1997 Ford Probe SE 2.0 from North America

Summary:

It will look fabulous as a planter on my front lawn

Faults:

I have had to have the door handle on the passenger side replaced 3 times, one case resulting in the entire door needing to be repainted. The first time this happened, there were only 1500 miles on the car.

The tach went out at about 30000 miles. This involved a month-long stay at my local repair facility because, as the entire right side of the instrument cluster is one piece, the volt gauge kept breaking off. 10 (yes 10!) tries later and they finally had it right.

At this time, I have no heat (the fan blew up), no speedometer, tach, gauges, or rear defroster because something other than a fuse blew everything out.

General Comments:

I love how this car handles, in any weather.

The color is to die for (Boysenberry Blue which changes from purple to Dk. blue to pink).

For a 4-cylinder, I can't beat the power, especially with great gas mileage.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 4th December, 2002

1997 Ford Probe SE 2.0 Liter DOHC 16v I-4 from North America

Summary:

Chick magnet!

Faults:

There was a timing belt tensioner recall, so I threw in a new timing belt.

Recently had new front brake pads and rotors put on (Probes are known to be tough on brakes) and new spark plugs. Oh yes, and the back seat may as well not even be there.

General Comments:

This car really has to be one of the best looking and handling cars I have ever driven!

While getting an average of 35 miles per gallon, it has quite a bit of pep in it for a 4 banger.

Handles like it is on rails, and seems to be extremely reliable!

Quite the deal if you're up for the price and insurance!

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 30th August, 2001

17th Dec 2001, 10:58

I have a Ford Probe SE 96 I purchased through military sales overseas in Japan, I could not wait until I drove this car. I have money because my wife is rich, and we have driven many cars, but none has performed as well as the Probe. Out of the seven sports cars, that cost an average of $65.000.00 each, we both feel that we are so stupid for not buying this car first, it stuck to the road better than any other had/we are proud.

6th Feb 2002, 19:15

Hey, I hear ya on the backseat thing. Whats the point of having one when there is about 2 inches between the seat and the back of the front seat?

4th Dec 2002, 18:20

Well, I'm glad someone is happy with their Probe. I personally have had nothing but problems since I bought it. But, I love how my car drives, when it's working, and the look is out of this world.

6th Jul 2003, 08:40

This car is very unreliable, but it handles good...

I would never EVER buy another one... but yeah its only to my opinion.

10th Nov 2005, 18:50

The problem with probes is that they can be high maintenace cars. I am now on my 4th probe and cannot imagine ever being without one. fantastic cars to drive and look superb, but need more looking after than the average car.

16th Jul 2006, 23:25

I definitely hear you about the back seat. The trunk is bigger than we thought though, you would've thought they could've spared a few inches.

1997 Ford Probe 2.0 DOHC 16v 4 cylinder from North America

Summary:

Great deal for the money... QUICK too!!!

Faults:

The only problem I have with this car is the lack of room in the back seat.

I have not had to replace any parts in the car except a recalled timing belt tensioner.

General Comments:

This car has been absolutely great. It is very quick for being a 4 cylinder.

The Probe gets very good gas mileage and is about the most reliable car I've ever owned.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 25th May, 2001