2001 Ford Sable
Introduction:
The 2001 Ford Sable is a full-size sedan that was available with a choice of three engine and transmission options. The base engine was a 3.0-liter V6 that produced 155 horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission. The optional engines were a 3.8-liter V6 that produced 200 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission, and a 3.8-liter V6 that produced 235 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission.
Drivers praised the Sable’s spacious interior, comfortable ride, and reliable performance. However, it was criticized for its mediocre fuel economy and uninspiring handling.
Engine
3.0-liter V6
- Intake manifold gasket failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Leaking coolant or oil, rough idle, overheating
- Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500
- Recalls: None Found
- Water pump failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Leaking coolant, overheating
- Solution: Replace water pump
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300
- Recalls: None Found
3.8-liter V6 (200 hp)
- No Issues Found
3.8-liter V6 (235 hp)
- No Issues Found
Transmission
4-speed Automatic (3.0-liter V6, 3.8-liter V6)
- Shift solenoid failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Difficulty shifting gears, transmission slipping
- Solution: Replace shift solenoid
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
- Recalls: None Found
5-speed Automatic (3.8-liter V6)
- Transmission control module (TCM) failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Erratic shifting, transmission slipping, no gears engaging
- Solution: Replace TCM
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800
- Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Front strut mounts:
- Description/Symptoms: Clunking noise when driving over bumps, uneven tire wear
- Solution: Replace front strut mounts
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300 per strut
- Recalls: None Found
- Rear shock absorbers:
- Description/Symptoms: Poor ride quality, bouncy handling
- Solution: Replace rear shock absorbers
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300 per shock
- Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Power window switches:
- Description/Symptoms: Power windows not working, intermittent operation
- Solution: Replace power window switches
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200 per switch
- Recalls: None Found
- Alternator failure:
- Description/Symptoms: Dimming lights, electrical problems, battery not charging
- Solution: Replace alternator
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $700
- Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Door handles:
- Description/Symptoms: Door handles breaking, difficult to open doors
- Solution: Replace door handles
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $300 per handle
- Recalls: None Found
- Trunk lid latch:
- Description/Symptoms: Trunk lid not opening, trunk light staying on
- Solution: Replace trunk lid latch
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $100 - $200
- Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Dashboard vent actuators:
- Description/Symptoms: Vents not blowing air, airflow direction not changing
- Solution: Replace dashboard vent actuators
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 per actuator
- Recalls: None Found
- Climate control panel:
- Description/Symptoms: Buttons not working, display not illuminating
- Solution: Replace climate control panel
- Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400
- Recalls: None Found
Summary:
The 2001 Ford Sable has a few common issues, but they are generally not severe or expensive to fix. The most common engine issue is the intake manifold gasket failure, which can cost around $300 - $500 to repair. The most common transmission issue is the shift solenoid failure, which can cost $200 - $400 to repair. Overall, the Sable is a reliable and comfortable vehicle with relatively affordable repair costs.