1988 Ford Tempo LX All Wheel Drive from North America - Comments

4 alternators.

Retractable axel shafts on the transfer case.

Transmission at 85,000 miles.

Hole in piston at 92000 had to replace engine.

All the wheel bearings (front ones twice)

MAP sensor, throttle position sensor, oxygen sensor, and the coolant temp. sensor.

Both front spindels.

Starter (twice)

This car was a mistake for me from the start. It drove fine for about 3 months then it began falling apart. I was lucky to go 2 weeks with out a major repair.

This car had no ability to accelerate and was prone to stalling. I had to power brake it to keep it running.

The gas mileage was horrible. About 14-15 mpg. I was told that this was due to the extra weight of the transfer case for the all wheel drive.

I can say that this was a comfortable car and that it handled really well in the worst snowy road conditions.

It also did seem to rust out like other tempos I have seen.

All in all I think that from what I have learned you want to stay away from the LX series. The GL series seems to be much more reliable cars.

I understand your disappointment with this car, but the repeat failures (bearings, etc) indicate either incorrect replacement procedures, or abuse. As for the "stalling", and "power braking" to keep it running, was most likely a clogged EGR or IAC.

The car was probably neglected and beat on for years before your purchase; it's just a Tempo, right?

I own a 2001 GTP that I bought new, and my '88 Tempo LX is superior in build quality and fit & finish.

You could surf your way over to tempotopaz. com for info on caring for your car. Much of the work is easy to do yourself, and all the help you need is a click away.