1988 LINCOLN TOWN CAR
5 recalls, 123 complaints - 32 TSBs
96V071000 Apr 25, 1996
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
Defect Description
THE IGNITION SWITCH COULD EXPERIENCE AN INTERNAL SHORT CIRCUIT.
Consequence
THIS CONDITION COULD CAUSE OVERHEATING, SMOKE, AND POSSIBLY FIRE IN THE STEERING COLUMN AREA OF THE VEHICLE.
Remedy
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE IGNITION SWITCH.
90V093000 May 9, 1990
EQUIPMENT:OTHER:LABELS
Defect Description
VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: LIMOUSINES BUILT BY EMPIRE COACH. VEHICLE ALTERERS LABEL MAY BE MISSING OR INCOMPLETE.
Consequence
VEHICLES DO NOT COMPLY WITH PART 567.
Remedy
ADD COMPLIANCE LABEL.
90V050000 Mar 6, 1990
SEAT BELTS:FRONT:ANCHORAGE
Defect Description
SAFETY BELTS (TYPE 1 LAP BELTS) FOR REAR FACING SEATS WERE NOT INSTALLED.
Consequence
LACK OF RESTRAINTS COULD CONTRIBUTE TO OTHERWISE PREVENTABLE INJURY AND WOULD NOT COMPLY WITH FMVSS 209 AND 210.
Remedy
INSTALL SAFETY BELTS FOR REAR FACING SEATS.
87V139000 Sep 4, 1987
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
Defect Description
SPRING LOCK FUEL LINE COUPLING MAY NOT BE PROPERLY ENGAGED.
Consequence
COUPLING COULD DISENGAGE DUE TO FUEL PRESSURE,VIBRATION, AND ENGINE MOVEMENTS; THIS WOULD CAUSE LOSS OF FUEL WHICH, INPRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, CREATES A FIRE RISK.
Remedy
INSTALL RETAINER CLIPS OVER THE COUPLINGS TO PREVENT COUPLING SEPARATION AND FUEL LEAKAGE.
87V131000 Aug 17, 1987
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM
Defect Description
FUEL RAILS MAY BE BENT SO THAT NO. 5 INJECTOR CUPS ARE OUT OF DESIGN POSITION.
Consequence
BENT FUEL RAIL COULD CAUSE A FUEL LEAK, WHICH INPRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE COULD RESULT IN AN ENGINE FIRE.
Remedy
REPLACE FUEL RAIL ASSEMBLIES AS NECESSARY.
Complaint Statistics
123 total complaints
9 crashes 38 fires 11 injuries 3 deaths
Top Reported Components
| Component | Complaints |
|---|---|
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH | 22 |
| VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL | 14 |
| POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION | 9 |
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION | 6 |
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FRONT UNDERHOOD | 5 |
| ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE | 4 |
| TIRES:TREAD/BELT | 4 |
| SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY | 4 |
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:INTERIOR/UNDER DASH | 3 |
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ALTERNATOR/GENERATOR/REGULATOR | 3 |
SEAT BELTS
Jul 23, 2017
Incident date: Jul 2, 2017
SEAT BELTS WON'T RETRACT. IGNITION SWITCH IS FAULTY AND SHORTING OUT RADIO AND OTHER ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS. WANTING TO PREVENT FIRE FROM HAPPENING, BY TAKING CARE OF THIS NOW.
ENGINE
Jul 23, 2017
Incident date: Jul 2, 2017
SEAT BELTS WON'T RETRACT. IGNITION SWITCH IS FAULTY AND SHORTING OUT RADIO AND OTHER ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS. WANTING TO PREVENT FIRE FROM HAPPENING, BY TAKING CARE OF THIS NOW.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Jul 23, 2017
Incident date: Jul 2, 2017
SEAT BELTS WON'T RETRACT. IGNITION SWITCH IS FAULTY AND SHORTING OUT RADIO AND OTHER ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS. WANTING TO PREVENT FIRE FROM HAPPENING, BY TAKING CARE OF THIS NOW.
POWER TRAIN
Oct 28, 2014
Incident date: Nov 10, 2010
THE TRANSMISSION SUDDENLY FAILS WHEN IN OVERDRIVE. THIS FAILURE OCCURS ON THE HIGHWAY AT HIGH SPEED AND COULD CAUSE AN ACCIDENT BECAUSE THE CAR GOES OUT OF CONTROL. *TR
Crash
1 injured
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Oct 28, 2014
Incident date: Jun 24, 2014
THE IGNITION SWITCH GIVES SPARKS AND COULD IGNITE THE CAR. FORD ADMITS OTHER 1988 LINCOLN TOWN CARS HAVE A IGNITION SWITCH PROBLEM AND REPLACES THEM. THEY HAVE NOT INCLUDED MY VIN ON THE DEFECT AND REPLACEMENT LIST; HOWEVER, IT IS DEFECTIVE AND COULD IGNITE A FIRE AT ANY TIME. *TR
Fire
ENGINE
Oct 28, 2014
Incident date: Jun 24, 2014
THE IGNITION SWITCH GIVES SPARKS AND COULD IGNITE THE CAR. FORD ADMITS OTHER 1988 LINCOLN TOWN CARS HAVE A IGNITION SWITCH PROBLEM AND REPLACES THEM. THEY HAVE NOT INCLUDED MY VIN ON THE DEFECT AND REPLACEMENT LIST; HOWEVER, IT IS DEFECTIVE AND COULD IGNITE A FIRE AT ANY TIME. *TR
Fire
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Dec 13, 2010
Incident date: Nov 22, 2010
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1988 LINCOLN TOWNCAR. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 25 MPH, THE CLIP FROM THE THROTTLE BODY FRACTURED AND ACCELERATED THE VEHICLE TO 80 MPH. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO STOP THE VEHICLE BY REMOVING THE KEY FROM THE IGNITION. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A DEALER W... Read more
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
Dec 13, 2010
Incident date: Nov 22, 2010
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1988 LINCOLN TOWNCAR. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 25 MPH, THE CLIP FROM THE THROTTLE BODY FRACTURED AND ACCELERATED THE VEHICLE TO 80 MPH. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO STOP THE VEHICLE BY REMOVING THE KEY FROM THE IGNITION. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A DEALER W... Read more
SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER BALL JOINT
Jun 22, 2010
Incident date: Mar 5, 2010
1988 LINCOLN TOWNCAR. CONSUMER STATES BUSINESS SOLD FAULTY CAR PARTS RELATED TO A SAFETY DEFECT *TGW THE CONSUMER WAS ADVISED BY HIS LOCAL MECHANIC THAT THE ORIGINAL UPPER BALL JOINTS HAD A TORN BOOT AND HE COULD NO LONGER GREASE IT. THE MECHANIC ALSO SUGGESTED REPLACING THE LOWER BALL JOINTS AS WE... Read more
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Nov 23, 2009
Incident date: Sep 8, 2009
THE LINCOLN TOWN CAR WAS PARKED OUTSIDE A RENTAL HOME AND CAUGHT FIRE. *TR
Fire
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
Jul 7, 2006
Incident date: Jun 14, 2006
DT*: THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 45 MPH, THE VEHICLE SLIPPED OUT OF GEAR, ACCOMPANIED BY A SMELL OF HOT OIL. THE VEHICLE WAS PULLED OVER TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND THEN TAKEN TO A PRIVATE MECHANIC SHOP WHERE THE SHOP WAS UNABLE TO DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF THE PROBLEM.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
Jun 19, 2005
Incident date: Jun 15, 2005
NOTICED A STRONG ODOR OF GASOLINE. I CHECKED UNDER THE CAR AND NOTICED A STEADY DRIP OF GASOLINE FROM SOMEWHERE RIGHT BELOW THE CAR UNDERNEAT THE DRIVER'S SIDE SEAR, DRIPPING OFF THE FRAME OF THE CAR IN THAT AREA.
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Apr 22, 2004
Incident date: Nov 15, 2002
FUEL SYSTEM: ELECTRIC RELAY TO FUEL PUMP FAILED 6/21/02--CAR HAD TO BE TOWED FOR REPAIR POWER WINDOWS: DRIVER'S SIDE WINDOW MOTOR FAILED. WAS REPLACED IN FALL 2000 BY DEALER IN SEATTLE: "OLYMPIC LINCOLN MERCURY." PRESENTLY, SAME MOTOR FAILING AGAIN. ALSO, REAR PASSENGER WINDOW GEARS HAVE ST... Read more
VISIBILITY:POWER WINDOW DEVICES AND CONTROLS
Apr 22, 2004
Incident date: Nov 15, 2002
FUEL SYSTEM: ELECTRIC RELAY TO FUEL PUMP FAILED 6/21/02--CAR HAD TO BE TOWED FOR REPAIR POWER WINDOWS: DRIVER'S SIDE WINDOW MOTOR FAILED. WAS REPLACED IN FALL 2000 BY DEALER IN SEATTLE: "OLYMPIC LINCOLN MERCURY." PRESENTLY, SAME MOTOR FAILING AGAIN. ALSO, REAR PASSENGER WINDOW GEARS HAVE ST... Read more
EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL
Apr 22, 2004
Incident date: Nov 15, 2002
FUEL SYSTEM: ELECTRIC RELAY TO FUEL PUMP FAILED 6/21/02--CAR HAD TO BE TOWED FOR REPAIR POWER WINDOWS: DRIVER'S SIDE WINDOW MOTOR FAILED. WAS REPLACED IN FALL 2000 BY DEALER IN SEATTLE: "OLYMPIC LINCOLN MERCURY." PRESENTLY, SAME MOTOR FAILING AGAIN. ALSO, REAR PASSENGER WINDOW GEARS HAVE ST... Read more
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL
Apr 7, 2004
WHILE APPLYING THE ACCELERATOR PEDAL WENT DOWN TO THE FLOOR. DRIVER WAS ABLE TO CONTROL THE VEHICLE. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY
Jun 20, 2003
THE RELAY THAT HOOKS TO THE BATTERY STARTER] BROKE. THIS CAUSED VEHICLE TO ACCLELERATE IN FULL THROTTLE. CONSUMER CAME TO A COMPLETED STOP, BUT HAD TO DISCONNECT THE BATTERY TO STOP THE ENGINE FROM RUNNING, ALTHOUGH THE VEHICLE WAS TURNED OFF. RELAY # 1E9TZ-11450B.*AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Jun 20, 2003
THE RELAY THAT HOOKS TO THE BATTERY STARTER] BROKE. THIS CAUSED VEHICLE TO ACCLELERATE IN FULL THROTTLE. CONSUMER CAME TO A COMPLETED STOP, BUT HAD TO DISCONNECT THE BATTERY TO STOP THE ENGINE FROM RUNNING, ALTHOUGH THE VEHICLE WAS TURNED OFF. RELAY # 1E9TZ-11450B.*AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
Jun 10, 2003
Incident date: Jun 8, 2003
IGNITION SWITCH FAILED CAUSING A SMALL FIRE UNDER THE DASHBOARD. DEALER NOTIFIED. *AK
Fire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:INTERIOR/UNDER DASH
Jun 10, 2003
Incident date: Jun 8, 2003
IGNITION SWITCH FAILED CAUSING A SMALL FIRE UNDER THE DASHBOARD. DEALER NOTIFIED. *AK
Fire
TIRES:TREAD/BELT
Sep 6, 2002
TIRE TREAD SEPARATION. *AK
TIRES:TREAD/BELT
Sep 6, 2002
Incident date: Aug 31, 2002
DURLON VERTEX P21570R15 REPLACEMENT. WHILE DRIVING TREAD COMPLETELY SEPARATED. TIRE STAYED INFLATED.*AK TWO OF THE TIRES SEPARATED COMPLETELY. THEY WERE MANUFACTURED BY BRIDGESTONE-FIRESTONE. *JG
STRUCTURE:BODY
Apr 30, 2002
Incident date: Apr 19, 2002
WHILE DRIVING 65-70MPH HEARD NOISE ON ROOF, WHEN LOOKED OUT OF MIRROR CLOTH ROOF BLEW OFF VEHICLE WITHOUT WARNING. *AK *TT. CONSUMER STATED THE ENTIRE UNDERLYING FIBER GLASS SHELL FLEW OFF AS WELL.*JB
SEAT BELTS:FRONT:BUCKLE ASSEMBLY
Feb 5, 2002
Incident date: Feb 1, 2002
DRIVER'S SEATBELT BUCKLE OPENED WHILE DRIVING. CONSUMER HAS NOT BEEN ABLE TO GET BUCKLE TO LATCH SINCE THEN. *AK
TIRES:TREAD/BELT
Dec 19, 2000
GOODYEAR AQUATRED TIRES EXPERIENCE RUMBLING, ONE DEALER STATED THE TIRES ARE EXPERIENCING TREAD SEPARATION. *SLC
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
Dec 18, 2000
Incident date: Jun 2, 2000
VEHICLE CUTS OFF A LOW SPEED WILL NOT START UNTIL IT SITS FOR A WHILE, THIS HAS HAPPEN MULT. TIMES, IT HAS BEEN IN THE SHOP A NUMBER OF TIMES , CAN NOT FIND THE CAUSE SEVERAL NEW PARTS HAVE BEEN PUT ON, TO NO AVAIL. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
Nov 1, 2000
Incident date: Jan 1, 2000
I WOULD BE TRAVELING DOWN THE HIGHWAY AT 60WITH MY FAMILY AND MY CAR WOULD SHUT OFF. I WOULD THEN PULL TO THE SIDE AND LET IT SIT FOR 20 MINUTES AND THEN IT WOULD RESTART UNTIL IT HAPPENS AGAIN ''VERY DANGEROUS''. *AK
TIRES:SIDEWALL
Oct 20, 2000
THIS IS MY SECOND REPORT ON THESE TIRES. SEE ODI NUMBER 731196 FOR FAILURE REPORT ON BOTH FRONT TIRES. THIS REPORT IS ON THE REAR RIGHT TIRE. THE RIGHT REAR TIRE FAILED CATASTROPHICALLY AT 60MPH WHILE I WAS DRIVING ON A SMOOTH DRY PAVEMENT. THE OUTER SIDE WALL FAILED COMPLETELY. DIGITAL PHOTOS... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
Oct 13, 2000
Incident date: Mar 23, 1999
I UNDERSTAND THAT THERE WAS A RECALL ON MY VEHICLE FOR A FAULTY IGNITION SWITCH. I JUST FOUND OUT YESTERDAY ABOUT IT. I WAS NEVER NOTIFIED IN REFERENCE TO THE RECALL. IT WASN'T UNTIL THE SWITCH SHORTED OUT MY RADIO WHICH I CAN NOT REPLACE UNTIL THE SWITCH IS REPLACED. THE FORD COMPANY SAID THAT THE ... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
Oct 12, 2000
VEHICLE WILL STALL SUDDENDLY WHEN THE ENGINE GETS HOT. VEHICLE WILL RESTART, BUT IT HAS STALLED LEAVING CONSUMER IN DANGEROUS SITUATION. *AK THE DISTRIBUTOR MOUNTED TFHV MODULE IS TOO CLOSE TO THE HOT ENGINE. THIS CAUSES THE VEHICLE TO STALL. *YH
TIRES:TREAD/BELT
Sep 18, 2000
Incident date: Sep 11, 2000
THE TWO FRONT TIRES FAILED AFTER APPROXIMATELY 23,000 MILES OF WEAR. THE LEFT FRONT WAS WORN THROUGH ONE SET OF STEEL BELTS FOR APPROXIMATELY 1/5 OF THE TIRE CIRCUMFERENCE. THE LEFT FRONT WAS WORN THROUGH THE TREAD FOR APPROIMATELY 1/5 OF THE TIRE CIRCUMEFERENCE. BOTH AREAS OF ABNORMAL WEAR WERE... Read more
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Jul 19, 2000
THROTTLE VALVE CONTROL CABLE GROMMET MADE OUT OF PLASTIC BROKE, CAUSING TRANSMISSION TO FAIL. MANUFACTURE ALSO PRODUCES A METAL GROMMET THAT WOULD LAST LONGER.*AK
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
Jul 19, 2000
THROTTLE VALVE CONTROL CABLE GROMMET MADE OUT OF PLASTIC BROKE, CAUSING TRANSMISSION TO FAIL. MANUFACTURE ALSO PRODUCES A METAL GROMMET THAT WOULD LAST LONGER.*AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:LINKAGES
Jun 28, 2000
Incident date: May 7, 2000
WHILE PARKED IN DRIVEWAY VEHICLE RAPIDLY SURGED BACKWARDS, AND THEN SUDDENLY ACCELERATED INTO THE GARAGE DOOR. CAUSE UNKNOWN. *AK
Crash
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:FUEL INJECTION SYSTEM:INJECTORS
Jun 23, 2000
FUEL RAIL LEAKING WHEN ENGINE HOT NEAR INJECTOR NO-5 (LIKE THE REPORT ON OLDER 1988). *AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Mar 22, 2000
Incident date: Jun 7, 1995
ATTORNEY PETITION TO INVESTIGATE SUDDEN ACCELERATION OF 1988 LINCOLN TOWN CAR, WHICH ACCELERATED AND RESULTED IN DEATH OF ONE CHILD AND AMPUTATION OF OTHER CHILD. (ATTORNEY FOR CONSUMER). MJS
1 injured
1 deaths
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ALTERNATOR/GENERATOR/REGULATOR
Aug 23, 1999
ALTERNATOR FAILED REPLACED THREE TIMES. YH
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
Jul 12, 1999
Incident date: Jun 7, 1999
VEHICLE WAS PARKED AND ELECTRICAL WIRING CAUGHT ON FIRE.HOOD/STEERING WHEEL/SEATS AND REAR TWO TIRES MELTED. FIRE DEPARTMENT CAME OUT AND PUT THE FIRE OUT. *AK
Fire
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
Jul 4, 1999
Incident date: Jun 29, 1999
THE CAR WAS LEFT AT THE REPAIR FACILITY FOR ENGINE REPAIR AND TO REMAIN OVERNIGHT. THE NEXT MORNING, ON JUNE 30, THE OWNER OF THE REPAIR FACILITY SMELLED A STRONG ODOR OF GASOLINE FUMES WHEN HE ENTERED THE BUILDING. HE IMMEDIATELY DISCOVERED THE GAS TANK HAD BEEN LEAKING AND OVERNIGHT AND WAS CONT... Read more
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:ACCELERATOR PEDAL
Jun 23, 1999
ACCELERATOR PEDAL GETS STUCK. THE DEALER HAS BEEN NOTIFIED. *AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
May 18, 1999
Incident date: Jan 1, 1999
HAD GOTTEN IN VEHICLE TO START IT WHEN IT BEGAN TO SHIFT GEARS AND VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED WITHOUT ANY WARNING. HAD FOOT ON BRAKES AT THE TIME. THE WHEELS WERE SPINNING REAL FAST. WILL BE TAKING VEHICLE TO DEALER TO CHECK. *AK
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS:SWITCH
Mar 3, 1999
Incident date: Oct 13, 1995
HEADLAMP CONTROL SWITCH FAILED, RECALL ON COMPONENT HOWEVER VEHICLE IS NOT INCLUDED DUE TO YEAR AND MODEL.
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
Dec 15, 1998
Incident date: Dec 14, 1998
CONSUMER EXPERIENCING PROBLEM WITH TRANSMISSION. THIS PROBLEM IS CAUSED BY FAILURE OF A GROMET WHICH ALLOWS THE INTERNAL PARTS OF THE TRANSMISSION TO TEAR UP, RENDERING THE 3RD AND 4TH GEARS USELESS. TRANSMISSION NEEDS TO BE REBUILT. MANUFACTURER NOTIFIED AND REFUSED TO ASSIST. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE
Oct 14, 1998
Incident date: Jul 3, 1998
ENGINE FAILURE CAUSING FIRE. OHIO STATE POLICE REPORT.
Fire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
Oct 14, 1998
Incident date: Aug 1, 1995
FAULTY IGNITION SWITCH BURNED MELTING WIRES. NO FIRE OCCURED.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
Sep 29, 1998
WHILE DRVING AT LOW SPEEDS THE VEHICLE WILL WITHOUT WARNING SPEED UP, OR WHEN AT A COMPLETE STOP THE VEHICLE WILL ACCELERATE. CAUSE UNKNOWN. PLEASE GIVE ANY FURTHER DETAILS. *AK
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
Aug 5, 1998
Incident date: Jan 1, 1994
TRANSMISSION FAILURE.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE
Mar 23, 1998
Incident date: Aug 3, 1997
VEHICLE FIRE.(OHIO TRAFFIC REPORT)
Fire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
Mar 5, 1998
Incident date: Dec 15, 1994
STEERING COLUMN CAUGHT ON FIRE, REPLACED IGNITION SWITCH AND CONNECTOR, REPLACED WIPER SWITCH.
Fire
VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:REAR WINDOW
Feb 9, 1998
Incident date: Feb 5, 1998
WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE, THE VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE DUE TO THE REAR WINDOW DEFOGGER. THE VEHICLE WAS TOTALLED. *AK
Fire
Showing 50 of 123 complaints.
EPA Fuel Economy, 1988 LINCOLN TOWN CAR
| Trim / Engine | City MPG | Highway MPG | Combined MPG | Fuel Type | Annual Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5.0L 8-cyl, Automatic 4-spd (Rear-Wheel Drive) | 15.0 | 22.0 | 18.0 | Regular | $3,400 |
CO2 Emissions: -1.0 g/mile (Large Cars)
Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Actual fuel economy may vary based on driving conditions.
Technical Service Bulletins, 1988 LINCOLN TOWN CAR
32 manufacturer communications from 26 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.
Most Affected Components
| Component | Bulletins |
|---|---|
| 136200 VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER:MOTOR | 4 |
| 103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION | 4 |
| 061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE | 3 |
| 034500 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC | 3 |
| 103700 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:TORQUE CONVERTER | 3 |
| 134000 VISIBILITY:SUN/MOON ROOF ASSEMBLY | 2 |
| 114000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING | 2 |
| 357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER | 2 |
02107
May 27, 2002
136200 VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER:MOTOR
TRANSFER SERVICE TIPS FOR THE FRONT WIPER MOTOR MOUNT BRACKET AND DEPRESSED PARK OUTPUT ARM. *TT
01157
Aug 6, 2001
980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER
INFORMATION REGARDING TRANSMISSION FLUID USAGE CHARTS. *SLC
01156
Aug 6, 2001
138600 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:HEATER CORE
SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT HEATER CORE LEAKS. *SLC
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
0015
Jan 10, 2000
103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
INFORMATION REGARDING THE NEW TRANSMISSION COOLER FLUSHER- SERVICE TIP. *MJS
99222
Oct 18, 1999
114000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
SUBJECT ON A WIRE HARNESS TERMINAL REPAIR KIT AVAILABLE FOR REPAIRING ELECTRICAL WIRING HARNESSES. *TT
13400
Oct 1, 1999
134000 VISIBILITY:SUN/MOON ROOF ASSEMBLY
SOME CARS EQUIPPED WITH FACTORY INSTALLED MOONROOF MAY EXHIBIT A BOOMING OR BUFFETING NOISE WHILE TRAVELING AT SPEEDS GREATER THAN 40 MPH WHEN THE MOONROOF IS OPEN. *TT
7312
Oct 1, 1999
134000 VISIBILITY:SUN/MOON ROOF ASSEMBLY
SOME VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH FACTORY INSTALLED MOONROOF MAY EXHIBIT A BOOMING OR BUFFETING NOISE WHILE TRAVELING AT SPEEDS GREATER THAN 40 MPH WHEN THE MOONROOF IS OPEN. *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
99152
Jul 26, 1999
103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
INFORMATION ON THE NEW FLUSH AND FILL TOOL AVAILABLE THROUGH ROTUNDA. *TT
12178
Nov 1, 1998
100000 POWER TRAIN
INFORMATION REGARDING TSB 98-5A-12 (TRANSAXLE/TRANSMISSION/TRANSFER CASE-VEHICLES TOWED BEHIND RECREATIONAL VEHICLES-RECOMMENDED GUIDELINES) DOES NOT LIST TOWING INFORMATION FOR CERTAIN MODEL VEHICLES. *MJS
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
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
9848
Mar 2, 1998
357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER
ANNOUNCING THE FORD OEM AIR CONDITIONING RETROFIT KIT AVAILABILITY. *YC
97511
Mar 3, 1997
103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
FLUID- TRANSMISSION FLUID USAGE CHARTS. *JD
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
96249
Nov 18, 1996
103700 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:TORQUE CONVERTER
TORQUE CONVERTER - LEAK TEST PROCEDURE - SERVICE TIP. *TW
96246
Nov 18, 1996
114000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
WIRING - ELECTRICAL DIODE IDENTIFICATION AND SERVICE REPLACEMENTS. *TW
96221
Oct 21, 1996
131000 VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD
WINDSHIELD AND INTERIOR GLASS - FOG/FILM. *TW
95212
Oct 1, 1995
036000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP
THE USE OF PETROLEUM-BASED GREASE AS A LUBRICANT IN SERVICING DISC BRAKES IS NO LONGER ACCEPTABLE BECAUSE IT MAY BE INCOMPATIBLE WITH THE RUBBER MATERIAL USED IN THE DISC BRAKE SYSTEM. IF PETROLEUM-BASED GREASE IS USED TO LUBRICATE ANY PAR
9582
Apr 1, 1995
136200 VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER:MOTOR
A REVISED SERVICE WINDSHIELD WIPER MOTOR IS NOW AVAILABLE. *TW
9582
Apr 1, 1995
061100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE
A REVISED SERVICE WINDSHIELD WIPER MOTOR IS NOW AVAILABLE. *TW
BC2850950401
Apr 1, 1995
034500 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC
UNKNOWN
BC2850950401
Apr 1, 1995
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
UNKNOWN
BC2850950401
Apr 1, 1995
103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
UNKNOWN
BC2850950401
Apr 1, 1995
103700 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:TORQUE CONVERTER
UNKNOWN
BC2850950401
Apr 1, 1995
162300 STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR
UNKNOWN
9562
Mar 1, 1995
034500 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC
ROUGHNESS CONCERN DURING BRAKE APPLICATION. *TW
95310
Feb 1, 1995
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
NEW TORQUE-TO-YIELD CYLINDER HEAD BOLT KIT. *TW
9546
Feb 1, 1995
136200 VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER:MOTOR
WIPER MOTOR REPLACEMENT - UPGRADED SERVICE KITS. *TW
9546
Feb 1, 1995
136200 VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER:MOTOR
REVISED WIPER MOTOR. *TW
NHTSA Safety Investigations, LINCOLN TOWN CAR
Investigations opened by NHTSA into potential safety defects. These are separate from recalls and may or may not result in a recall.
EA03014
Opened: Aug 22, 2003 , Closed: Aug 12, 2004
INADVERTENT SIDE AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT
THIS INVESTIGATION IDENTIFIED A TOTAL OF 182 REPORTS ALLEGING INADVERTENT OR NON-CRASH DEPLOYMENT OF THE SIDE AIR BAGS.THE DATA EXAMINED DURING THE INVESTIGATION SUGGEST THAT THE SIDE AIR BAG CRASH SENSING SYSTEM'S ALGORITHM MAY RECOGNIZE CERTAIN NON-CRASH INCIDENTS AS DEPLOYABLE EVENTS.ODI HAS NOT,... Read more
PE03011
Opened: Mar 14, 2003 , Closed: Aug 22, 2003
INADVERTENT SIDE AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT
ODI HAS IDENTIFIED 173 COMPLAINTS ALLEGING INADVERTENT OR NON-CRASH DEPLOYMENT OF SIDE AIR BAGS ON MODEL YEAR (MY) 1999-2003 LINCOLN TOWN CARS.MOST OF THE COMPLAINTS ALLEGE THAT ONE OF THE SIDE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED WHILE DRIVING WITHOUT ANY IMPACT.ANALYSIS SHOWED THAT MY 2001 THROUGH EARLY MY 2003 TOWN... Read more
DP99004
Opened: Jul 29, 1999 , Closed: Apr 6, 2000
SUDDEN ACCELERATION
THE SUBJECT VEHICLES' CRUISE CONTROL IS ENERGIZED WHENEVER THE IGNITION IS TURNED ON.IT IS ALLEGED THAT A SUDDEN ACCELERATION EVENT MAY OCCUR AS A RESULT.
EA99010
Opened: Apr 9, 1999 , Closed: May 4, 1999
FUEL SPIT BACK DURING REFUELING
There is no summary currently available
EA99006
Opened: Mar 11, 1999 , Closed: May 19, 1999
UNDER HOOD FIRES
ALLEGED THAT THE ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRES ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE IN THE AREA OF THE LEFT FRONT WHEEL WELL AND THE BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER
PE98055
Opened: Oct 27, 1998 , Closed: Mar 11, 1999
UNDER HOOD FIRES
ALLEGED ENGINE COMPARTMENT FIRES ON THE DRIVER'S SIDE IN THE AREA OF THE LEFT FRONT WHEEL WELL AND THE BRAKE MASTER CYLINER.
PE98052
Opened: Sep 25, 1998 , Closed: Apr 9, 1999
FUEL SPIT BACK DURING REFUELING
THE SUBJECT VEHICLE IS FITTED WITH AN ONBOARD REFUELIG VAPOR RECOVERY (ORVR) SYSTEM, AS REQUIRED BY THE EPA.THE EPA SAFETY REQUIREMENTS, PREPARED IN COOPERATION WITH ,AND APPROVED BY NHTSA, REQUIRE VEHICLES TO BE REFUELED AT A RATE OF 10 GALLONS PER MINUTE (THE MAXIMUM RATE ALLOWED TO BE USED IN REF... Read more
EA91021
Opened: Mar 29, 1991 , Closed: Mar 16, 1992
HOOD LATCH FAILURE
There is no summary currently available
PE91018
Opened: Nov 27, 1990 , Closed: Mar 29, 1991
HOOD LATCH FAILURE
There is no summary currently available
PE89100
Opened: Mar 14, 1989 , Closed: Jul 12, 1989
FUEL FILLER PIPE SPURTING
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PE88012
Opened: Jan 15, 1988 , Closed: May 2, 1988
NON COLLISION FIRES
SUMMARY: ALLEGEDLY THE AXLE BEARINGS ON LINCOLN TOWN CAR LIMOUSINES OVER-HEAT IGNITING COMBUSTIBLE COMPONENTS NEARBY.RECOMMENDATION: OPEN PE SEND LETTER TO FORD.===
DP87029
Opened: Aug 17, 1987 , Closed: Oct 23, 1987
SUDDEN ACCELERATION
SUDDEN ACCELERATION
LINCOLN TOWN CAR - All Years Overview
Complete safety history for the LINCOLN TOWN CAR across all model years (1983, 2011).
125
Total Recalls
4,352
Total Complaints
12
Investigations
409
Reported Crashes
507
Reported Fires
10
Reported Deaths
LINCOLN TOWN CAR - Year by Year
Compare recalls and complaints across model years. Click any year to see full details.
| Year | Recalls | Complaints | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2011 | 3 | 11 | View |
| 2010 | 3 | 17 | View |
| 2009 | 3 | 6 | View |
| 2008 | 3 | 31 | View |
| 2007 | 3 | 114 | View |
| 2006 | 2 | 207 | View |
| 2005 | 3 | 161 | View |
| 2004 | 0 | 99 | View |
| 2003 | 1 | 242 | View |
| 2002 | 1 | 71 | View |
| 2001 | 6 | 207 | View |
| 2000 | 9 | 147 | View |
| 1999 | 6 | 203 | View |
| 1998 | 8 | 194 | View |
| 1997 | 8 | 395 | View |
| 1996 | 10 | 316 | View |
| 1995 | 9 | 241 | View |
| 1994 | 5 | 212 | View |
| 1993 | 4 | 226 | View |
| 1992 | 4 | 312 | View |
| 1991 | 5 | 278 | View |
| 1990 | 4 | 267 | View |
| 1989 | 5 | 97 | View |
| 1988 (current) | 5 | 123 | |
| 1987 | 6 | 40 | View |
| 1986 | 4 | 54 | View |
| 1985 | 1 | 24 | View |
| 1984 | 1 | 19 | View |
| 1983 | 3 | 6 | View |
| 1982 | 0 | 4 | View |
| 1981 | 0 | 1 | View |
| 1980 | 0 | 1 | View |
| 1978 | 0 | 1 | View |
| 1977 | 0 | 2 | View |