Used 1996 Ford Probe GT 2dr Hatchback Consumer Reviews
Should I have the water pump replaced?
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 were people asking how it could be a Ford (never seen one). They could not believe Ford made such a good looking car. I am the original owner and ordered 5-speed manual, hot-rod red, 16" wide/chrome wheels. It still gets lots of looks. Nothing corners as well as this car - freaks people out.
Turning out to be expensive
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.
Probes respond to attention
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 intervals, while servicing the car at 5000klm intervals, and I only use Mobil 1 5w- 50 synthetic oil, k and n oil and air filters, and castrol synthetic 75w gear oil. The flush I use for the engine is liquid moly, and is very effective, hence no lifter noise! I replaced the cam belt, idlers, water pump and plugs, re book.
Lori's Car
I love my Probe. I have my car for over a year and a half and have had few problems with it. Until recently, the only repairs I have had were for the air conditioner and air bag light. Other than that, my car has ran pretty good. Like I said, I love my car!
I love this car!
I have put 50,000 miles on my GT in 5+ years and have yet to make a repair, only regular maintenance. The only problem I've had is the EGR valve malfunctioning. Now with 105,000 miles it still runs like a champ. Check ebay and you will see these approaching 300,000 miles sometimes. The Mazda 2.5 v6 is a great engine, though not on par with today's Japanese sporty engines. The braking and handling are superb. This car "feels right" more than any car I have ever driven, and I have driven many. I have other vehicles, but simply refuse to sell my ol' Probe because I love it too much. This car really is a gem! Get a nice one if you get the chance - it'll be well worth the money.