1986 Ford Club Wagon
Only 2 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict.
This verdict reflects complaint volume compared to this model's typical year. Recalls and safety issues below apply regardless of the verdict — always check them.
Only 2 complaints on file — too few for a fair verdict. The data below is complete but unranked.
COMPLAINTS PER YEAR
View as data table
| Year | Complaints |
|---|---|
| 1980 | 0 |
| 1982 | 0 |
| 1983 | 0 |
| 1984 | 0 |
| 1985 | 1 |
| 1986 | 2 |
| 1987 | 1 |
| 1988 | 1 |
| 1989 | 8 |
| 1990 | 5 |
| 1991 | 5 |
| 1992 | 15 |
| 1993 | 12 |
| 1994 | 17 |
| 1995 | 15 |
| 1996 | 17 |
| 1997 | 28 |
| 1998 | 28 |
| 1999 | 4 |
| 2000 | 5 |
| 2001 | 2 |
KNOWN PROBLEM AREAS
Only 2 complaints on file for this model year -- too few to rank by share. Raw counts only, below.
1 of 2 total reports mentions: electrical system.
FIREShow complaint excerpts
WHILE DRIVING VEHICLE, IT CAUGHT ON FIRE, PULLED OVER TO THE SIDE, GOT A FIRE EXTINGUISHER AND PUT FLAMES OUT; FIRE OCCURRED BY THE ALTERNATOR AREA. *AK
NHTSA ODI report, 19961113
1 of 2 total reports mentions: electrical system.
FIREShow complaint excerpts
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM FAILED, CAUSING FIRE, WHILE PARKED WITH THE IGNITION OFF AND THE KEY REMOVED. *YC
NHTSA ODI report, 19990430
SAFETY TIMELINE
THE RUBBER THAT ENCASES BALL STUD AND SOCKET JOINT (CONNECTS STEERING DRAG LINK AND PITMAN ARM) MAY DETERIORATE, CAUSING METAL TO METAL CONTACT, AND MAY EVENTUALLY RESULT IN COMPLETE SEPARATI
Remedy: INSTALL NEW DRAG LINK ASSEMBLIES WITH STEEL BALL AND SOCKET JOINTS AT THE PITMAN ARM CONNECTIONS.
Campaign 86V094000 — check if this car was fixed
VEHICLES ARE SUBJECT TO EXCESSIVE UNDERHOOD TEMPERATURES AND FUEL SYSTEM PRESSURES IN SEVERE DUTY APPLICATIONS.
Remedy: INSTALL MODIFICATION KITS TO MINIMIZE POSSIBILITY OF FUEL EXPULSION AND TO SHIELD UNDERBODY COMPONENTS FROM EXHAUST SYSTEM HEAT.
Campaign 87V144000 — check if this car was fixed
BUY-SMART CHECKLIST
1986 Ford Club Wagon — pre-purchase inspection
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Test/inspect for electrical system issues (1 reports on file for this year).
- Verify recall 86V094000 (steering) has been completed.
- Verify recall 87V144000 (engine and engine cooling) has been completed.
FAQ
Is the 1986 Ford Club Wagon reliable?
There isn't enough NHTSA complaint data on file yet to give this model year a verdict.
What are the most common problems with the 1986 Ford Club Wagon?
The most-reported component is electrical system:alternator/generator/regulator, accounting for 50% of complaints on file.
How many recalls does the 1986 Ford Club Wagon have?
2 recalls on file for this model year.
Data updated 2026-07-11 · Complaints are unverified owner reports filed with NHTSA, not independently verified defects. Methodology.