Two problems related to front suspension lower ball joint have been reported for the 1997 Ford Thunderbird. The most recently reported issues are listed below.
: the contact stated while performing general maintenance on the vehicle, it was determined the plastic seals on all four upper and lower ball joints as well as the seals on the stabilizer bar were fractured and deteriorating. The manufacturer was alerted.
While driving 40 mph, the front lower ball joint snapped, causing the consumer to lose steering control. The consumer managed to pull over. The incident occurred without warning while in motion. The repair department suggested that the consumer should expect this at 70k miles. Ford had not responded to the consumer.