1998 Ford Mystique

Introduction

The 1998 Ford Mystique is a midsize sedan that was available with two engine options and a single transmission option. The base engine was a 2.0-liter V6 with 115 horsepower and 135 lb-ft of torque, while the optional engine was a 2.5-liter V6 with 170 horsepower and 165 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. The Mystique received praise for its spacious interior and comfortable ride, but it was criticized for its lackluster performance and poor fuel economy.

Engine

2.0-liter V6

• Intake manifold gasket failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leak from the intake manifold, loss of coolant, overheating
  • Solution: Replace the intake manifold gasket
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Valve cover gasket leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leak from the valve covers, burning oil smell
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gaskets
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $300+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing belt failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Catastrophic engine failure with no warning, shredded or broken timing belt
  • Solution: Replace the timing belt and tensioner, inspect the other components of the timing system
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $750 - $1200+
  • Recalls: None Found

2.5-liter V6

• Cylinder head gasket failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Coolant or oil leak from the cylinder head, overheating, white smoke from the exhaust
  • Solution: Replace the cylinder head gasket, inspect the cylinder head for cracks or damage
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1000 - $2000+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Timing chain tensioner failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Rattling noise from the engine, especially at startup, loss of power, check engine light
  • Solution: Replace the timing chain tensioner and timing chain
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found

Transmission

4-speed Automatic

• Torque converter failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Slipping or shuddering transmission, lack of power, overheating
  • Solution: Replace the torque converter
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $1200 - $1800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Transmission fluid leak
  • Description/Symptoms: Fluid leak from the transmission pan or lines, low transmission fluid level
  • Solution: Repair the leak, flush and replace the transmission fluid
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Solenoid failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, transmission slipping or refusing to shift into gear
  • Solution: Replace the faulty solenoid
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise from the suspension, uneven tire wear, poor ride quality
  • Solution: Replace the struts and mounts
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Ball joint failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or popping noise when turning or hitting bumps, loose or wobbly steering
  • Solution: Replace the ball joints
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $600+
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, weak battery, loss of electrical power
  • Solution: Replace the alternator
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Battery failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Car won’t start, weak battery, corrosion on battery terminals
  • Solution: Replace the battery
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust spots on the body panels, especially around the wheel wells and rocker panels
  • Solution: Rust removal and paint repair
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on the extent of the rust
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Seat fabric tearing
  • Description/Symptoms: Tears in the cloth or vinyl seat fabric
  • Solution: Replace the seat covers or have them repaired
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Dashboard cracking
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks or splits in the dashboard
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard or have it repaired
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $1000+
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary

The 1998 Ford Mystique has several potential issues, including significant engine and transmission problems. These issues can be costly to repair and can impact the reliability and longevity of the vehicle. However, the Mystique is also known for its spacious interior and comfortable ride, which may be appealing to some drivers.