Ford Laser 1987 Problems

Are you having problems with your 1987 Ford Laser? Let our team of motoring experts keep you up to date with all of the latest 1987 Ford Laser issues & faults. We have gathered all of the most frequently asked questions and problems relating to the 1987 Ford Laser in one spot to help you decide if it's a smart buy.

The `bomb' dilemma
Answered by Graham Smith · 17 Jun 2004

GETTING it to a mechanic is easy. You can either get it towed there by tow truck, or you can get a permit from VicRoads that will allow you to drive it to and from your mechanic's premises. Buying a car unregistered and without a roadworthy certificate is always a gamble, unless you can have it checked by a mechanic or a body such as the RACV before you hand over the cash. Without a thorough check, one can't possibly know what you might have to do to make it roadworthy. In your case, with more than 200,000km on it, there is probably going to be lots, which could make your bargain buy look very expensive.

Used Ford Laser TX3 review: 1985-1993
By Patrick Lyons · 07 Dec 2009
Ford’s TX3 cars are the "hot" versions of the popular Laser range, being available in front-drive and four-wheel-drive versions and with turbo and non-turbo engines.  The Laser TX3 Turbo 4WD performed impressively in the inaugural 12-hour race at Bathurst due to its stunning acceleration and impressive grip from the four-wheel drive.Many TX3s have also performed brilliantly in rallies, hill climbs and other motorsport events.  The TX3 began life in 1985 with a 1.6-litre fuel-injected engine, while the front-drive TX3 Turbo, introduced in 1987, used a 16-valve blown version of this engine.Sure-footed motoring was also provided from 1987 through a four-wheel-drive model using the turbo-charged engine.  From the start of the KF series in 1990, a twin-cam 16-valve 1.8-litre engine was made standard in the TX3 and a turbo version of this motor was under the bonnet of the 4WD hatch.The power from the 1.8-litre turbo engine was considered too much for a front-drive car, so this version was dropped from the range.  Even with the 1.6-litre engine, the front-drive car is noted for its torque steer which can be dangerous on slippery roads for inexperienced drivers.Ford's 1.8-litre TX3 Turbo 4WD was launched at $2500 less than the 1.6-litre model, a move which helped make this car a popular choice.But Ford stopped offering the TX3 Turbo 4WD from mid-1993 due to rising prices caused by the exchange rate and the advent of stiff competition from cars, such as the Lancer GSR. The 1.8-litre TX3 model continues.  Lasers are generally trouble-free, but these "hot" versions may have spent considerable time competing in club rallies so they should be checked out.Check for signs of body damage or repair, and your test drive should concentrate on ensuring there is strong acceleration.  Abnormal whining from the turbo could indicate excessive wear.
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