1996 Ford Crown Victoria used buying checklist

Test for the problems owners report most

The most reported problems of this model year, with what to look for on the test drive.

• Ball joint or control arm failure42 owner complaints, usually around 125,000 miles

  Drive over bumps and listen for clunks or rattles. Look for uneven tire wear.

• Engine overheating21 owner complaints, usually around 111,000 miles

  Start the engine cold and listen for knocking or ticking. Check for warning lights, oil leaks and a low oil level, and ask how often oil had to be topped up.

• Fire, smoke or burning smell14 owner complaints, usually around 100,614 miles

  Test every screen, camera, power window, lock and the key fob. With the engine running, make sure no warning lights stay on.

Make sure these recalls were done

Recall repairs are free at any dealer of the brand. Ask the seller for proof, or have a dealer check the VIN.

• Vehicle speed controlRecall number 08V051000, Feb 4, 2008
• Vehicle speed controlRecall number 07V336000, Aug 3, 2007
• Fuel system, otherRecall number 03V472000, Nov 6, 2003
• Seat beltsRecall number 00V157001, Jun 12, 2000
• Seat beltsRecall number 00V157002, Jun 12, 2000
• SuspensionRecall number 98V322000, Dec 16, 1998
• Latches/locks/linkagesRecall number 97V024000, Mar 4, 1997
• SteeringRecall number 96V135000, Jul 18, 1996
• Latches/locks/linkagesRecall number 96V070000, Apr 22, 1996

Service bulletins worth asking about

Repair instructions the maker sent to dealers for known problems. Ask whether any of these repairs were done.

• Extended coverage program 05N04 - extended coverage for composite intake manifoldDec 14, 2005
• Charging system limitationsDec 1, 2004
• Some dedicated cng vehicles may exhibit various driveability conditions due to a loss of injector...Oct 13, 2003
• Some dedicated cng vehicles may exhibit driveability conditions of hard start / no start / rough runningMar 1, 2002
• Some vehicles may exhibit an intake manifold crossover (first runner) coolant seepage conditionFeb 4, 2002
• Some engine assemblies with aluminum cylinder heads repaired in-vehile have been found to leak coolant...Jan 21, 2002

Before you pay

• Decode the VIN and make sure it matches the title, the registration and the car itself.
• Get a vehicle history report to check for accidents, salvage or flood titles and odometer problems.
• Ask for service records, especially oil changes and any transmission fluid service.
• Start the car from cold, and drive it at city and highway speeds for at least 20 minutes.
• Have an independent mechanic inspect the car before you sign anything.