2002 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 2002 Ford Thunderbird problems
The 2002 Ford Thunderbird has been criticized for various problems, with engine issues being the most prevalent category of complaints.
Another common engine problem is related to the Coil on Plug (COP) system, which can fail due to oil or water seeping into the spark plug enclosure.
Additionally, the 2002 Ford Thunderbird has been criticized for its interior, specifically the abundance of cheap plastic, particularly in the center console, and the use of manually adjustable power seats that only work for the seat bottom.
In summary, the 2002 Ford Thunderbird has faced numerous complaints, primarily related to engine problems, such as coils fouling spark plugs and COP failures. The car's interior has also been criticized for its use of cheap plastic and manually adjustable power seats. The vehicle's performance has also been questioned, with only one engine option available, which never gained significant market traction.
Why did the 2002 Thunderbird fail?
The driving experience didn't help much, either, as the Thunderbird was powered by a 3.9-liter V8 that made just 252 horses. That let Ford tout that the T-Bird did, in fact, have a V8 — but even by 2002 standards, that power figure was squarely in V6 territory.
Why are old Thunderbirds so cheap?
Utilizing Ford's MN12 platform, the tenth-gen Thunderbird offered RWD and V8 power, and due to the large amount of these cars flooding the roads, they became quite cheap in their later years.
Are Thunderbirds expensive to maintain?
The annual maintenance cost of a Ford Thunderbird is $433. Repair and maintenance costs vary depending on age, mileage, location and shop.
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 the 2002 Thunderbird fail?
The driving experience didn't help much, either, as the Thunderbird was powered by a 3.9-liter V8 that made just 252 horses. That let Ford tout that the T-Bird did, in fact, have a V8 — but even by 2002 standards, that power figure was squarely in V6 territory.
Are Thunderbirds expensive to maintain?
The annual maintenance cost of a Ford Thunderbird is $433. Repair and maintenance costs vary depending on age, mileage, location and shop.
What kind of engine does a 2002 Thunderbird have?
The 3.9-liter, double-overhead-cam V-8 sports 252 horsepower and strong acceleration. A five-speed automatic is the only transmission available.
Why are old Thunderbirds so cheap?
Utilizing Ford's MN12 platform, the tenth-gen Thunderbird offered RWD and V8 power, and due to the large amount of these cars flooding the roads, they became quite cheap in their later years.
2002 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
- Electrical system problems
- Air bags problems
- Engine problems
- Vehicle speed control problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2002 Ford Thunderbird vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2002 Ford Thunderbird
The NHTSA has received 93 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2002 Ford Thunderbird. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2002 Ford Thunderbird vehicles.
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-03
- 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.
STEERING,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2023-09-03
- 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.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-10-27
- 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.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-03-13
- 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
AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-09-06
- 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.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-05-14
- VIN: 1FAHP60A62Y
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: MY AIRBAG LIGHT IS ON AND I WANT TO KNOW IF I HAVE A TAKATA AIRBAG. IF SO HOW TO I GET IT FIXED?
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-04-12
- VIN: 1FAHP60A62Y
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: AIR BAG NEEDS TO BE REPLACED AND FORD HAS NO REPAIR PARTS AVAILABLE TO PROVIDE OCCUPANT PROTECTION IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH. *JS
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2018-04-20
- VIN: 1FAHP60A62Y
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT APPEARED ON INSTRUMENT PANEL AND OWNER'S MANUAL INSTRUCTED TO RETURN TO DEALER. DEALER DIAGNOSED THE PROBLEM AS A FAULTY AIR BAG THAT SHOULD BE REPLACED. FORD MOTOR CO. SAID SERVICE PARTS ARE NOT AVAILABLE AND DEALER DID NOT REPAIR THE AIR BAG. I WAS ALLOWED TO LEAVE THE SERVICE DEPARTMENT WITH NO IDEA IF THE AIR BAG WOULD FUNCTION IN A CRASH. IS THE VEHICLE SAFE TO DRIVE AND SHOULD FORD MOTOR CO. HAVE DONE MORE TO ASSURE THE VEHICLE IS SAFE TO DRIVE?
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-04-01
- VIN: 1FAHP60A62Y
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD THUNDERBIRD. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY AND WHILE DRIVING VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE AIR BAG INDICATOR ILLUMINATED WITHOUT WARNING. LOU FUSZ FORD IN CHESTERFIELD, MISSOURI WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 800.
ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-12-20
- VIN: 1FAHP60802Y
- Components: ENGINE,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: 1ST HAD TO HAVE 8 COILS REPLACED ,2002 NOT COVERED ON RECALL, BUT 2003 AND AFTER WERE. YESTERDAY HAD TO HAVE IT TOWED TO A FORD DEALER, CAR WOULD NOT START. AFTER A DIAGNOSIS, FOUND THE FUEL PUMP NEEDED REPLACED AND FUEL FILTER. THE COST WAS $1500.00. THERE WERE 4 OTHER T-BIRDS THERE PLUS MINE WITH THE SAME PROBLEM. WHAT NEXT? DO I NEED A TOW TRUCK TO FOLLOW ME ALL THE TIME.
UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-07-14
- VIN: 1FAHP60A32Y
- Components: UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: MY CAR WAS RUNNING AND I EXITED THE VEHICLE TO PUT GARAGE DOOR DOWN. I PUT VEHICLE IN PARKED WITH IT RUNNING AND DOOR SHUT AND WHEN I CAME BACK TO THE VEHICLE ALL THE DOORS WERE LOCKED AND CAR WAS RUNNING. VERY DANGEROUS I WAS UNABLE TO GET INTO VEHICLE ALL DOORS LOCKED WITH CAR RUNNING. I NEVER LOCKED THE DOOR WHEN I EXITED.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-05-03
- VIN: 1FAHP60A32Y
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: STEREO CUTS ON AND OFF ALL THE TIME AND SOMETIMES THE CAR ALARM GOES OFF.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-04-11
- VIN: 1FAHP60A32Y
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD THUNDERBIRD. WHILE DRIVING 60 MPH, THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED AND THE VEHICLE BEGAN IDLING ROUGHLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN AUTO PARTS STORE WHERE THE EMPLOYEE FOUND THAT CYLINDERS 3, 4, AND 7 WERE MISFIRING, AS WELL AS A RANDOM MISFIRE. THE CONTACT OPENED THE SPARK PLUG WELL AND OPENED THE COIL PACK. THE CONTACT DISCOVERED THAT THE SPARK PLUG AND COIL PACK WERE COVERED IN OIL. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE CONTACT LATER SPOKE TO A DEALER WHO STATED THAT THEY WOULD COME PICK UP THE VEHICLE IF THE CONTACT DECIDED TO HAVE IT SERVICED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE AND STATED THAT THEY COULD NOT ASSIST SINCE THERE WAS NO RECALL. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 31,000.
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-08-07
- VIN: 1FAHP60A82Y
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD THUNDERBIRD. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS STATIONARY THE ALUMINUM ON THE WHEELS CORRODED AND LEAKED AIR. THE DEALER SANDED DOWN THE INNER WHEELS AND COATED THEM WITH A SOLUTION TO PREVENT RUST/CORROSION. THE MANUFACTURER WAS MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 119,500. UPDATED 05/10/17*LJ *CN
STEERING,SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-06-16
- VIN: 1FAHP60A02Y
- Components: STEERING,SUSPENSION,UNKNOWN OR OTHER
- Summary: TOOK THE CAR IN FOR A OIL CHANGE THE DEALER WROTE UP A LIST OF PROBLEMS NEED TO REPAIR ON THIS CAR .THIS CAR WAS IN THE GARAGE AND DRIVEN WEEKLY IT ONLY HAS 30,600 MILES ON IT. I THINK IT WILL COST ME 2500 DOLLARS TO REPAIR THIS CAR. I NEVER HAD ANYTHING LIKE THIS BEFORE WITH A CAR.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-07-10
- VIN: 1FAHP60A52Y
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: THE DASHBOARD LIGHTS FOR SPEEDOMETER, TACHOMETER, TEMP AND FUEL GAUGES FAIL TO TURN ON WITH HEADLIGHTS. THE DIMMER SWITCH IS FUNCTIONAL SINCE OTHER LIGHTS FOR ODOMETER, RADIO, A/C FUNCTION CORRECTLY. FUSES CHECK OUT. CANNOT VIEW SPEED WHILE DRIVING AT NIGHT. THIS MAKES DRIVING AT NIGHT DANGEROUS. FORD DEALER CLAIMS THAT THE CLUSTER FOR THE DASH MIGHT NEED TO BE CHANGED. HOWEVER, NONE ARE AVAILABLE ANYMORE. THE CAR ONLY HAS 8237 MILES ON IT.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-03-31
- VIN: 1FAHP60A52Y
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD THUNDERBIRD. WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY, THE VEHICLE LUNGED FORWARD AND STOPPED ACCELERATING. THE VEHICLE INDEPENDENTLY BEGAN TO OPERATE NORMALLY AFTERWARDS; HOWEVER, THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE WOULD NOT OPERATE PAST APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH. AFTER THE FAILURE RECURRED, THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING INDICATOR ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE COIL ON PLUG WAS DEFECTIVE AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE TECHNICIAN DIAGNOSED THAT ALL EIGHT VEHICLE COIL ON PLUGS NEEDED TO BE REPLACED EVENTUALLY. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 30,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-08-27
- VIN: 1FAHP60A02Y
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD THUNDERBIRD. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE INSTRUMENT PANEL FAILED TO ILLUMINATE. THE FAILURE OCCURRED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE ENTIRE CLUSTER NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 42,000.
FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-01-01
- VIN: 1FAHP60A62Y
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING AT 35 MPH ON STATE ROUTE 179 MY VEHICLE STARTED RUNNING ROUGH THAN STALLED COMPLETELY MAKING IT DIFFICULT TO STEER AND STOP THE VEHICLE. I HAD IT TOWED TO A REPAIR SHOP WHERE THEY REPLACED THE FUEL PUMP. WHEN THE ENGINE STALLED, IT WAS IN A CURVE AND I BARELY WAS ABLE TO KEEP FROM GOING OFF THE ROADWAY. I SHUDDER TO THINK OF WHAT WOULD HAVE HAPPENED AT HIGHER SPEED.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-11-23
- VIN: 1FAHP60A92Y
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD THUNDERBIRD. WHILE DRIVING AT 60 MPH, THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO DRIVE ABNORMALLY WHILE THE MISFIRED WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE CONTACT COULD NOT DESCRIBE THE FAILURE IN GREAT DETAIL. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE VALVE COVER GASKET AND COIL PACK FAILED AND NEED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED TWICE, BUT THE FAILURE WAS PERSISTENT. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 30,000.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-09-01
- VIN: 1FAHP60A22Y
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: I WENT TO PARK THE CAR AND THE CAR WENT RACING INTO THE SPOT AND IT WAS DIFFICULT TO MAKE IT STOP. I THROUGH THE CAR INTO PARK AND EVEN THEN I WAS SURE IT WAS GOING TO STOP. IF I DIDN'T HAVE AN EMPTY PARKING LOT I DON'T THINK IT WOULD HAVE BEEN POSSIBLE THERE WOULD HAVE BEEN AN ACCIDENT. THEN I HAD TO DRIVE THE CAR HOME WHICH I DIDN'T WANT TO DO, BECAUSE THIS WAS VERY FRIGHTENING. THEN DRIVING HOME AT THE STOP LIGHT I JUST PUT THE CAR IN PARK BECAUSE IT WAS STILL RACING AND I DIDN'T THINK PUTTING MY FOOT ON THE BRAKE WOULD HAVE KEPT IT IN A STOPPED POSITION. THEN WHEN I TRIED TO TAKE OFF IT ACTED LIKE IT WANTED TO STALL. NOT A COOD FEELING AT ALL.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-08-07
- VIN: 1FAHP60A82Y
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD THUNDERBIRD. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT 40 MPH, THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. THE FAILURE RECURRED TWICE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE NUMBER 8 COIL AND SPARK PLUG NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 45,000.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-09-04
- VIN: 1FAHP60A92Y
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD THUNDERBIRD. WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH, THE VEHICLE SPUTTERED AND MISFIRED, AND A WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER INFORMED THE CONTACT THAT THE VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN ANY RECALLS. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 10,200.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-04-18
- VIN: 1FAHP60A82Y
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: RE:2002 FORD THUNDERBIRD AT 43,237 MILES THE ENGINE SUDDENLY BEGAN RUNNING ROUGH AND MISFIRING.THE PASSENGER AREA IMMEDIATELY BEGAN TO FILL WITH EXHAUST FUMES. THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ILLUMINATED BUT DID NOT FLASH TO INDICATE A SERIOUS PROBLEM. UPON LETTING THE TOP DOWN THE VEHICLE WAS SLOWLY DRIVEN TO A NEARBY FORD DEALERSHIP. THE CYLINDER EIGHT COIL AND SPARK PLUG WERE REPLACED WHICH SEEMED TO SOLVE THE PROBLEM. AT 45,280 MILES THE SAME SITUATION OCCURRED AND THE CYLINDER SIX COIL AND SPARK PLUG WERE REPLACED. AT 47,459 MILES THE SAME THING OCCURRED YET AGAIN AND CYLINDER COILS TWO AND THREE WERE REPLACED AS WELL AS FOUR SPARK PLUGS. DESPITE THE COST INVOLVED IN THE NECESSARY REPAIR WORK AND THE FACT THAT ALL OF THE ABOVE INCIDENTS OCCURRED WELL WITHIN THE MILEAGE OF AN EXTENDED WARRANTY I MAINTAINED THROUGH FORD MOTOR COMPANY, THE COMPANY ADVISED THAT THE TIME LIMIT ON MY EXTENDED WARRANTY HAD EXPIRED AND THE COMPANY IS NOT WILLING TO REPLACE THE REMAINING CYLINDER COILS AND SPARK PLUGS. I DO NOT KNOW IF THERE HAVE BEEN CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING AS A RESULT OF THE PASSENGER AREA FILLING WITH EXHAUST FUMES WHEN THE ENGINE BEGINS RUNNING ROUGH. I DO KNOW HOWEVER THAT WHEN AN ENGINE BEGINS MISFIRING, RAW GASOLINE POURS INTO THE COMBUSTION SYSTEM AND COULD CAUSE A FIRE, I ALSO KNOW THAT CARBON MONOXIDE IF NOT DETECTED QUICKLY CAN BE FATAL TO HUMAN BEINGS. I DO NOT BELIEVE THE ABOVE INCIDENTS ARE NECESSARILY A WARRANTY ISSUE. THEY ARE HOWEVER A HEALTH AND SAFETY ISSUE. THIS PROBLEM APPEARS TO BE SYSTEMIC IN NATURE AND RELATED TO DESIGN PROBLEMS OF THE 3.9L V8 ENGINE UTILIZED IN THE 2002 FORD THUNDERBIRD. I RECOMMEND THAT FORD MOTOR COMPANY RECALL THE 2002 FORD THUNDERBIRD AND REPLACE ALL COILS AND SPARK PLUGS WITH RELIABLE PARTS AS I HAVE BEEN ADVISED BY A FORD SERVICE EMPLOYEE THAT THE REPLACEMENT COILS SOMETIMES FAIL AND MUST BE REPLACED A SECOND TIME. *TR
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-05-26
- VIN: 1FAHP60A12Y
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: DRIVING 45 TO 50 MPH, ENGINE STARTS CUTTING OUT, RUNNING ROUGH. CHECK ENGINE LIGHT STARTS FLASHING WHICH REQUIRED THE COIL PACK TO BE REPLACED BY FORD. THIS IS A CONSTANT ISSUE WITH THIS MODEL AND YEAR FORD THUNDERBIRD. IT IS AN EXPENSIVE REPAIR AND YET FORD HAS NOT REDESIGNED THE COIL PACK FOR THIS CAR AND THE COIL PACK CONTINUES TO FAIL TIME AND TIME AGAIN. I'M JUST GRATEFUL THAT I WAS NOT ON SOME REMOTE HIGHWAY STRANDED ON THE SIDE OF THE ROAD WHEN THIS HAPPENED OR TRYING TO PASS ANOTHER VEHICLE. I CONSIDER THIS A SAFETY ISSUE. WHY THE 2002 THUNDERBIRD COIL, SPARK PLUGS AND CONNECTORS WERE NOT COVERED UNDER THE RECALL OF THE 2003-5 IS BEYOND ME. FORD DID AN INJUSTICE TO 2002 OWNERS OF THE THUNDERBIRD BY NOT ACCEPTING THAT THEY HAD AN ISSUE WITH THE CAR AND I WOULD LIKE TO SEE THIS ISSUE REMEDIATED. *TR
2002 Ford Thunderbird recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 2002 Ford Thunderbird.
- Manufacturer: UFI FILTERS USA
- Components: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
- Summary: CERTAIN AFTERMARKET FUEL FILTERS SOLD UNDER THE PUROLATOR BRAND NAME, P/N F65277, SHIPPED FROM JANUARY 16 THROUGH JUNE 2, 2006, FOR USE ON THE ABOVE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES. DUE TO INCORRECT DESIGN, THE QUICK CONNECTORS MAY NOT FULLY SEAT WITH THE TUBE INTERFACE, EVEN THOUGH THE PERSON MAKING THE CONNECTION MAY BELIEVE THAT THE QUICK CONNECTOR IS FULLY ATTACHED.
- Consequence: FAILURE OF THIS CONNECTION COULD LEAD TO FUEL SPILLAGE AND, IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, A FIRE COULD OCCUR.
- Remedy: UFI WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND REPLACE THE FILTERS FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 4, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT UFI FILTERS USA AT 800-230-5876.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT:WEBBING
- Summary: ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE DRIVER'S SIDE SEAT BELT CONTACTED THE SEAT RECLINER DURING A 35 MPH NCAP FULL-FRONTAL BARRIER IMPACT TEST.
- Consequence: THE EDGE OF THE RECLINER MECHANISM CAUSED A PARTIAL CUT IN THE LAP PORTION OF THE WEBBING. IF THE WEBBING IS CUT, IT INCREASES THE RISK OF INJURY IN A CRASH.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL INSTALL AN INSERT BEHIND THE DRIVER SIDE SEAT LOWER TRIM PANEL. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN JUNE 21, 2002. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-866-436-7332.
Negative 2002 Ford Thunderbird car reviews
Positive 2002 Ford Thunderbird car reviews
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My experience with this vehicle has been superb! In fact, I always feel like taking off to unknown places while driving it. It feels extremely solid and safe. The interior compartment could be a smidgen larger, however. I purchased it two months ago and don't recall ever having a car as enjoyable as this 2002 T-Bird (in Teal). My Dream Car LORA
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I drove to Arizona and stayed there for 6 months. Then, I drove back home to Toronto. I absolutely loved it and it's definitely a keeper!
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This car is truly unbeatable if you're looking for a fun, cool, and smooth ride! Not only do you get compliments and thumbs up while driving, but the car is also incredibly comfortable and smooth. The stereo is fantastic whether the top is up or down. While removing the hard top requires two people, the convertible top works great. Additionally, the trunk is HUGE! For a car like this, the trunk is surprisingly functional. Try fitting that many grocery bags in a Boxster, Z3, or Miata! If you love the way it looks, you'll definitely love the way it drives.
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This car is so much fun! I bought 'Rudy' after searching for a reasonably priced, previously owned sporty two-seater. I almost settled on a 2002 BMW Z3, which was priced under $8K, but I decided to continue my search without a specific model in mind. A few 80s and 90s model Corvettes caught my eye, but I wasn't in a hurry. After a year or so, I happened to spot a little red T-Bird that had just been traded into a local Nissan dealer. I briefly looked it over and found that it was immaculately well-kept, despite having over 125,000 miles on it. I test drove it and immediately knew that I had found the right vehicle. I looked at several others priced from $9K to $30K depending on condition, but I decided to try to negotiate the price on the red one. After much discussion, we agreed on $10K. In the last four months, I've replaced some leaking valve cover gaskets, but otherwise the car runs and looks great. The previous owner had put a high-performance air induction kit and Borla exhaust system on it, which increased the horsepower from 250 to 280 or so. It has a nice little growl that reminds me of an old Boss 302 Mustang I once owned. I traced Rudy back to 2002 and found that the window sticker was well over 40K. In my opinion, it was worth the 15-year wait to knock 75% off the asking price :) I must admit that my wife was not initially pleased with my impulsive purchase, but she has since given in to Rudy's charm. We love putting the top down for a weekend cruise through the hill country and find ourselves looking for an excuse to drive to the grocery store. This ole bird gives me something to putz around with in the garage, and we both absolutely love it... It's a great little roadster at a very reasonable price!
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Hi there! I just wanted to share my experience with my 6th T-Bird. I've owned quite a few in the past, but this one is definitely my favourite so far! It's an absolute dream to drive and it looks amazing too. I always get looks from other drivers whenever I'm on the road. I'm planning on keeping this car forever, it's just that good! It's also really comfortable on long trips and surprisingly good on gas. While it's not a sports car, the handling is still really good and it's just a pleasure to drive. I personally think it looks best with the hard top on, but it's the most fun to drive with the soft top down on a warm summer's day. There may be better performing cars out there, but none have the same classy look as this Thunderbird. I've always wanted a '57, but this one fits the bill for me. It's just one great car!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2002 Ford Thunderbird problems:
Ford Thunderbird BUYER'S GUIDE (Review, Values, Common ...
Jul 11, 2023 ... Ford Thunderbird options, colors, special editions, reliability, common problems, performance, gas mileage, and yearly changes from 2002, ...
Common 2002 Ford Thunderbird Problems: Q&A
Feb 29, 2008 ... There is a known issue for leaking valve cover gaskets on that motor. Also the only thing the recorder would have seen was a misfire due to oil ...
Here's Why the 2002 Ford Thunderbird Was a Retro Failure - YouTube
Sep 5, 2019 ... Go to channel · Ford Thunderbird BUYER'S GUIDE (Review, Values, Common Problems, Yearly Changes 2002-2005). Retro Cars Forever•28K views · 26:29.
2002 Ford Thunderbird Problems and Complaints - 4 Issues
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 ...
2002 Ford Thunderbird Review...What Is This? - YouTube
Jul 14, 2021 ... Go to channel · Ford Thunderbird BUYER'S GUIDE (Review, Values, Common Problems, Yearly Changes 2002-2005). Retro Cars Forever•28K views · 18:30.
Other years of Ford Thunderbird
Are you having problems with your 2002 Ford Thunderbird?
Duncan Tromp 2024-09-05
I have owned this car since 2002 and unfortunately, I have had to replace several parts over the years. The coils had to be replaced, which I later found out was due to a design flaw that Ford recognized and recalled for the 2003, 2004, and 2005 models. However, my model was not included in the recall. I also had to replace the cooling fan twice, which cost $900 each time, the A/C condenser for $1400, and the catalytic converter for close to $1000. Additionally, the chrome plated plastic trim is now peeling. Despite its sharp appearance, the repair costs for a well-maintained car with only 70,000 miles have been too high. I have decided not to purchase another Ford in the future.
Chase Gusikowski 2024-02-11
The 2002 Ford T Bird is definitely a head turner! It has a fairly good ride, but could use a little more horsepower. On the bright side, it has an excellent sound system. The only downside is that it needs a little more leg room. Overall, I see the T Bird as a very classy roadster.