Car practically lived in the shop during the first 3 years/36,000k of the original warranty.
Rebuilt autotranny to spec for each TSB at 14,000 miles.
New fuel pump at 20,000
New powersteering pump at 30,000.
Warped brake rotors at 32,000-turned by dealer under warranty.
Numerous problems with electrical and power windows.
Paint chipping/peeling after 60,000 miles (car is garaged daily and well taken care of)
Very comfortable car and a nice car to drive when it is not in shop.
This car is the reason why Toyota surpassed Ford as the #2 seller of cars.
Quality is NOT job one with Ford.
I saved $6,000 over a new Maxima when I bought this, but got at least $12k worth of aggravation from the unreliable tranny and other problems. I will NEVER buy another American car company vehicle for as long as I live.
Spend the extra $$ for a Japanese (american made vehicle like a Camry). It'll be the smartest choice you've ever made.
I have a 97 GL wagon and am quite pleased with it. I haven't heard about transmission problems with this Car. From the problems you have described I have to wonder if this is a driver problem. Get the lead out of your foot and the transmission might last longer, your rotors may not warp. Check the fluid levels in the car occasionally the power steering pump might last a little longer to.
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