1987 Ford Thunderbird Turbo Coupe review from North America
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Alternator caught fire (fortunately I had some left over soda to put it out)
A/C Compressor sounds like it has marbles in it.
Right now it has a bucking problem that I can't figure out (maybe ignition signal/wiring)
Passenger power seat does not go forward.
Driver's side window fell out of the plastic channel that holds it (fixed with adhesive)
Power steering rack leaks.
Power steering pump whines.
Replaced rotors (pulsating) and they lasted about 2 months. Got new better quality ones and they have been good for about a year so far (Order Mustang rotors and transfer the antilock ring--they're $50 instead of $150)
Replaced '87 EEC with one from an '88--it lets the turbo go to full boost in all gears (87 limits it after second gear, although I don't know how the EEC knows what gear you're in)
Drive shaft has a slight vibration at 75MPH--output shaft bushing worn--notorious in T-5's.
Sunroof seal is bad--dealer wants $150 for a new one...
General comments?
I've had a good amount of problems with the car, but it is 16 years old.
Nothing I had to repair cost too much--that's why I keep it.
It performs very well for what it is, and mechanically, it's a very strong car.
The 8.8" rear would hold up to a small block someday :)
In my opinion, this is a great car for those who like to tinker around--they are getting kind of old to be considered maintenance free.. I know a few people who have over 200k miles and they're still running fine.
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| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Don't Know |
| Year of manufacture | 1987 |
| First year of ownership | 2001 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.3 turbo Manual |
| Performance marks | 7 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 6 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 8 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 131000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 167000 miles |
| Previous car | Chevrolet Silverado |
| Date of Entry | 3rd December, 2003 |