Mass Air sensor failed at about 75,000 miles. I replaced with with a salvage item and it's lasted well.
The plastic intake manifold cracked at about 80,000 and had to be replaced. Total was over $500, parts and labor.
Heater core started leaking at 90,000. Cost estimate for repair was $700 - $800. The entire dash, console, steering column and etc. have to be removed - over 8 hours by the book.
This is my third Thunderbird. I started with an '86 Turbo Coupe, then moved on to a '93 LX V-6. I liked both of the predecessors so much, I bought the '96 LX Sport OHC V-8 in '96.
With the exception of the heater and intake manifold, the car has been essentially trouble-free, save brakes shocks, and alignment.
So, the penultimate Thunderbird wasn't a two-person convert? Nor was it a three-ton boat from the 70's. Ford had a very good design with the 90's T-Birds - good size (a little long on the front overhang), comfort, performance (with the V-8), and reasonable economy of operation. The car can take four people - two in real comfort and two in adequate comfort - for long excursions on the highway or back road at a modest cost.
The resale on the 'Bird really stinks - if you're an owner. It's great if you're looking for a used personal luxury car. I wouldn't hesitate to buy a low-mile used '93-'97 T-Bird with the V-8.
You said that your intake manifold cracked, mine did too, how long ago was this. Ford didn't recall this problem, but if it happened to you they would replace it free of charge.
Actually There is a recall for the intake manifold on the 1996 4.6l V-8.
Check out this website:
http://www.alldata.com.
My intake Manifold blew at approx 85 k miles; Ford doesn't advertise all these recalls, so it took some convincing at my local dealership to cover the replacement. Also there was further damage resulting from the intake failure that they tried to charge me for. I refused to pay and eventually they agreed.
My mass air flow sensor also got dirty, but my father (A former Ford engineer) explained my man how to clean it, (VERY CAREFULLY) and it's been hassle-free ever since!
I previously owned a 1990 V-6, and was so happy with that, I bought my 1996, which I love even more. Maybe because it's a V-8, maybe because of the factory ground effects, or maybe because of the pearl white paint is fabulous!
I love the way the car looks, handles, and drives! As long as the regular maintenance is performed, I am sure I will continue to enjoy my baby!
Note: A Comments RSS Feed is available. New comments appear in the Members Area before the main site