FORD FALCON EB-EL XR6
BODY & CHASSIS
1990s Fords seem less prone than earlier versions to rust, so one with bubbling around the wheel arch edges, sills and doors or showing evidence of body filler will likely be neglected in other ways as well. Beware damage and broken locating clips on the one-piece bumper/ air-dam which will manifest as uneven gaps. Look underneath for ‘kerbing’ as well. Boot seals can leak so check for dampness which can affect operation of the rear lights. Replacement headlights come as high/low beam pairs at around $300 each. Higher wattage bulbs will improve night vision but generate more heat and fail more frequently than the standard bulbs.
ENGINE & TRANSMISSION
By the time EF release day rolled around, most of the bugs that plagued Ford’s overhead-cam engine bugs were dead.
Oil still leaked from various places and head gaskets failed but lucky owners managed 200,000 kilometres without a problem. Most common cure involves replacing the original head with an AU unit, using the AU studs and gasket set as well. EFs were the only XRs with coil packs and misfiring will likely be down to a failed pack. Specialists in Ford servicing recommend replacing all of the packs at once. The five-speed manual is rugged but can have the shift lever detach from its mounting. Four-speed autos are durable too and the first hint of trouble will come via savage thumps from the tranny when downshifting.
SUSPENSION & BRAKES
Standard Falcon discs were cheap, nasty things prone to warping and wear. Most 1990s cars will by now have replacement rotors and probably a reconditioned booster but still be wary of a soggy pedal. Also check that the handbrake doesn’t require brute force to release and find a stretch of empty road and try out the ABS. Look carefully at alloy wheels for cracks and bends, especially on the inner edges. The factory 16-inch rim came with different springs and bushes to the 15, so expect the lower profile tyres to deliver a harsher ride plus more road shock. Rack mountings need to be looked at on a hoist. Standard shock absorbers, especially at the rear, didn’t last long but better-quality replacements aren’t dear.
INTERIOR & ELECTRICS
The problem which proved insoluble for many owners of 1990s Fords involves the not-so-smart Smartlock central locking system. Doors don’t lock at all, stay locked when they shouldn’t or even lock then unlock themselves as you are walking away from the car. Even complete system replacements under warranty didn’t entirely cure the problem so check that the car locks. Also that the power windows don’t screech when being moved. Seat frames will bend or crack under the weight of hefty occupants and adjusters jam so make sure all of them including the backrest angle still move. Air-conditioners need frequent attention to remain efficient and compressor failure would not long ago have sent a cheap XR sent for scrap. Less important but still annoying if they don’t work are the trip computer and cruise control.