1997 Ford Crown Victoria LX review from North America

Intake manifold left me stranded at 95,000 miles. This is a defect in original manufacturing. If you plan on buying one of these, make sure this has been swapped out. Otherwise, budget for expensive repairs.

Temperature blender motor in dash went at about 80,000 miles. (Only blew hot air, no cool air from the A/C.) It was a $65 dollar part, but a 6 hour job to fix it. I understand this to be another repair owners of these cars can expect to make at some point.

I spent $400 on a new steering gearbox at 90,000 miles. After much trouble diagnosing, this repair helped do-away with a shimmy in the steering wheel that was very obvious going over imperfections in the road at higher speeds.

I also had trouble with two of the four power window regulators between 75,000 and 85,000 miles.

All four brake rotors became warped and needed replaced within the past year.

One function of the power seat motors on the driver's side failed at about 80,000.

I bought this from a local dealership as a very clean 7-year-old car in 2004. It was to be a second car, but has since become my everyday driver.

I've read how great these cars are, and I think they can be. But if you have one of these or are in the market for one, you should beware that there are some expensive repairs that seem to come with the territory. I bought the car for $7000 and have likely spent another $2500 in repairs the past two years. Thanks to this car, I have me mechanic's phone number memorized. I don't think that's a good sign.

I still have lots of faith in the motor (I've seen some of these reach 300,000 miles in taxicabs, when heavier oil was used.) Tranny seems strong too.

The car is at its best on the interstate. Maximum fuel mileage (27-28 MPG) seems to occur at 70-75 MPH.

The seats are fairly comfortable, but the car has surprisingly little leg room in the front for a 6-2 driver.