1997 Ford Probe: common problems and MOT failures

What goes wrong more than usual on a 1997 Ford Probe?

Parts flagged at MOT more often on the 1997 Ford Probe than on all cars registered in 1997.

• Flexible brake hoses2.3× usual
  Ford Probe

  12.3% All 1997 cars

  5.4%

  Failed outright at MOT: 1.6%, against 1% of all 1997 cars. The rest were advisories or minor defects.

  Rough price £50–£200 our estimate

  At the viewing: Look for cracked or bulging rubber hoses behind the wheels and in the engine bay.

Common 1997 Ford Probe MOT failures and advisories

The share of 1997 Ford Probe MOT tests where testers flagged each area, as a fail or an advisory. Rough prices are typical independent-garage costs.

• Brakes
  44% of testsRough price £150–£350

  At the viewing: Look for a lip on the disc edges and feel for judder or pulling when braking firmly from about 40mph.

• Suspension
  34% of testsRough price £120–£400

  At the viewing: Listen for knocks over speed bumps, and look behind each front wheel for a snapped coil spring.

• Tyres
  22% of testsRough price £70–£150

  At the viewing: Check the tread on all four tyres, including the inside edges, and look for cracks or bulges.

• Oil and fluid leaks
  20% of testsRough price £80–£600

  At the viewing: Look under the engine and on the ground where the car is usually parked for fresh oil or fluid.

• Lights and electrics
  17% of testsRough price £10–£80

  At the viewing: Ask a friend to check every light, including brake lights and indicators, while you operate them.

• Rust and bodywork
  15% of testsRough price £150–£1,000

  At the viewing: Check the sills, wheel arches and underneath for rust, and look along the panels for uneven gaps or paint.

Questions to ask the seller before buying a 1997 Ford Probe

Ask before you travel to see it. A seller who knows the car will have answers, and receipts.

1. Any recent work on the flexible brake hoses? (Flagged at MOT 2.3× as often on the 1997 Ford Probe as on other cars the same age.)
2. Can I see the service history and receipts for any big jobs?