1997 Ford Mustang Transmission and drivetrain Problems

“When clutch is hot, veh is hard to shift into second and third gear, I found two TSB's, dealership says they cannot find problem and I asked them about the TSB's, they said they new of none and said the fully researched it, no action was performed by dealership, learning my lesson about buying a Ford,”

“After hearing a strange noise in the rear end of the vehicle while driving at speeds no more than 45 MPH, the vehicle was taken to the dearlership where it was purchased. I was given an original estimate of $250., and the next day was told all the bearings in the rear-end including the axels had to be replaced, due to possible factory defect. I phoned Ford motors the following day and was told I would hear something within a day or two. …”

“The transmission developed a leak while driving home one day. I estimate 1 quart of fluid was lost. I filled it up but major gear wear had already happened (could hear whine from then on). The leak could not be found and sealed itself. Months later the main input shaft exploded while cruising at 40 MPH rendering the transmission undrivable. The rear sway bar snapped on the right side while entering my driveway at low speed. I have been told both of these are common problems with this car but the close proximity after the warranty expired disturbs me.”

“I pull into my garage to retreive something from on top of my washing machine. I put the car into park and began to exit the vehicle. The engine was still on at this time. I was about 3/4 out of the car standing with only my right foot still inside . When all of a sudden the car begin to back out by itself in reverse draging me with it about ten feet before I could free myself. I tried to get to the brake but the door of my car was to the wall of the garage and the door took me with it. Slamming me against my water softner garage springs and planter box outside of the garage. …”

“A vibration occurs when upshifting. At first it occurred only at 43 MPH; however, it now occurs around 30 MPH as well and has become more pronouced particularly at the 43 MPH shift point. The automatic transmission fluid is at normal full level and appears to be of normal color. We have also checked the universal joint bearings which are tight.”