1997 Ford Mustang GT review from North America

Driver's automatic window malfunctioned shortly after purchase - warranty no charge.

Driver's seat material (cloth) broke down after 1 year - fixed at no cost.

45,000 Miles or so under heavy throttle, the intake manifold blew. The dealer fixed this at no cost because it was a "silent recall" item. Glad I went to dealer first for this item.

Stranded at 86,000 miles due to gas leak from broken gas line. Local garage fixed this along with new fuel filter for $150.

Blinker malfunction cost $150.

Driver's seatbelt fails to recoil costing approx $150.

Air conditioner loses coolant costing $50 for new valve.

Car has a slow leak of brake fluid somewhere in the master cylinder and needs topping off every 2 weeks or so. The dealer could not find the problem.

At about 65,000 miles the engine started to run slightly rough. I had the dealer put new plugs and wires in it and look it over. After the service, it still ran rough and I was handed a bill for about $300. Problem continues to this day.

Pings on 87 octane (manual recommended). Pings a LOT under throttle at over 3,000 rpm.

Numerous squeaks from the dashboard and suspension.

Shifter feels imprecise and has considerable slop and lash in the drive-line.

Although not a reliability issue, it is worth noting that this model has extremely poor snow/wet weather cornering and steering. I learned this the hard way after a big wipe-out. When this car loses it's rear-end traction in a turn, it is gone and without warning.

In spite of the problems listed, I like this car. The interior is comfortable and the steering wheel and shifter have a heavy, solid feel compared to smaller cars. It still gets positive comments after a wash and wax.

What I don't like is the "Ford Quality" in the form of lots of expensive Mickey Mouse problems that strand me. I just don't trust it for long-haul driving anymore. When it runs well, I love this car. When it breaks down and I am sitting in the dealer's waiting room, expecting another huge bill, I curse Ford and swear not to ever buy one again.

Overall, this heavy-duty v8 has been reliable and powerful. I still look forward to driving it.

If I shop for another car such as this, I will look first at cars like the 350zx or RX-8 for better reliability, fit and finish.

The dealer that did most of the service for me was Sunset Ford in St. Louis, Mo. They had good service and were open until midnight a few days of the week. That was a big plus.