We found the following complaints for FORD THUNDERBIRD (1993)
Read complaints for FORD THUNDERBIRD (1993)
While driving20 mph consumer applied the brakes and pedal went to the floor.a loud streaking noise was heard from the front. Consumer lost control of the vehicle and collided with another vehicle.both frontal air bags did not deploy.the driver sustained neck injuries.the driver was able to drive the vehicle home.
Consumer was involved in a 40 mph frontal collision in which the driver's airbag did not deploy, cause unknown.please give any further details.
Failure of the driver's and passenger's side air bags,consumer was involved in a head-on collision traveling about 35 mphand the driver's and passenger's side air bags did not deploy.
Was inan accident and the driver's side air bag didn't deploy.please describe .
Owner has recall notice for ignition switch ,he states that his vehicle has a bad electrical problem;also,notes tha while driving if vehicle hits a bump headlights go out and battery blows out when ignition is turned.
While taking key out of ignition vehicle continued to run.owner has not taken vehicle to dealer.owner is very concerned for safety.
No summary listed for above vehicle.
Vehicle began stalling while making left hand turns, now the car is stalling while going uphill and while making left and right hand turns, due to ignition system tfi module failure.
I have nothing but problems with this pile of junk. First the headlights, took it in on recall but the headlights still go out also adding to me not being able to see and almost killing my daughter and myself, is the heater core went out all over the floor causing us to breath antifreeze mist and getting sick ,and causes the windows to steam up, because i had to undo the hoses , so the car would stop over heating , because i cant afford $700 dollars to get it fixed so now we are also freezing to death along with the breaks not working and the car dying at stop lights and when taking turns or corners which causes the steering and the brakesto go out because ot powered,oh ya did i mention i spent 500.on a water pump and 1000 on new brakes just for the breakes to still not work when i picked it up from the shop. I coul dgo on but i will give you a break,i am just really frustrated i cant afford to put any more money into this car becuase something else will just go besided im a single mom working to keep our heads up . I was reading that a judge in california made ford by backthese cars because of an incident where a mother and child were almost hurt when her car stalled just like mine does constantly.this car is a death trap and i fear for my daughters safety but it the only thing i got to get her to the sitters and me to work .please help what can be done? thank you sincerely stephenie cole.
No summary listed for above vehicle.
The vehicle experienced the problem described in the ignition recall 96v071000, but the vehicle's vin didn't include the scope of the recall. The dealership replaced the ignition but the problem failure recurred.*la
Vehicle stalls during and after left handed turns, also stalls going uphill and when making right hand turns, due to the tfi module failure.
Having same problem with ignition switch that is described in recall 96v071000 but vin number is not included by car mfg. (2) months later.
Dt*:the contact stated the voltage indicator would decrease and the turn signals, radio, and defrost would be inoperable.there is a nhtsa recall, # 96v071000, regarding the ignition.the vehicle has the same problems as indicated in the recall; however, it is not included in the recall due to the vin.
The ignition module failed damaging the engine, the vehicle has been sitting because the ignition module has been hard to find.nlm
Owner has recall notice for ignition switch ,he states that his vehicle has a bad electrical problem;also,notes tha while driving if vehicle hits a bump headlights go out and battery blows out when ignition is turned.
Ignition switch has failed and falls a few months outside of recall.
Vehicle fire caused by a short in the ignition switch.
When placing the key in the ignition switch, the igniton becomes locked as well as the steering wheel and gear shift. Please describe.
Ignition switch fire.
The ignition switch has been acting up and now the key will not start the car the key will not turn at all as of this date 12/14/2001.
Ignition switch shorted out causing turn signals to be inoperable, rear window defroster to be inoperable, temperature contol unit to be inoperable, and the alternator was unable to charge the battery.coolant gauge stays at cold, dealer replaced thermostat due to improper installation.
Consumer was traveling about 50mph onhighway andvehicle just shut down without prior notice.he was able to pull it over to shoulders. Consumer tried to restart, and vehicle started later.he took it todealer. Dealer claimedignition switchhad a defect.
Headlights failed due to a bad electrical switch, resulting in poor visibility.also, windshield wipers short out while driving, and smoke appeared to be coming fromignition switch area. Dealer contacted and faulty parts were replaced.
Ignition switch fire.
The headlamps turn themselves on and off intermittently without warning, due to electrical wiring system failure.
While driving defective wiring harness caused the headlightsto work intermittently, which almost caused an accident.
Wiring to the head lights failed.
Rear deck light assy bulbs are overheating/failing. Sockets are melting down as is the module that holds the sockets. The trunk light is also out. This car also had the engine head gaskets fail. Ford should be made accountable for all engine head gasket failures, not just 94 and later. Is there data on the overheating/melting of the rear deck harness assy and is ford correcting the problem or the does the owner take it all?
In all cases, the head lights will flash off and on after being on for about 30 minutes.the brake light on the driver side will burn out repeatedly.the park lights and indicator lights will fail repeatedly.the radio will fail all at different times.these electrical/light failures happen more often but not at the same time, when i turn the ground lights on.
Engine failure due to gaskets, replaced multi-function switch several times as well as fuel line, electrical systems malfunction in the power mirrors and the power locks, illumination controls as well as motor in drivers side door<power door>, seatbelts will not engage and signals for seatbelt to be worn , seatbelt alarm will not shut off until this problem is solved.coolent system failure at point of engine failure , decrease in compression and white smoke from hood, levels read very hot!!.
Wiring harness on alt. Melted and the housing on alt. Melted. Lost half power traveling at 65 mph at night all lights dimmed.
Consumerwas driving and he smelled something burning.also,brake light in the middle wasn't working,and when went to pull the sockets, the plugs were burned.dealer will repair at owner's cost.*ml
Owner has recall notice for ignition switch ,he states that his vehicle has a bad electrical problem;also,notes tha while driving if vehicle hits a bump headlights go out and battery blows out when ignition is turned.
Headlights go out while driving.dealer replaced the headlight switch twice, consumer states that in talking with other mechanics, they have stated that there is a circuit breaker that frequently fails, causing the headlight problems.
Headlight switch failed 3 times.
Vehicle keeps cutting off, circuiting out, a/c does not work. Seems to be electrical. Problem still exists. Provide further information.
Intermittently while driving at high speeds the headlights will go off.dealer has not been able to duplicate the problem.
Headlights would flicker off & on. Dealer said wiring had melted to due extreme heat. What caused extreme heat?
Electrical short, , parking lights and headlights intermittently failed for period 1to 10 seconds, while driving
No summary listed for abov evehicle.
Electrical harness connector burned causing loss of lighting.
Would like a refund of $1619.01 for head gasket repair.would like volt meter and cruiz control fixed.
Never got a notice of recall for the faulty engine head gasket on a ford thunderbird 1993 model.. I have checked with the original owner and he never got a letter telling of the faulty head gasket and that the 3.8 v6 engine was being recalled to replace it, the car has 98 thousand original miles. And i bought the car used.. I would like to see if i can get the head gasket still replace under ford warranty. I have not driven the car since it startedoverheating
Blown head gasket
Temperature needle runs high on the car, and black smoke was coming out the rear of the vehicle. Mechanic said that engine head gasket blew out.
While driving in normal traffic the engine check light came on, and temperature gauge went up, consumer had to stop 10 times for water.the head gasket blew soon after.other ford models have had their engines recalled, but this vehicle is not included.consumer also complains that the oil pressure gauge is not effective, it doesn't give the owner sufficient information regarding the level of pressure. *ml
Experienced loss of heat in passenger compartment. Found coolant level to be low. Added coolant on several occasiions. Problem did not go away. Problem increased to point where engine overheat indicator lit. Took vehicle to mechanic where problem was suspected to be loss of coolant but could not be definitively pinpointed. As a precaution the water pump, thermostat, hoses, and coolant was replaced along with two freeze plugs which were seen to be weeping. After a short while the problem reappeared and i took the vehicle to a ford dealership in my neighborhood. They diagnosed the problem to be a blown head gasket which was internally causing the coolant to enter the engine and be consumed. I authorized repairs but was informed that the problem was not covered under the terms of my warranty as the vehicle was now too old. (dot number: natiresize: na)
Well maintained car. Never abused. Nosafety defect listed.
Blown head gasket on 3.8 liter v-6 engine. Ford recalled the '94 tbird with the same engine, but left the '93 owners out in the cold.ford knows about the head gasket problem with this vehicle, but claims there aren't enough failures to warrant a recall or other financial assistance to the car owners.i now have a car that i can not drive, and that i can not afford to have repaired.i can't sell it, and i can't trade it in.i will never again buy a ford vehicle.dt
No summary listed for above vehicle.
Right engine head gasket originally failed 11/95 when the car was experiencing unexplained bucking sensation under load in cold weather.after numurous visits and alternative repairs, dealer finally figured out problem and replaced right head gasket in 3/97.both gaskets along with water pump failed this time.dealer contends original repair done right, and stated the new head gaskets can be expected to fail within several years again.
No summary listed for above vehicle.
Radiator and water pump gave out in the middle of traffic.
No summary listed for above vehicle.
Very large blinding cloud of smoke expelled from exaust blinding drivers from behind and it might not behealthy to breathe.dt
No summary listed for above vehicle.
Radiator and water pump gave out in the middle of traffic. Please describe details.tt
Steam comes out of all air vents after five minutes of running, along with a bad smell; water comes out onto passenger floor; engine gets very hot after a couple of minutes; coolant constantly leaks.driver's side automatic seat belt does not work.
Radiator and water pump gave out in the middle of traffic.
Ignition switch shorted out causing turn signals to be inoperable, rear window defroster to be inoperable, temperature contol unit to be inoperable, and the alternator was unable to charge the battery.coolant gauge stays at cold, dealer replaced thermostat due to improper installation.
The head gasket failed resulting in the vehicle loosing coolant, the leak in the lower part of the radiator causing loss of coolant and coolant odor outside the vehicle.nlm
Took car in to have a recall on a head lamp switch fixed. Told them car seems to have a hesitation when taking off after a complete stop. They told me it had to have the iaccensor replaced. Had that done at a cost of363.00.they also put in a new thermostat, sid engine wasn't getting hot enough? 2 days later car still hesitated and over heated. Was told head gasket needed to be replaced. Had that fixed 900.00.they also told me i should have the timing cover replaced because it has a possible crack? took to an independent auto shop had them take a look, they said it looked fine?
Radiator ruptured. *dsh
Engine mounts failed at 59000 miles, now head gasket is blown and is causing vehicle to use a lot of water and coolant.
While driving head gasket blew out. Head gasket has been replaced on two previous occasions, within 72000 miles of each other.consumer wants to be reimbursedfor repairs.*ml
Consumerstarted upvehicle and noticed that there was blue smoke coming from underneath vehicle.took vehicle to a dealership, andmechanic told him thathead gasket blewout. Consumer states there was a recall regarding this for the 1994-1995 models.
Vehicle overheated and was not operable. Dealer said the gasket had blown. * ak
Head gasket failure; too expensive to repair; left vehicle at the ford dealership.planned to buy a new ford, but not after reviewing all the complaints on this site.
Head gasket leaking on cylinders 1&2.
While driving at 45mh and withoutprior warning, engine head gasket blew out, causing engine coolant to leak onto the exhaust pipe.
While driving in the cityat approx 45mph vehicle started to shaking/rough idling.contacted local mechanic there wasa blowen engine head gasket. Contacted a local ford dealer, who saidthis was a known problem.
My 3.8l engine's cylinder head gaskets failed.ford has conceded that this is a problem and has issued recalls for the same engine 1994 and up, but mine is a 1993 and has the same engine.i have been on several web sites where many people who 1993 3.8l engines have had the same problem.its apparent that the problem resides in 1993 engines too but ford has yet to issue a recall for 1993 engines and they should.repairs for this problem cost me over $2000 at my local ford dealer.
Head gasket blew 2x 1st. Time @ 67,000 mi, and again @ 96,000 mi. Junked car.
The head gasket blew out at 62032 miles, consumer is requesting reimbursement for the repairs, however the manufacturer denied consumers claim.
Have a v6 3.8 liter ford thunderbird lx with a head gasket problem.brought this car used in july of 1999 and it had 63,000 miles on it now has 68,000 took to an independent mechanic and he talked with the ford dealer in our town and they told him there were 3 auto with same problem on recall that was a taurus,sable and windstar.contacted the dealer who sold it to me and was told that there was a recall contacted the ford dealer and was told about other cars mentioned.i called ford motor to report problem they took a complaint and told me i had to go through a dealer to contact a regional manager.ford dealer told me that it is impossible to contact a ford regional manager.that he had gotten a car in his dealership with same problems and that it is basically junk material it will have to be salvaged.the only help would be to have a new or used motor put in this auto.i am on a limited income my husband is due to be put on a liver list.and this is my only means of transportation.this car was paid for and i have had it less than a 8 months and there it sits in my driveway a piece of junk.if you figure out how many months i have this car it equals to 750.00 a month to have owned thisi could have purchased a new auto and made payments with what i had spent on this.and now with the repairs it will cost me more the ford dealer said these cars are known for this type of problem.
The head gasket failed resulting in the vehicle loosing coolant, the leak in the lower part of the radiator causing loss of coolant and coolant odor outside the vehicle.nlm
Engine would overheat/run rough, and coolant would get intooil while driving.vehicle taken to a repair shop, and informedconsumer of a blown head gasket. Dealer notified. Feel free to provide any further infromation.
Blown head gasket.the car wouldn't heat up and it would die on me when i would give it gas to acelerate or take off from a stop light.i almost got hit twice.there also was white smoke coming out of the exhaust.
Head gaskets failed.
The head gasket failed on my thunderbird when i was driving on an interstate highway at highway speed - the car emitted a huge cloud of vapor, obscuring the road behind me and causing me to immediately lose power. Ford has declined to cover the repair cost, even thought the exact same engine in a taurus or windstar van is covered under an extended warrantly program for exhibiting the same failure. This defect can present a safety issue, by obscuring the visibility of cars following and causing the immediate loss of power in my vehicle.
Could smell antifreeze coming from the tail pipe shortly before the heaed gasket blew and engine began to run poorly and blow white smoke from the tailpipe. This repair was very costly and ford has begun to compensate owners of other ford models with the exact same engine, but no the ford thunderbird.t.
Blown head gasket, engine spewed white smoke via tailpipe. Engine won't fire nor start.
Gaskets were leakingbehind the timing chain cover due to cracked heads, this causedvehicle to overheat.consumer stated that white smokewas blowing out the exhaust.
From what i hear from my mechanic and other owners across the country this year and model of thunderbird has a history of a defective head gasket.my vehicle has only 93000 miles on it and has blown the head gasket.other owners have had this experience as early as 65kmiles.this is obviously a manufacturer defect which should be covered by the ford motor company.
Head gasket failed at around 95,000 miles paid repair shop $1700+ to replain the heads and replace the gasket. Recently found out this is an ongoing problem with this 3.8l engine and ford will not fix it. Problem still not fixed engine still running poorly and coolent levels still droping. White cloud of smoke when engine is started.
Vehicle 3.8 - v6 engine; while driving noticedcoolant leakages/overheating, and smoke from tail pipe due to a blowen engine head gasket. Dealer/ manufacturer notified, and informed consumer that vehicle was not covered under manufacturer's extended warranty.
On both occasions, the head-gaskets blew.engine was replaced with first incident.now faced with a similar situation.only engine is not burned up this time.why fix it, if the same problem is going to simply happen again. Yet i can't afford another vehicle.i purchased this car brand new and took very good care of it.alot of good that did.
While stoppingvehicle overheated and stalled.dealers have been contacted and replaced headlight switch. Please provide further information.
Enginehead gasket cracked, causing coolant to leak onto the engine.ford has extended thewarranty on various models. However, this vehicle was not included.manufacturer has been contacted twice, and owner was told that his car wasn't covered because it had a different coolant system, and because there weren't a large enough amount of statistical occurences reported of the head gasket failing in this model for a recall.*ml
Head gaskets were over tightened on assemebly line,1994 and later were recalled.
Car was purchased new by father in 1993 and purchased by me (son) in 1999.all service to vehicle has been completed by ford dealers or national oil change companies at manufacturer's specifications. This head gasket failure is very premature for this vehicle and is indicitive of a common problem for this engine type.
Headgasket blew, causing visibililty problem.ford refuses to include thunderbirds in its headgasket recall.
Head gasket failed and was replaced. Replacement only lasted about 1 year, needs to be replaced again. Also, engine will be replaced.
This vehicle first had a head gasket failure in 1997 w/only 85002 miles on it.it was not under warranty (75000 mi), so ford made me pay (total:$1135.36).in january 2000 after 50,000 additional miles the same problem occurred.i can not afford to fix the vehicle, nor will ford.i have seen on your site that a class action suit is pending for this specific problem although my vehicle was not mentioned.how do i go about getting my money back and have ford fix my vehicle?i am angry, frustrated, and tired of walking to work.
Would like a refund of $1619.01 for head gasket repair.would like volt meter and cruiz control fixed.
Head gasket failed. In addition, brakes vibrate when applied.
Have heard of possible widespread problems with head gasket of this type.would like information before we have it fixed.is ford recalling, extending warranty?
Head gasket blown at 72,000 miles. There is no recall or tsb on this problem, yet in checking nhtsa complaint section there appears to be hundreds of people that have had this same problem. Of course these are only those people that took the time to file a complaint. My local dealer, jordan ford in mishawaka, in, says that he will do nothing about this problem and refused to give me a number for ford that i could call to register my complaint.
Blown head gasket on the 3.8l v6.only 103,000 miles on it.
Problem with engine hesitation/ loss of coolant and overheating when driving. Vehicle taken to an independent repair shop, and informed consumer that3.8l engine experienced a head gasket failure. Manufacturer notified, and informed consumer that vehicle was not covered under an extended warranty. Please feel free to provide any further details on this matter.
Why would a 1993 thunderbird with less than 40,000 miles have it head gaskets burn out so early? i have always brought the car back to the dealer for it's annual upkeep. Oil always changed, tires rotated. I though i was buying a car that would last me for a long time and 7 years into it i'm doing major repairs to the engine? that is not right! i could have put that money down as a good down payment on another car!!! i would like my money back and i have all my receipts to prove all this. Where or who do i speak with to get some action done?
Vehicle would overheat and experieince loss of coolant while driving. Manufacturer was notified. Also feel free to provide us with any further information or details concerning this matter.
Engine failure due to gaskets, replaced multi-function switch several times as well as fuel line, electrical systems malfunction in the power mirrors and the power locks, illumination controls as well as motor in drivers side door<power door>, seatbelts will not engage and signals for seatbelt to be worn , seatbelt alarm will not shut off until this problem is solved.coolent system failure at point of engine failure , decrease in compression and white smoke from hood, levels read very hot!!.
Upon starting, white cloud of smoke emitted from exhaust, engine running rough, engine temp. Gauge rose quickly. Test revealed blown head gasket.
Loss of coolant andengine check light would come on. Vehicle taken to dealer, and informed of a head gasket failure on it 3.8l v6 engine, and it was not cover under a manufacturer'sextended warranty.
Head gasket failure.ford implies that head gaskets should last 100,000 miles. Will not honor on thunderbird.
As to head gaskets, have had two sets of failures, at approx. 100k apart . . . . as to brakes, have had multiple replacements of rotors due to chronic warping . . . . as to transmission, have had to have purchase lifetime warranty transmission from aamco due to failures in 2-3 & 3-4 shifts.
Experienced head gasket failure on 3.8l ford engine.repair cost $917.the same problem occurred on a previously owned 1988 thunderbird with the same engine and approximately the same mileage.a year ago my son had the same failure on his 1995 ford mustang and has since received notice that ford has extended the warranty for this year and model and that the cost of repairs will be reimbursed. If ford admits to the problem in the 1994 model years and younger, why wouldn't the same be true of earlier models with the same engine?i was informed by my mechanic that repaired engines on both my thunderbirds that he had repaired a number of other out-of-warranty fords with the same problem.the extended warranty that ford is offering is 7 yrs. Or 100,000 miles. My 1993 would have fallen in this category if ford had admitted the problem back in april of 1998 when it was repaired.i feel that ford should stand behind all 3.8l complaints.
Blown headgasket,damaged engine required replacement of engine. Why doesn't ford play fair?
Head gaskets:w/o any warning whatsoever suddenly there appeared white smoke from exhaust pipe, temp. Gauage went up, car had not been using any oil and/or anti-freeze which is a heads up to such a problem occuring.all maintenance had always been kept up on a regular basis on vehicle.told at time that this problem had happened that the next thing that would happen would be the engine would go.the first week of sept. Just like mechanic said, the engine went there again, w/o any notice.it through a rod.was told that to save problems/time, should actually just go ahead and replace both when doing the other becuase it would happen.told ford motor aware of this problem within a 3 yr. Range on this motor & head gaskets.they have sense improved problem but that does nothing to help out those of us who bought those years.put out the money or part it out!for those of us who have kept up our vehicles, we have no choice.ford motor knowingly aware of this should have some responsibility.am in the process of contacting their consumer affairs division in order to discuss but know what they'll have to say..."out of warranty"...you're stuck!
Head gasket and noise in bottom of engine, running rough with check guage light coming on and overheating,this happened while on the freeway immedialtely got off and took it over to rice and holman the next day.
Took car in to have a recall on a head lamp switch fixed. Told them car seems to have a hesitation when taking off after a complete stop. They told me it had to have the iaccensor replaced. Had that done at a cost of363.00.they also put in a new thermostat, sid engine wasn't getting hot enough? 2 days later car still hesitated and over heated. Was told head gasket needed to be replaced. Had that fixed 900.00.they also told me i should have the timing cover replaced because it has a possible crack? took to an independent auto shop had them take a look, they said it looked fine?
Check engine light came on, both gasket were blown.
I had a bad head gasket, problematic of most 3.8 litre rear wheel drive ford passenger cars from 1988 to 1996.ford has recognized the problem with the '94 through '96 3.8 litres, but these are the same 3.8 litres in the earlier models.i own a '93 thunderbird that just needed the head gaskets replaced for $1000.00 .i should not be expected to pay for a problem that ford motor companyhas admitted having.i would like to be reimbursed for the entire amount of the repair, due to the fact that ford is and was aware of the head gasket problem.thank you.
Enginehead gaskets have blown out, rendering the engine inoperable. Dealer has been notified.
Vehicle experienced a lost of power and white smoke coming out of tail pipe; vehicle taken to independence repairs shop and informed of a head gasket failure and vehicle was not cover under mfr's extends warranty. Please provide any further details.
Car blew head gasket at 94500.00 miles other ford models were recalled but the thunderbird 1993 was not and it uses the same engine as the winstar 94 which was recalled for the head gasket.
Blown engine head gasket - requiring multiple componet replacement & pressure testing.
Ford has admitted they have a problem with the head gasket in their 3.8l engine, but are only replacing those in cars 1994 or newer. Calls to ford stated they won't cover this even though it is the same engine, has less then 100,000 miles, because it is in a 1993 vehicle. Their excuse was they havn't received enough complaints from owners of 1993 vehicles. Request to talk to someone in management in customer service was denied by a supervisor. This could have been a serious problem, as steam blocked my vision when the head gasket blew.
Newer vehicles with similar engines have had warranty extensions to cover this repair.why is this make/model with same engine not being covered?
Blown head gasket not covered since ford won't cover 1993 model...oly the 1994 and newer.
Head gasket failed at 70,000 miles / ford fails to recall vehicle.
Vehicle stalls/overheats, engine check light comes on. Dealer will not repair at consumers cost becauserecall that was found for the problem was towards a later model.the head gasket is blown.heavy white smoke comes from exhaust pipe andvehicle overheats.
Engine head gasket is blue at 82,00 miles.
Defective engine head gasketcaused the engine to ease up & fail.engine had to be replaced four times.dealersaid head gaskets were the reason why the engine had to be replaced so many times.
Overheating and loss of engine coolant, and heater would blow out cool air. Dealer notified, and informed consumer that3.8l v6 engine had a head gasket failure, vehicle taken to an independent repair shop forrepairs.
Defective 3.8 liter enginehead gasket blew out,causing anti-freeze to leak onto engine cylinder. This engine is recalled in other models, but not the thunderbird.owner wants to be reimbursed for repairs. *ml
Vehicle stalls then shuts off. Dealer notified.
Engine head gaskets have prematurely blownout four times, causing the engine to lock up.please give any further details.
Ford has extended warranties on some models for early head gasket failure,at about 65,500 miles, our car has the same engine in it as the recalls and we had failure at 48,000 miles, i have contacted customer service only to be told mine is not included in the program, i have wrote a letter to jim o' connor a ford executive and i have received a phone call from a customer service rep. When i questioned why she was answering my letter instead of jim she replied that he gets thousands of letters daily and does"nt have the time to read or answer them. All she told me basically was what i had written in my letter and she could'nt answer any questions. I was told to call1-800-325-5621 with my questions, and that my letter would be filed in their computer just in case they later included my car in this extension. I called the number only to be told that a dealer had to call this number for me. So i called my dealer and asked the difference between the 3.8l engine in my car and in the taurus or windstar i was told that the differences were minor but that the thunderbird had a superior cooling system in it's engine. He suggested that i come in and fill out a customer review form and they would submit it to ford and they may help me with the bill. My major complaint is that if ford is recognizing a problem with this engine and early head gasket failure, why are they only recognizing certain makes and year's . My car may be a 93 , the car's in the extended warranty are 94's and 95's but they have about 65,000 miles on them when they fail, mine has much less. I appreciate any help as i am very aggravated with this. Thank you for your time.
While driving on the highwaywhite smoke came from under the hood, and consumer was not able to see. Consumer was told that is was a blown head gasket.*ml
This is the second ford vehicle with 3.8l that we have owned. Both vehicles suffered from the same problem of premature head gasket failure. The first vehicle was a 1993 mercury sable with the 3.8l engine. Every mechanic i have talked to knows that these head gaskets fail at or about 60,000 miles. Is ford going to do any thing about it? it has costed us 2000.00 now between the two vehicles.
Head gaskets failed.
Engine check light kept coming on/ over heated and loss of coolant. Taken to an independent shop, and informed consumer of a head gasket failure. Manufacturer notified, and informed that vehicle was not covered under an extened warranty.consumer states she contacted ford motor co. And was advised they would not cover repairs due to consumer taking vehicle to an independent mechanic.
Head gasket is leaking coolant ontoengine, causing shaking and engine temperature to go up.dealer determined head gasket needed to be replaced.
Head gasket failure,had to repace twice. Is starting to overheat again.
Engine continually overheating, several repair attempts however head gasket blew causing extensive damage to engine.*mjs
Premature headgasket failure led to $1750 in repairs.
I am making this complaint about the defective head gasket i had to replace recently.i called ford to complain and they said they had not gotten many complaints about this.now i find out it seems to be a very common complaint.i also read that ford was going to replace/pay for some but not all the 3.8 l engines with this problem.my 1993 thunderbird is not included in this recall.this seems to be discriminatory on ford's part.i only hope there is some influence nhtsa can have in this matter.thankyou.
Aluminum engineheads cracked, with leakage. Service center suggested we report this, since he has repaired about 20 other automobiles in the last 24 months with the same problem and the same mileage. Says heads do not have enough metal at the head bolts and repairs will be necessary again after 50-70000 miles. Service center will back up this statement. Please investigate any flaw or defect in this engine. Very costly repair. Thank you...mrs. T. Carroll.
Had head gasket, crankshaft, and rod bearings replaced at 67,000 and 68,000 miles, and at 83,000 both are shot again.
The head gasket failed on this vehicle with what i consider very low mileage, less than 43k miles. Ford has extended the warranty on '94 and '95 model years to cover this repair. This car was not abused and had excellent maintenance over the years. There's no reason for the failure of the head gasket other than a design defect. Fortunately, i was not driving on the highway when the failure occurred.
Two years ago, my son and i were almost killed when we were driving in 55 mph traffic in the mira mesa area of san diego, and my 1993 ford t-bird engine failed due to defective engine gaskets--the exact symptoms described in ford recall #00m10.fortunately, we were able to get our car over to the side of the road and no one was hurt.
Head gasket/ headlight switch failures.
Head gasket blew 2x 1st. Time @ 67,000 mi, and again @ 96,000 mi. Junked car.
The head gasket was designed too small and was defective causing the vehicle to be undrivable. The consumer is requesting reimbursement for the cost of repairing the defective head gasket.
Head gasket(s) failed. Anti-freeze went out exhaust causing large white cloud - reduced visibility for drivers behind me. Car overheated - stopped on road causing traffic backup. A dealer rep said problem is becoming common with t-birds that have 55-80k miles. Luckily there were no accidents. But its going to cost $800-1000 to fix!!.
Head gasket failure w/ 3.8 l engine!
Head gasket blew 3 times, causing car tostall up in middle of highway just stopped. Also blowing white steam thru back end making impossible for drivers behind to have a clear vision, also steam white smoke in front end, blowing anifreeze thru the exhuast. This seems to be a common problem among fords 3.8l engines. I get no help from manufacture or dealer. I am very disapointed in ford co.
While driving vehicle,the check engine light came on,vehicle started overheating and smoking. Mechanic says it due to head gaskets.
Engine head gasket failed.
Engine was overheating due to head gasket failure which also caused coolant to leak into the oil.
Engine head gasketblewout, causing and engine to leak.no dealer was contacted at the time of this call. Ph.
Consumer was traveling about 30mph on a side streetand vehicle started to overheat.it was caused by a blown head gasket. Also,vehicle shutdown.
Head gaskets failed prematurely, seems to be a common problem even privious to 1994 3.8l's
While driving in normal traffic the engine check light came on, and temperature gauge went up, consumer had to stop 10 times for water.the head gasket blew soon after.other ford models have had their engines recalled, but this vehicle is not included.consumer also complains that the oil pressure gauge is not effective, it doesn't give the owner sufficient information regarding the level of pressure. *ml
While traveling noticed steam coming from the tail pipe. Called dealer. Dealer stated engine gas valve cover blew out. Please provide furhter information.
Cold start, loud banging noise, smoke coming from tailpipe, antifreeze leaking, due to bad head gasket.
Temperature needle runs high on the car, and black smoke was coming out the rear of the vehicle. Mechanic said that engine head gasket blew out.
This thunderbird has the 3.8l v6 engine.head gaskets failed.the local dealer admits that there is a problem with these engines.the extended warranty programs do not included1993 thunderbirds, only 1994-1995.repair cost for me was about $1800.00.ford customer service rep is unwilling to assist with any amount of payment.i will be filing in small claims court.
The head gasket blew out at 62032 miles, consumer is requesting reimbursement for the repairs, however the manufacturer denied consumers claim.
I contacted you back in march because of my thunderbird's early engine head gasket failure,and my many letter's and phone calls to ford which wentunanswered . I have not received any satisfaction in my complaints. In ford's first recall of their 3.8l head gasket failure my car was not included the reason being that it is a rear wheel drive vehicle, the cars being recalled were front wheel drive vehicles. I argued that it was the same engine with the same problem why cover only certain model's. Now i have read that ford is again going to extend warranties and cover repair bills for this problem in thunderbirds and cougars which were not included in the first program. They state that due to many complaints they will now cover this engine in rear wheel drive vehicles. I again phoned customer service at ford only to be told again that it did not include my thunderbird because it is a 93. I asked when my car was actually put in service, and was told april4,1993, when my head gasket failed it was not even seven years old which is the amount of years that they are extending the warranty for this problem. The mileage on my car was also way below the average miles on other cars that this happened to. The average being 65,000. My original question is still the same isn't the problem a defective engine, and it should'nt matter whether it's a 93 or 94. Ford is stating that the engine is a problem, but won't stand behind it. Thank you for your time with this .
Without warning, head gasket blew out at 75,000 miles.vehicle was maintained according to ford recommended service schedule.this appears to be a common problem in 1989-1995 ford 3.8l v6 engines.
Vehicle was blowing white smoke out ofback ofvehicle due to a leaky head gasket, allowing coolant to leak onto engine. Dealer replacedgasket and milled downhead.
Head gaskets failed.
Bad head gasketblowing white smoke.
Despite having regular service as ford manual details, engine head gasketfailed oct 23,1999 at 65,975 miles.i had no warning of anything wrong until that saturday morning when i was driving to the grocery and white smoke started pouring from my tailpipe.i was less than 1 mile from home, so i returned. Liquid was leaking out of the tail pipe.i had the car towed to a garage where the head gasket was replaced at a cost of $1100.00.i have contacted my ford dealer who told me to call the ford customer hotline.i have done that several times but have not been helped.i have written a letter to the chairman of the board of ford motor dated march 8, 2000 but have not received a reply as of march 29.ford has admitted problems with this engine on the front wheel drive vehicles, but my mechanic told me he has had several repairs on rear wheel drive vehicles such as my car.
Consumer was travelingatregularspeed andvehicle stalled.cooliant was running very low.she tookvehicle to the dealership,they said thathead gasket broke.
Owners manual states wrong oil filter, causing it to fail. *dh
Engine head gasket blew out. There was white smoke coming from manifold pipe.
While driving at 45 mphengine head gasket blew out without prior warning,causinga fuel leak.
Head gasket blew 2x 1st. Time @ 67,000 mi, and again @ 96,000 mi. Junked car.
Blew a head gasket at a little over 90000 miles.there was white smoke coming from the exhaust blinding drivers behind and on either side.the car also stalled several times blocking traffic at major intersections leading up to the engine problem.this problem is covered for 1994 and 1995 t-birds up to 100000 miles, but because mine is a 1993, they are refusing to reimburse me for the cost of the repair.this is obviously a manufacturer's defect.i contacted ford and they were unable to provide an explanation of any kind for why the 1994 is covered, yet the 1993 is not for the exact same problem.
Vehicle running rough. Pulled over after noticing white smoke coming from tailpipe. Water was gone fromoverflow. Radiator dry. Told was blown head gasket.
Whilevehicle was still park indriveway engine started shaking. Consumer took vehicle for a test, and white smoke was coming frompipe, and anti-freeze smell was felt inside of vehicle then,dealerstated that engine had a blown head gasket. The manufacturer had recalled other vehicles with this defect but declined to fix the consumer's vehicle.
Blown head gaskets two times.1st time at 57k - 2nd time at 105k.
My head gaskets blew at 80,000 miles. Ford has has a recall on this engine. They rerfuse to recall my 1993 thunderbird.
Right engine head gasket originally failed 11/95 when the car was experiencing unexplained bucking sensation under load in cold weather.after numurous visits and alternative repairs, dealer finally figured out problem and replaced right head gasket in 3/97.both gaskets along with water pump failed this time.dealer contends original repair done right, and stated the new head gaskets can be expected to fail within several years again.
Head gaskets blown @38000, main bearing failed 1 month later, head gasket failed again @95000
Vehicle 3.8-v6 engine; while driving noticed overheating and smoke from tail pipe due to blown engine head gasket. Had car towed to dealer. Dealer proceeded to replace gaskets with estimate of $1,800 for repairs. After assembly and test dealer advised that the piston shaft bearings needed replacing and those repairs would be an additional $1,100 for a total estimate of $2,900.
Was told by mechanic that a defective head casket was also seen on another 1993 t-bird (6 cyl).
Blown head gaskets-twice.once at about 65000 miles and again at about 120000 miles.i believe it's due to manufacturing defect--iron block/aluminum heads--and incorrect assembly.i can't believe there hasn't been a recall.if nhtsa would check service records on a national basis then i think you'd find thousands and thousands of identical failures.mechanics and service managers all over the country love to see us coming.other t-bird owners (and other ford motor co. Automobile owners) have had the same problem.why hasn't something been done?
Head gasket failure at 57,446 miles 3.8l engineengulfed is white smoke.between 57.446 mile and 58,346 all kinds of electrical problems, e.e. Mirror switch, door locks, odometer, tripometer, window swithches.third time for door locks.all ford motor says is they will document the complaint.
Head gasket blew causing car to overheat and blowing water through the exhaust system.this happened with no warning of overheating whatsoever.as a matter of fact, no problems incurred up to this point.this incident left driver stranded as vehicle was immobilized.
While starting vehicle noticed white smoke comingfrom tail pipe. Dealer was contacted, and stated that head gasket needed to be replaced. Please provide further information.
Engine overheating since 36797 miles dealer examined, same problem 36813 miles dealer examined again 41803 again cooling system problems with overheating. Said that head gasket failure and that ford was having problems with head gasket bolts and needed to replace all bolts on head gasket or new head gasket would fail. Ford motor company was no help and upset with dealer also. Recent recalls of 1994 vehicles with same engine with same problems are also frustrating. Why do they not look at number of failures of this engine and include them in the recall if they experience this problem.
Engine head gaskets have gone bad,consumer was told by a mechanic 6 months ago that this would happen. Dealer has been contacted.
This is the second time, in a yr-1/2 the engine head gasket has failed.
Blown head gasket on 1993 ford thunderbird with 80,000 original miles.
Blown head gasket, engine spewed white smoke via tailpipe. Engine won't fire nor start.
I brought the car used with approximatly 73,000 mi. After putting on only about 10,000 miles the crankshaft snapped. Furtherer investigation revieled a previous blown head gasket repair. Coolant contamination of the crankcase when a head gasket blows often times results in damage to the crankshaft and subsequent failure. I've contacted ford and they are playing dumb. The 1993 thunderbird sc 3.8 liter engine is the exactly the same engine as in the 1994, 1995 thunderbirds. What gives? i'm bummed that ford is not doing the right thing.
While stoppingvehicle overheated and stalled.dealers have been contacted and replaced headlight switch. Please provide further information.
Ford should admit all 3.8l v6 are defective and cover repairs. No summary listed for above vehicle.
94+up 3.8's repaired for free but not 93 and down! same engine why not same solution?
No summary listed for above vehicle.
It seems like ford has a problem with all of there 3.8l engins and needs to do somthing about this if they want to keep happy customers.
Head gaskets failed,head lights failed,a/c failed,throttle cable failed,thermostat failed,clutch fan failed,tape player never worked
No summary listed for above vehicle.
No summary listed for above vehicle.
Failed head gasket caused me to replace the engine.head gasket failure occurred approximately 5 months after 6 year/100k extended warranty expired.since ford is already recalling this engine from other cars of the same era, it is likely my engine had the same defective head gaskets.
This failure is known by ford, and recalls of other vehicles with this engine have been done.but they refuse to acknowledge the problem with this model/year.no safety defect listed within summary.
3.8l engine failure,ford will not compensate due to my vehicle being a 1993,even though this is an acknowledged desigin defect in the 3.8l engines.
No summary listed for above vehicle.
Was told this was not covered back in early 2000, would like to know if it is now covered. This vehicles engine was fords mistake, they should stand behind it.
No summary listed for above vehicle.
Engine problems, slow acceleration, hesitation, vehicle had trouble starting then experiences smoking under the hood.mjs
No summary listed for above vehicle.
No summary listed for above vehicle.
Head gasket failed in a car with 58,000 miles. Ford is well aware of the design defect in the 3.8 liter v6 and the internet is full of sites documenting horror stories about these engines.
This seems to be a very common problem
Consumer complains that the engine stalled as he was pulling out of the parking area.*jg
Please encourage ford to recall this problem engine or reimburse cost of repairs!!! no safety defect listed in summary.
Talking with other ford owners, this is a common problem with this motor, yet ford does not acknowlegde or assist in anyway with the thunderbird models.
Car has had upper engine rebuilt, car stalls while driving with no warning, computer read no date when tested.car makes growling sound when brakes are applied.brake system has been checked, diferential fluid has been replaced as suggested by manufacturer.
Parked car and heard watery noise - antifreeze was coming out of tailpipe.
Ford refuses to address this issue.so much for "a consumer driven company". No safety defect mentioned.
Head gasket failed and was replaced. Replacement only lasted about 1 year, needs to be replaced again. Also, engine will be replaced.
A recall for premature failure of head gaskets has been inititated for the 94 and 95 models.a simple look at your own database plus my experience indicates the head gasket problem is much wider than just these two model years.
Consumer was traveling about 30mph on a side streetand vehicle started to overheat.it was caused by a blown head gasket. Also,vehicle shutdown.
Engine threw rod, needs replacement.
Big problems with engine same one recalled in outher fords.
Vehilce stops while driving as if the ignition has been turned off, no studder, not rough ride it just turns off and when it starts rough like firing order is incorrect then idles with a slight miss every 5-10 seconds.nlm
The engine is making a tapping noise has been replace on new motor and brake has been replace three time .tt
Local mechanic told me this was a common problem with the3.8's wish i have known sooner. No safety defect listed in the summary.
Same 3.8 engine in other year and model of vehicle has been covered under extended warranty by ford. Possible reimbursement for 1993 ford thunderbird ??
Damaged during assembly
My mechanic told me that this was a problem he sees on a regular basis with t-birds and cougars. The dealership did not do the repair, i had my regular mechanic do it. The dealership told me that the 94 and 95 3.8 v6 engines were recalled for this problem, but not the 93, which is the same engine!
I am on the fourth engine failure of this car, i feel it should be included in the buy-back that ford is holding on the 95 windstars.
No summary listed for above vehicle.
I am on the fourth engine failure of this car, i feel it should be included in the buy-back that ford is holding on the 95 windstars.
Blown head gasket.the car wouldn't heat up and it would die on me when i would give it gas to acelerate or take off from a stop light.i almost got hit twice.there also was white smoke coming out of the exhaust.
No summary listed for above vehicle.
Gaskets were leakingbehind the timing chain cover due to cracked heads, this causedvehicle to overheat.consumer stated that white smokewas blowing out the exhaust.
The car overheats and runs poorly, the dealer said it was a leaky intake manifold gasket. I had it checked for hydro carbons at a garage which it has, indicating a blown head gasket. I was told that the local mercury dealer was flooded with 3.8l blown head gaskets. Would like to know if thier will be a recall.
Catalytic converter failed.
Steam coming from tailpipe. My mechanic knew the promlem immediately, says it's common on ford 3.8l. Gasket made of shoddy material. Funny,i like t-birds, my second one.
Steam coming from tailpipe. My mechanic knew the promlem immediately, says it's common on ford 3.8l. Gasket made of shoddy material. Funny,i like t-birds, my second one.
Air conditioner compressor broke allowing coolant to escape.
Heater climate control failed
Head gaskets failed,head lights failed,a/c failed,throttle cable failed,thermostat failed,clutch fan failed,tape player never worked
Temperature sensor/computer for the climate control was submerged under water and run risk of shorting out.
Nar 06/19/2003.*mrwhen the consumer attempted to use the car jack, the vehicle was not able to support it self on the designated car jack.the consumer questions ford as to whether the vehicle can hold it's own weight, does a new car jack need to be brought which was in perfect condition given by ford, and what will happen if there is a another emergency.please give prompt response.
1993 ford thunderbird with headlights that fail while driving at night. Failure starts with flickering and blinking causing loss of visibility.
In all cases, the head lights will flash off and on after being on for about 30 minutes.the brake light on the driver side will burn out repeatedly.the park lights and indicator lights will fail repeatedly.the radio will fail all at different times.these electrical/light failures happen more often but not at the same time, when i turn the ground lights on.
Headlight reflectors burned out.dealer advised thatentire lighting system will have to be replaced.defect causes bad vision at night.
High mounted brake lights inoperative due to defective wiring harness/melted plastic bulb housing.
High mounted stop light bulbs fail due to excessive heat build-up in plastic housing which causes plastic bulb sockets to melt to bulbs.*mjs
High-mount tail light burnt out. Trunk light burnt out. Seat belt retractors failed.
The rear mounted brake lightsocket and socket and holder is melting, cause unknown.please give any further details.
1.headlights - regular beams completely extinguished on both sides following intermittent flickering, followed by loss of normal high beams.only recourse is to use 'pass & go' high beams to get home.required replacement of multi-function switch (e9sz-13k359-d) 4 times during 5-yr period, plus scorched/melted plug connector 3 times.2.high mount brake lamp - both sockets scorched/melted & bulbs extinguished; replaced 3 times during same period.question:are these related to each other or to recall# 99v275000 ?
Light bulb sockets in third brake light in rear window melt, dealer contacted and are aware of the problem, but cannot remedy.the sockets are plastic that melt with heat.
High mounted rear stop light is melting from heat of bulb. Entire encasement has turned black. The bulb socket & attachment has melted down.entire rear stop light has to be replaced.
The high mounted stop lamp assembly has melted.delaer has been notified.
The bulbs in the high mounted stop light melted through the plastic which may have caused a fire.please provide further information.
Thirdbrake light got so hot that it melted the lens cover and housing socket, almost resulting in a fire.dealer has been contacted. Bulbs enlarged due to excessive heat also.
In all cases, the head lights will flash off and on after being on for about 30 minutes.the brake light on the driver side will burn out repeatedly.the park lights and indicator lights will fail repeatedly.the radio will fail all at different times.these electrical/light failures happen more often but not at the same time, when i turn the ground lights on.
Rear high mounted brake lamp overheated, causing wiring harness/ plastic housing to melt.
15 minutes driving at night headlights flash on/off between high and low beams. Also fog lights do not operate properly. When applied, looks like a police car with lights flashing.
Headlights blew out when the fog lights were on. Dealer has repaired vehicle under a recall; however the problem has reoccurred.dealer has been notified.
When driving if fog lamp switch is on for even a few mins the lights go on/off sometimes for long periods.
After driving for 1/2 hour with lights on, headlights would flicker. High beams or fog lights could not be used. Speed would not matter. Took to shop to have it checked out.
Multi-functional electrical switch overheats when the fog lamps are turned on.smoke was visible from the steering column.
Headlights ar made of plexiglass material and are yellowing severely, decreasing headlight effectiveness.after three years fog lamp switch failed to energize fog lamps.inspection revealed that the fog lamp switch was literally melted from the heat to which it was exposed under the center console. Replace fog lamp switch.
Headlamps are discolored due to material of construction decreasing the headlamp effectiveness and night vision, fog lamp switch melted.nlm
Had #99s30 done well b4 recall;headlights still go off & on even when fog lights are not on,ford says not responsible,part out of warranty.
After complete headlight failure while driving, took car to dealer for repair.i was advised by mechanic that multifunction switch assembly was burned due to "quote" excessive draw from headlamp and fog lamp switches. He advised me that headlamp and fog lamp switches were not in stock but to replace multifuntion switch and hardshell and not to use fog lamps. He could not confirm that multifunction switch and hardshell were in fact defective. I had the repair made at cost of $224.08. Another ford dealer examined the old multifuntion switch and hardshell and did not believe there was anything wrong with them. On nov. 22 1999 i went to bob sight ford to present recall #99s30, i also requested a full refund for the multifunction switch because i believe that this headlamp switch recall proves that if the multifuntion switch and hardshell were defective it is the direct cause of the headlamp switch being defective. I truley believe i was sold parts that were not defective. The man i spoke to put my recall letter and service receipt back on the counter and told me there was nothing he could do for me.
Headlamps are discolored due to material of construction decreasing the headlamp effectiveness and night vision, fog lamp switch melted.nlm
Headlamps are discolored due to material of construction decreasing the headlamp effectiveness and night vision, fog lamp switch melted.nlm
Headlights will shut off for various amounts of time. This has happened at various speeds. Also has occurred with windshield wipers & fog lamps on, but also occurrred with them off.
While driving, experienced intermittent head lamp failure, when overheats then shorts out, causing headlights to blink on and off.
Consumer states that headlights arenot working properly. Dealer notified.
While driving at nighthead lights flashed on and off.dealer stated theathead light switchmalfunctioned.
15 minutes driving at night headlights flash on/off between high and low beams. Also fog lights do not operate properly. When applied, looks like a police car with lights flashing.
Ea99005, headlight switch;intermittently while driivng the headlights began to flash on and off before going off completely. The dealer is aware of the problem. The problem has not been corrected. About one year and six months ago the headlight switch was replaced. Please provide any further details.
Headlight lens cover has become very dimmed or clouded over. This makeslighting almost non existent when it's dark. It's very difficult to drive, and can not seeroad clearly.problem is steady or has steadily gotten worse.consumer states that recall 99v275 was complete on vehicle , however problem still exists, dealer will only do repair if consumer pays for it.
In all cases, the head lights will flash off and on after being on for about 30 minutes.the brake light on the driver side will burn out repeatedly.the park lights and indicator lights will fail repeatedly.the radio will fail all at different times.these electrical/light failures happen more often but not at the same time, when i turn the ground lights on.
Numerous complaints on this problem appear to have been reported.this is most definately a safety issue and why is there no recall?last failure was at a rate of over 60mph around a curve with no ambient lighting on the roadway.there was virtually no visibility after the incident.
Headlights fail.
When switching from bright to dim lights the lights go completely out. Could have had a serious accident but was fortunate. I called the dealership. They said there was no recall on this.
Headlamps are discolored due to material of construction decreasing the headlamp effectiveness and night vision, fog lamp switch melted.nlm
A couple minutes after turning on the headlights they begin to flicker. The longer the headlights are on, the period they stay off is longer. The dealer is aware of the problem. The problem has not been corrected.
While traveling on the highway without prior warning. The headlight will go off and the fog light will stay on. Please fill in additional information.dealer is aware of the problem.ts
While driving, experienced intermittent head lamp failure, when overheats then shorts out, causing headlights to blink on and off.
Headlamps are discolored due to material of construction decreasing the headlamp effectiveness and night vision, fog lamp switch melted.nlm
While driving vehicle the headlights flashon and off, owner believes this is because of the alarm module that fell between the brake and firewall.
Both headlamps have turned yellow and foggy, driver cannot seat at night.
Lens assembly for low beam headlights has deteriorated, turning cloudly yellow, this has restricted the light from the low beam per night driving, which is a serious loss of visibility .my dealer will not pass the car upon inspection due to the loss of light .the headlight assembly units need to be replaced at once.
Consumer received recall notice99v275000/ headlights,and found out fromdealer that partneeded to be replaced wasn't covered underrecall. Consumer has repaired the problem once before out of his ownpocket.
Prior to april 8th of 1999 the reaccurance has happened frequently headlamps flickerin g when the fog lamps were in use . Two prior times i changed out the headlamp switch and it would seem to work ok for a while finally i proceded to take the vehicle to the dealer to have this situation resolved.the first time i took the vehicle in, the head lamps worked for a month or so then they began to fail again in november of 1999 a recall notice was sent out ,i then took the vehicle back to where i got the vehicle repaired the firstr time , that repaired the head lamps for approximatly one year .the reaccuring flickering of the headlamps started again approximatly three months ago untill finally the head lamps stoped working.
After driving for 1/2 hour with lights on, headlights would flicker. High beams or fog lights could not be used. Speed would not matter. Took to shop to have it checked out.
Had #99s30 done well b4 recall;headlights still go off & on even when fog lights are not on,ford says not responsible,part out of warranty.
Headlight failure happened in '96, '97, & '99 (charged for 2 repairs).
While driving the headlights flashed on and off . The dealer has been notified.
Head lamp covers turned yellow.as time has pass headlights gave poor visibility. Consumer had to travel with bright lights to gain visibility. Please provide further information.
While drivinga fire ignited at the front left side of the vehicl., when the fire department came and put the fire out, it was determined that the fireoriginated froma shortin theheadlamp. The vehicle was totaled.dealer has been contacted.
While driving the headlights are turning on and off bythemselves. Cause unknown.please provide any details.
Headlight lenses haveworn out.dealer and manufacturer have been notified.
Consumer states that while driving at night consumers headlightswent out and consumer smelled smoke. Consumer feels this is very dangerous could catch fire.consumer pulled over and parked. Please provide any further information.nlm
When driving the headlights don't work. Also,when locking the seat belts, once consumerhits the brakes,the seat belt won't stay locked. Consumer claims that is a safety issue.
Head gaskets failed,head lights failed,a/c failed,throttle cable failed,thermostat failed,clutch fan failed,tape player never worked
While driving headlights blink on and off for periods of time. Dlr has replaced the multi-function switch, and problem still exists.
While driving smoke started to come out of the steering column, and the headlight stopped working. Consumer states it is the very same problem as recall number 99v275000/headlights.
Headlights blink, fail continously after repeated attempts to repair by dealership
1.headlights - regular beams completely extinguished on both sides following intermittent flickering, followed by loss of normal high beams.only recourse is to use 'pass & go' high beams to get home.required replacement of multi-function switch (e9sz-13k359-d) 4 times during 5-yr period, plus scorched/melted plug connector 3 times.2.high mount brake lamp - both sockets scorched/melted & bulbs extinguished; replaced 3 times during same period.question:are these related to each other or to recall# 99v275000 ?
The defective headlight circuit breaker opens, causing the headlights to go on and off unexpectedly which may cause an accident.
Headlights blew out when the fog lights were on. Dealer has repaired vehicle under a recall; however the problem has reoccurred.dealer has been notified.
While driving vehicle at night the headlights went out for no reason. Took vehicle to dealer & had the headlight switch replaced. Now the headlight problem has reappeared.
While driving, experienced intermittent headlamp failure when overheats then shorts out, causing head lights to blink on and off.
While driving headlights will start flickering, then they go out.
Consumer received headlight recall99v275000/ manufacturer's recall99s30 .headlights are blinking off/on, stillheadlights have to be used just to see sometimes. Consumer hasn't takenvehicle back because of the treatment at dealership. But,consumer will contactmanufacturer to rectifyproblem.
Headlamps are discolored due to material of construction decreasing the headlamp effectiveness and night vision, fog lamp switch melted.nlm
Recall 99v275000;dealer fixed the recall, butvehicle is still experiencing headlights malfunctioning which may cause visiual difficulty, and result ina crash.dealerneeded to replace "other switches" and will charge consumer.
I have nothing but problems with this pile of junk. First the headlights, took it in on recall but the headlights still go out also adding to me not being able to see and almost killing my daughter and myself, is the heater core went out all over the floor causing us to breath antifreeze mist and getting sick ,and causes the windows to steam up, because i had to undo the hoses , so the car would stop over heating , because i cant afford $700 dollars to get it fixed so now we are also freezing to death along with the breaks not working and the car dying at stop lights and when taking turns or corners which causes the steering and the brakesto go out because ot powered,oh ya did i mention i spent 500.on a water pump and 1000 on new brakes just for the breakes to still not work when i picked it up from the shop. I coul dgo on but i will give you a break,i am just really frustrated i cant afford to put any more money into this car becuase something else will just go besided im a single mom working to keep our heads up . I was reading that a judge in california made ford by backthese cars because of an incident where a mother and child were almost hurt when her car stalled just like mine does constantly.this car is a death trap and i fear for my daughters safety but it the only thing i got to get her to the sitters and me to work .please help what can be done? thank you sincerely stephenie cole.
Ongoing problem with headlight lensesfadng/discoloration whichcause poor visibility while driving at night. Dealer/manufacturer was contacted on this matter.
Headlights go on/off, impair visibility.
Causes complete headlight loss when used
Low beam lights are inoperable.dealer has replaced headlight function switch, howeverproblem has not been corrected.
After driving for 1/2 hour with lights on, headlights would flicker. High beams or fog lights could not be used. Speed would not matter. Took to shop to have it checked out.
Dimmer switch failed.
While switching to high beam, high and low beams go out.*scc
Received recallnotice 99v275000 in mail. Contacted dealer & set appointment. Was informed by service manager that recall applied only to new design of headlight switch. Information in letter did not state headlight design. Owner had switch replaced twice before receiving notice. Manufacturerwas backing dealership. Owner wantedarefund based on what was in letter. Owner upset.
Headlights would go out at night after driving a few miles, would come back on if dimmer switch activated.
While driving switched on hi-beam and headlights stopped working, creating problem on dark streets. Cannot see to drive at night.
Dt: the contact states there isa nhtsa recall campaign 99v275000 concerning the headlights:switch. This vehicle had the sameproblems as indicated in the recall, but was not included in the recall due to vin.the consumer first experienced this problem in late 1997, and had it repaired at the herexpense.the headlightsfailed a second time the dealership stated the switch needed to be replaced again.updated 01/11/06.
Head gasket/ headlight switch failures.
Consumers vehicle also had a recall on light switch.*jg
Headlights go out while driving.dealer replaced the headlight switch twice, consumer states that in talking with other mechanics, they have stated that there is a circuit breaker that frequently fails, causing the headlight problems.
Headlight switch failed prior to recall notice (99v-275) causing lights to flicker.prior to notice dealer replaced the dimmer switch which did not rectify the flickering problem.consumer is seeking reimbursement for the wrong part that was changed.nlm
While driving at night pushed the dimmer switch to put on bright lights, and headlightswent totally off.consumer didnot have any light.
Headlights failed due to a bad electrical switch, resulting in poor visibility.also, windshield wipers short out while driving, and smoke appeared to be coming fromignition switch area. Dealer contacted and faulty parts were replaced.
Head light switch failed, causing headlights to blink off/on/poor visibility.
This is the recall. My car did exactly this. My car is a 93 thunderbird super coupe with factory fog lights and the wiring harness connector is burnt and needs replaced. Headlights went out after flickering.recalls for the 1993 ford thunderbirdelectrical & lights: exterior lighting:headlights:switchcampaign number: 99v275000dates manufactured: 06/1991 to 09/1993number of vehicles affected: 164,731model years affected: 1992, 1993date owner notified: 11/1999defect summary: vehicle description: passenger vehicles equipped with fog lights, in which the headlights may go out for various intervals and which may be preceded by flickering or blinking as a result of the circuit breaker opening.consequence summary: driver's could experience a loss of visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.corrective summary: dealers will install a headlight switch which incorporates a circuit breaker of revised design, and install a wiring harness connector, if needed.recall notes: ford recall no. 99s30.owner notification began november 15, 1999. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact ford at 1-800-392-3673.also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
Vehicle experience failure of the recall component prior to notice, repairs made to wrong component and consumer would like reimbursement for prior wrong repairs(99v-275). *mjs
Consumer unable to have recall 99v-275 repaired for the headlight flickering due to dealer problem.*nlm
Headlamp switch failed prior to recall notice.nlm
Headlight switch had to be replaced.lights are very dim.
Headlight switch was replaced under recall 99v275000 on10 february,2000. Part failed againon 1 october,2001.
Headlight switch circuit breaker failed, causing headlights to go out. (other vehicle on 468579)*aw
Recall 99v275/ headlight switch. Dealer has repairedvehicle under recall andremedy has failed. The dealer has reinspectedvehicle, and will repair it againat the owner's expense.manufacturer has been notified.
When driving at night with the headlights on the lights blink off for about 3 to 4 seconds and then come back on. The dealer said it was a defective headlight switch and replaced it.
The consumer does not want to take the vehicle to the dealer for recall repair 99v-275 because of problems experienced with the dealer on previous occasion, the consumer wants permission to take the vehicle to a mechanic.nlm
Owner not satisfied with corrective action for recall campaigns (99v-275 & 97v-159), does not want to leave vehicle all day forreplacement of headlight switch (99v-257),vehicle taken to three dealerships, consumer experiencing headlight failure,dealership refused to correct recall 97v-159. *cj
Vehicle experienced failure of the recall component prior to notice and repaired at a non-ford dealership, reimbursement denied due to location of repair (99v-275). Mjs
Took car in to have a recall on a head lamp switch fixed. Told them car seems to have a hesitation when taking off after a complete stop. They told me it had to have the iaccensor replaced. Had that done at a cost of363.00.they also put in a new thermostat, sid engine wasn't getting hot enough? 2 days later car still hesitated and over heated. Was told head gasket needed to be replaced. Had that fixed 900.00.they also told me i should have the timing cover replaced because it has a possible crack? took to an independent auto shop had them take a look, they said it looked fine?
Headlight lens cover has become very dimmed or clouded over. This makeslighting almost non existent when it's dark. It's very difficult to drive, and can not seeroad clearly.problem is steady or has steadily gotten worse.consumer states that recall 99v275 was complete on vehicle , however problem still exists, dealer will only do repair if consumer pays for it.
Recall 99 v 275 00/headlights: in february 1998 consumer hadrepairs done.in 1999, a manufacturer'srecall notice was received, and a reimbursement was given.presently,problem has reoccurred. Dealer andmanufacturer were notified ofproblem, and refused to help in this matter.feel free to provide any further details on this matter.
After complete headlight failure while driving, took car to dealer for repair.i was advised by mechanic that multifunction switch assembly was burned due to "quote" excessive draw from headlamp and fog lamp switches. He advised me that headlamp and fog lamp switches were not in stock but to replace multifuntion switch and hardshell and not to use fog lamps. He could not confirm that multifunction switch and hardshell were in fact defective. I had the repair made at cost of $224.08. Another ford dealer examined the old multifuntion switch and hardshell and did not believe there was anything wrong with them. On nov. 22 1999 i went to bob sight ford to present recall #99s30, i also requested a full refund for the multifunction switch because i believe that this headlamp switch recall proves that if the multifuntion switch and hardshell were defective it is the direct cause of the headlamp switch being defective. I truley believe i was sold parts that were not defective. The man i spoke to put my recall letter and service receipt back on the counter and told me there was nothing he could do for me.
Head light switch failed.
I received a recall to notify me of the problem with my headlamp switchthis caused my headlights to turn offintermittently while i was driving. I then went to rodman ford to fix the problem . The headlights seemed to work fine until one year when the same problem occurredone year later. Wheni called rodman to rectify the second defective headlamp switch they refused due to a warranty on their replacement parts. My concern is that this is the second faulty part (headlamp switch) and should be considered under the recall, since the second one lasted less time than the first headlamp switch. While i can understand warranty limitations on other parts,this is an extreme safety issue while driving at night.i can not afford to keep replacing this part yearly. Obviously there is a problem with this switch that the ford motor vehicle company needs to look into. I have received no satisfaction from ford.this company should not be allowed to handle safety issues with theirvehicles in such a poor manner.this problem could cause serious accidentsin the future to unaware consumers.i would like to see further action taken on this matter. Thank you carrie callahan.
Ford motor company recall notice 99s30 was accomplished on 12/27/1999 at varsity ford to repair faulty headlight switch possibility. Failure occurred last week as described in the recall bulletin. The ford fix in 1999 did not work and the failure occurred during a critical time of driving. This could have been a catasrophe and i want ford to fix this permanently and cover the cost of my repairs.
Headlamps exhibited flickering condition prior to recall notice 99v-275. *nlm
Recall # 99v275000 ford/headlights; dealer was refusing to nonor recall notice. Consumerwas experiencing same problem as stated in recall.dealer insisted that the problem was not related to recall. Please provide any further information.
Recall 99v275000; headlights would still blink out after recall was serviced.currently, headlights have completely gone out. Consumer had to repairtwice prior to recall and three times since having the recall done.
Recall work performed for the headlight switch, prior to repair the consumer did not have any failures, after repair of the recall component vehicle experienced failure of the headlights due to a faulty multi-function switch.*mjs
While driving the vehicle the headlights flicker on and off due to light switchfailure.dealer has done nothing.
Headlamp switch failed causing lights to flicker, consumer complains because thunderbirds were not included in recall. (qcaw)
99 v 275 000/ headlight: smoke was coming from under the dash and loss of head lights. Light switch wiring and connector were burning and melting manufacturer was notified, and informed consumer that there wa s no such recall. Feel free to provide any further details concerning this matter.
The vehicle head lamps flickered prior to recall notice (99s30).the consumer request reimbursement for the replaced switch.*mr *scc*nlm
Consumer stated the headlights went out while driving at night, dealer has been contacted, dealer replaced the multi-function switch, ford recall 99s30 complied to replace headlight switch assembly to prevent headlight failure,dealer says current failure is not recall related. *jg
When using the fog lights and headlights together, the headlights blink on and off. (2) switch have been replaced, the last one replaced (3) months ago. The problem still exists.
Recall 99v275 000/ concerning headlight switch.afterrecall repairswere done condition became worse. Multi- function switch was burned out upon receipt fromdealer.consumer stated thatswitch was working prior torecall repairs.
The headlights started to flash on and off while driving, had to pull over to the side of road to let the eletrical system cool down. This process was continued until the destination was reached.the headlight switch had to be replaced.
The headlights blink on & off while driving and sometimes the lights go off completely. The headlight switch was replaced on 4/29/98. The switch was also replaced in jan of 96 for the same prolbem. No problem exists at this time.
Head light switch and wiring connector failed prior to recall notice causing the head light flickering on and off resulting in poor visibility.(99v-275) yh
Nhtsarecall 99v275000 concerning headlight switch failure.consumer had this recall repaired on dec. 12, 1999, the switch has gone bad again on 02-feb-2000.dealer has not been contacted.
Headlights failed at highway speed at night. Replaced headlight switch.
Headlamp switch that had a recall on it has went out for the 3rd time.
Multi-function switch failed prior to recall notice 99v-275, consumer is seeking reimbursement.nlm
Dash headlight switch was replaced in june of 2000 due to recall by ford.approximately 1 year later replacement switch failed for same reason original switch was recalled for.burned contacts were found on the back of the replacement switch.seems as if switch used for replacement is no better than original switch recalled.
Low beam lights are inoperable.dealer has replaced headlight function switch, howeverproblem has not been corrected.
Both rear outside red lense tail lights have cracked for no apparent reason, no impact.
Rear running lights that go across the back of the car do not light up.when driving in rain or snow the back of the car is not visable.
Turn signal switch failed.
Engine failure due to gaskets, replaced multi-function switch several times as well as fuel line, electrical systems malfunction in the power mirrors and the power locks, illumination controls as well as motor in drivers side door<power door>, seatbelts will not engage and signals for seatbelt to be worn , seatbelt alarm will not shut off until this problem is solved.coolent system failure at point of engine failure , decrease in compression and white smoke from hood, levels read very hot!!.
1.headlights - regular beams completely extinguished on both sides following intermittent flickering, followed by loss of normal high beams.only recourse is to use 'pass & go' high beams to get home.required replacement of multi-function switch (e9sz-13k359-d) 4 times during 5-yr period, plus scorched/melted plug connector 3 times.2.high mount brake lamp - both sockets scorched/melted & bulbs extinguished; replaced 3 times during same period.question:are these related to each other or to recall# 99v275000 ?
Multi-function switch shorted out, causing headlights to fail, resulting in poor visibility. *dsh
Multi-function switchshorted and caught on fire . Vehicle is included underrecall forheadlight switch; however this part is not included underremedy ofrecall.
While driving headlights blink on and off for periods of time. Dlr has replaced the multi-function switch, and problem still exists.
Recall 99v275 000/ concerning headlight switch.afterrecall repairswere done condition became worse. Multi- function switch was burned out upon receipt fromdealer.consumer stated thatswitch was working prior torecall repairs.
The multi-function switch is causing the lights to flicker and go out. In onorder to turn the headlights on, consumerhas to turn on the turn signals first. The dealer has replaced the switch.
Consumer stated the headlights went out while driving at night, dealer has been contacted, dealer replaced the multi-function switch, ford recall 99s30 complied to replace headlight switch assembly to prevent headlight failure,dealer says current failure is not recall related. *jg
Multifunction switch shorted 6 times, causing headlights to come on and off/poor visibility.
Recall work performed for the headlight switch, prior to repair the consumer did not have any failures, after repair of the recall component vehicle experienced failure of the headlights due to a faulty multi-function switch.*mjs
Upon startingvehicle gas will pour out onto the ground.consumer feels this is very dangerous and could cause a possible fire.please provide any further information.
Fuel supply lines and the electrical supply lines are together, causing a gasoline smell whenever fuel tank is full.
Gas fumes enter inside vehicle.
The car hesitates when gas is mashed which could, cause an accident
While driving on the highway at 50-55mph the vehicle suddenly picked up speed. Owner put vehicle in neutral and got on side off road.dealers rplaced a faulty airflow sensor.
The vehicle developed a gasoline leak; the passenger compartment developed a strong odor of gasoline.i never received a notice of recall.i just brought the vehicle to an automobile service facility.they charged me hundreds of dollars for repair.tonight, i searched the internet, and foudn nhtsa campaing id number 99v159000 with what sounds like my problem.however, because my car is registered in virginia (none of the listed states), i never was given notice.please advise how i would obtain reimbursement/whether the recall should be expanded to include my vehicle.it is extraordinarily dangerous, and i am not sure that my service facility (non-dealer) knows how to solve this problem (i.e., strong odor of gasoline in passenger cabin persists, though leak was supposed to have been fixed.
There is a regional recall for this problem nhtsa recall 97v159 and ford recall 97s84.the recall was limited to northern states and is not covering my car that is registered in georgia.why is this only a recall only for the northern states if this problem occurs in the same models in other areas.
Received recall notice (#97v159000) and called dealer. Was informed by dealership they had no parts.
Engine failure due to gaskets, replaced multi-function switch several times as well as fuel line, electrical systems malfunction in the power mirrors and the power locks, illumination controls as well as motor in drivers side door<power door>, seatbelts will not engage and signals for seatbelt to be worn , seatbelt alarm will not shut off until this problem is solved.coolent system failure at point of engine failure , decrease in compression and white smoke from hood, levels read very hot!!.
Received recallnotice (#97v159000). Took to dealer after calling for appointment. After repairs, picked up vehicle. Owner not satisfied. The fumes are gone, but gasoline still enters the vehicle.
The fuel lines are leaking and can cause a fire hazard. Please describe.
Engine failure due to gaskets, replaced multi-function switch several times as well as fuel line, electrical systems malfunction in the power mirrors and the power locks, illumination controls as well as motor in drivers side door<power door>, seatbelts will not engage and signals for seatbelt to be worn , seatbelt alarm will not shut off until this problem is solved.coolent system failure at point of engine failure , decrease in compression and white smoke from hood, levels read very hot!!.
Fuel shutoff switch in the trunk is not located conveniently.tt
Upon impact, during frontal crash, experienced fuel shut-off switch failure, after hitting guard rail vehicle accelerated across road toward oncoming traff.
Fuel leaks out of tank when full .
Gas tank is leaking fluid at the seam onto to the ground.dealer has been contacted.
Owner not satisfied with corrective action for recall campaigns (99v-275 & 97v-159), does not want to leave vehicle all day forreplacement of headlight switch (99v-257),vehicle taken to three dealerships, consumer experiencing headlight failure,dealership refused to correct recall 97v-159. *cj
High-mount tail light burnt out. Trunk light burnt out. Seat belt retractors failed.
Partial dash board lights failed.
Emergency brake failed to stop vehicle from rolling backwards on a steep incline whilevehicle was in the park position. *sd
Consumerwas traveling and she noticed thatodometer wasn't registering the speed.odmeter wouldn't move at all.dealership repaired it.
Head gasket failure at 57,446 miles 3.8l engineengulfed is white smoke.between 57.446 mile and 58,346 all kinds of electrical problems, e.e. Mirror switch, door locks, odometer, tripometer, window swithches.third time for door locks.all ford motor says is they will document the complaint.
When i first purchased my vehicle, i noticed that it would not shift into 4th gear. I am not sure when this problem started since i bought this car used.
When it is humid outside, the vehicle loses its speedometer reading. Please describe.
Transmission problems.
Throttle body lever grommet dry rotted.therefore, the lever disengaged while driving the car causing serious transmission damage.this part was recalled on the make, model and year of my car in december 93 (recall #93b31). The replacement grommet was metal.i had my car at a dealership for repair in may 93 and this part was not replaced or notified.contacting ford, i was told that my vin was not included in the recall .though i have had the exact problem described in the recall, they will not except responsibility for damages.do i have any recourse?
Wish i would have seen this site before i purchased mine 2 weeks ago.i am now gong to pay 1600 to replace my whole transmission!am very worried looking at the others about the gaskets going next!
As to head gaskets, have had two sets of failures, at approx. 100k apart . . . . as to brakes, have had multiple replacements of rotors due to chronic warping . . . . as to transmission, have had to have purchase lifetime warranty transmission from aamco due to failures in 2-3 & 3-4 shifts.
While driving70 mphengine idle increased shortly aftertransmission slipped out of gear, causing loss of vehicle control, cause unknown.dealer has not determinedproblem. Please give any further details.
Backing out of driveway, put vehicle in park, jumpped out of gear in reverse causing injuries, when vehicle in park experience high idle.tt
The vehicle rolled forward while in the park position, resulting in hitting a tree.tt
A plastic bushing broke and allowed a cable to come off that controled the transmissions ability to shift into overdrive.when the cable is off, no pressure signal is known at the transmission. So pressures are too low and direct clutch will burn up.this problem was subject to recall 93b17 that was issued in 6/93.i bought the car in 12/93 and the problem had not been repaired per the recall, nor was i informed of the recall.the vehicles vin # was not shown as subject to the recall, although the problem associated with the recall pertained to this particular car.i have been informed that the car has a '92 transmission which is a manual transmission vs. Electronic transmissions that were installed in most '93 thunderbirds.the manual transmissions used the plastic bushing sujbect in the recall.thus it is my assumption that this particular vehicle "fell through the cracks" on the recall.i am now trying to get ford to reimburse me of my expenses for repairs, but they are not cooperating.can you help?
Drivers seat belt doesn't retract into housing correctly when door is closed.ttit sticks when you openor close the door.
Automatic seat belt on driver's side failed. The belt is attached to door & can hear motor humming. The belt is stuck in same position. Will not go up or down. Taking vehicle to dealership to check.
Seat belts failed.
Driver's side and passenger's side shoulder seat belts don't work whenconsumer orpassenger get into vehicle, shoulder belts get stuck when trying to get them across chest. Also,motor is burning out, causing shoulder belts to work improperly.
Automatic shoulder belt ondriver's side was stuck inopen position. Problem was reported to the manufacturer. Please provide any further information.
Steam comes out of all air vents after five minutes of running, along with a bad smell; water comes out onto passenger floor; engine gets very hot after a couple of minutes; coolant constantly leaks.driver's side automatic seat belt does not work.
Engine failure due to gaskets, replaced multi-function switch several times as well as fuel line, electrical systems malfunction in the power mirrors and the power locks, illumination controls as well as motor in drivers side door<power door>, seatbelts will not engage and signals for seatbelt to be worn , seatbelt alarm will not shut off until this problem is solved.coolent system failure at point of engine failure , decrease in compression and white smoke from hood, levels read very hot!!.
Automatic seat belt failure. During operation, after the seat belt has locked in place,it will retract to the starting position,driver's and passenger's side belts are affected.
The automatic seatbelt that is located around the top of the window failed to move back to the safe driving position. (drivers side).
Consumer was in an accident the driver side seat belt retractor came loose with out door being open consumer was thrown over the passenger side .tt
Passengers motorbelt failed to retract/secure passenger in place.
Front passenger's seat belts failed to remain locked.automatic mechanism for the shoulder belt would drop out. Took vehicle to dealership & was informed by mechanic the spring in the mechanism was broke & it needed to be repaired.
Automatic seat belt latch release button stuck and could not be moved.
Driver's seat automatic safety belt does not function at all.consumer hears motor running, but belt does not move on the track.
Passive restrain shoulder harness, drivers side.
Passenger side seat belt is defective. Yh
Seat belts failed.
The seat belt broke when my son threw his book bag in the car. I called ford to get a replacement part and thats when they told me it was$258.00 . Just for the part . It is hard for me to belive that it broke that easy. And that they dont just make the plastic part. I hope you can help
Both doors sag they must be lifted to close which is very difficult do to my condition it is also almost impossible to exit from the drivers side without applying a lot of force. Seat belt motor on drivers side is intermittent however shoulder belt is nearly always useless in the unsecured position.
Lap seat belts stopped working properly anddidnot lock up correctly. Contacted dealer, and dealer was willing to take a look atvehicle.
When driving the headlights don't work. Also,when locking the seat belts, once consumerhits the brakes,the seat belt won't stay locked. Consumer claims that is a safety issue.
Driving vehicle down residential street, braked to missed animal in street, another vehicle rearended vehicle, seat belt did not restrain driver upon impact.
Driver's side lap belt and front left shoulder belt do not grab under pressure.
While driving down the highway,seat belt retractor that goes across the shoulders will reetract as if the door was opened, and the same for the passenger's side. But, not it's broken.
Consumer was in an accident the driver side seat belt retractor came loose with out door being open consumer was thrown over the passenger side .tt
Driver's side shoulder belt doesn't work due to the retractor not operating properly.
The front shoulder belts no longer retract. Please describe.
Driver's seat belt will not retract to original position after being used. Been to dealership & was informed by mechanicentire seat belt system needed to be replaced.manufacturer referred owner to hotline.
High-mount tail light burnt out. Trunk light burnt out. Seat belt retractors failed.
Engine failure due to gaskets, replaced multi-function switch several times as well as fuel line, electrical systems malfunction in the power mirrors and the power locks, illumination controls as well as motor in drivers side door<power door>, seatbelts will not engage and signals for seatbelt to be worn , seatbelt alarm will not shut off until this problem is solved.coolent system failure at point of engine failure , decrease in compression and white smoke from hood, levels read very hot!!.
Passenger side seat belt failed, upon rear collision shoulder belt did not hold passenger from going against windshield.tt
Due to the seat trim being stretched tightly across a sharp metal bracket, seat frame/seat covers are tearing; also passengers are subject to be cut by the exposed seat frame.
The design of the seats do not contain a locking feature, this could result in serious injury during rear end collision, poor design.*mjs
Motorized seats do notwork when door on driver'spassenger 's sides is opened or closed. Dealer informed. Will not repair due to missing warranty by 5 days. Said owner is liable.
Front seat latches do not work; driver slamed on brakes, rear occupant was thrusted into passenger seat, seat folded up forward; did not lock into place.tt
Reporting both front folded seat will not stay latch, seat back can be move by pushing back on seat. Dealer notified and refused to repairs unless cost go to consumer.
Seats do not lock; i called a ford dealer and they said that is how the 1993 ford's were made that year. To me this is a very serious hazard; they have the "lock handle"but serves no purpose; i always used the "handle" thinking it worked, until i found out 'otherwise'!!!i feel this could result in serious injury should i get hit from the rear!
While driving at 55 mph the vehicle took off to about 70 to 80 mph . Consumer applied the brakes, and the pedal was hard, and did not stop vehicle. Consumer had to turn the vehicle off in order to bring the vehicle to a stop.
While pulling into a parking space at a sight incline postion,abs motor engaged, causingfront brakesto grabs and noise coming from under the hood. Consumer drovevehicle home, and the abs motor remained on after turningvehicle off.dealer was notified,and unwilling to assist, because vehicle was out of its warranty, and not coverwd under a manufacturer's recall. Provide any further information on this matter.
Noisy rear abs brakes. Also replaced leaking power steering pump and noisy alternator.
This 93 thunderbird has a lot of problems . Leaks in body (when new 12mi) door hinges , seatbelts, seat covers rip out, fog lamps and switch recall, can't keep breaks and rotors on front, windshild wipers broke (when new) had to have new tie rod ends replaced , at about 40.000 mi. The struts were bad from the first day never could get themfixed. (tiresize: p235/75r15)( dot number:tire size: p235/75r15 )
While driving20 mph consumer applied the brakes and pedal went to the floor.a loud streaking noise was heard from the front. Consumer lost control of the vehicle and collided with another vehicle.both frontal air bags did not deploy.the driver sustained neck injuries.the driver was able to drive the vehicle home.
Anti-lock brakes failed.
Car has had upper engine rebuilt, car stalls while driving with no warning, computer read no date when tested.car makes growling sound when brakes are applied.brake system has been checked, diferential fluid has been replaced as suggested by manufacturer.
Head gasket failed. In addition, brakes vibrate when applied.
New front rotors were replaced at 49000 miles, now the brakes are starting to pulsate.
Front brakes vibrate when applying brakes.
The engine is making a tapping noise has been replace on new motor and brake has been replace three time .tt
When driving there is a grinding brake noise. Please describe .
Brakes create vibration when applied.
When applying brakesvehicle vibrates. Replaced parts 3 times, problem still occurs.
Head gaskets:w/o any warning whatsoever suddenly there appeared white smoke from exhaust pipe, temp. Gauage went up, car had not been using any oil and/or anti-freeze which is a heads up to such a problem occuring.all maintenance had always been kept up on a regular basis on vehicle.told at time that this problem had happened that the next thing that would happen would be the engine would go.the first week of sept. Just like mechanic said, the engine went there again, w/o any notice.it through a rod.was told that to save problems/time, should actually just go ahead and replace both when doing the other becuase it would happen.told ford motor aware of this problem within a 3 yr. Range on this motor & head gaskets.they have sense improved problem but that does nothing to help out those of us who bought those years.put out the money or part it out!for those of us who have kept up our vehicles, we have no choice.ford motor knowingly aware of this should have some responsibility.am in the process of contacting their consumer affairs division in order to discuss but know what they'll have to say..."out of warranty"...you're stuck!
Consumer experiencing problems with excessive wear on the front brake pads and rotors. Alsoupon depressing the brake pedal, consumer noticed the front end shakes, causing extended stopping distance. Has contacted the dealer. Please provide any further details.
Excessive wear of front brakes. This is the fourth occurance.tt
Could smell antifreeze coming from the tail pipe shortly before the heaed gasket blew and engine began to run poorly and blow white smoke from the tailpipe. This repair was very costly and ford has begun to compensate owners of other ford models with the exact same engine, but no the ford thunderbird.t.
Caliper design not wide enough, causing brakes to wear out more quickly than they should. *dsh
Front brake pads failed several times.
Replaced warped front brake pads.
Abs, brake failure continue wear of rotors and disc pads replace 4 times.tt
The brake pads wear out replace two time .tt
Brake rotors failed
Excessive wear of front brake rotors. This is the sixth occurance.tt
Abs, brake failure continue wear of rotors and disc pads replace 4 times.tt
Front brake rotors warp under normal usage, causing vibration. *dsh
Brake rotors were too small for vehicle and caused brake failure.
Front brake rotors are warping when applying brakes, the front end of vehicle will vibrate.
Brake rotors are warped.tt
Rotor are wearing prematurely, turned rotors at 30k miles and replaced at 55k miles.tt
Warped front brake rotors, causing vehicle to vibrate upon braking.
While driving withnormal braking,expeiencedgrinding noise and steering wheel shimmying, a month prior,dlr replaced rotors,steering wheel still vibrates when braking.
While driving, upon applying brake steering column vibrates, and hear grinding noise, dealer has replaced rotor 5 times, due to warping.tt
Front brake rotors are warping when applying brakes, the front end of vehicle will vibrate.
Front brakes failed,front rotors warp prematurely, causing the vehicle to vibrate violently when braking.tt
As to head gaskets, have had two sets of failures, at approx. 100k apart . . . . as to brakes, have had multiple replacements of rotors due to chronic warping . . . . as to transmission, have had to have purchase lifetime warranty transmission from aamco due to failures in 2-3 & 3-4 shifts.
Replaced master cylinder.
Master cylinder "brake fluid reservior" developed leak due to contact (rubbing) against wiring harness for engine compartment light. Ford should be notified to inspect all brake fluid reserviors for signs of wear through due to contact with engine compartment hood light.
Steering wheel unhinged from the steering column.yh
Steering wheel unhinged from the steering column.yh
Steering wheel unhinged from the steering column.yh
Steering wheel vibrates out of control, replace steering gear and tie rods.tt
Rack and pinion failure.
The steering rack was replaced and is now leaking.
Firewall. Whendriving there is a loud noise in the front end.took vehicle to dealer and was told that there is a hole in the firewall.
Pine needles clogged a drain of the air conditioner, allowing waterto go leak ont the floor.
Engine failure due to gaskets, replaced multi-function switch several times as well as fuel line, electrical systems malfunction in the power mirrors and the power locks, illumination controls as well as motor in drivers side door<power door>, seatbelts will not engage and signals for seatbelt to be worn , seatbelt alarm will not shut off until this problem is solved.coolent system failure at point of engine failure , decrease in compression and white smoke from hood, levels read very hot!!.
The hood and right side door are hard to close, the consumer is thinking the vehicle may have been involved in an accident.
Power door locks failed.
Auto-door locks are disengaged once door handle on inside is pulled. Please describe details.
Head gasket failure at 57,446 miles 3.8l engineengulfed is white smoke.between 57.446 mile and 58,346 all kinds of electrical problems, e.e. Mirror switch, door locks, odometer, tripometer, window swithches.third time for door locks.all ford motor says is they will document the complaint.
The door alarm is malfunctioning due to failure of the electric boxes in the door.
Both doors sag they must be lifted to close which is very difficult do to my condition it is also almost impossible to exit from the drivers side without applying a lot of force. Seat belt motor on drivers side is intermittent however shoulder belt is nearly always useless in the unsecured position.
Driving at approximately 20 mph passenger's side soft brass hinges that hold the door could not hold weight of door,causing the door to open unexpectedly without warning. Dealer will replace hinges. Driver side also had to be be replaced 5 months prior.
The hood and right side door are hard to close, the consumer is thinking the vehicle may have been involved in an accident.
Front end vibration.
While driving at 65 mph consumer lost the control, was able to pull out of the road. Vehicle was towed to independent shop, andmechanic determined the right control armbroke.
The right lower ball joint broke while driving, causing the vehicle to swerve.the dealer and manufacturer have been notified.
Front end lower control arms poorly designed, too much play when braking, car looses ability to stay in line. *et
Front struts failed.
Stabilizer bar linkage failure.
While applying brakes the right rear axle joint broke resulting in a collision and brake loss.
Firestone tires were replaced twice, once at 32900 miles and also at 55000 miles.
Pirelli tires were replaced at 55000 miles and are worn after 40000 miles.
Vehicle stalls/overheats, engine check light comes on. Dealer will not repair at consumers cost becauserecall that was found for the problem was towards a later model.the head gasket is blown.heavy white smoke comes from exhaust pipe andvehicle overheats.
Consumer complains that the check engine light goes on and off when trying to accelerate. *jg
Seat belt light does not go out, unable to be fixed. Mjs
No summary listedfor above vehicle.
Consumer complains that the check engine light goes on and off when trying to accelerate. *jg
Complaint regarding two stolen vehicles 1987 bmw and a 1993 ford thunderbird.*mr
Paint failed.came off as if it were washing off.problem worseded to the point of getting to bare metal on roof of car.all horizontal surfaces effected (hood, trunk, roof, and tops of fenders).entire car needed to be repainted.contacted ford regarding the problem. They claimed "the cars' vin didn't qualify for reimbursement".i feel they were not entirely truthful.this paint problem was far too bad and covered too much of the car not to be defective.i feel ford should pay most if not alll of the repainting cost.i am the original owner of this vehicle.
While driving in normal traffic the engine check light came on, and temperature gauge went up, consumer had to stop 10 times for water.the head gasket blew soon after.other ford models have had their engines recalled, but this vehicle is not included.consumer also complains that the oil pressure gauge is not effective, it doesn't give the owner sufficient information regarding the level of pressure. *ml
I've noticed numerous amounts of complaints for the same specific problem that i had and am curious what you plan to do about?are you waiting for someone to get hut? i suggest you recall faulty parts on a vehicle and this seems to be a big problem. No safety defect mentioned in summary.
No summary listed fro above vehicle.
Would like a refund of $1619.01 for head gasket repair.would like volt meter and cruiz control fixed.
Head gaskets failed,head lights failed,a/c failed,throttle cable failed,thermostat failed,clutch fan failed,tape player never worked
Throttle stuck in wide open or near wide open position - details follow.i had experience downshift problems before and when i noticed my most recent downshift event, it was at interstate speeds.on merging, the car failed to drop out of passing gear.i pulled over and investigated to find the "throttle valve cable" was loose from the throttle bracket.i tried to find replacement parts for the worn grommet which had allowed it to depart the bracket and found it to be a "dealer-only" part.dealer was closed.tv cable was re-inserted and car recovered to home.on monday, while enroute to the dealer to get the part, the throttle stuck because the tv cable became wedged under the throttle bracket.i applied brakes but was unable to slow the car adequately before stopped traffic ahead.i turned off the ignition and stopped in time to avoid an accident.
While making a stop the engine started accelerating while consumer was depressing the brak pedal.rear wheels were stilltraveling.engine idled to 65 mph. Consumer had to turn vehicle off to stop the accleration. Please provide further information.
Took car in to have a recall on a head lamp switch fixed. Told them car seems to have a hesitation when taking off after a complete stop. They told me it had to have the iaccensor replaced. Had that done at a cost of363.00.they also put in a new thermostat, sid engine wasn't getting hot enough? 2 days later car still hesitated and over heated. Was told head gasket needed to be replaced. Had that fixed 900.00.they also told me i should have the timing cover replaced because it has a possible crack? took to an independent auto shop had them take a look, they said it looked fine?
I am writing to you because i was driving my car yesterday and all of a sudden the car just started accelerating by itself . It went from 10 mph to 70 mph without me even touching the gas pedal. I finally pushed on the brake to stop the car and shut it off. Even though i was applying on the brake it did not want to stop. The engine was still racing. I had it towed to the local garage and he called me today to tell me it was the throttle body lever grommet . I did a seach on the internet and found out that there was a recall on this exact part. Recall# 93b31. However it was not included on my car because the lady at ford customer service said it was vehicle specific.doesn't sound right to me. Same car , same part, same problem , can cause a huge accident and possibly fatalities could arise from this defect and she said sorry , can't help ya. Ford will not accept any financial responsiblity for this . Please respond to me and let me know what else to do to make people aware of this problem. Thank you.
Backing out of driveway, put vehicle in park, jumpped out of gear in reverse causing injuries, when vehicle in park experience high idle.tt
Runaway engine/sudden acceleration.
Uncontrolled acceleration due to uncommanded full throttle. //while driving at 55mph the car began to accelerate rapidly despite removing all pressure from the gas pedal. With heavy braking car was stopped.after stopping vehicle, i puttransmission in neutral and the engine accelerated to 5000 rpm before being turned off with the key.further investigation revealed that the throttle linkage had disconnected from gas pedal control cable.throttle then moved to & become jammed at high power by nearby transmission linkage (which commanded downshift as throttle demandincreased).discrepancy originated with failure of plastic throttle linkage bushing which connects the end of throttle cable to engine throttle body. Digital photos available upon request. I promptly reported incident to service dealer verbally & via letter with photos - no followup response received. Purchased original replacement bushing (part#e1fz*7f330*a ins-trans thro $2.12) which has subsequently been redesigned and made from metal (part# f3sz*7h303*b kit trans thro$1.20).dealer advised that original bushingwas not a recall item. Dealer's mechanic was familiar with failure/replacement of subject plastic bushing.i suspect this failure will become more common as the original plastic bushings reach similar age.
Was just leaving a stop whenaccelerator pedal became stuck.trottle was wide open.brakes failed to stop vehicle. Had to shift into neutral to slow vehicle down before turning off vehicle.
While pressing the accelerator,pedal stuck to floor, had to shut down vehicle and pump accelerator to get it to relaese, cause unknown.
While driving at 55 mph the vehicle took off to about 70 to 80 mph . Consumer applied the brakes, and the pedal was hard, and did not stop vehicle. Consumer had to turn the vehicle off in order to bring the vehicle to a stop.
While drivingvehicle suddenly acclerated which might have resulted in a crash.common problem. Vehicle accelerated to full throttle and would not decelrate; driver could not stop vehicle.speed reach 90 mph before driver was able to shut vehicle down.
When accelerating to pass another vehicle, foot was taken off gas pedal to brake but vehicle kept accelerating. Dealer contacted and is aware of the problem. Incident occurred more than once. Problem still exists..et.
This is the recall. My car did exactly this. My car is a 93 thunderbird super coupe with factory fog lights and the wiring harness connector is burnt and needs replaced. Headlights went out after flickering.recalls for the 1993 ford thunderbirdelectrical & lights: exterior lighting:headlights:switchcampaign number: 99v275000dates manufactured: 06/1991 to 09/1993number of vehicles affected: 164,731model years affected: 1992, 1993date owner notified: 11/1999defect summary: vehicle description: passenger vehicles equipped with fog lights, in which the headlights may go out for various intervals and which may be preceded by flickering or blinking as a result of the circuit breaker opening.consequence summary: driver's could experience a loss of visibility, increasing the risk of a crash.corrective summary: dealers will install a headlight switch which incorporates a circuit breaker of revised design, and install a wiring harness connector, if needed.recall notes: ford recall no. 99s30.owner notification began november 15, 1999. Owners who take their vehicles to an authorized dealer on an agreed upon service date and do not receive the free remedy within a reasonable time should contact ford at 1-800-392-3673.also contact the national highway traffic safety administration's auto safety hotline at 1-888-dash-2-dot (1-888-327-4236).
I have nothing but problems with this pile of junk. First the headlights, took it in on recall but the headlights still go out also adding to me not being able to see and almost killing my daughter and myself, is the heater core went out all over the floor causing us to breath antifreeze mist and getting sick ,and causes the windows to steam up, because i had to undo the hoses , so the car would stop over heating , because i cant afford $700 dollars to get it fixed so now we are also freezing to death along with the breaks not working and the car dying at stop lights and when taking turns or corners which causes the steering and the brakesto go out because ot powered,oh ya did i mention i spent 500.on a water pump and 1000 on new brakes just for the breakes to still not work when i picked it up from the shop. I coul dgo on but i will give you a break,i am just really frustrated i cant afford to put any more money into this car becuase something else will just go besided im a single mom working to keep our heads up . I was reading that a judge in california made ford by backthese cars because of an incident where a mother and child were almost hurt when her car stalled just like mine does constantly.this car is a death trap and i fear for my daughters safety but it the only thing i got to get her to the sitters and me to work .please help what can be done? thank you sincerely stephenie cole.
Heater coils leaked fluid on the passenger side floor.
Rear glass distorted.
Power window motor failed.
Engine failure due to gaskets, replaced multi-function switch several times as well as fuel line, electrical systems malfunction in the power mirrors and the power locks, illumination controls as well as motor in drivers side door<power door>, seatbelts will not engage and signals for seatbelt to be worn , seatbelt alarm will not shut off until this problem is solved.coolent system failure at point of engine failure , decrease in compression and white smoke from hood, levels read very hot!!.
Head gasket failure at 57,446 miles 3.8l engineengulfed is white smoke.between 57.446 mile and 58,346 all kinds of electrical problems, e.e. Mirror switch, door locks, odometer, tripometer, window swithches.third time for door locks.all ford motor says is they will document the complaint.
The left side mirror has a very bad blind spot, and because of the small window on the passenger side it is hard to look over your shoulder.tt
While drivingoutside rearview mirriors began smoking, and then ignited into a fire. Fire department putfire out.fire caused by ashort circuit. Dealer has been contacted.during the fire the alarm is not working.
Rear view mirror failed.yh
Power moonroof makes a clicking noise when opening or closing.
When trying to wash the front windshield it cracked.
This 93 thunderbird has a lot of problems . Leaks in body (when new 12mi) door hinges , seatbelts, seat covers rip out, fog lamps and switch recall, can't keep breaks and rotors on front, windshild wipers broke (when new) had to have new tie rod ends replaced , at about 40.000 mi. The struts were bad from the first day never could get themfixed. (tiresize: p235/75r15)( dot number:tire size: p235/75r15 )
Headlights failed due to a bad electrical switch, resulting in poor visibility.also, windshield wipers short out while driving, and smoke appeared to be coming fromignition switch area. Dealer contacted and faulty parts were replaced.
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