The 2009 Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor (P71) is a full-size, four-door sedan part of the long-running Panther platform, which saw production from 1998 to 2011 for this generation. Renowned for its body-on-frame construction and rear-wheel drive, it's a staple of police fleets and taxi services. This robust model, while not officially priced for public sale as new, offered unparalleled durability and reliability, making it an icon of American law enforcement and a popular used choice for those seeking a dependable, no-nonsense vehicle.
The Good
Its legendary reliability and simple, robust mechanics offer immense practical appeal, ensuring low ownership costs. Performance-wise, the V8 provides ample power and its heavy-duty suspension delivers surprisingly capable handling. Emotionally, the "cop car" mystique and feeling of indestructibility are highly appealing, alongside its significant value on the used market. Comfort is decent with a spacious interior, though efficiency is not a strong suit.
The Bad
Key weaknesses include its relatively poor fuel economy for modern standards and an outdated interior design lacking advanced features. Potential mechanical issues to watch out for include blend door actuator failures, rust development (especially in northern climates), and general wear on suspension components due to heavy use, particularly in ex-police vehicles.
2009 Ford Crown Victoria Police: Quick Overview
- Engine: The 2009 Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor (P71) primarily featured one engine option, a 4.6-liter (281 cubic inch) SOHC (Single Overhead Cam) V8, part of Ford's modular engine family. This engine was paired with a robust 4-speed automatic transmission (4R75E).
- Horsepower: The 4.6L SOHC V8 in the Police Interceptor produced 250 horsepower at 5000 rpm.
- Torque: It generated 297 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm, providing strong low-end pulling power.
- Fuel Economy: Official EPA estimates for the 2009 model year typically hovered around 15 MPG in the city and 23 MPG on the highway, largely dependent on driving conditions and vehicle maintenance.
- 0-60 MPH Time: The 2009 Crown Victoria Police Interceptor could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 7.5 to 8.0 seconds, which was respectable for a large sedan of its era.
- Towing Capacity: While not primarily a towing vehicle, the Police Interceptor had a modest towing capacity. With a proper towing package, it could typically handle up to 2,000 lbs, with some sources indicating a maximum of 5,000 lbs for properly equipped models, though this was rare for police duty.
- Trim-Level Features (Police Interceptor - P71 specific):
- Heavy-duty frame and suspension components (reinforced shocks, springs, and sway bars) for enhanced durability and handling.
- Upgraded braking system for improved stopping power under strenuous conditions.
- Heavy-duty cooling system for engine and transmission, crucial for prolonged idling and high-speed pursuits.
- High-output alternator (typically 200 amp) to power auxiliary police equipment.
- Steel wheels, often 16-inch, designed for durability.
- Limited-slip differential was often an available option for improved traction.
- Revised powertrain calibration for more aggressive shifts and throttle response.
- Reinforced body mounts and additional underbody bracing.
- Specific interior features like vinyl rear seats and rubber flooring for easy cleaning, along with provisions for mounting police equipment.
- Heavy-duty frame and suspension components (reinforced shocks, springs, and sway bars) for enhanced durability and handling.
2009 Ford Crown Victoria Police Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2009 |
| Make | Ford |
| Model | Crown Victoria Police |
| Trim | - |
| Style | - |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | Canada |
| Manufacturing City | TALBOTVILLE |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 4.6-L V-8 SOHC 16V FFV |
| Engine Size | 4.6L |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 |
| Transmission | 4-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 4-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Rear-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
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What Problems Does the 2009 Ford Crown Victoria Police Have?
The 2009 Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor, while a bastion of reliability, does have a few frequently reported problems and long-term concerns, many of which are characteristic of its Panther platform lineage. One common issue across the platform, though less prevalent in later model years like 2009 due to design revisions, is the potential for intake manifold cracking. Earlier models with all-composite manifolds were particularly susceptible, leading to coolant leaks. By 2009, Ford had largely resolved this with improved designs, but it's still worth inspecting for any coolant residue.
Another pervasive problem is the failure of the blend door actuator for the climate control system. This component controls the air temperature blend and often leads to inconsistent heating or cooling, typically requiring dash disassembly to replace. Power window regulators are also known to fail over time, causing windows to stick or fall into the door.
Given their typical life as police vehicles, many Crown Vics suffer from accelerated wear on suspension components, including ball joints and control arm bushings, which can lead to clunks and poor handling. Excessive idling hours, common for police cars, can also prematurely wear out alternators, water pumps, and starters, despite their heavy-duty specifications. Rust is a significant concern, especially on the frame and body panels in regions with harsh winters where salt is used on roads.
Transmission shudder, often linked to the torque converter, can occur, particularly if fluid changes have been neglected. Additionally, ignition coil packs (COPs - Coil-On-Plug) can fail, leading to misfires. While 2009 models benefited from years of refinements, these common issues reflect the high mileage and demanding conditions many of these vehicles faced. Recalls for the 2009 model year were generally minor, often addressing labeling or small component issues, rather than major safety or mechanical defects that plagued earlier generations (e.g., cruise control switch fire risk). Long-term reliability is excellent, but these known wear items require attention.
Another pervasive problem is the failure of the blend door actuator for the climate control system. This component controls the air temperature blend and often leads to inconsistent heating or cooling, typically requiring dash disassembly to replace. Power window regulators are also known to fail over time, causing windows to stick or fall into the door.
Given their typical life as police vehicles, many Crown Vics suffer from accelerated wear on suspension components, including ball joints and control arm bushings, which can lead to clunks and poor handling. Excessive idling hours, common for police cars, can also prematurely wear out alternators, water pumps, and starters, despite their heavy-duty specifications. Rust is a significant concern, especially on the frame and body panels in regions with harsh winters where salt is used on roads.
Transmission shudder, often linked to the torque converter, can occur, particularly if fluid changes have been neglected. Additionally, ignition coil packs (COPs - Coil-On-Plug) can fail, leading to misfires. While 2009 models benefited from years of refinements, these common issues reflect the high mileage and demanding conditions many of these vehicles faced. Recalls for the 2009 model year were generally minor, often addressing labeling or small component issues, rather than major safety or mechanical defects that plagued earlier generations (e.g., cruise control switch fire risk). Long-term reliability is excellent, but these known wear items require attention.
How long will the 2009 Ford Crown Victoria Police last?
The 2009 Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor is renowned for its exceptional long-term durability. Based on owner data and the rigorous demands of police service, these vehicles often achieve average mileages well over 200,000 to 300,000 miles, with many civilian-owned examples exceeding these figures with proper maintenance. Police departments typically retired them after 5-7 years or 100,000-150,000 miles, but their robust design allows them to continue service for many more years in private hands.
Over time, while the core drivetrain remains solid, weaknesses emerge primarily in high-wear items: suspension components (bushings, ball joints), interior trim (especially in former police cars), and rust development on the frame and body in corrosive environments. Minor electrical gremlins, such as blend door actuators or power window regulators, are also common. However, the overall simplicity and widespread availability of parts make long-term maintenance very manageable.
Over time, while the core drivetrain remains solid, weaknesses emerge primarily in high-wear items: suspension components (bushings, ball joints), interior trim (especially in former police cars), and rust development on the frame and body in corrosive environments. Minor electrical gremlins, such as blend door actuators or power window regulators, are also common. However, the overall simplicity and widespread availability of parts make long-term maintenance very manageable.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2009 Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor, being a purpose-built fleet vehicle, was decidedly utilitarian in its technology and entertainment offerings. Built-in tech was minimal; you'd find a basic AM/FM stereo, often with a single CD player. Some models might have offered an auxiliary audio input, but advanced infotainment screens, navigation, or Bluetooth connectivity were non-existent. Climate control was a straightforward manual system, emphasizing functionality over features.
Driver-assistance features, by modern standards, were absent. There was no adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, or parking sensors. The driving experience was purely mechanical and driver-controlled, relying on the driver's skill and awareness.
In terms of safety, the 2009 CVPI came with standard features that were respectable for its era: dual front airbags and front-seat side-impact airbags. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) and traction control were standard, providing crucial assistance in adverse conditions. The robust body-on-frame construction itself contributed significantly to passenger safety by offering a strong, rigid structure.
Crash-test ratings for the 2009 Crown Victoria were quite good. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded it:
Driver-assistance features, by modern standards, were absent. There was no adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, or parking sensors. The driving experience was purely mechanical and driver-controlled, relying on the driver's skill and awareness.
In terms of safety, the 2009 CVPI came with standard features that were respectable for its era: dual front airbags and front-seat side-impact airbags. Anti-lock brakes (ABS) and traction control were standard, providing crucial assistance in adverse conditions. The robust body-on-frame construction itself contributed significantly to passenger safety by offering a strong, rigid structure.
Crash-test ratings for the 2009 Crown Victoria were quite good. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) awarded it:
- 5 out of 5 stars for front-impact protection (driver and passenger).
- 5 out of 5 stars for side-impact protection (front and rear passenger).
- 4 out of 5 stars for rollover resistance.
What Colors Options are Available?
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In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
2009 Ford Crown Victoria Police Prices and Market Value
When new, the 2009 Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor was primarily sold as a fleet vehicle to government agencies, so a public "sticker price" wasn't readily available. However, a comparable civilian model (like the Mercury Grand Marquis) retailed in the range of $25,000 - $30,000, with the P71 likely slightly higher due to its heavy-duty components. Today, the depreciation curve for the CVPI is almost entirely flattened. Current used market prices for a 2009 model typically range from $2,000 to $8,000, depending heavily on condition, mileage, and service history. Exceptionally low-mileage or pristine examples might command more from collectors.
Factors significantly affecting resale value include accumulated mileage (especially idle hours from police service), overall mechanical condition, presence of rust, the extent of interior wear, and whether the vehicle comes with clear maintenance records. Former police vehicles often show more wear, but their robust nature means they retain decent value for their intended purpose.
Factors significantly affecting resale value include accumulated mileage (especially idle hours from police service), overall mechanical condition, presence of rust, the extent of interior wear, and whether the vehicle comes with clear maintenance records. Former police vehicles often show more wear, but their robust nature means they retain decent value for their intended purpose.
2009 Ford Crown Victoria Police Cost of Ownership
Overall, the 2009 Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor is remarkably economical to own, despite its thirst for fuel. Insurance costs are generally low due to its age, safety ratings, and lack of perceived "sportiness." Fuel is its largest recurring expense, as the V8 engine delivers average combined MPG in the high teens, requiring regular gasoline. Maintenance and repair costs are exceptionally low; parts are abundant and cheap, and the vehicle's simple mechanical design means most repairs are straightforward and labor-friendly. Long-term ownership is affordable, making it a great value proposition for those seeking a reliable, no-frills vehicle that's cheap to fix.
2009 Ford Crown Victoria Police Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
2009 Ford Crown Victoria Police Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
2009 Ford Crown Victoria Police Insurance
Insurance for a 2009 Ford Crown Victoria Police is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2009 Ford Crown Victoria Police Compare to Other Sedan?
The 2009 Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor (CVPI) operates in a unique niche, making direct "rivals" somewhat scarce, especially among modern vehicles. However, when stacked against its contemporaries, certain vehicles emerge.
Against the 2009 Dodge Charger: The Charger (particularly the V8 R/T) offered superior performance with more horsepower and a more modern chassis and suspension, resulting in better handling and acceleration. Its interior was also more contemporary, with better tech and creature comforts. However, the CVPI often surpassed the Charger in pure brute-force reliability and long-term durability, especially in demanding fleet conditions. The Charger was significantly more expensive both new and used for comparable V8 models.
Against the 2009 Chevrolet Impala: The Impala was a full-size, but front-wheel-drive (FWD) sedan, typically equipped with a V6. It offered better fuel economy and a more refined, if less robust, ride. In terms of reliability, the Impala had its own set of common issues, but the CVPI generally holds a reputation for being more bulletproof. The Impala's performance was lesser, and it lacked the CVPI's body-on-frame robustness. Price-wise, they were somewhat comparable on the used market, though the CVPI often offers more "car for the money" in terms of size and V8 power.
Against its sister cars (Mercury Grand Marquis / Lincoln Town Car): These were essentially the same platform but geared towards civilian comfort and luxury. They offered plusher interiors, more sound deadening, and softer suspensions. Performance and core reliability were similar, but the CVPI had the heavy-duty components. Used prices for civilian models are often similar or slightly higher for better-maintained examples.
Recommendations for Alternatives:
Against the 2009 Dodge Charger: The Charger (particularly the V8 R/T) offered superior performance with more horsepower and a more modern chassis and suspension, resulting in better handling and acceleration. Its interior was also more contemporary, with better tech and creature comforts. However, the CVPI often surpassed the Charger in pure brute-force reliability and long-term durability, especially in demanding fleet conditions. The Charger was significantly more expensive both new and used for comparable V8 models.
Against the 2009 Chevrolet Impala: The Impala was a full-size, but front-wheel-drive (FWD) sedan, typically equipped with a V6. It offered better fuel economy and a more refined, if less robust, ride. In terms of reliability, the Impala had its own set of common issues, but the CVPI generally holds a reputation for being more bulletproof. The Impala's performance was lesser, and it lacked the CVPI's body-on-frame robustness. Price-wise, they were somewhat comparable on the used market, though the CVPI often offers more "car for the money" in terms of size and V8 power.
Against its sister cars (Mercury Grand Marquis / Lincoln Town Car): These were essentially the same platform but geared towards civilian comfort and luxury. They offered plusher interiors, more sound deadening, and softer suspensions. Performance and core reliability were similar, but the CVPI had the heavy-duty components. Used prices for civilian models are often similar or slightly higher for better-maintained examples.
Recommendations for Alternatives:
- Dodge Charger (used, V8): For those seeking more modern styling, better performance, and more available tech, but be prepared for potentially higher ownership costs.
- Chevrolet Caprice PPV (used, newer models): A modern spiritual successor to the CVPI, though not available in 2009. If looking for a later police sedan.
- Civilian Crown Victoria, Grand Marquis, or Town Car: If the ruggedness of the P71 isn't essential, these offer similar reliability and V8 power with more comfort and amenities at similar used prices.
Final Verdict: Is the 2009 Ford Crown Victoria Police a Good Sedan?
The 2009 Ford Crown Victoria Police Interceptor is ideal for budget-conscious buyers seeking an incredibly reliable, spacious, and mechanically simple workhorse. It's perfect for DIY enthusiasts, those who prioritize durability over modern amenities, or anyone needing a cheap-to-run, full-size sedan. It also appeals to collectors or enthusiasts of the "Panther" platform and its unique "cop car" legacy.
It is absolutely worth buying used, given its fully depreciated status. Look for a well-maintained P71 with clear service records, ideally one that wasn't subjected to excessive idle hours or severe impact. While its fuel economy is a drawback, its low purchase price, inexpensive parts, and legendary reliability make it remarkably economical for long-term ownership. Just be prepared for its utilitarian interior and lack of modern tech.
It is absolutely worth buying used, given its fully depreciated status. Look for a well-maintained P71 with clear service records, ideally one that wasn't subjected to excessive idle hours or severe impact. While its fuel economy is a drawback, its low purchase price, inexpensive parts, and legendary reliability make it remarkably economical for long-term ownership. Just be prepared for its utilitarian interior and lack of modern tech.
Drew B
Drew is a seasoned automotive expert and contributor to VinCheck.info. With nearly 15 years of experience as a former Porsche technician, he brings a wealth of hands-on knowledge to his writing. Born in North Carolina, a region renowned for its deep-rooted NASCAR culture, Drew developed a passion for cars early in life, often building and working on vehicles from a young age. At VINCheck, Drew leverages his extensive technical background to provide in-depth analyses of various vehicles. His articles often focus on engine performance, reliability, and maintenance insights, offering readers practical information grounded in real-world experience. Some of his notable contributions include reviews on the Mazda CX-5's longevity and detailed examinations of engine options for models like the 2011 Toyota Camry and Tacoma