1996 Ford Sable

Introduction

The 1996 Ford Sable is a mid-size sedan that was available with three engine options: a 3.0L V6, a 3.8L V6, and a 4.6L V8. Transmission options included a 4-speed automatic and a 5-speed manual. The Sable received positive reviews for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and powerful engines. However, some owners have reported issues with certain components.

Engine

3.0L V6

• Intake Manifold Gasket Failure Description/Symptoms: Coolant leak, reduced engine performance Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500 Recalls: None Found

• EGR Valve Failure Description/Symptoms: Engine hesitation, stalling, reduced fuel efficiency Solution: Replace EGR valve Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300 Recalls: None Found

3.8L V6

• Timing Chain Failure Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from engine, loss of power Solution: Replace timing chain and related components Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,000+ Recalls: None Found

• Valve Cover Gasket Leak Description/Symptoms: Oil leak from valve covers Solution: Replace valve cover gaskets Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 Recalls: None Found

4.6L V8

• Spark Plug Failure Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idle Solution: Replace spark plugs Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic

• Shift Solenoid Failure Description/Symptoms: Hard shifting, slipping gears Solution: Replace shift solenoids Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500 Recalls: None Found

• Transmission Fluid Leak Description/Symptoms: Leak from transmission pan or lines Solution: Fix leak, top off transmission fluid Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $300 Recalls: None Found

5-Speed Manual

• Clutch Failure Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, grinding noise Solution: Replace clutch Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1,000 Recalls: None Found

• Transmission Mount Failure Description/Symptoms: Excessive vibration Solution: Replace transmission mount Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Failure Description/Symptoms: Bouncy ride, poor handling Solution: Replace struts Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800 Recalls: None Found

• Ball Joint Failure Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise, vibration Solution: Replace ball joints Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, electrical problems Solution: Replace alternator Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500 Recalls: None Found

• Battery Failure Description/Symptoms: Difficulty starting, dead battery Solution: Replace battery Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Headlight Switch Failure Description/Symptoms: Headlights not turning on, flickering Solution: Replace headlight switch Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 Recalls: None Found

• Door Lock Actuator Failure Description/Symptoms: Difficulty unlocking or locking doors Solution: Replace door lock actuator Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Power Window Switch Failure Description/Symptoms: Power windows not working Solution: Replace power window switch Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 Recalls: None Found

• Climate Control Module Failure Description/Symptoms: AC or heater not working properly Solution: Replace climate control module Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500 Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1996 Ford Sable has a range of issues that vary in severity and cost to fix. Some of the more serious issues include timing chain failure in the 3.8L V6 engine and shift solenoid failure in the 4-speed automatic transmission. However, many of the issues are relatively minor and can be fixed for a reasonable cost.