1996 FORD THUNDERBIRD
4 recalls, 295 complaints - 116 TSBs
09E012000 Apr 7, 2009
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Defect Description
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... Read more
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.
06E065000 Jul 17, 2006
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Defect Description
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 ASSOCIAT... Read more
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.
96V070000 Apr 22, 1996
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH
Defect Description
WHEN IN THE SECONDARY LATCHED POSITION, THE DRIVER DOOR LATCHES MAY OPEN WHEN SUBJECTED TO TRANSVERSE LOADS LESS THAN THAT SPECIFIED IN FMVSS NO. 206, "DOOR LOCKS AND DOOR RETENTION COMPONENTS."
Consequence
THE DRIVER'S DOOR, WHEN CLOSED ONLY TO THE SECONDARY LATCHED POSITION, MAY NOT SUSTAIN A 1,000 POUND TRANSVERSE LOAD.
Remedy
DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND, IF NECESSARY, REPLACE THE DRIVER DOOR LATCH.
96V007000 Jan 16, 1996
EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER
Defect Description
UNDER CERTAIN CONDITIONS, THE CLIMATE CONTROL BLOWER DOES NOT OPERATE AS INTENDED. THE BLOWER COULD (1) STICK ON "HIGH;" (2) OPERATE ERRATICALLY WITH BLOWER OUTPUT VARYING BETWEEN NO BLOWER AND MAXIMUM BLOWER; OR (3) NOT OPERATE AT ALL DUE TO MALFUNCTION OF THE TEMPERATURE CONTROL MODULE.
Consequence
BLOWER MALFUNCTIONS LIMITING OR STOPPING OUTPUT CAN ADVERSELY AFFECT WINDSHIELD DEFROSTING AND DEFOGGING PERFORMANCE INCREASING THE POTENTIAL FOR A VEHICLE ACCIDENT.
Remedy
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE SEMI-AUTOMATIC TEMPERATURE CONTROL MODULES WITH MODULES CONTAINING REVISED SOFTWARE.
Complaint Statistics
295 total complaints
18 crashes 4 fires 29 injuries 1 deaths
Top Reported Components
| Component | Complaints |
|---|---|
| ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE | 20 |
| SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:ROTOR | 19 |
| ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:MANIFOLD/HEADER/MUFFLER/TAIL PIPE | 15 |
| ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING | 12 |
| POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION | 11 |
| EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER | 10 |
| SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS | 10 |
| SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC | 9 |
| ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM | 9 |
| TIRES:TREAD/BELT | 8 |
AIR BAGS
Oct 22, 2019
Incident date: Oct 2, 2002
AIR BAG FLASHING CODE
AIR BAGS
Jan 19, 2016
Incident date: Aug 19, 2015
WHEN DRIVING THE AIR BAG LIGHT BEGAN BLINKING THE HORN AND CRUISE CONTROL SWITCHESYSTEM STOPPED WORKING IN MOTION FAILURE OF THE CLOCK SPRING
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Jul 12, 2011
Incident date: Jul 6, 2011
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 FORD THUNDERBIRD. THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING 30 MPH WHEN HE NOTICED AN ABNORMALLY STRONG COOLANT ODOR. THE CONTACT THEN INSPECTED THE VEHICLE AND FOUND THAT THE ANTIFREEZE INTAKE MANIFOLD HAD FAILED. THE INTACT MANIFOLD WAS CRACKED AND CAUSING ANTIFREEZE TO SPILL. THE VEHICL... Read more
EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER
May 10, 2011
Incident date: Feb 15, 2011
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 FORD THUNDERBIRD. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 25 MPH WITH THE AIR CONDITIONER ACTIVATED THE FAN BLOWER STOPPED FUNCTIONING. THE CONTACT STATED THE FAILURE ALSO OCCURRED WHEN THE HEAT OR DEFROSTER WAS ACTIVATED. THE FUNCTIONS WOULD ALSO OPERATE ERRATICALLY CAUSING THE FAN B... Read more
STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR:HINGE AND ATTACHMENTS
Mar 17, 2008
Incident date: Jul 10, 2007
OPENING DOORS FROM THE INSIDE, LITTLE BY LITTLE, BOTH DOORS FAILED TO OPEN FROM THE INSIDE, HAD TO LEAVE WINDOW OR WINDOWS OPEN TO STICK HAND OUT TO OPEN DOOR FROM THE OUTSIDE. FAILURE OF THESE DOORS TO FUNCTION PROPERLY AT SOME POINT IF BATTERY WOULD GIVE OUT WOULD LEAVE US LOCKED IN, BUT FORTUNATE... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:MANIFOLD/HEADER/MUFFLER/TAIL PIPE
Aug 3, 2007
Incident date: Jun 18, 2007
DEFECTIVE INTAKE MANIFOLD. FORD REPLACED ONCE, FREE OF CHARGE @ 48,523 MILES. CRACKED AGAIN @ APPX. 95,700 MILES. FORD REFUSED TO REPLACE FREE OF CHARGE. REPLACED ONE DEFECTIVE MANIFOLD WITH ONE THAT WAS JUST AS DEFECTIVE. THERE WAS A CLASS ACTION SUIT ON THIS MANIFOLD, IT WAS SO BAD. *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Jul 14, 2007
Incident date: Aug 31, 1998
INTAKE (PLASTIC) CRACKS ;LEAVING FAMILY AND I STRANDED ON 30 MILE STRETCH OF HIGHWAY WITH NO HOUSES OR BUSINESS. TOWED TO STATION AND FIXED RECALLED INTAKE. TAXI COST HOME AND BACK 2 DAYS LATER TO RETRIEVE CAR SOON STARTED HAVING HEATER COIL LEAKS AND OVERHEATING;ANTIFREEZE CAUSING HEADACHES. ALMOS... Read more
1 injured
VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:HEATER CORE
Jul 14, 2007
Incident date: Aug 31, 1998
INTAKE (PLASTIC) CRACKS ;LEAVING FAMILY AND I STRANDED ON 30 MILE STRETCH OF HIGHWAY WITH NO HOUSES OR BUSINESS. TOWED TO STATION AND FIXED RECALLED INTAKE. TAXI COST HOME AND BACK 2 DAYS LATER TO RETRIEVE CAR SOON STARTED HAVING HEATER COIL LEAKS AND OVERHEATING;ANTIFREEZE CAUSING HEADACHES. ALMOS... Read more
1 injured
STRUCTURE
Jul 14, 2007
Incident date: Aug 31, 1998
INTAKE (PLASTIC) CRACKS ;LEAVING FAMILY AND I STRANDED ON 30 MILE STRETCH OF HIGHWAY WITH NO HOUSES OR BUSINESS. TOWED TO STATION AND FIXED RECALLED INTAKE. TAXI COST HOME AND BACK 2 DAYS LATER TO RETRIEVE CAR SOON STARTED HAVING HEATER COIL LEAKS AND OVERHEATING;ANTIFREEZE CAUSING HEADACHES. ALMOS... Read more
1 injured
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:MANIFOLD/HEADER/MUFFLER/TAIL PIPE
Dec 26, 2006
Incident date: Oct 30, 2006
TL* - THE CONTACT WANTED TO HAVE REPAIR DONE TO 1996 FORD THUNDERBIRD, HOWEVER SERVICE BULLETIN #97M91, DATED JAN 19, 1998 (NHTSA ITEM NUMBER: 605621) EXPIRED AND FORD CHARGED FOR THE REPAIRS. THE MILEAGE AT THE TIME OF THE FAILURE WAS 80000. THE CONTACT SAID THAT THE SERVICE BULLETIN WAS FOR THE ... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Sep 13, 2006
Incident date: Sep 8, 2006
DEFECTIVE INTAKE MANIFOLD ON 1996 FORD THUNDERBIRD. THE CAR ONLY HAS 84,450 MILES ON IT! COST WAS $1002.02 TO REPAIR. WHY IS THE CONSUMER BEING CHARGED FOR THIS COSTLY REPAIR WHEN THIS IS A KNOWN DEFECTIVE PART FROM THE FORD MOTOR COMPANY?*JB
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
Jul 6, 2006
Incident date: Jul 5, 2006
DT*: THE CONTACT STATED, WHILE TRAVELING AT 30 MPH THE BRAKES FAILED WHILE PRESSURE WAS APPLIED TO THE BRAKE PEDAL. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A SERVICE DEALER, WHERE A LEAK WAS FOUND ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE FRONT HYDRAULIC BRAKE LINE. THE LINE WAS CORRODED TWO INCHES FROM EITHER SIDE OF A CLIP HOLDING T... Read more
STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE:HINGE AND ATTACHMENTS
Apr 11, 2006
Incident date: Apr 4, 2006
COMPLIANT IS THAT THROUGH MY INSURANCE PROVIDER I WAS ALERTED TO TWO RECALLS THAT SHOULD BE AT LEAST LOOKED INTO ON MY AUTO. THE FIRST IS THE BLOWER ON THE CLIMATE CONTROL BEGAN TO WORK ERRATICALLY AND NOW IT DOES NOT WORK AT ALL. MEANING THAT MY DEFROSTING DOES NOT WORK AT ALL. THE OTHER AND MOR... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
Apr 11, 2006
Incident date: Apr 4, 2006
COMPLIANT IS THAT THROUGH MY INSURANCE PROVIDER I WAS ALERTED TO TWO RECALLS THAT SHOULD BE AT LEAST LOOKED INTO ON MY AUTO. THE FIRST IS THE BLOWER ON THE CLIMATE CONTROL BEGAN TO WORK ERRATICALLY AND NOW IT DOES NOT WORK AT ALL. MEANING THAT MY DEFROSTING DOES NOT WORK AT ALL. THE OTHER AND MOR... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:RADIATOR ASSEMBLY
Apr 11, 2006
Incident date: Apr 4, 2006
COMPLIANT IS THAT THROUGH MY INSURANCE PROVIDER I WAS ALERTED TO TWO RECALLS THAT SHOULD BE AT LEAST LOOKED INTO ON MY AUTO. THE FIRST IS THE BLOWER ON THE CLIMATE CONTROL BEGAN TO WORK ERRATICALLY AND NOW IT DOES NOT WORK AT ALL. MEANING THAT MY DEFROSTING DOES NOT WORK AT ALL. THE OTHER AND MOR... Read more
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH
Apr 11, 2006
Incident date: Apr 4, 2006
COMPLIANT IS THAT THROUGH MY INSURANCE PROVIDER I WAS ALERTED TO TWO RECALLS THAT SHOULD BE AT LEAST LOOKED INTO ON MY AUTO. THE FIRST IS THE BLOWER ON THE CLIMATE CONTROL BEGAN TO WORK ERRATICALLY AND NOW IT DOES NOT WORK AT ALL. MEANING THAT MY DEFROSTING DOES NOT WORK AT ALL. THE OTHER AND MOR... Read more
VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM
Apr 11, 2006
Incident date: Apr 4, 2006
COMPLIANT IS THAT THROUGH MY INSURANCE PROVIDER I WAS ALERTED TO TWO RECALLS THAT SHOULD BE AT LEAST LOOKED INTO ON MY AUTO. THE FIRST IS THE BLOWER ON THE CLIMATE CONTROL BEGAN TO WORK ERRATICALLY AND NOW IT DOES NOT WORK AT ALL. MEANING THAT MY DEFROSTING DOES NOT WORK AT ALL. THE OTHER AND MOR... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM
Jan 20, 2006
Incident date: Dec 9, 2005
DT*: THE CONTACT STATED THE INTAKE MANIFOLD CRACKED AND CAUSED THE VEHICLE TO OVERHEAT WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING. THE VEHICLE WAS SEEN BY AN INDEPENDENT REPAIR SHOP. THE REPAIR SHOP PERSONNEL SUGGESTED THE MANIFOLD CRACKED DUE TO THE COMPOSITE PLASTIC USED IN MANUFACTURING. THE MANIFOLD WAS REPLACED ... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM
Dec 22, 2005
Incident date: May 10, 2005
I HAD A 96 T-BIRD THAT MY DAUGHTER NOW OWNS. THE PLASTIC MANIFOLD CRACKED LAST SPRING CAUSING ME TO BE STRANDED ON THE HIGHWAY. MY SISTER TOWED ME TO HER HOUSE WHERE THE VEHICLE SAT UNTIL I GOT A NEW MANIFOLD FOR ABOUT $289 ONLINE. I INSTALLED IT MYSELF TAKING ME ABOUT 2 DAYS AND DRIVING 45 MILES... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:MANIFOLD/HEADER/MUFFLER/TAIL PIPE
Oct 3, 2005
Incident date: Jul 8, 2005
INTAKE MANIFOLD CRACKED. THIS PART WAS MADE OUT OF NYLON AND IS A KNOWN DEFECTIVE PART INSTALLED AT THE FACTORY. FORD MOTOR COMPANY REFUSED TO REIMBURSE STATING THAT THERE WAS A CUSTOMER SATISFACTION ACTION IN 1996. SINCE THE PROBLEM WAS DUE TO A KNOWN DEFECTIVEPART I THINK IT SHOULD BE COVERED F... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Jul 26, 2005
Incident date: Aug 15, 2004
3.8 CYLINDER HEAD FAILURE
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH
Jun 1, 2005
Incident date: Mar 30, 2005
DT: THE DRIVER'S SIDE DOOR OPEN'S PROPERLY BUT DOES NOT CLOSE AS IT SHOULD. THE CONSUMER THINKS THE DOOR IS CLOSED CLOSE UNTIL NOTICING THAT THE DOOR AJAR LIGHT IS ILLUMINATED ON THE INSTRUMENT PANEL. *AK *NM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:MANIFOLD/HEADER/MUFFLER/TAIL PIPE
Apr 21, 2005
Incident date: Apr 10, 2005
PLASTIC INTAKE MANIFOLD FAILURE ON A 1996 FORD THUNDERBIRD V8. PART FAILURE WAS PRECEDED BY A "CHECK ENGINE LIGHT" AND "LOW COOLANT" LIGHT. TURNS OUT THAT FORD HAD PUT OUT "SERVICE BULLETIN" IN 1999 AND FOLLOWED UP ON IT IN 2001 ON THIS ISSUE (97M91) YET THEY NEVER NOTIFIED ANY OWNERS. COST OF... Read more
Fire
VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:FAN/MOTOR
Feb 17, 2005
Incident date: Nov 2, 2004
THE DRIVER NOTICED THAT THE BLOWER WAS INOPERATIVE. THE BLOWER FAILS TO TURN ON SOMETIMES AND IT STICKS ON HIGH AT ALL TIMES. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER FOR INSPECTION. THE MECHANIC INFORMED THE DRIVER THAT THE ELECTRONIC CONTROL MODULE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER... Read more
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
Dec 6, 2004
Incident date: Dec 1, 2004
THERE IS A WHITRE CLOUDY FILM ON THE HEADLIGHTS CREATING POOR VISABILITY AT NIGHT.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:MANIFOLD/HEADER/MUFFLER/TAIL PIPE
Dec 1, 2004
Incident date: Aug 1, 2004
1996 FORD THUNDERBIRD 4.6L V8 MOTOR FAILURE OF PLASTIC INTAKE MANIFOLD. DRIVING HOME UNDER NORMAL CONDITIONS AND CHECK COOLANT LIGHT CAME ON. DUAGHTER SAID SHE HAD THOUGHT SHE SMELLED BURNING COOLANT FOR SEVERAL DAYS PRIOR. TOOK TO MECHANIC AND HE POINTED OUT THE CRACK IN THE INTAKE MANIFOLD. SAID T... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:MANIFOLD/HEADER/MUFFLER/TAIL PIPE
Nov 26, 2004
Incident date: Apr 10, 2004
COOLANT FUMES/ODOR WAS COMING INSIDE THE VEHICLE WHILE DRIVING AT ANY SPEED. CONSUMER INSPECTED THE VEHICLE AND FOUND A CRACK IN THE INTAKE MANIFOLD. CONSUMER NOTIFIED THE DEALER, WHO INFORMED THE CONSUMER THAT THIS VEHICLE WAS NOT COVERED UNDER A PRESENT RECALL.*AK
VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM
Nov 10, 2004
Incident date: Oct 1, 2004
CLIMATE CONTROL MODULE FAILED, AS A RESULT, DEFROSTER AND DEFOGGER FAILED, CAUSING IMPAIRED VISION. *BF THE CONSUMER'S VEHICLE EXHIBITED THE SAME SYMPTOMS STATED IN RECALL 96V-007000, BUT IS NOT INCLUDE IN THE RECALL DUE TO VIN. *NM
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
Oct 29, 2004
Incident date: Oct 29, 2004
1996 FORD THUNDERBIRD 4.6L 281CID V8 MOTOR FAILURE OF PLASTIC INTAKE MANIFOLD. DRIVING HOME UNDER NORMAL CONDITIONS AND CHECK COOLANT LIGHT CAME ON. WIFE SAID SHE HAD THOUGHT SHE SMELLED BURNING COOLANT FOR SEVERAL DAYS PRIOR. TOOK TO MECHANIC AND HE POINTED OUT THE CRACK IN THE INTAKE MANIFOLD. SAI... Read more
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL
Oct 28, 2004
Incident date: Oct 19, 2004
WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED. VEHICLE REVVED EVEN WHILE THE CONSUMER HAD BOTH FEET ON THE BRAKE. CONSUMER PULLED OVER TO THE SIDE, WENT THROUGH A GUARD RAIL, AND FINALLY STOPPED WHEN THE VEHICLE HIT A TREE. VEHICLE WAS TOTALED. *AK *TC
Crash
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
Sep 16, 2004
Incident date: Sep 16, 2004
I WAS TOLD THAT THEIR IS A RECALL ON MY 1996 FORD THUNDERBIRD FOR A FAULTY INTAKE COOLING MANIFOLD. CAN YOU PLEASE CONFIRM THIS. I DO NOT SEE IT ON YOUR RECALL LIST. *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:MANIFOLD/HEADER/MUFFLER/TAIL PIPE
Sep 1, 2004
Incident date: Aug 18, 2004
WHILE DRIVING CONSUMER NOTICED SMOKE COMING FROM THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE. CONSUMER WAS ABLE TO MAINTAIN CONTROL OF THE VEHICLE, AND DROVE IT TO A BODY SHOP. MECHANIC DETERMINED THAT THE INTAKE MANIFOLD WAS CRACKED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. *AK
VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:WINDSHIELD:ELECTRICAL HEATING ELEMENT
Aug 30, 2004
Incident date: Jul 15, 2004
THE CLIMATE CONTROL MODULE FAILED. AS A RESULT, THE DEFROSTER AND DEFOGGER FAILED, CAUSING IMPAIRED VISION. RECALL 96V007000) WAS ISSUED, HOWEVER THIS VEHICLE WAS NOT INCLUDED IN THE RECALL DUE TO VIN. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM
Jul 27, 2004
Incident date: May 1, 2000
VEHICLE'S INTAKE MANIFOLD CRACKED ON 1996 FORD THUNDERBIRD.*MR THE VEHICLE INTAKE MANIFOLD FAILED AND WAS REPLACED UNDER RECALL. ABOUT ONE YEAR AFTER THE INTAKE MANIFOLD WAS REPLACED THE CONSUMER STARTED SMELLING ANTIFREEZE INSIDE THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE SHOP WHERE THE CONSUMER ... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM
Jul 13, 2004
Incident date: May 1, 2000
PROBLEMS WITH THE INTAKE MANIFOLD ON 1996 FORD THUNDERBIRD.*MR THE VEHICLE'S INTAKE MANIFOLD CRACKED. THE MANIFOLD WAS REPLACED, FREE OF CHARGE, WITH ANOTHER PLASTIC MANIFOLD DUE TO A RECALL. APPROXIMATELY A YEAR AFTER THE MANIFOLD WAS REPLACED THE CONSUMER STARTED SMELLING ANTI-FREEZE INSIDE TH... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:MANIFOLD/HEADER/MUFFLER/TAIL PIPE
Jun 23, 2004
Incident date: Jun 2, 2004
IN FEBRRUARY 2003, MY 1996 FORD THUNDERBIRD 4.6L STARTED SPEWING WHAT I THOUGHT WAS SMOKE FROM THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT. I WAS JUST AT MY DRIVEWAY AND PULLED IN. AFTER OPENING THE HOOD I REALIZED IT WAS NOT SMOKE BUT COOLANT THAT WAS BEING SPRAYED ALL OVER THE HOT ENGINE. I HAD THE CAR TOWED TO F... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Jun 21, 2004
Incident date: Jun 21, 2004
WHILE DRIVING 40 MPH VEHICLE STALLED. THIS CAUSED LOSS OF STEERING AND BRAKES. VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE INDEPENDENT SHOP, AND MECHANIC DID NOT KNOW WHAT WAS WRONG WITH THE VEHICLE. *AK
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Apr 26, 2004
Incident date: Apr 24, 2004
CAR HAS APPARENTLY HAD A RECALL ON THE PLASTIC INTAKE MANIFOLD FOR 7 YEARS. I HAVE OWNED THE CAR FOR OVER 2 YEARS, BUT HAVE NEVER RECEIVED ANY INFORMATION ON THIS DEFECT. WHILE DRIVING THE CARE APX. 60 MILES FROM MY HOME, MY DAUGHTER AND I WERE LEFT STRANDED WHEN THE INTAKE MANIFOLD STARTED FOUNTA... Read more
UNKNOWN OR OTHER
Apr 22, 2004
Incident date: Jul 15, 2003
INTAKE MANIFOLD IS CRACKED AND LEAKING ENGINE COOLANT. I HAVE NOT HAD THE VEHICLE REPAIRED DUE TO THE COST. I SEARCHED THE INTERNET FOR RECALLS ON THIS AND FOUND THE TSB# 97M91. I CALLED FORD AND SPOKE WITH PHILOMENA, ID #3157 AND WAS TOLD THIS WAS AN EXTENDED WARRANTY AND THAT THEY HAD NOTIFIED ... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Apr 22, 2004
Incident date: Apr 15, 2003
HEAD GASKETS FAILED RUINING MY CYLINDERS AS WELL WHILE DRIVING ON THE HIGHWAY WITH MY CHILDREN. BARELY GOT THE CAR HOME WITH A CLOUD OF WHITE SMOKE. I CANNOT AFFORD TO FIX THIS THE CAR HAS BEEN SITTING FOR ALMOST 1 AND A HALF MONTHS, AND I STILL OWE 5900 DOLLARS ON IT. I HAVE TO RIDE MY BIKE TO WORK... Read more
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS:SWITCH
Apr 20, 2004
Incident date: Apr 20, 2004
96 FORD THUNDERBIRD HEADLIGHT SWITCH SHORTINGSMOKING HEADLIGHTS OUT. KEVIN VANOY, ASTORG FORD PARKERSBURG, WV SAYS THIS IS COMMON. HE ORDERED PART SAID MECHANIC SEPARATED WIRES AND ORDERED PARTS. SAID NO MORE PROBLEMS DRIVE AWAY. LIGHTS STILL GO OUT MELTING WIRES. GLEN DETHY CARRIAGE FORD CLARKSVI... Read more
1 injured
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
Apr 16, 2004
Incident date: Feb 4, 2004
THE CONSUMER'S 1996 FORD THUNDERBIRD COMPLETELY BROKE DOWN DUE TO THE FAILURE OF THE PLASTIC INTAKE MANIFOLD. *PH THE VEHICLE WAS PURCHASED NEW AND THE CONSUMER WASN'T GIVEN PRIOR WARNING THAT THIS EXISTED. THE DEFECTIVE PART WAS ON THE VEHICLE BETWEEN THE DATES OF MAY 1996 AND FEBRUARY 2004. ... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:MANIFOLD/HEADER/MUFFLER/TAIL PIPE
Jan 12, 2004
Incident date: Jan 9, 2004
CRACKED PLASTIC INTAKE MANIFOLD THAT CAUSED A MAJOR COOLANT LEAK. *LA
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:MANIFOLD/HEADER/MUFFLER/TAIL PIPE
Jan 10, 2004
Incident date: Sep 1, 2003
MY COMPLAINT IS ABOUT THE CRACKED INTAKE MANIFOLD CURRENTLY SITTING IN MY 1996 THUNDERBIRD 4.6L ALTHOUGH I CAN FIND ONLY A LITTLE BIT OF INFORMATION ON THIS MATTER REGARDING RECALLS; CLASS ACTION SUITS; AND FREE OF CHARGE REPLACEMENTS; I AM VERY INTERESTED IN FINDING OUT IF THERE IS ACTUALLY ANYTHIN... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Jan 5, 2004
INTAKE MANIFOLD CRACKED BEHIND THE ALTERNATOR LEAKING ANTI-FREEZE ALL OVER THE PLACE. CONSUMER FOUND A TSB REGARDING THE PROBLEM. *LA THE CONSUMER FELT THAT FORD SHOULD CONTINUE TO REPLACE THE PART(S) UNTIL THE VEHICLE IS FIXED. THE INTAKE MANIFOLD HAD BEEN REPLACED ON TWO OCCASIONS AND MAY BE... Read more
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM:FUEL RAIL
Dec 16, 2003
Incident date: Dec 16, 2003
THE CONSUMER NOTICED THE FUEL LINE WAS LEAKING GAS. AN INDEPENDENT SHOP REPLACED THE FUEL RAIL. DEALER NOTIFIED. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION. *JB
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:ROTOR
Dec 3, 2003
PROBLEMS WITH BRAKE ROTORS ON VEHICLE ARE WARPED. *MR THE FRONT ROTORS WERE REPLACED, LEFT AND RIGHT (2 TIMES) AND WERE WARPED AGAIN. *SCC *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:MANIFOLD/HEADER/MUFFLER/TAIL PIPE
Nov 19, 2003
Incident date: Oct 20, 1998
IN OCTOBER OF 1998 VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED UNDER A RECALL FOR THE INTAKE MANIFOLD. CURRENTLY, THE VEHICLE OVERHEATED DUE TO A CRACK IN THE INTAKE MANIFOLD. *AK WHEN THE INTAKE MANIFOLD IS REPLACED, THE OLD STYLE IS USED WHICH IS WHY THE CONSUMER BELIEVES IT FAILS AGAIN. CON... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:MANIFOLD/HEADER/MUFFLER/TAIL PIPE
Oct 14, 2003
Incident date: Oct 8, 2003
DEFECTIVE PLASTIC INTAKE MANIFOLD. NEVER NOTIFIED OF ANY RECALL CONCERNING DEFECTIVE INTAKE MANIFOLD. FORD SAYS IT'S NOT COVERED. I PAID TO HAVE IT FIXED AND THEY REPLACED IT WITH ANOTHER PLASTIC INTAKE MANIFOLD -- THE LINK BELOW SHOWS OVER 250 OTHER CONSUMERS COMPLAINING ABOUT THE SAME THING. ... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
Oct 8, 2003
Incident date: Oct 9, 2003
THE 1996 FORD THUNDERBIRD'S HEAD GASKET BLEW AND TRANSMISSION IS SLIPPING. IT HAS BEEN USING WATER SINCE WE BOUGHT IT FROM THE DEALER. *LA
Showing 50 of 295 complaints.
EPA Fuel Economy, 1996 FORD THUNDERBIRD
| Trim / Engine | City MPG | Highway MPG | Combined MPG | Fuel Type | Annual Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3.8L 6-cyl, Automatic 4-spd (Rear-Wheel Drive) | 17.0 | 24.0 | 19.0 | Regular | $3,250 |
| 4.6L 8-cyl, Automatic 4-spd (Rear-Wheel Drive) | 15.0 | 23.0 | 18.0 | Regular | $3,400 |
CO2 Emissions: -1.0 g/mile (Midsize Cars)
Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Actual fuel economy may vary based on driving conditions.
Technical Service Bulletins, 1996 FORD THUNDERBIRD
116 manufacturer communications from 114 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.
Most Affected Components
| Component | Bulletins |
|---|---|
| 980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER | 9 |
| 061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE | 8 |
| 103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION | 8 |
| 034000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS | 6 |
| 060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING | 6 |
| 061100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE | 6 |
| 116200 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:MODULE | 5 |
| 063000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM | 5 |
03181
Sep 15, 2003
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
REMOTE KEYLESS ENTRY (RKE) - SERVICE TIPS. *TT
03261
Jan 5, 2003
103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
NEW SERVICE PART - NUMBER 5 NEEDLE BEARING AND RACE KIT - 4R70W TRANSMISSION - SERVICE TIP. *TT
02221
Nov 11, 2002
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
ENGINE-GEAR DRIVEN SYNCHRONIZERS-INCORRECT INSTALLATION-CAMSHAFT POSITION SYNCHRONIZER (CMP) INSTALLATION TOOL CORRECT APPLICATION. *MJ
870197
Oct 22, 2002
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
INCORRECTLY INSTALLED GEAR DRIVEN CAMSHAFT POSITION (CMP) SENSOR SYNCHRONIZER ASSEMBLIES CAUSING SURGE, LOST OF POWER, MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP ON AND DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES P1336, P1309 AND P0340. *TT
02208
Oct 14, 2002
357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER
CLIMATE CONTROL A/C SERVICE TECH TIPS. *EH
02176
Sep 2, 2002
125100 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH
LAMP-BRAKE-INVADVERTENT DISABLING OF BRAKE SHIFT INTERLOCK. *MJ
0222
Feb 4, 2002
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT AN INTAKE MANIFOLD CROSSOVER (FIRST RUNNER) COOLANT SEEPAGE CONDITION. *TT
0214
Jan 21, 2002
061100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE
SOME ENGINE ASSEMBLIES WITH ALUMINUM CYLINDER HEADS REPAIRED IN-VEHILE HAVE BEEN FOUND TO LEAK COOLANT AND/OR OIL FROM THE CYLINDER HEAD GASKET AREA. *TT
01246
Dec 10, 2001
061100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE
ENGINE OIL SYSTEM PRIMING PROCEDURES, SERVICE TIPS FOR REPORTS OF PREMATURE ENGINE FAILURE. *TT
01181
Sep 17, 2001
103800 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:PARK/NEUTRAL START INTERLOCK SWITCH
BRAKE SHIFT INTERLOCK.*JB
01156
Aug 6, 2001
138600 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:HEATER CORE
SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT HEATER CORE LEAKS. *SLC
01157
Aug 6, 2001
980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER
INFORMATION REGARDING TRANSMISSION FLUID USAGE CHARTS. *SLC
0147
Mar 5, 2001
061100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE
SUBJECT REGARDING ENGINE OIL RECOMMENDATIONS FOR USE IN 2001 VEHICLES - SAE 5W-20 MOTOR OIL. *TT
002310
Nov 13, 2000
103600 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:COOLING UNIT AND LINES
SUBJECT REGARDING CONTAMINATION FROM PRIOR TRANSMISSION CONCERNS OR EXCESS WEAR MAY BE TRAPPED IN THE TRANSMISSION FLUID COOLING SYSTEM. *TT
99B29#1
Apr 1, 2000
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
INFORMATION REGARDING REPLACMENT OF ENGINE FRONT COVER GASKET. **MR
0015
Jan 10, 2000
103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
INFORMATION REGARDING THE NEW TRANSMISSION COOLER FLUSHER- SERVICE TIP. *MJS
99B29
Dec 1, 1999
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
SOME VEHICLES MAY EXPERIENCE ENGINE COOLANT LEAKS AT THE ENGINE FRONT COVER GASKET. OWNER NOTIFICATION PROGRAM PROVIDING REPLACEMENT OF THE ENGINE FRONT COVER GASKET. *TT
99222
Oct 18, 1999
114000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
SUBJECT ON A WIRE HARNESS TERMINAL REPAIR KIT AVAILABLE FOR REPAIRING ELECTRICAL WIRING HARNESSES. *TT
99207
Oct 4, 1999
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
SUBJECT ON ENGINE COOLANT LEAKING INTO THE ENGINE OIL ON SOME VEHICLES. *TT
99194
Sep 20, 1999
034000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS
INFORMATION FOR SERVICING AND DIAGNOSING BRAKE VIBRATION, BRAKE INSPECTION, AND BRAKE FRICTION MATERIAL REPLACEMENT. *TT
99196
Sep 20, 1999
357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER
INFORMATION ON IDENTIFYING NON-APPROVED / ALTERNATE REFRIGERANTS WHICH COULD CAUSE SAFETY, AND PERFORMANCE CONCERNS IF INSTALLED IN FORD A/C SYSTEMS. *TT
6996
Sep 1, 1999
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
INFORMATION REGARDING A CHANGE IN THE TORQUE VALUES OF THE ENGINE FRONT COVER WATER PUMP BOLTS. *TT
13186
Sep 1, 1999
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
INFORMATION REGARDING FRONT COVER & WATER PUMP BOLTS-TORQUE VALVE REVISION/3.8-4.2L. *MJS
99152
Jul 26, 1999
103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
INFORMATION ON THE NEW FLUSH AND FILL TOOL AVAILABLE THROUGH ROTUNDA. *TT
99131
Jun 28, 1999
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
CONCERNS WITH ENGINE COOLANT LEAKING INTO ENGINE OIL ON SOME VEHICLES. *TT
99139
Jun 28, 1999
125000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS
CONDITIONS WITH THE BRAKE LAMPS INADVERTENTLY DISABLING THE BRAKE SHIFT INTERLOCK. *TT
99111
Jun 14, 1999
980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER
INFORMATION DESIGNED TO AID IN THE DIAGNOSIS, TESTING AND REPAIR OF NOISE, VIBRATION AND HARSHNESS (NVH) CONCERNS. *TT
99129
Jun 14, 1999
072100 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
INFORMATION ON "WHINING" / "BUZZING" NOISE COMING THROUGH ENTERTAINMENT OR TWO-WAY RADIO SPEAKER CAUSED BY THE FUEL PUMP. *TT
99129
Jun 14, 1999
353400 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.
EXPERIENCING A WHINE / BUZZ TYPE NOISE IN THE SPEAKERS OF THE ENTERTAINMENT RADIO OR TWO-WAY RADIO ON VEHICLES WITH AN IN-TANK ELECTRIC FUEL PUMP. *TT
991210
Jun 14, 1999
980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER
FORD MOTOR COMPANY HAS RELEASED A PRIVATE LABELED MATERIAL TO BE USED FOR IRON PARTICLE / ACID RAIN SERVICE REPAIRS. *TT
9996
May 17, 1999
103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
EXPERIENCING A DELAYED OR NO 2-3 UPSHIFT, PRIMARILY WHEN THE TRANSMISSION IS COLD ON VEHICLES WITH FORD QALITY REMANUFACTURED (FQR) 4R70W TRANSMISSION EXCHANGE UNITS WITH JULIAN BUILD BETWEEN 062-97 AND 040-99. *TT
99-8-15
May 3, 1999
162300 STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR
SUBJECT REGARDING DOOR TRIM PANEL REPLACEMENT - SERVICE TIP. *TT
99816
May 3, 1999
061100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE
FORD MOTOR COMPANY NOW RECOMMENDS SAE 5W-30 VISCOSITY GRADE FOR SERVICING ANY FORD GASOLINE-POWERED VEHICLE REGARDLESS OF MODEL YEAR. *TT
9943
Mar 8, 1999
100000 POWER TRAIN
INFORMATION REGARDING REPROGRAMMING POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULES (PCMS). *TT
9943
Mar 8, 1999
116200 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:MODULE
INFORMATION REGARDING REPROGRAMMING POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULES (PCMS). *TT
98246
Dec 7, 1998
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
FORD MOTOR COMPANY HAS RELEASED A NEW ELECTRICAL GREASE ( F8AZ - 19G208-AA ) TO REDUCE THE POSSIBILITY OF MOISTURE CORROSION AT THE TERMINALS. *YC
982310
Nov 23, 1998
063100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL
MASS AIR FLOW (MAF)- SENSOR CONTAMINATION- SERVICE TIP. *AK
982323
Nov 23, 1998
162000 STRUCTURE:BODY
INFORMATION REGARDING REPLACEMENT AND / OR REPAIRS ON ANY LOCK COMPONENT. *YC
98216
Nov 1, 1998
010000 STEERING
A STEERING WHEEL MOVEMENT FELT WHEN DRIVING OVER ROUGH SURFACES.
12098
Nov 1, 1998
136000 VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER
SOME VEHICLES WITH NON-FUNCTIONAL WINDSHIELD WIPERS MAY REQUIRE WIPER MOTOR REPLACEMENT. *MJS
985111
Nov 1, 1998
136000 VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER
SOME VEHICLES WITH NON-FUNCTIONAL WINDSHIELD WIPERS MAY REQUIRE WIPER MOTOR REPLACEMENT. *TT
982010
Oct 12, 1998
063000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM
EXPERIENCING A " BUZZING " OR " RATTLING " NOISE FROM THE EXHAUST SYSTEM. *YC
4643
Aug 1, 1998
061100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE
SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT AN RPM FLARE ON A FORCED 4/2 DOWNSHIFT. ADDITIONALLY, THE COMMANDED ELECTRONIC PRESSURE CONTROL IS AT APPROMATELY 10 PSI. *TT
11760
Aug 1, 1998
102000 POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION
SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT AN RPM FLARE ON A FORCED 4/2 DOWNSHIFT. *TT
9887
Apr 27, 1998
103700 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:TORQUE CONVERTER
EXPERIENCING A TORQUE CONVERTER CLUTCH SHUDDER OR VIBRATION. *YC
9888
Apr 27, 1998
103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
INFORMATION ON A NEW TRANSMISSION FLUID USAGE CHART. *YC
9852
Apr 13, 1998
190000 TIRES
INFORMATION ON TIRE COMPANY TELEPHONE NUMBERS FOR CUSTOMER ASSISTANCE. *YC
9873
Apr 13, 1998
353400 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.
EXPERIENCING A WHINING / BUZZING NOISE IN THE SPEAKERS OF THE ENTERTAINMENT RADIO OR TWO-WAY RADIO. *TT
9874
Apr 13, 1998
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
A NEW SILICONE GASKET AND SEALANT. *YC
9864
Mar 30, 1998
063000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM
INFORMATION ON A BUZZING OR RATTLE NOISE FROM THE EXHAUST SYSTEM. *TT
985A5
Mar 18, 1998
034530 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:ROTOR
HUB-MOUNT BRAKE ROTOR MACHINING EQUIPMENT FROM ROTUNDA IS NOW APPROVED FOR WARRANTY AND SERVICE USE. *YC
985A6
Mar 18, 1998
036000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP
SOME VEHICLES MAY CYCLE WHEN BRAKES ARE APPLIED ON ROUGH ROADS OR ON AN INCLINE WHILE MAKING A SHARP TURN. *YC
985A11
Mar 18, 1998
034000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS
SERVICE TIP INFORMATION REGARDING ELIMINATION OF SANDING ROTORS AND DRUMS. *YC
985A13
Mar 18, 1998
034500 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC
THE USE OF PETROLEUM-BASED GREASE AS A LUBRICANT IN SERVICING DISC BRAKES IS NO LONGER ACCEPTABLE. *YC
985A18
Mar 18, 1998
034000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS
SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT BRAKE ROUGHNESS (BRAKE PEDAL PULSATION, STEERING WHEEL SHAKE AND / OR NIBBLE) UNDER LIGHT BRAKE APPLICATIONS FROM 105 TO 0 KM/H (65 TO 0 MPH). *YC
9845
Mar 2, 1998
045300 SERVICE BRAKES, AIR:DISC:ROTOR
AVAILABILITY OF HUB-MOUNT BRAKE ROTOR MACHINING EQUIPMENT. *YC
9834
Feb 16, 1998
063100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL
AIR INLET-WATER IN AIR INLET ELBOW-MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP (MIL) ILLUMINATES DUE TO WATER CONTAMINATION OF AIR FILTER AND/OR MASS AIR FLOW SENSOR (MAF)- VEHICLE SWITH 4.6L ENGINE. *AK
983224
Feb 12, 1998
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
SOME VEHICLES MAY HAVE WATER CONTAMINATION IN THE AIR FILTER AND / OR THE MASS AIR FLOW SENSOR. *TT
983108
Feb 1, 1998
061100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE
EFFECTIVE MARCH 2, 1998M3.8L ENGINE ASSEMBLY IS ADDED TO FQR(FORD QUALITY RENEWAL) ASSEMBLY PROGRAM. *AK
9814
Jan 19, 1998
034530 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:ROTOR
SUBJECT REGARDING THE AVAILABILITY OF HUB-MOUNT BRAKE ROTOR MACHINING EQUIPMENT. *TT
97M91
Jan 19, 1998
075000 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:CARBURETOR SYSTEM
INFORMATION REGARDING ADDITIONAL COVERAGE FOR INTAKE MANIFOLD MALFUNCTIONS. *TT
97111097234
Nov 10, 1997
113000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:STARTER ASSEMBLY
VEHICLES EXHIBITING A "SQUEAKING" OR "CHIRPING" FROM THE BLOWER MOTOR AT LOW BLOWER MOTOR SPEEDS. *YC
97090297184
Sep 2, 1997
353400 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.
SOME VEHICLES MAY EXPERIENCE STATIC IN THE AM BAND OF THE RADIO WHILE DRIVING. *YC
BC2364970501
May 1, 1997
980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER
INSTRUCTIONS FOR REMOVING AND REINSTALLING A LOOSE FENDER CLADDING. *TW
BC105709705
May 1, 1997
162000 STRUCTURE:BODY
INSTRUCTIONS FOR RE-INSTALLING LOOSE FENDER CLADDING. *TW
97050110617
May 1, 1997
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
VEHICLES MAY EXPERIENCE ILLUMINATION OF THE ENGINE COOLING INDICATOR LIGHT. *TW
9768
Mar 17, 1997
980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER
FUEL ECONOMY- CUSTOMER EXPECTATIONS VERSUS VEHICLE USAGE. *JD
97610
Mar 17, 1997
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
BLOWER MOTOR- "CHIRPING" OR "SQUEAKING" FROM BLOWER MOTOR AT LOW SPEEDS. *JD
9751
Mar 3, 1997
220000 SEATS
INTERIOR- LEATHER SEAT CLEANING PROCEDURE- SERVICE TIP. *JD
9753
Mar 3, 1997
190000 TIRES
VIBRATION- TIRES- VIBRATION FELT WHILE DRIVING AT HIGHWAY SPEEDS- VEHICLES BUILT THROUGH 12/20/96 EQUIPPED WITH 16 INCH GOODYEAR TIRES. *JD
97510
Mar 3, 1997
102100 POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION:COLUMN SHIFT ASSEMBLY
TRANSMISSION- 4R70W- DELAYED 1-2 SHIFT AND/OR ROUGH 3-4 SHIFTS- VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 4.6L ENGINE BUILT THROUGH 6/24/96. *JD
97511
Mar 3, 1997
103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
FLUID- TRANSMISSION FLUID USAGE CHARTS. *JD
BC3231970211
Feb 11, 1997
134000 VISIBILITY:SUN/MOON ROOF ASSEMBLY
WINDNOISE FROM FACTORY INSTALLED MOONROOFS. *TW
BC3243970210
Feb 10, 1997
062300 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:HOSES/LINES/PIPING/FITTINGS
ENGINE COOLING LIGHT ON - POSSIBLE OIL LEAK AT UPPER JAM NUT ON THE UPPER TRANSMISSION COOLER LINE. *TW
BC3274970207
Feb 7, 1997
121000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
REPLACEMENT HEADLAMP BULBS - SEVERAL AFTERMARKET COMPANIES ARE OFFERING REPLACEMENT BULBS WITH A HIGHER WATTAGE THAT ARE NOT DOT APPROVED - SOLD WITH DISCLAIMER OF "FOR OFF-ROAD USE ONLY" - THE BULBS DRAW MORE CURRENT THAN THE OEM BULBS A
BC3281970206
Feb 6, 1997
020000 SUSPENSION
VEHICLES EXHIBIT A PULL WHILE BRAKING - CHECK FOR KINKED BRAKE LINES , REPLACE IF NECESSARY - REPLACE LOWER ARM AND STRUT BUSHINGS ON THE SIDE THE VEHICLE PULL TO. *TW
BC3288970206
Feb 6, 1997
061110 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:BELTS AND ASSOCIATED PULLEYS
VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT A COLD START ENGINE FEAD BELT CHIRP NOISE. *TW
9735
Feb 3, 1997
357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER
AIR CONDITIONING- R-134A TRACER DYE INSTALLED IN A/C SYSTEM AND THREE O-RING SPRING LOCK COUPLERS- SERVICE TIP. *JD
BC3342973101
Feb 1, 1997
980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER
EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY THE 4.6L 2V ENGINE ASSEMBLY FOR THE VEHICLE IS AVAILABLE AS A FORD QUALITY RENEWAL ASSEMBLY. *JD
BC3342972301
Jan 23, 1997
980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER
4.6L 2V ENGINE ASSEMBLY FOR VEHICLES IS AVAILABLE AS A FORD QUALITY RENEWAL ASSEMBLY. *JD
BC1023597230
Jan 23, 1997
980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER
EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY THE 4.6L 2V ENGINE ASSEMBLY FOR THE VEHICLE IS AVAILABLE AS A FORD QUALITY RENEWAL ASSEMBLY. *JD
BC1023897230
Jan 23, 1997
980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER
VEHICLE EXHIBITS A PULL WHILE BRAKING, FOLLOW PROCEDURES OUTLINED IN 06-00-4 & PINPOINT TEST "A" ON 06-00-5 OF THE 1997 SERVICE MANUAL. *JD
BC0226970201
Jan 2, 1997
103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
ERRATIC SHIFTHING OF THE TRANSMISSION. *JD
9717
Jan 2, 1997
102000 POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION
THERE MAY BE DELAYED ENGAGEMENTS FROM "PARK" TO "REVERSE" OR "PARK" TO "OVERDRIVE" AND/OR DELAYED 1-2 SHIFTS OR ROUGH 3-4 SHIFTS- THIS MAY BE DUE TO THE CALIBRATION OF THE POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE. *JD
96265
Dec 16, 1996
116200 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:MODULE
MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP (MIL) - DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES (DTCS) P0300, P0301, P0302, P0303, P0304, P0305, P0306, P0307, AND/OR P0308 STORED IN MEMORY. *TW
962612
Dec 16, 1996
103700 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:TORQUE CONVERTER
TRANSAXLE - TORQUE CONVERTER REPLACEMENT GUIDELINES AND TORQUE CONVERTER/TRANSAXLE COOLING SYSTEM CLEANING PROCEDURES - SERVICE TIP. *TW
962510
Dec 2, 1996
116200 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:MODULE
MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP (MIL) - DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES (DTCS) P0300, P0301, P0302, P0303, P0304, P0305, P0306, P0307 AND/OR P0308 STORED IN MEMORY. *TW
962511
Dec 2, 1996
116200 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:MODULE
POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE -REPROGRAM POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULE (PCM) - SERVICE PROCEDURES - SERVICE TIP. *TW
96246
Nov 18, 1996
114000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
WIRING - ELECTRICAL DIODE IDENTIFICATION AND SERVICE REPLACEMENTS. *TW
96249
Nov 18, 1996
103700 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:TORQUE CONVERTER
TORQUE CONVERTER - LEAK TEST PROCEDURE - SERVICE TIP. *TW
BC0407961115
Nov 15, 1996
063000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM
INSTRUCTIONS FOR REPLACING DIAGNOSED FAILED PARTS. *TW
BC0471961114
Nov 14, 1996
133000 VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS
CONCERN OF A POP NOISE FROM THE POWER WINDOW MECHANISM WHEN THE WINDOW REACHES FULL UP OR FULL DOWN POSITION. *TW
BC0490961112
Nov 12, 1996
063000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM
INSTRUCTIONS FOR REPLACING DIAGNOSED FAILED COMPONENT. *TW
BC0313961101
Nov 1, 1996
116200 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:MODULE
CHECK ENGINE LIGHT, CODE P030X, WITH NO DRIVEABILITY COMPLAINT. *TW
BC0006961101
Nov 1, 1996
131000 VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD
POP NOISE FROM POWER WINDOW MECHANISM. *TW
BC0059961101
Nov 1, 1996
190000 TIRES
DIAGNOSTIC PROCEDURES FOR CORRECTING VEHICLE DRIFT WHEN VEHICLE IS EQUIPPED WITH 15" OR 16" TIRES. *TW
BC9714961101
Nov 1, 1996
063000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM
DIAGNOSTIC INSTRUCTIONS FOR SERVICING EVAPORATIVE EMISSION PURGE FLOW SYSTEM. *TW
BC0702961022
Oct 22, 1996
221600 SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:POWER ADJUST
INFORMATION ON SIDE SHIELD FOR THE POWER DRIVER & PASSENGER SEAT. *TT
BC0704961022
Oct 22, 1996
034000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS
BRAKE WARNING INDICATOR STAYS ON RED IN CLUSTER. *TT
BC0705961022
Oct 22, 1996
125100 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH
BRAKE EXTERIOR LIGHTS STAY ON (TAIL & HIGH MOUNT STOP LIGHT). *TT
Showing 100 of 116 bulletins.
NHTSA Safety Investigations, FORD THUNDERBIRD
Investigations opened by NHTSA into potential safety defects. These are separate from recalls and may or may not result in a recall.
EA99005
Opened: Jan 20, 1999 , Closed: Dec 14, 1999
HEADLIGHT SWITCH
SUBJECT VEHICLES HAVE A HEADLIGHT SWITCH WITH AN INTERNAL, BIMETAL CIRCUIT BREAKER THAT CAN OPEN DUE TO OVERHEATING DURING HEADLING OPERATION.
RQ98015
Opened: Sep 29, 1998 , Closed: Jan 22, 1999
HEADLIGHT CIRCUIT BREAKER
HEADLIGHT SWITCH WITH AN ITERNAL, BIMETAL CIRCUIT BREALER THAT MAY OPEN DUE TO OVERHEATING DURING HEADLIGHT OPERATION
RQ97011
Opened: Sep 25, 1997 , Closed: Nov 16, 1998
FUEL LINE JUMPER
TO DETERMINE THE SCOPE OF THE ALLEGED FUEL LINE FAILURES OUTSIDE OF THE RECALL GEOGRAPHIC REGION AND IF THE RECALL SHOULD BE EXPANDED NATIONALLY
EA95030
Opened: Oct 31, 1995 , Closed: Sep 30, 1997
REAR FUEL LINE INTERFERENCE
THE REAR FUEL TUBE BUNDLE MAY ABRADE AND FAIL IN THE VICINITY OF THE FUEL TANK.
EA95021
Opened: Jul 31, 1995 , Closed: Sep 30, 1997
FAULTY SEAT BELT BUCKLES
There is no summary currently available
PE95019
Opened: Mar 27, 1995 , Closed: Jul 31, 1995
FAULTY SEATBELT BUCKLES
There is no summary currently available
EA93033
Opened: Dec 30, 1993 , Closed: Dec 30, 1994
THRTTL VLV LINKAGE BUSHING
There is no summary currently available
PE93075
Opened: Aug 30, 1993 , Closed: Dec 30, 1993
THRTTL VLV LINKAGE BUSHING
There is no summary currently available
EA90034
Opened: Jun 26, 1990 , Closed: Feb 25, 1992
HOOD LATCHES FAIL
There is no summary currently available
EA90009
Opened: Feb 8, 1990 , Closed: Feb 28, 1991
THROTTLE STICKING
There is no summary currently available
PE90001
Opened: Oct 4, 1989 , Closed: Feb 2, 1990
THROTTLE STICKING
===
PE88097
Opened: Aug 31, 1988 , Closed: Dec 2, 1988
FLOORMAT/ACCEL PEDAL INTRF
===
EA86005
Opened: Nov 25, 1985 , Closed: Jul 23, 1987
POWER BRAKE BOOSTER
SUMMARY OF INFORMATION FROM MANUFACTURER:FORD INITIATED SERVICE ACTIONSTO CHECK FOR ENGINE IDLE SPEED, TO DECREASE BOOSTER RUNOUT, AND TO FURTHERREDUCE THE INITIAL BRAKE PEDAL TRAVEL.ANALYSIS:THE MAJORITY OF THE REPORTS ARE DATED IN THE 1979-1981 ERA.MOST ACCIDENTS OCCURRED IN THE FIRST TWO YEARS OF... Read more
FORD THUNDERBIRD - All Years Overview
Complete safety history for the FORD THUNDERBIRD across all model years (1967, 2005).
82
Total Recalls
3,088
Total Complaints
13
Investigations
175
Reported Crashes
173
Reported Fires
14
Reported Deaths
FORD THUNDERBIRD - Year by Year
Compare recalls and complaints across model years. Click any year to see full details.
| Year | Recalls | Complaints | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2005 | 1 | 35 | View |
| 2004 | 1 | 40 | View |
| 2003 | 0 | 50 | View |
| 2002 | 2 | 116 | View |
| 1999 | 0 | 2 | View |
| 1998 | 0 | 4 | View |
| 1997 | 2 | 228 | View |
| 1996 (current) | 4 | 295 | |
| 1995 | 1 | 353 | View |
| 1994 | 1 | 426 | View |
| 1993 | 4 | 559 | View |
| 1992 | 4 | 234 | View |
| 1991 | 4 | 130 | View |
| 1990 | 4 | 179 | View |
| 1989 | 5 | 147 | View |
| 1988 | 2 | 116 | View |
| 1987 | 1 | 73 | View |
| 1986 | 1 | 32 | View |
| 1985 | 1 | 16 | View |
| 1984 | 1 | 33 | View |
| 1983 | 4 | 4 | View |
| 1982 | 1 | 0 | View |
| 1981 | 1 | 0 | View |
| 1980 | 3 | 3 | View |
| 1979 | 4 | 1 | View |
| 1978 | 4 | 1 | View |
| 1977 | 5 | 1 | View |
| 1976 | 2 | 0 | View |
| 1975 | 5 | 0 | View |
| 1974 | 1 | 0 | View |
| 1973 | 4 | 0 | View |
| 1972 | 3 | 0 | View |
| 1971 | 1 | 0 | View |
| 1970 | 1 | 1 | View |
| 1967 | 4 | 0 | View |
| 1965 | 0 | 1 | View |
| 1960 | 0 | 1 | View |