2004 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 2004 Ford Thunderbird problems
Based on complaints from owners of the 2004 Ford Thunderbird, common problems include:
- Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) Light:
The TPMS light indicating low or high air pressure, slow leaks, or flat tires has been a common problem reported by Thunderbird owners.
- Coil on Plug (COP) Issues:
While not specific to the 2004 model, COP problems are common in 2002-2005 Thunderbirds. COP failures can lead to stalling, rough idling, poor acceleration, and loss of power, often requiring costly repairs.
These issues can impact the performance, safety, and overall driving experience of the 2004 Ford Thunderbird. Owners have highlighted these problems through complaints and maintenance experiences, shedding light on areas that may require attention and potential repairs to ensure the vehicle's optimal functioning.
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.
How many Ford Thunderbirds were made in 2004?
11,998 were sold in 2004. Ford announced in March 2005 that the Thunderbird would be discontinued in July of that year, with 9,548 sold for 2005.
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.
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 engine did the 2004 Thunderbird have?
V-8 engine
An aluminum, 3.9-liter, dual-overhead-cam V-8 engine produces 280 hp at 6,000 rpm and drives a close-ratio five-speed-automatic transmission. SelectShift operation for manually selected gear changes is optional. The Thunderbird was Ford's first convertible with head and chest side-impact airbags.
What is my 2004 Thunderbird worth?
How much is a 2004 Ford Thunderbird worth? The value of a used 2004 Ford Thunderbird ranges from $977 to $2,373, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options.
How many Ford Thunderbirds were made in 2004?
11,998 were sold in 2004. Ford announced in March 2005 that the Thunderbird would be discontinued in July of that year, with 9,548 sold for 2005.
2004 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:
- Vehicle speed control problems
- Engine problems
- Power train problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Electrical system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2004 Ford Thunderbird vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2004 Ford Thunderbird
The NHTSA has received 34 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2004 Ford Thunderbird. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2004 Ford Thunderbird vehicles.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2021-09-22
- 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.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-01-01
- 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.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2020-06-16
- 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.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-06-01
- VIN: 1FAHP60A94Y
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: 2004 FORD THUNDERBIRD. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO DEFECTIVE IGNITION COILS CAUSES ENGINE TO MIS-FIRE, DEALERSHIP REPLACED DEFECTIVE COILS UNDER EXTENDED ONE-TIME WARRANTY REPAIR. CONSUMER STATES ENGINE MIS-FIRE STILL EXISTS. *SMD THE CONSUMER STATED THE ENGINE MISFIRED DUE TO DEFECTIVE IGNITION COILS. TWO COILS WERE REPLACED UNDER WARRANTY. THE DEALER WOULD NOT REPLACE ANY OTHER COILS THAT HAD NOT EXPERIENCED ANY FAILURE. THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS UNABLE TO BE DRIVEN. UPDATED 05/4/2017 *JS
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-01-18
- VIN: 1FAHP60A64Y
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: VEHICLE UNEXPECTEDLY LOST POWER UPON MILD ACCELERATION ON A CITY STREET AND DEVELOPED A ROUGH, SKIPPING AND HESITANT IDLE UPON WARM UP. WE IMMEDIATELY BROUGHT THE CAR IN FOR EVALUATION AT THE SARAT FORD DEALERSHIP IN AGAWAM, MA. THEY DIAGNOSED THE DREADED THUNDERBIRD COIL ON PLUG FAILURE IN THIS VEHICLE AT ONLY 33,165 TOTAL MILES. BEING THAT THIS CAR IS NOW OVER TEN YEARS OLD, I WAS TOLD THAT THE FOMOCO EXTENDED WARRANTY (10 YEARS AND 100,000 MILES) ON THIS VEHICLE, FOR THIS VERY SAME PROBLEM, DOES NOT APPLY. WHAT IS EXTREMELY AGGRAVATING AND REALLY MADDENING WITH THIS IS THAT THEY GROSSLY OVER CHARGED ME FOR THE PARTS. MUCH MORE THAN WHAT FORD CHARGES ON THEIR OWN PARTS WEBSITE FOR BOTH THE 8 SPARK PLUGS AND THE 8 COIL COMPONENTS. RATHER THAN TRYING TO HELP A CUSTOMER GET THROUGH THIS UNEXPECTED AND EXPENSIVE MECHANICAL FAILURE (...WHICH THEY ARE FULLY AWARE OF AND SHOULD HELP COVER) THEY DECIDE TO ALLOW THEIR DEALERS TO PRICE GOUGE. I HAVE ALL PAPERWORK FROM THE REPAIR.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2016-06-05
- VIN: 1FAHP63A84Y
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: ON THREE OCCASIONS AUTO ACCELERATED ON ITS OWN. TRIED TO BREAK TO NO AVAIL. KEPT GOING FASTER. SHIFTED TO NEUTRAL, ENGINE KEPT RACING. WAS VERY DIFFICULT TO STOP VEHICLE. WENT TO DEALER. THEY COULD NOT FIND THE CAUSE. .ONE EVENT IN A PARKING LOT, ONE ON THE INTERSTATE AND THE OTHER WHEN APPROACHING AN INTERSECTION ON A CITY STREET AUTO HAS ONLY 10,000 MILES ON IT. INCIDENTS OCCURRED 2005 20014 2016.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2015-10-18
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1FAHP60A14Y
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: DRIVING ON A HIGHWAY AT 50MPH COMING TO A TOWN AND A RED LIGHT I REMOVED MY FOOT FROM THE GAS PEDAL AND APPLIED THE BRAKES THE CAR DID NOT SLOW I APPLIED MORE PRESSURE ON THE BRAKES THE CAR SLOWED SOME BUT THE ENGINE KEPT REVING THE TRANSMISSION WAS NOT DOWN SHIFTING THE CAR WAS NOT STOPPING I GRABBED THE SHIFT LEVER AND SWITCHED GEARS BUT TO LATE AND WE HIT THE CAR IN FRONT OF US STOPPED AT THE LIGHT.
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-02-05
- VIN: 1FAHP60AX4Y
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 FORD THUNDERBIRD. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE KEY WAS EXTREMELY DIFFICULT TO TURN OVER TO START THE VEHICLE. IN ADDITION, THE VEHICLE STALLED ON NUMEROUS OCCASIONS WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER SEVERAL TIMES AND THEY REPLACED THE FILTER, THE REAR MODULE, THE VAPOR MANAGEMENT VALVE, THE VENT SOLENOID AND THE THROTTLE BODY BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 60,000.
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-10-27
- VIN: 1FAHP60A04Y
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: AS I WAS PARKING MY CAR, IT SUDDENLY ACCELERATED AT A VERY HIGH RATE OF SPEED. I WAS PARKING BY A WOODED AREA, AND WAS PROPELLED ABOUT 2 CAR LENGTHS INTO THE BUSHES IN THE WOODS (BARELY MISSING A TREE) BEFORE I WAS ABLE TO STOP THE CAR. NOT CERTAIN IF THE CAR STOPPED BECAUSE OF MY BRAKING, OR BECAUSE THE THICK BUSHES WOULD NOT PERMIT THE CAR TO TRAVEL ANY FURTHER. I HAD THE CAR TOWED TO THE FORD DEALERSHIP, BUT THE SERVICE DEPT. HAS NOT BEEN ABLE TO FIND THE PROBLEM. I AM ABSOLUTELY CERTAIN THIS WAS NOT A "DRIVER ERROR" SITUATION AND AM VERY CONCERNED ABOUT CONTINUING TO DRIVE THIS VEHICLE SHOULD THIS OCCUR AGAIN AND I HIT SOMEONE OR SOMETHING LESS FORGIVING THAN THE BUSHES IN THE WOODS. *TR
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-12-31
- VIN: 1FAHP60A64Y
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 FORD THUNDERBIRD. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING AT APPROXIMATELY 60 MPH, THERE WAS AN ABNORMAL NOISE COMING FROM THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE VEHICLE STALLED AND THE CHECK ENGINE WARNING LIGHT ILLUMINATED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE IGNITION COILS WERE MISFIRING. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 34,200.
POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-06-05
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1FAHP60A84Y
- Components: POWER TRAIN,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: COMING OFF I-5 FREEWAY IN WEST WASHINTONG STATE. STOPPED FOR RED LIGHT AND THEN MOVED INTO LEFT TURN LANE BUT CAR KEPT PICKING UP SPEED, APPLIED BRAKES (HARD) SLOWING DOWN BUT AUTO NOT WANTING TO STOP. APPLIED EMERGENCY BRAKE, CAR SLOWED DOWN MORE, COULD HEAR ENGINE RACING AND FEEL IT STILL WANTING TO GO. SLIPPED CAR INTO NEUTRAL ON THE AUTO TRANSMISION, NOW FORWARD PROGRESS SLOWING DOWN GREATLY BUT STILL HIT REAR OF CAR IN FRONT OF ME. FORD IN BODY REPAIR SHOP SO HAVE NOT BEEN ABLE TO TAKE TO FORD TO EXAM FOR ANY DEFECT(S). I ONLY USE MY RIGHT FOOT TO ACCELRATE AND BRAKE SO I KNOW I WAS NOT STEPPING ON GAS PEDAL & OTHER FOOT USING BRAKE AT SAME TIME. CAR HAD BEEN ON CRUISE CONTROL PRIOR TO ACCIDENT SET AT 60 MPH FOR I-5 DRIVING. *TR
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2012-08-08
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 FORD THUNDERBIRD. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 55 MPH, THE ENGINE MISFIRED AND LOST THROTTLE RESPONSE WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE COIL OVER PLUG ASSEMBLY NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 30,000 AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 36,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-06-05
- VIN: 1FAHP60A24Y
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 FORD THUNDERBIRD. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE E DRIVING 20 MPH, THE ENGINE MISFIRED. THE FAILURE RECURRED FREQUENTLY. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A DEALER, WHO STATED THAT THERE WERE TWO IGNITION COILS THAT FAILED. THE IGNITION COILS WERE REPLACED HOWEVER, THE CONTACT LATER NOTICED OIL ON SEVERAL CYLINDERS IN THE ENGINE. THE FAILURE WAS NOT CORRECTED. THE FAILURE WAS REPORTED TO THE MANUFACTURER. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 97,512.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-11-25
- VIN: 1FAHP60A64Y
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 FORD THUNDERBIRD. THE CONTACT STATED THAT UPON INSPECTION, IT WAS DETERMINED THAT THE SUSPENSION NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE SUSPENSION WAS PREVIOUSLY REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS CONFIRMED THAT THE SUSPENSION NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED ABOUT THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 39,730. ..UPDATED 08-07-13 *BF
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-03-29
- VIN: 1FAHP60A14Y
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 FORD THUNDERBIRD. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 45 MPH, THE TRANSMISSION WOULD NOT SHIFT CORRECTLY AND EXHIBITED A SEVERE HESITATION. THE VEHICLE WAS DRIVEN TO A NEARBY TRANSMISSION CENTER WHERE THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE TRANSMISSION WOULD NEED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE DEFECT. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 55,000.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-04-10
- VIN: 1FAHP63A74Y
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 FORD THUNDERBIRD. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHEN STARTING THE VEHICLE, THE ENGINE WOULD MISFIRE AND LOSE THROTTLE RESPONSE. THE VEHICLE LATER STALLED AND WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER. THE DEALER ADVISED THE CONTACT THAT THE MISFIRE WAS DUE TO A FAULTY ENGINE COIL. THE DEALER REPLACED THE ENGINE COIL BUT THE REPAIR DID NOT REMEDY THE FAILURE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 18,500. UPDATED 01/18/12*LJ
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-06-24
- VIN: 1FAHP60A44Y
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 FORD THUNDERBIRD. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE SPARK PLUGS WERE CAUSING DAMAGE TO THE ENGINE. THE DEALER ADVISED THE CONTACT TO HAVE THE SPARK PLUGS REMOVED AND REPLACED WITH A DIFFERENT MODEL SPARK PLUG. THE MANUFACTURER WAS AWARE OF THE FAILURE YET NO REPAIRS WERE PERFORMED ON THE VEHICLE. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 6,000.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-03-03
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- VIN: 1FAHP60AX4Y
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 FORD THUNDERBIRD. THE CONTACT STATED THE REAR SIDE AIR BAG ON THE DRIVER SIDE DEPLOYED ABNORMALLY WHILE THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING. THE VEHICLE WAS INSPECTED BY THE DEALER AND THE DOOR WAS REMOVED BUT THE DEALER COULD NOT PROVIDE A REASON FOR THE AIR BAG FAILURE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 20,000. UPDATED 05/25/11 *BF THE CONSUMER CHECKED THE INJURED BOX. UPDATED 06/06/11
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-06-27
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: I HAVE A 2004 FORD THUNDERBIRD. FOR THE SECOND TIME IN THE PAST 8 MONTHS, MY CAR WENT INTO LIMP MODE UNEXPECTEDLY WHILE DRIVING. ON A 50 MILE AN HOUR ROAD, MY CAR SUDDENLY DROPPED TO 20 MPH. I IMMEDIATELY ACTIVATED MY HAZARD LIGHTS, BUT CAME VERY CLOSE TO GETTING REAR ENDED. THE THROTTLE BODIES ON THESE CARS EVIDENTLY GO OUT AN ALARMING RATE. THIS WILL BE THE SECOND TIME I HAVE NARROWLY AVOIDED BEING IN AN ACCIDENT BECAUSE OF THIS PROBLEM. I HAD THE PROBLEM ADDRESSED ONCE ALREADY, AND NOW IT IS HAPPENING ALL OVER AGAIN. *TR
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-10-21
- VIN: 1FAHP63A04Y
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: CAR INTERMITTENTLY GOES INTO SHUT DOWN MODE(DECELERATES, WILL NOT TAKE GAS) DURING DRIVING. THIS HAS HAPPENED WHILE TRYING TO MERGE ONTO A HIGHWAY AND ALMOST RESULTED IN ME BEING REAR NEEDED BY AN TRACTOR TRAILER. THIS IS HAPPENING DURING THE MIDDLE OF HIGHWAY TRAFFIC AND HAS PLACED ME IN SEVER SAFETY SITUATIONS. I AM TOLD BY FORD THIS IS A THROTTLE BODY PROBLEM AND APPARENTLY THIS IS WIDE SPREAD FOR NUMEROUS FORD AUTOMOBILES (ESCAPE, THUNDERBIRD,MUSTANG, LINCOLN, THUNDERBIRD...) OF THE YEARS 2002-2005. FORD NEEDS TO BE HELD TO TASK FOR THIS REPAIR! THIS IS DANGEROUS!!*CW
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-01-14
- VIN: 1FAHP60A44Y
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 FORD THUNDERBIRD. THE VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED APPROXIMATELY JULY 2006 WITH THE ORIGINAL WHEELS. THE LEFT REAR WHEEL HAS CRACKS AND CORROSION WHICH ALSO MADE AN INDENTATION IN THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE TIRE AND CAUSED IT TO LEAK. THE MECHANIC HAD TO SAND THE RIM IN ORDER TO REMOVE THE CORROSION AT COST TO THE OWNER. THEY ALSO HAD TO REPOSITION THE TIRE TO OFFSET THE PART OF THE TIRE THAT HAD THE INDENTATION IN IT. THE CONTACT WAS RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYING $42 FOR THE REPAIR. THEY ALSO ADDED SOME FORM OF GLUE WHICH IS A SAFETY RISK. THE TIRE MECHANIC DID NOT PROVIDE A WARRANTY. THE OTHER TIRES WERE NOT DIAGNOSED FOR RUST CORROSION WHICH THE CONTACT IS CONCERNED ABOUT THE SAFETY RISK INVOLVED. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 35,840.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-09-04
- VIN: 1FAHP60A04Y
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: ABS & WHEEL SPEED SENSOR DASH LIGHTS ILLUMINATED. HAD MECHANIC INSPECT CAUSES AND DIAGNOSE USING ABS FAULT CODES. VEHICLE REQUIRED A NEW ABS BRAKE / WHEEL SPEED SENSOR REPLACEMENT ON LEFT FRONT HUB ASSY. FORD DOES NOT SELL THIS PART INDIVIDUALLY ONLY AS AN ASSEMBLY CONSISTING OF MAJOR BRAKE AND SUSPENSION DETAILS AS A UNIT. THIS COST IS @ $580. MECHANIC WAS ABLE TO PURCHASE A HUB UNIT FROM NAPA AUTO PARTS @ $236.17. WITH ONLY 21,696 MILES TOTAL THIS PART SHOULD NOT HAVE FAILED SO PRE-MATURELY AND PARTS SHOULD BE MADE AVAILABLE FOR THIS AS A DETAIL OF AN ASSEMBLY NOT A WHOLE ASSEMBLY CONSISTING OF UN-NEEDED PARTS DIRECTLY FROM FORD. IS THERE A NOTICE REGARDING THIS ITEM? *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-11-06
- VIN: 1FAHP63A04Y
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2004 FORD THUNDERBIRD. WHILE DRIVING 55 MPH, THE CONTACT HEARD A SCREECHING NOISE AND THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO VIBRATE WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE DEALER AND THEY STATED THAT THE ENGINE MOUNT FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE PART IS UNAVAILABLE. THE POWERTRAIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 48,000.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-08-25
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1FAHP60A74Y
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: 2004 FORD THUNDERBIRD WAS LEFT RUNNING PARKED IN THE DRIVEWAY. VEHICLE STARTED TO ROLL BACKWARDS. WE THOUGHT THE VEHICLE WAS JUST ROLLING. DID NOT REALIZE DURING THAT SPLIT SECOND THAT THE CAR HAD ENGAGED IN REVERSE ON ITS OWN. VEHICLE DOOR HIT A PERSON STANDING BEHIND THE OPEN DOOR KNOCKING HIM TO THE GROUND. VEHICLE CONTINUED IN REVERSE WITH DRIVER'S DOOR OPEN, STRUCK ANOTHER VEHICLE IN THE DRIVEWAY BEFORE DRIVING INTO A RETAINING WALL. THE FIRST TRANSMISSION ON THE CAR WAS DEFECTIVE AND REPLACED AT ABOUT 2000 MILES. THERE IS ONLY 4200 MILES ON THE CAR NOW AND THE SECOND TRANSMISSION IS DANGEROUSLY BAD. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-06-13
- VIN: 1FAHP60A14Y
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WRENCH LIGHT COMES ON AND VEHICLE COMES TO A STOP.
2004 Ford Thunderbird recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2004 Ford Thunderbird.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:POWER ADJUST
- Summary: CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH POWER ADJUSTABLE SEATS MAY HAVE BEEN INADEQUATELY WELDED.
- Consequence: THE SEAT MAY NOT PERFORM AS INTENDED DURING A CRASH WHICH COULD INCREASE THE RISK OF INJURY.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE UPPER SUPPORT ASSEMBLY ON THE POWER SEATS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON JULY 20, 2004. OWNERS SHOULD CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673.
Negative 2004 Ford Thunderbird car reviews
Positive 2004 Ford Thunderbird car reviews
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This car is amazing! It's a luxurious 2-seater convertible that I absolutely adore driving with the top down or with the classic port hole hard top. Everyone compliments me on how beautiful it is. The 280 hp engine provides plenty of power for cruising, and the 5-speed automatic transmission shifts very smoothly. The audio system is excellent and has fingertip controls. I have the Premium model with heated seats and homelink, which provides all the power creature comforts you'd expect from a luxury car! Driving this car is so rewarding because it's such a fun 2-seater classic that reminds me of the T-bird heritage. At today's prices, these cars are an incredible value!
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Our 2003 Prem TB Hard Top is so much fun to drive! It's like having three cars in one - with the soft top up, down, or the Port Hole Hard Top on. And when you crack the window, you can really hear that 60's sound coming out of the great SC sound system and the exhaust pipes.
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Hello! I've been a proud owner of my T-bird for over 5 years now. Unfortunately, I've had to replace the engine coils 4 times and the radio 3 times. I've also noticed that the hardtop leaks during rain and car washes. I was wondering if anyone else has experienced these issues? Despite these problems, I absolutely love driving my Bird. It's incredibly comfortable and enjoyable, especially on long trips (as long as it's not raining with the hard top on).
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This car is a dream to drive! It holds the road, has great power, and is fantastic on the open highway. Plus, we've been getting good gas mileage. And let's not forget about the stunning Thunderbird Blue color - it always turns heads. It's no wonder I've been dreaming of owning this car since 1957!
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The new Ford Thunderbird is fantastic! I can totally relate to your struggle of finding a car with style, class, and power. It's great that your friend recommended the Thunderbird and that you were able to test drive it and fall in love with it. I'm so happy for you and your new car!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2004 Ford Thunderbird problems:
Ford Thunderbird BUYER'S GUIDE (Review, Values, Common ...
Jul 11, 2023 ... , common problems, performance, gas mileage, and yearly changes from 2002, 2003, 2004, and 2005... All covered in a concisely-edited buyer's ...
2004 Ford Thunderbird Problems and Complaints - 4 Issues
Top 2004 Ford Thunderbird Problems · Extended Warranty on Ford Ignition Coils. 65 people have reported this · Check Engine Light Due to Oil Leak in Valve Cover ...
2004 Ford Thunderbird Review - YouTube
Mar 26, 2019 ... Go to channel · Ford Thunderbird BUYER'S GUIDE (Review, Values, Common Problems, Yearly Changes 2002-2005). Retro Cars Forever•28K views · 11:39.
Common 2004 Ford Thunderbird Problems: Troubleshooting ...
Oct 22, 2011 ... Ok usually a lack of power and jerking could be caused by failing ignition coils. In some cases water can leak past the coil covers into the ...
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.
Other years of Ford Thunderbird
Are you having problems with your 2004 Ford Thunderbird?
Rogers Wisoky 2025-01-09
The Lemon has been experiencing frequent failures, with breakdowns occurring about every 1,000 miles. Despite having had it towed in twice this month, including once on the way back home from the dealership after its last repair, the electrical system and factory installed stereo have not been wired in correctly, and the coils have failed twice. These issues are not what we expected from a 'high-end' car.
Niko Gutmann 2024-10-07
It's great to hear that you find the car fun to drive and powerful! However, it seems that the finish and paint quality may not be up to your standards. On the bright side, the air conditioning works well and it's not too noisy for a convertible. The interior finish may be a bit cheap, but overall it sounds like a decent car.
Amir Kertzmann 2024-07-06
Although I was thrilled to receive the car as a gift, it has unfortunately left me stranded multiple times due to the engine not turning over. Despite the local dealership service department's efforts, the problem remains unsolved after 11 weeks. While I still love the car, the repeated incidents of being stranded have been frustrating. It is clear that a more thorough and effective solution is needed to address this issue.
Aiden Abshire 2024-05-19
My T-bird has had 6 engine coils, 4 radio/CD players, 4 sets of brakes, and the engine thermostat with fan assembly replaced within 52,000 miles. Despite these issues, the T-bird is still fun to drive. However, the quality of the car does not meet the expected standards of Ford. The hard top leaks and Ford has refused to fix it, claiming that some leakage is normal. Additionally, the driver side rear quarter panel no longer lays flat with the rest of the body surface, and the black paint has faded in spots. The soft top also frays in two areas. While the car has its positives, the numerous issues and lack of quality control are concerning.
Shayne Kuvalis 2024-01-29
The car handles like a dream and the V8 really gets up and goes. I really love the body style, it reminds me of the old T-Bird that my mom had. All in all, I love the car!