2002 Ford Thunderbird Engine cooling Problems

“I have a 2002 Ford t-bird with approx 60k milies, original owner. I've had three coils replaced at my expense. On 25 aug 2011, while diving in the fast lane (three lanes) at approx 60 MPH, the engine suddenly quit, causing a loss of brakes and steering. I was fortunate to be able to muscle the car into the break down lane and stop. The car started without issue after putting it in park.”

“I've seen numerous complaints for this same issue and I've done a lot of research on it. My 2002 Ford Thunderbird began having this problem at 43,700 miles. I did not know what the issue was and it was intermittent. Within the past month (september, 2011), I have personally replaced all eight plugs, boots and coils. While doing this I found three plugs that were oil fouled. After completing this repair the car continues to drive rough. …”

“Coil and plug failure in traffic - my car experienced intermittent stalling in traffic and misfiring on the highway.luckily, I was able to start the Ford car and move me and the Ford car out of harms way.Ford recognizes the issue with the 2003 and in may of 2008 Ford covered the 2004 and 2005 thunderbirds but is ignoring the 2002. I had two of the eight coil on plug assembles replaced and I am concerned that any one of the next six will again fail on the road.”

“The most recent problem started in june 2009 when the airbag indicator light came on for no reason and wouldn't go off (is it working or not? Safety issue?) then within a matter of weeks everything on the steering column controls quit working or went berserk. The cruise controls suddenly went haywire accelerating when any button was pushed now they don't work at all (safety issue). A car pulled out in front of me, I slammed on the brakes and laid on the horn and nothing!!! A terrible crash was missed by literally inches( safety issue)...30 minutes later the horn worked. …”

“Twice my 2002 Thunderbird's engine has stopped while I am driving it. Both times, it occurred as I was making a left turn in front of oncoming traffic in a 55 MPH zone. When it quit, I was unable to steer or control the vehicle in any way. I had to put it in park and restart it before I could leave the oncoming lane. Ford has an unpublished oasis special service message 16581 which states: 2000-2002 lincoln ls & 2002 Thunderbird - intermittent engine quit on decel/stops/turns. Some 2000-2002 lincoln ls & 2002 Thunderbird vehicles may exhibit an intermittent engine quit condition. …”