Three problems related to engine and engine cooling have been reported for the 1996 Ford Crown Victoria. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
#1 - I constantly have my engine light on and during 2 inspections I received a safety/emissions recall printout, defect # dr-1209 for mass air flow sensors. Both times I have taken it to the local dealer and they claimed there's no recall for it. I just noticed on the NHTSA site, that recalls only go back as far as 1999. They also said that since it's no longer a "police owned" vehicle, they wouldn't fix it. # 2 - I have been getting a constant severe fuel smell that permeates through the car which is exacerbated with warm weather and or when the car warms up. #3 - there's a constant issue of the car vibrating when being driven at 55 - 60 mph.
While operating 1996 Ford Crown Victoria lx 4dr sedan (140k mileage) on local highway, upon stopping noticed coolant smell. Took vehicle to local dealer. Diagnosed a cracked "resin" engine intake on 4. 6 ltr v8 at seam under tempertaure sensor behind alternator. Repaired with replacement aluminum intake at owners expense. Old intake sent to william c. Ford, ceo Ford motor company, one american road, dearborn, mi, 48121, with letter of explanation/complaint. Factory manufacturing defect. Request action.
While driving on the expressway, I heard a pop the engine ran hot imediately. . . I later found ti to be the intake mainfold fitting. . . According to the mechanic, this is common for this particular type car. . .