Does the 1988 Ford Thunderbird have any recalls?

The 1988 Ford Thunderbird has 1 recall on file with NHTSA, including issues with power train:axle assembly:axle shaft.

How many complaints have been filed for the 1988 Ford Thunderbird?

116 consumer complaints have been filed with NHTSA for the 1988 Ford Thunderbird.

Are there technical service bulletins (TSBs) for the 1988 Ford Thunderbird?

There are 24 technical service bulletins (TSBs) on file with NHTSA for the 1988 Ford Thunderbird.

1988 Ford Thunderbird Service and Repair Manual

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Factory-Grade Data

The 1988 Ford Thunderbird service and repair manual is a detailed, OEM-style reference for diagnostics, maintenance, and repair work. Use it to verify procedures, specifications, and system information before you start a job.

You'll find coverage across key vehicle systems with clear section structure, including wiring diagrams and powertrain, braking, steering, suspension, HVAC, and electrical topics. Digital format makes it easy to search while you work.

Trims covered

Base Sedan 2-Door
Equipado Coupe 2-Door
LX Sedan 2-Door
Turbo Sedan 2-Door
Base Coupe 2-Door
Sport Sedan 2-Door

Engines covered

5.0L 302Cu. In. V8 GAS OHV Naturally Aspirated
3.8L 232Cu. In. V6 GAS OHV Naturally Aspirated
3.8L 3797CC 232Cu. In. V6 GAS OHV Naturally Aspirated
2.3L 140Cu. In. l4 GAS SOHC Turbocharged

Index / Table of contents

Body
Brakes
Chassis Electrical
Driveline
Engine Cooling
Engine Electrical
Engine Mechanical
Engine Performance & Emission Controls
Fuel System
General Information & Identification
Heating, Ventilation, & Air Conditioning
Hybrid & Electric Vehicle Systems
Steering
Suspension
Transmission, Clutch, & Transfer Case
Wiring Diagrams

Payment & Security

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Vehicle Safety Data

1988 Ford Thunderbird Recalls & Complaints

NHTSA #88V03300015/03/1988Component: POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY:AXLE SHAFT

A DESIGN CHANGE TO FACILITATE CHANGEOVER IN REAR AXLE SHAFT FLANGES INADVERTENTLY PRODUCED THE POSSIBILITY FOR INTERFERENCE BETWEEN THE FLANGE AND DISC BRAKE ROTOR.

Consequence

THE INTERFERENCE COULD PREVENT PROPER SEATING OF THEROTOR. ALSO AN IMPROPERLY SEATED ROTO

Remedy

INSPECTION OF VEHICLES AND WHERE NECESSARY REPLACE REAR AXLE SHAFTS AND REAR BRAKE ROTORS.

TSB #623944

SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT HEATER CORE LEAKS. *SLC

TSB #623988

INFORMATION REGARDING TRANSMISSION FLUID USAGE CHARTS. *SLC

TSB #616522

SUBJECT REGARDING CONTAMINATION FROM PRIOR TRANSMISSION CONCERNS OR EXCESS WEAR MAY BE TRAPPED IN THE TRANSMISSION FLUID COOLING SYSTEM. *TT

TSB #608431

INFORMATION ON THE NEW FLUSH AND FILL TOOL AVAILABLE THROUGH ROTUNDA. *TT

TSB #612203

INFORMATION REGARDING THE NEW TRANSMISSION COOLER FLUSHER- SERVICE TIP. *MJS

TSB #6090087

INFORMATION ON IDENTIFYING NON-APPROVED / ALTERNATE REFRIGERANTS WHICH COULD CAUSE SAFETY, AND PERFORMANCE CONCERNS IF INSTALLED IN FORD A/C SYSTEMS. *TT

TSB #6089681

SUBJECT ON A WIRE HARNESS TERMINAL REPAIR KIT AVAILABLE FOR REPAIRING ELECTRICAL WIRING HARNESSES. *TT

TSB #605573

SUBJECT REGARDING A NEW SERVICE CENTER SUPPORT THAT USES A THRUST BEARING (#3 AND #4) IN PLACE OF THRUST WASHERS HAS BEEN RELEASED. *TT

Showing the 8 most recent of 24 technical service bulletins on file with NHTSA.

20020726Component: VISIBILITY:REARVIEW MIRRORS/DEVICES:INTERIORCrash reported1 injured

WITH THE MIRROR GLUED TO THE WINDSHIELD, AN OBJECT HIT THE ROOFLINE OF THE CAR, CAUSING THE WINDSHIELD TO SHATTER, AND AT 65MPH, THE WINDSHIELD COLAPSED WITH THE MIRROR ATTACHED, H

20020726Component: VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELDCrash reported1 injured

WITH THE MIRROR GLUED TO THE WINDSHIELD, AN OBJECT HIT THE ROOFLINE OF THE CAR, CAUSING THE WINDSHIELD TO SHATTER, AND AT 65MPH, THE WINDSHIELD COLAPSED WITH THE MIRROR ATTACHED, H

20001110Component: SEAT BELTS:FRONT:RETRACTORCrash reported1 injured

IN COLLISION SEAT BELT FAILED; DRIVER HIT WINSHIELD AND STEERING WHEEL. *AK

19981103Component: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROLCrash reported1 injured

THE CONSUMER PUT THE VEHICLE IN REVERSE TO BACK OUT OF HIS DRIVEWAY AT WHICH TIME THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED OUT OF THE GARAGE HITTING A PARKED CAR, THE CONSUMER PUT THE VEHI

Showing the 4 most serious of 116 complaints filed with NHTSA.

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