One problem related to engine oil leaking has been reported for the 1997 Ford Thunderbird. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
Due to the location of cup holders spillage from cups get into gear shift. Dealer has been notified. The consumer stated that due to design and location of the cup holder any spill of liquids gets into the gear shift area causing the gear shift to get hard and also, hard to remove key from ignition when the transmission was in park. Engine leaks oil due to rocker arm cover failure.