1986 Ford Thunderbird review from North America
"A lot of problems, but a smooth ride"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Chronic overheating: This car is very thirsty, it takes 3 gallons of water in the radiator between each two mile run. We use more water than gasoline to keep this car running. The heater core leaks, chronic overheating problems, steam comes in through the air vents when the gauge goes over the half mark. We've already replaced the lower radiator hose and the factory produced part from Ford does not fit; it is too short and the hose gets cut by the serpentine belt. The chronic overheating blew the water-pump seal and the previous owner had replaced the water-pump when the water-pump seal blew last year. The door handle frame fell off, the hood popping mechanism fell off, the brake release mechanism fell off, the glove compartment latch failed, this car eats gas, but it's a smooth ride.
General comments?
This thunderbird does not like to stop, otherwise overheating becomes a real chore. It also does not like slow speeds, so you have to try to stay on the highways and avoid surface streets, stop lights and stop signs.
Recommended reviews
| A beautiful lawn ornament in hibernation |
| A nice-looker, but a definite lemon |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| Year of manufacture | 1986 |
| First year of ownership | 2004 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2004 |
| Engine and transmission | V6 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 6 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 7 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 2 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 2 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 160000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 162500 miles |
| Previous car | Ford Tempo |
| Date of Entry | 14th August, 2004 |