WAS SENT OUT ON FEBRUARY 2, 2002 DISCUSSING THIS PROBLEM. HOWEVER, THE CONSUMER WAS UNAWARE OF THE TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-05-01
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: UPPER INTAKE MANIFOLD ON MY 1997 4.6 L THUNDERBIRD CRACKED AND BLEW ALL THE COOLANT INTO THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. I HAD TO PAY FORD TO REPLACE THE UPPER INTAKE AND THE PLUGS THAT WERE FOULED OUT. THEY REFUSED ANY RESPONSIBILITY EVEN WITH A FORMAL WRITTEN COMPLAINT TO THEIR HOME OFFICE. IT IS MY UNDERSTANDING THIS IS HAPPENING TO A LOT OF THEIR 4.6 L ENGINES IN A VARIETY OF VEHICLES.*JB
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-08-30
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: HEADLIGHT LENSES ON 1997 THUNDERBIRD CLOUD OVER DUE TO WEATHERING AND LIMIT AMOUNT OF LIGHT EMITTED. NIGHT VISION AND OBJECT ILLUMINATION IS SERIOUSLY COMPROMISED. VIGOROUS POLISHING TEMPORARILY REMOVES HAZE, BUT IT HAS BEEN MY EXPERIENCE THAT THE CONDITION RETURNS MORE QUICKLY. I RECENTLY HAD TO SWERVE INTO A LARGE POT HOLE TO AVOID A CITY RECYCLE CAN THAT HAD OVERTURNED AND, BEING DARK GREEN, IMPOSSIBLE TO SEE AT NIGHT. I DAMAGED MY LEFT FRONT WHEEL. *AK
1997 Ford Thunderbird recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1997 Ford Thunderbird.
- 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.
- 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.
Negative 1997 Ford Thunderbird car reviews
Positive 1997 Ford Thunderbird car reviews
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Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to share my experience with my car. It has been an absolute gem for me and I am the only owner. I have taken good care of it and have only had to do the expected maintenance, along with replacing the radiator and exhaust manifold at about 75,000 miles. Recently, I replaced the serpentine belt and alternator. I always use premium fuel and have gotten from 21 to 26 mpg. I feel that my car is a classic and worth a lot more than what the book might say. Thanks for listening!
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A few modifications can really wake up this car, it's a great sleeper. It handles quite well for its size. I would recommend 17' or 18' wheels as they help a lot. The V8 is very strong and I can really burnout with this car.
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I can tell you love your T-bird! It sounds like the perfect car for you, with its 2dr, V8, RWD, and great sound system. Not only is it fun to drive, but it's also sporty in both looks and power. And the fact that it gets great gas mileage for a V8 is a huge plus. Plus, it's a lot cheaper to insure than a Mustang!
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This car is amazing! I've owned seven different models, dating all the way back to the '89 Sc and up to the most recent '97 LX. As a P.I., I rely on my car for work, and this type of vehicle has never let me down. With proper maintenance, these cars are incredibly dependable and fast. In fact, I've never had any problems with any of the cars I've owned. Plus, they've even helped me make money - every car I've sold has turned a profit, allowing me to purchase another T-bird. The one I have now has all the features I could want, including traction control, a sunroof, and 17-inch chrome blade stock wheels straight from the factory. I can't imagine ever switching to a different car, unless it's another T-bird. Thank you, Ford, for creating such an amazing car!
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Early transmission problems and cracked intake manifold were both fixed under warranty.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1997 Ford Thunderbird problems:
1997 Ford Thunderbird Problems and Complaints - 7 Issues
Problem with your 1997 Ford Thunderbird? Our list of 7 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1997 Ford Thunderbird.
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Nov 13, 2006 ... Why do the valve seals ware out ? I thought That the 96 and 97 did not have that problem . 1997 Ford Thunderbird ...
Other years of Ford Thunderbird
Are you having problems with your 1997 Ford Thunderbird?
Davion Conroy 2024-04-20
We purchased this car when it was about two years old with around 29,000 miles on it. My husband still has it and is passing it down to my teenage daughter. My son added some sporty accessories to the hood, which I'm not really into, but it gives the car a more powerful look. Despite replacing the CD player with another one, which turned out to be a mistake as it restarts the music every time you hit a bump, the car has held up well with 87,000 miles on it. The body is still in good condition with no rust or damage. It even has a moon roof, although we don't use it much. We've received several compliments on the car, including one just a couple of days ago.