Going to buy a '98 and later Crown Vic Police Interceptor, need to know issues.

[spencnaz]

Going to buy a CVPI here at auction later next month.

What I need to know is what to look out for on the 4.6L V8 that they have. What about suspension, transmission issues?

They have aluminum heads on them, any issues with head gaskets?

Thanks in advance for any info you guys have on these cars.

 

[towcat]

biggest issue i've seen is the rear coolant crossover passage in the manifold develops a leak over time. usually around 85k to 100k miles. To fix this issue you will need to completely replace the manifold. Most urban depts use this excuse to dump the cars as surplus.
most of the newer cars have aluminum control arms. check for towing damage since most drivers aren't aware you can throw a J-hook on them.
good luck
if it wasn't for the wife's Benz, there'd be one in my own fleet

 

[MLee]

They had a problem with a bolt in the rear bumper area that would pierce the fuel tank and start a fire, in a rear end accident. The police crusers was the only ones that the dealer ships would repair per a recall. I would double check and see if it had been done. You may not be able to have it repared under the recall being you are a private citizen. and yes it is a saftey issue.
Marv.