1988 Ford Tempo L review from North America
"Drive it until it dies"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Paint peeling.
Rust around the wheel wells.
Chronic stalling.
Battery replaced a few times.
Hard to start in winter.
Brakes squeal.
CV joint on the front driver's side going.
Shakes when on the highway at over 110km/h.
Pulls to one side at higher speeds.
Front tires wear easily.
Headlight switch wires burned through.
Muffler replaced several times.
General comments?
Being my first car, I wanted something cheap. Well, cheap is what you get with this car.
It has had its share of problems, namely stalling, and being difficult to start. The paint job is also horrible, with most of the paint peeled off the roof and hood at this point, rust as well. Can't find a muffler that lasts long either.
It's not the most comfortable car for long drives, but Tempo is not synonymous with luxury. Guts, what guts?
For those on a serious budget, drive it while saving up something better. Gets you from point A to B for at least a couple years.
Recommended Reviews:
  | Less reliable as the years were added on |
| A great performer for an economical car |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Don't Know |
| First year of ownership | 2002 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.3L Automatic |
| Performance marks | 6/10 |
| Reliability marks | 6/10 |
| Comfort marks | 7/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 9/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 196000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 201000 kilometres |
| Date of Entry | 13th July, 2004 |