Probe sales have been off since Ford introduced a revamped Mustang in December of 1993, but that doesn't mean the Probe is a lesser car. It has earned high praise since the first-generation model bowed on the sport coupe scene in 1989, and the current iteration is quick, comfortable and good-looking; particularly in GT trim.

For 1996, base Probes are little changed. That's because Ford is emphasizing the SE and GT models this year. Option packages have been combined and trimmed down, making it easier to order an SE model. Lost in the shuffle are several equipment groups and individual convenience items, such as a glovebox light, rear window wiper/washer, perimeter alarm system and locking lug nuts on the SE's 15-inch wheels. Also gone from the SE options roster are a CD player and a power sunroof.

GT models get a softer sprung suspension for 1996, but handling hasn't been compromised. The GT's excellent Mazda-engineered V6 remains unchanged.

All Probes get standard remote hatch and fuel door releases and saddle cloth interiors are new. The rear seat has been re-sculpted to create more leg room, and minor cosmetic revisions are evident across the board. Probes can be painted in three new hues.

Rumors claim that the Probe will be canceled after the 1996 model year to make more showroom space for the hot-selling Mustang. Those rumors have been quelled. Plans now call for the next generation Probe to ride atop the Contour's tight platform. While we relish the current car and its Mazda-based engineering, a V6 Contour-based Probe really intrigues us.

1996 Highlights

Ford concentrates on the SE and GT trim levels this year, revising and simplifying options lists and making minor cosmetic and trim revisions.

Consumer reviews

Read what other owners think about the 1996 Ford Probe.

Overall Consumer Rating

4.237 reviews

Write a review See all 37 reviews

5(40%)

4(46%)

3(11%)

2(3%)

1(0%)

Most helpful consumer reviews

Should I have the water pump replaced?

jahmn,07/19/2010

This car has been fantastic. Now I have my 1st original part to replace per maintenance - the timing belt at now 60,000 miles. The mechanic suggested doing the water pump also, but there is no indication of wear or imminent failure. A logical suggestion, but are water pumps a problem with this car? I drove it down to the local classic car/hot-rod parade and got waved into it. There

Turning out to be expensive

Brian,04/29/2009

I bought this car for 2,500 back in may and have had to spend another 3,000 in repairs. its turning into such a hassle. when it's running good it's a great car. pretty quick, very good handling, but once again not very reliable.

Nice Little Car

Don,12/05/2009

She's a nice little car, but lately she's been trying to nickel-and-dime me like crazy. I've got an oil leak somewhere, warm air is intermittent, the Airbag light intermittently flashes, the left side stereo speakers don't work 99% of the time.

Probes respond to attention

classic probe,07/25/2010

Having owned a probe v6 gt for 12 years, I must say its been really reliable as a day to day driver. The only problem, which caused the car not to start, was a faulty distributor module, which is an integral part of the Mitsubishi distributor used in these vehicles, {a known problem} once replaced at 163,000 km the car is running really well. I made it a habit to flush the oil at 20k

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Features & Specs

MPG

18 city / 24 hwy

Seats 0

5-speed manual

Gas

164 hp @ 5600 rpm

MPG

23 city / 30 hwy

Seats 0

5-speed manual

Gas

118 hp @ 5500 rpm

MPG

23 city / 30 hwy

Seats 0

5-speed manual

Gas

118 hp @ 5500 rpm

See all Used 1996 Ford Probe features & specs

Safety

NHTSA Overall Rating

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.

Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
OverallNot Rated
Driver5 / 5
Passenger4 / 5
Side Crash Rating
OverallNot Rated
Side Barrier Rating
OverallNot Rated
DriverNot Rated
PassengerNot Rated
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
Front SeatNot Rated
Back SeatNot Rated
Rollover
RolloverNot Rated
Dynamic Test ResultNo Tip
Risk Of RolloverNot Rated

IIHS Rating

The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.

Side Impact Test
Not Tested
Roof Strength Test
Not Tested
Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint
Not Tested
IIHS Small Overlap Front Test
Not Tested
Moderate Overlap Front Test
0

More about the 1996 Ford Probe

Used 1996 Ford Probe Overview

The Used 1996 Ford Probe is offered in the following submodels: Probe Hatchback. Available styles include GT 2dr Hatchback, 2dr Hatchback, and SE 2dr Hatchback.

What's a good price on a Used 1996 Ford Probe?

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Which used 1996 Ford Probes are available in my area?

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Should I lease or buy a 1996 Ford Probe?

Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.

Used 1996 Ford Probe

Used