I have replaced the water pump, alternator, distributor cap and wires, front axle, muffler, and front struts. All repairs were done because of normal wear and tear.
The engine has a very small oil leak, the parking brake has always been useless, as have been the hydraulic arms that hold the hatch and the paint is heavily oxidized.
When I bought the car new the engine had a loud knocking sound in the cold weather that eventually went away. The Ford dealer mechanics were clueless about this problem.
The car is not the fastest sports car in the world, but to this day its smooth acceleration and cornering are very impressive.
I see no reason for getting a new car because the engine, body, and transmission are in great shape.
Repairs on the car are fairly expensive.
As far as the engine sound. It sounds like a "clacking" at cold start up and eventually goes away. It has been that way since day one. Tests from the manufacturer have showed that it is not a damaging source. It sounds like lifters clacking, but no harm is done. Should have no worries. Nearly every Probe GT will make the same sound.
I disagree with the above comment the lifter problem with the crackling noise is the head gasket craking, all 93 to 94 probe's had that problem. But I still like the probe it's a nice car.
Note: A Comments RSS Feed is available. New comments appear in the Members Area before the main site