1989 Ford Tempo GL review from North America
"Junk"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
I've been through 2 sets of belts.
3 Alternators.
A/C went out at 50k miles, cost $1,000 to bring it to the 21st century.
Replaced water pump.
Horrible oil and transmission leaks, replaced oil pan 2 times and still leaking like crazy. I put 2-3 quarts in per week. Probably because there is no gasket for this oil pan, you have to use a high temperature sealant which doesn't work! Also leaks water/antifreeze.
Shakes uncontrollably at lights and sometimes dies out, I have to put in neutral every time I pull up to a light!
Slips out of drive while I'm driving, I have to pull over to put the car in park and then back in drive and pull back out slowly!
Replaced 2 batteries already!
Latest problem is car won't start when sitting overnight, I have to start it several times then let it sit for 15 minutes and then start it again before it will turn over.
Replaced tire bear rings and a tie rod.
Replaced tires twice in 3 years.
Had 3 alignments already.
Cruise control and trunk pop don't work along with the cigarette lighter.
General comments?
This car is pretty much a nightmare for me! I never have money in my pocket because I have to put it all into the car!
In my experience, I wouldn't recommend buying one unless you have over 5k to put into it!
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| A mechanic's dream... your worst nightmare!! |
|
| Less reliable as the years were added on |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 1989 |
| Year of manufacture | 1989 |
| First year of ownership | 2006 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2009 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.3 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 5 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 5 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 6 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 1 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 40000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 103000 miles |
| Previous car | Chevrolet Cavalier |
| Date of Entry | 9th April, 2009 |