Ford Falcon 1989 Problems

SOUNDS as if there's a sealing problem on the dash. I haven't heard of a widespread problem with the EA, so it's more likely to be a one-off related to your car. The EA is now getting old and it could be many things, from rust around the windshield or in the plenum to holes in the dash itself. If it has been worked on by a previous owner they could have left seals out or not refitted them correctly. The seals could be old and brittle and no longer sealing. Try putting it through a car wash and trying to locate the leak.

YOU'D expect to get 10 to 12 litres/100km on average, so your fuel use is high. The car has done low kilometres, so it's not engine wear. Check the peripherals -- filters, plugs, coils, injectors -- and have a mechanic check for diagnostic codes that might give you some clues.

The GQ Patrol was a tough old bird, but it’s old and buying one now is a gamble. You could consider a Toyota Landcruiser, but again your budget will limit you to an older vehicle and that is always a risk. You could perhaps consider fitting power steering to the XF ute.

Your Falcon would have tested about 13 litres/ 100km when new. For comparison purposes, the Commodore V6 would return about 11.5 litres/100km, the 3.5-litre V6 Magna about 10.5 and the Camry closer to 13. Clearly, on that basis the Magna is the car for you.