1996 Ford Crown Victoria LX review from North America

Intake manifold on 1996 model is made of plastic.

Without previous problems or warning and with 107,853 miles, vehicle suddenly oveheated while driving on highway.

Had it towed to garage and was informed that 1996 models have plastic intake manifolds. I was advised by mechanic this is a common and ongoing problem with the 1996 Crown Victoria. Ford is aware of problem and indeed has issued a recall of the 1996 models for police and taxi cabs, for this specific problem, but will not issue a recall of the same vehicle for consumers. Ford continues to ignore consumer complaints and refuses to assist with repairs.

There is no other intake manifold for another model that is interchangeable, nor is there a metal one made. Ford dealers sell a "kit" that is required at the price of $656.25 (per my invoice). This kit is only available at dealerships, and obviously you cannot find a "used" one because they are cracked. My repair invoice was for $1204.57: Intake Manifold $656.26

5 quarts oil $14.85

1 oil filter $5.96

8 plugs $53.64

1 coolant $8.95

2 cleaners $6.00

1 thermostat $8.95

Labor $375.00

Parts $763.61

EPA Charge $2.00

Local Tax $63.96

TOTAL REPAIR BILL: $1204.57.

You can expect the same thing to happen approximately every 100,000 miles per the dealership service department.