Ford Falcon Problems

If it is also running poorly check the engine tune and things like the spark plugs, leads, filters, coils, and perhaps clean the throttle body. You really need to get a competent mechanic to check it. I doubt that it is a software problem, but a dealer could check for sensor problems etc.

I suspect you have a vacuum leak, probably caused by a cracked or split vacuum fitting on the brake booster.

It's great to hear from an old-school car enthusiast and I can remember doing the same thing when I was younger. These days it's nearly impossible to even find the oil filter on some new cars.

It's a common problem when mechanics come to change the plugs at the 100,000 km mark. If it were my car I would be removing the plugs every time it's serviced, and cleaning them and resetting the gap. Not only will that minimize the chances of the plugs being corroded into the alloy head, but also the engine is likely to run better. I also agree with you that it's a flawed design and Ford should cough up for the cost of the repairs.

I haven't heard of this problem before, but it's pleasing to hear that your dealer is still on the case and hasn't given up. It sounds like it could be a fix, but as you say you won't know for sure if the problem has been fixed until you get a spell of hot weather again.

The most likely cause is a switch that is not shutting off the power to the light. Most likely it is one of the switches in the door jams, so check them to make sure they are working by pushing them in and out and watching for the interior light to go on and off.

You've done the things that would normally be done when a car comes in with this sort of complaint, that is servicing the transmission and installing a new 2-3 shift solenoid. If that hasn't fixed it the next step would be to delve inside and rebuild it. It's unlikely to be a computer glitch, but perhaps the error code could help tell you what the issue is.

I also suffered through a six-volt Beetle but there is no excuse now. Upscale Euro cars have great bi-xenons and that should be the standard for everyone, although the Commodore and Falcon are world's - best for their price.

Dealers don't do that sort of work any more; they simply change oil, give it a bit of a grease, and hand it back to you. You obviously want more, and for that you have to go to a specialist mechanic who has the knowledge and experience, and equipment to do what you want.