1994 Ford Thunderbird LX review from North America

Constant transmission problems. Been serviced twice. Apparently not uncommon. Always shift rather late and abruptly.

Head Gasket problem (known "recall" from Ford).

3 starters in the past three years.

2 Start switches.

A/C looses coolant every other season (been doing this since purchase). Been inspected several times by several different shops, with no explanation as to where the coolant is going (suspected it is leaking somewhere past the firewall, but huge $ to find exactly where).

Second set of rotors. Numerous pads.

Rubber window seals rotten, causing difficulty rolling down window and sealing when up.

Like many of my associates writing their opinions, I am more disappointed with Ford's customer service than the car itself.

I was never informed of the "recall" related to the head gasket until it failed. This was, no joke, less than 2 days out of Ford's "extended warranty". But this was the final insult, the "recall" extended coverage to 7 years or 100,000 miles. My car had 98,000 miles, but it was December 2000. Ford informed me that this vehicle had a build date of November 1993, and was therefore out of their "recall". I of course argued that it should be base on, at the minimum, actual manufacture date, if not in service date, but excellent customer service prevail, and I got nothing. $1200 later (because I had the mechanic do both), I was back on the road.

It has been riddle with small problems aside from this. Starters, switches, pumps, leaks, squeaks, and odd electrical glitches. A/C is rather annoying, having to add coolant every other season (expect to fill again this summer).

Car shifts hard from first to second, and any gear if you have to get on it, but have gotten the impression from other Ford owners of the same engine and transmission type, that this is common. This has been happening for 70,000 miles, however, I have a queasy feeling it will fail here shortly.

The car also tends to roll down the road, not much transmission braking, so when you take you foot of the gas, be ready to brake. I think this is why rotors/brakes tend to go quickly.

To give some positive feedback, this car is the most comfortable car I have driven. I have taken many long trips in it, and have never been uncomfortable.

It has also never left me stranded, but attest that to diligent mechanical attentiveness and care.

I am third generation Ford family, and I too, will never buy a Ford again. With all of the problems Ford is having with quality and customer service, It amazes me anyone would!