CARFIX

Ford Probe LC22 (1988–1993)

The Ford Probe was a popular choice in New Zealand for drivers seeking a sporty coupe alternative. This guide provides valuable insights into owning and maintaining your Ford Probe Base model, helping you keep it running smoothly for years to come.

Parts for the Ford Probe LC22

Known issues

Some common issues reported with the Ford Probe Base, particularly as they age, include automatic transmission failures, electrical problems often affecting the pop-up headlights, and rust development around the rear wheel arches. These problems often become apparent between 150,000 and 250,000 kilometers.

WOF tips

When taking your Ford Probe Base for a WoF (Warrant of Fitness) in New Zealand, be mindful of the following common watch points: rear trailing arm bushings and headlight alignment (Probes are prone to headlight dimming).

About the Ford Probe LC22

Owning a Ford Probe Base in New Zealand means being aware of its potential maintenance needs. Regular servicing is key to its longevity.

Here's what Probe owners in NZ should consider:
• Routine Maintenance: Sticking to a regular maintenance schedule, including tasks like changing your engine oil and oil filter as well as checking your timing belt, will help you avoid costly repairs down the road.
• Braking System: Keeping an eye on your brake pads, brake hoses, and rear wheel cylinders is essential for safe stopping power. Inspecting and replacing these components when necessary is crucial.
• Suspension: The condition of your shocks/struts (rear), strut boot kit (rear) and bump stops (rear) affects ride comfort and handling. Consider replacing these components to maintain optimal performance.
• Clutch System: If you have a manual transmission, pay attention to the clutch kit, clutch slave cylinder, and consider using a clutch alignment tool during clutch replacement to ensure proper installation. An advanced clutch system may provide improved performance.
• Steering: Regularly check your steering rack boot kit for damage to prevent premature wear of the steering rack.
• Timing Belt: Ensure your timing belt and camshaft are in good condition and part of the regular inspection schedule. Consider a timing kit to replace the timing belt as part of regular preventative maintenance.

Questions owners ask

What are the common WOF watch points for a Ford Probe 1988–1993 in New Zealand?
When taking your Ford Probe 1988–1993 for a Warrant of Fitness (WoF) in New Zealand, pay close attention to the rear trailing arm bushings and headlight alignment. Probes are known to be prone to headlight dimming, which can affect WOF compliance.
Where can I get replacement brake pads and hoses for my Ford Probe 1988–1993 in NZ?
CARFIX stocks 80 SKUs for the Ford Probe 1988–1993, including essential braking system components like brake pads and brake hoses. You can also find rear wheel cylinders to ensure safe stopping power.
What are the most common issues reported with older Ford Probe 1988–1993 models?
As Ford Probe 1988–1993 models age, common issues often include automatic transmission failures, electrical problems frequently affecting the pop-up headlights, and rust development, particularly around the rear wheel arches. These problems typically become apparent between 150,000 and 250,000 kilometers.
How often should I service my Ford Probe 1988–1993 in New Zealand?
For your Ford Probe 1988–1993, a service interval of 10,000km is recommended. Regular maintenance, including changing your engine oil and oil filter, and checking your timing belt, is crucial for its longevity.
What suspension components should I check on my Ford Probe 1988–1993 for better ride comfort?
To maintain optimal ride comfort and handling in your Ford Probe 1988–1993, regularly inspect the condition of your rear shocks/struts, rear strut boot kit, and rear bump stops. Replacing these components when worn can significantly improve your driving experience.
What should I look out for with the clutch system on my manual Ford Probe 1988–1993?
If your Ford Probe 1988–1993 has a manual transmission, pay close attention to the clutch kit and clutch slave cylinder. When replacing the clutch, consider using a clutch alignment tool for proper installation. An advanced clutch system can also offer improved performance.