Recalls: Ford EF Fairmont
Overview
Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.
Recalls: Ford EF Fairmont
- In June 1998, a recall was issued for Ford EF Fairmont models fitted with a compact disc changer kit. In these vehicles, wire fouls on the top of the CD changer kit could potentially unlatch the front passenger seat in a high speed collision (PRA 1998/3554).
Problems and faults: Ford EF Fairmont
Overview
This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.
To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.
Engines
- The cylinder head bolts could weaken over time and cause the head gasket to fail, potentially causing the engine to overheat or other serious damage.
- Belt squeal and rattling noises from the engine bay may be due to a faulty accessory belt tensioner that requires replacement. If the tensioner fails, the accessory belt may snap, causing the power steering, alternator and water pump to stop working.
- The radiator hoses at the water pump and thermostat outlet could swell and burst due to corrosion.
- The O-ring seal at the back of the water pump was susceptible to leaking.
- Oil may leak from the timing cover seal.
- Variable build quality for the V8 engines could result in rattling lifters, dropped valves, bore distortion and oil-burning.
Transmission
- Automatic transmissions may need to be rebuilt after 170,000 kilometres – flaring on upshifts and a reluctance to engage top (fourth) gear are indicative of wear.
- Oil may leak from the rear main bearing seal.
Suspension
- The front ball joints were prone to wear, resulting in knocking noises from the front suspension.
- Soft rear springs may sag under heavy loads and require replacement for towing or long distance driving
Brakes
- Shuddering from the front wheels – which can be felt through the brake pedal – is indicative of warped brake discs.
Problems and faults: Ford EF Fairmont
- Problems with the door locks were usually due to the actuators failing.
- The air conditioning condenser could clog up and cause the compressor to fail.
- The power steering pump was susceptible to leaking.
- The front power windows may be slow to raise or may do so on an angle due to the glass sticking against the rubber seals – this can be fixed by lubricating the inside of the door frames with silicon spray or graphite powder.
- The boot strut bracket welds can fail and damage the rear seatbelt webbing.
