The 2008 Ford Crown Victoria, a full-size rear-wheel-drive sedan, boasts a long lineage dating back to the early 1980s. Produced until 2011, its final iteration included trims like the LX and Sport. Known for its robust construction and comfortable ride, it was a popular choice for police departments, taxi services, and families seeking a dependable and spacious vehicle. Its rear-wheel-drive platform and V8 engine contributed to its commanding presence on the road.
The Good
The 2008 Crown Victoria offers a compelling blend of robust V8 performance, legendary reliability, and a remarkably comfortable ride. Its spacious interior and traditional design appeal to those seeking familiarity and practicality, while its commanding road presence and proven durability offer significant value for both everyday use and longer journeys.
The Bad
Potential buyers of the 2008 Crown Victoria should be aware of its dated interior design and less engaging handling compared to modern sedans. Fuel economy is also a notable drawback, and some older models might exhibit wear and tear from heavy fleet use, necessitating thorough pre-purchase inspections.
2008 Ford Crown Victoria: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: The 2008 Ford Crown Victoria primarily featured a 4.6-liter SOHC V8 engine.
- Horsepower: This V8 engine typically produced around 224 horsepower for standard models and 239 horsepower for the Police Interceptor package.
- Fuel Economy: Expect relatively low fuel economy due to its size and V8 engine. EPA estimates were around 15 mpg city and 22 mpg highway.
- 0-60 Times: Acceleration to 60 mph was generally in the range of 7.5 to 8.5 seconds, depending on the specific configuration and load.
- Towing Capacity: While not a primary focus, the Crown Victoria could tow moderately sized trailers, with capacities typically around 2,000 lbs when properly equipped with a towing package.
- Trim-Level Features:
- LX: This base trim usually included power windows, power door locks, cruise control, air conditioning, a tilt steering wheel, and an AM/FM stereo with a CD player. Cloth upholstery was standard.
- Sport (optional): The Sport package often added a more aggressive appearance, sometimes with revised suspension tuning, alloy wheels, and unique interior accents.
- Police Interceptor (available to the public in some cases): This specialized trim featured enhanced cooling, a heavy-duty suspension, a larger alternator, dual exhaust, and often a floor-mounted shifter. These vehicles were built for rigorous use.
- Common Features Across Trims: Standard safety features included front airbags and anti-lock brakes. Optional features could include a power driver's seat, heated front seats, and a premium audio system.
2008 Ford Crown Victoria Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 2008 |
| Make | Ford |
| Model | Crown Victoria |
| 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 |
| Engine Size | 4.6L |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 |
| Transmission | Automatic 4-Speed |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 4-Speed |
| Drivetrain | 2 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 2008 Ford Crown Victoria Have?
The 2008 Ford Crown Victoria, while generally known for its durability, is not without its common issues and potential long-term concerns. One frequently reported problem is related to the transmission, particularly the 4-speed automatic. Owners have noted instances of rough shifting, delayed engagement, or complete transmission failure, especially on higher-mileage vehicles or those that have seen heavy use, like police cruisers. Regular fluid changes and proper maintenance are crucial to mitigating this.
Another area of concern is the ignition system. Spark plug blowouts, though less common on later models, can still occur, leading to misfires and engine performance issues. This is often a result of improper installation or wear on the threads in the aluminum cylinder heads. Some owners also report issues with the ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) sensors and modules, leading to warning lights and a loss of ABS functionality.
Cooling system components, such as the radiator and water pump, can also be points of failure over time, especially given the vehicle's V8 engine and its tendency to be used in demanding conditions. Overheating can lead to more serious engine damage, so vigilance with coolant levels and system integrity is important.
Rear axle seals and differential leaks are not uncommon, particularly as the vehicle ages and accumulates miles. While not always catastrophic, these require attention to prevent fluid loss and potential drivetrain damage.
Regarding recalls for the 2008 model year, Ford has issued several over the years, though many might be specific to certain VIN ranges or earlier/later production years. These have sometimes involved issues with the airbags, fuel pump, or potential steering system components. It is essential for prospective buyers to check for any outstanding recalls on a specific vehicle and ensure they have been addressed.
In terms of long-term reliability, the Crown Victoria has a reputation for being a workhorse. However, its longevity is heavily dependent on maintenance history. Vehicles used as police cars or taxis, while often well-maintained in terms of basic services, may have been subjected to more strenuous driving conditions, which can accelerate wear on various components. A comprehensive pre-purchase inspection by a trusted mechanic is highly recommended to identify any hidden issues.
How long will the 2008 Ford Crown Victoria last?
The 2008 Ford Crown Victoria is renowned for its longevity. With consistent and diligent maintenance, including regular oil changes, transmission fluid flushes, and timely attention to minor issues, owners can realistically expect to see their Crown Vic surpass 200,000 miles and potentially reach 300,000 miles or more. Many ex-police and taxi models have documented high mileage, showcasing their inherent durability. The robust V8 engine and sturdy chassis are built to last. However, weaknesses can emerge over time, particularly in areas like the transmission, suspension components, and rust on the undercarriage in rust-belt regions. Neglecting maintenance will significantly shorten its service life and lead to more costly repairs.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 2008 Ford Crown Victoria prioritizes fundamental comfort and safety over cutting-edge technology, reflecting its design era. Standard technology features are relatively basic, typically including an AM/FM stereo with a CD player. Optional upgrades could encompass a premium sound system, and for higher trims, features like steering wheel-mounted audio controls might be present. Bluetooth connectivity and sophisticated infotainment systems were not standard offerings in 2008 for this model.
Driver-assistance features are minimal. The primary safety tech consists of standard anti-lock brakes (ABS) on all four wheels, designed to prevent wheel lock-up during hard braking. Front airbags are also standard. Depending on the trim level and optional packages, some vehicles might be equipped with a power-adjustable driver's seat, which could include memory functions in higher trims, enhancing driver convenience. Fog lights were an available option for improved visibility. Cruise control was also a common feature, aiding in comfortable highway driving.
In terms of safety, the 2008 Crown Victoria generally performed well in crash tests for its time, though data specific to this exact model year might vary slightly across testing agencies. For instance, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) typically awarded it good ratings in frontal impact tests. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) often gave it respectable scores in frontal offset crash tests, contributing to its reputation as a solid and protective vehicle for its occupants. The sturdy body-on-frame construction inherently provided a good measure of structural integrity. However, it lacked many of the advanced driver-assistance systems like electronic stability control (ESC) or advanced airbag systems that became more prevalent in later years and on newer vehicles.
What Colors Options are Available?
Exterior Colors
Dark Blue Pearl Metallic
Black
Silver Birch Metallic
White
Dark Shadow Grey
Light Ice Blue Metallic
Red
Deep Impact Blue
Sedona Orange
Interior Colors
Light Camel
Tan
Medium Parchment
Dark Charcoal
Black
Medium Neutral Grey
2008 Ford Crown Victoria Prices and Market Value
When new in 2008, the Ford Crown Victoria had a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) that typically ranged from around $27,000 for the base LX trim to upwards of $30,000 for more equipped versions or specialized trims like the Police Interceptor. Due to its age and the discontinuation of the model, the 2008 Crown Victoria has experienced significant depreciation.
Current used market prices for a 2008 Ford Crown Victoria can vary widely, generally falling between $3,000 and $8,000, heavily influenced by mileage, condition, maintenance history, and whether it's a standard civilian model or a former police vehicle. Factors affecting resale value include the vehicle's overall condition, presence of rust, maintenance records, and demand in local markets. Ex-police models, especially those in good condition with lower mileage, can sometimes command a slight premium due to their robust build. However, their former use can also be a detractor for some buyers.
Current used market prices for a 2008 Ford Crown Victoria can vary widely, generally falling between $3,000 and $8,000, heavily influenced by mileage, condition, maintenance history, and whether it's a standard civilian model or a former police vehicle. Factors affecting resale value include the vehicle's overall condition, presence of rust, maintenance records, and demand in local markets. Ex-police models, especially those in good condition with lower mileage, can sometimes command a slight premium due to their robust build. However, their former use can also be a detractor for some buyers.
2008 Ford Crown Victoria Cost of Ownership
Owning a 2008 Ford Crown Victoria is generally considered economical in terms of insurance and repair costs, especially compared to newer, more complex vehicles. Insurance rates are typically moderate due to its safety features and lower theft rates. Fuel costs, however, are a significant factor; the V8 engine and its weight result in relatively high fuel consumption, making it less economical for frequent long-distance driving.
Routine maintenance is straightforward and parts are readily available and affordable. Repairs, when needed, are also generally less expensive due to the vehicle's simpler mechanical design and widespread familiarity among mechanics. Overall, while fuel expenses can add up, the initial purchase price and generally lower maintenance/repair bills make the Crown Victoria a cost-effective option for those prioritizing durability and space over fuel efficiency.
Routine maintenance is straightforward and parts are readily available and affordable. Repairs, when needed, are also generally less expensive due to the vehicle's simpler mechanical design and widespread familiarity among mechanics. Overall, while fuel expenses can add up, the initial purchase price and generally lower maintenance/repair bills make the Crown Victoria a cost-effective option for those prioritizing durability and space over fuel efficiency.
2008 Ford Crown Victoria Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
11 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage
16 miles/gallon
2008 Ford Crown Victoria Safety Rating
NHTSA
2008 Ford Crown Victoria Recalls & Defects
Suspension:front:hub
Recall date
2007-06-26
Recall no.
07v270000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
ON Certain Passenger Vehicles, A Front Wheel Bearing and HUB Assembly MAY Fracture DUE TO Improper Heat Treatment.
Consequence
IF A HUB Fractures, IT MAY Potentially Detach From THE Wheel Knuckle, Resulting IN THE Wheel Being Retained Only BY THE Brake Caliper Assembly. AS A Result, THE Wheel MAY Separate From THE Vehicle Potentially Resulting IN A Crash.
Remedy
Dealers Will Inspect Both Front Wheel Bearing and HUB Assemblies and Replace Them Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began ON June 22, 2007. Owners MAY Contact Ford AT 1-800-392-3673.
Notes
Ford Recall NO. 07s54.customers MAY Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty: 1-800-424-9153); or GO TO Http://Www.safercar.gov.
Steering
Recall date
2013-08-29
Recall no.
13v385000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Ford IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2005-2011 Ford Crown Victoria (Including Crown Victoria Police Interceptors), Mercury Grand Marquis, and Lincoln Town Car Vehicles. THE Affected Vehicles ARE Currently Registered or Were Originally Sold IN Connecticut, Delaware, THE District OF Columbia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, NEW Hampshire, NEW Jersey, NEW York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wisconsin. Severe Corrosion CAN Seize THE Lower Intermediate Shaft Which MAY Cause THE Upper Intermediate Shaft TO Collapse and THE Steering Column Lower Bearing TO Separate.
Consequence
IF THE Lower Bearing Separates, THE Vehicle MAY Experience A Loss OF Steering, Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Ford Will Notify Owners and Dealers Will Replace THE Lower Intermediate Shaft, Free OF Charge. THE Upper Intermediate Shaft and Steering Column Lower Bearing Will BE Inspected TO Identify ANY Damage That MAY Have Occurred AS A Result OF Lower Intermediate Shaft Corrosion, and Repaired or Replaced AS Necessary. IF THE Steering Column Lower Bearing HAS Separated, A Retainer Clip Will BE Installed. THE Recall Began ON October 23, 2013. Owners MAY Contact Ford AT 1-866-436-7332. Ford's Recall Number IS 13s08.
Notes
A Separate Service Campaign Applies TO Vehicles IN Non-Corrosion States NOT Addressed BY This Safety Recall. Owners OF These Vehicles Should Contact Ford Directly About These Vehicles.for THE Safety Recall, Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
Steering:rack and Pinion:pinion Shaft
Recall date
2014-11-05
Recall no.
14v704000
Source
NHTSA
Summary
Ford Motor Company (Ford) IS Recalling Certain Model Year 2005-2011 Ford Crown Victoria, 2005-2011 Mercury Grand Marquis Vehicles Manufactured March 23, 2004, TO August 30, 2011, and 2005-2011 Lincoln Town Car Vehicles Manufactured March 8, 2004, TO August 30, 2011, and ON Which THE Upper Intermediate Shaft WAS Serviced During THE Course OF Safety Recall 13v-385. THE Prior Repairs MAY NOT Have Been Correctly Performed.
Consequence
Improper Servicing OF THE Upper Intermediate Shaft Could Cause THE Shaft TO Separate, Which CAN Then Result IN A Loss OF Steering Control, and Increasing THE Risk OF A Crash.
Remedy
Ford Will Notify THE Owners OF Vehicles Whose Repair Records Reflect That THE Upper Intermediate Steering Shaft WAS Repaired During THE Course OF THE Prior Recall 13v-385. Dealers Will Inspect and Replace THE Upper Immediate Shaft IF Necessary Free OF Charge. THE Recall Began November 17, 2014. Owners MAY Contact Ford Customer Service AT 1-866-436-7332. Ford's Number FOR This Recall IS 14s25.
Notes
Owners MAY Also Contact THE National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Vehicle Safety Hotline AT 1-888-327-4236 (Tty 1-800-424-9153), or GO TO Www.safercar.gov.
2008 Ford Crown Victoria Insurance
Insurance for a 2008 Ford Crown Victoria is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 2008 Ford Crown Victoria Compare to Other Sedan?
The 2008 Ford Crown Victoria competed in the large sedan segment against rivals like the Chevrolet Impala, Buick Lucerne, and Chrysler 300. In terms of performance, the Crown Victoria's rear-wheel-drive platform and V8 engine offered a more traditional, robust driving experience compared to the front-wheel-drive bias of many competitors. Its 4.6L V8 provided adequate power, though rivals like the Chrysler 300 offered more potent Hemi V8 options.
Feature-wise, the Crown Victoria was often considered more utilitarian. While it offered standard amenities like power windows and locks, it lagged behind competitors in terms of available technology and modern interior design. Competitors like the Buick Lucerne often boasted more premium interior materials and advanced features for the era.
Reliability is where the Crown Victoria truly shone, especially the civilian variants, building on a long history of durability. Its simpler mechanicals and body-on-frame construction contributed to its robust nature. While the Impala and Lucerne were generally reliable, the Crown Victoria had a reputation for being a workhorse that could withstand significant wear and tear.
Price-wise, the Crown Victoria was competitively positioned when new, and its used market value has remained exceptionally low, making it a strong value proposition for budget-conscious buyers.
Similar/Better Alternatives:
For buyers seeking a similar robust, RWD sedan experience with potentially more modern features and better fuel economy, the **Chrysler 300** (especially earlier models) is a strong contender, offering a more stylish design and optional V8 power. If comfort and a smoother ride are paramount, and front-wheel-drive is acceptable, the **Buick Lucerne** offers a more refined interior and a comfortable cruising experience. For those prioritizing fuel efficiency and everyday practicality over sheer size and RWD, but still within a similar price bracket, the **Toyota Avalon** is an excellent choice, known for its exceptional reliability and refined ride.
Feature-wise, the Crown Victoria was often considered more utilitarian. While it offered standard amenities like power windows and locks, it lagged behind competitors in terms of available technology and modern interior design. Competitors like the Buick Lucerne often boasted more premium interior materials and advanced features for the era.
Reliability is where the Crown Victoria truly shone, especially the civilian variants, building on a long history of durability. Its simpler mechanicals and body-on-frame construction contributed to its robust nature. While the Impala and Lucerne were generally reliable, the Crown Victoria had a reputation for being a workhorse that could withstand significant wear and tear.
Price-wise, the Crown Victoria was competitively positioned when new, and its used market value has remained exceptionally low, making it a strong value proposition for budget-conscious buyers.
Similar/Better Alternatives:
For buyers seeking a similar robust, RWD sedan experience with potentially more modern features and better fuel economy, the **Chrysler 300** (especially earlier models) is a strong contender, offering a more stylish design and optional V8 power. If comfort and a smoother ride are paramount, and front-wheel-drive is acceptable, the **Buick Lucerne** offers a more refined interior and a comfortable cruising experience. For those prioritizing fuel efficiency and everyday practicality over sheer size and RWD, but still within a similar price bracket, the **Toyota Avalon** is an excellent choice, known for its exceptional reliability and refined ride.
Final Verdict: Is the 2008 Ford Crown Victoria a Good Sedan?
The 2008 Ford Crown Victoria is ideal for buyers who prioritize rugged durability, spacious interiors, a comfortable ride, and a straightforward driving experience over cutting-edge technology and fuel efficiency. It's an excellent choice for those seeking a dependable vehicle for long commutes, family hauling, or as a robust work vehicle without breaking the bank.
It is definitely worth buying, particularly on the used market, provided it has been well-maintained. Its strong points are its legendary reliability and affordability. Buyers should focus on civilian LX models with documented maintenance history to avoid potential issues associated with former police vehicles. Given its age, thorough pre-purchase inspections are crucial to ensure its mechanical soundness. While not fuel-efficient, its low acquisition cost and reasonable repair expenses make it an economical long-term ownership proposition for the right buyer.
It is definitely worth buying, particularly on the used market, provided it has been well-maintained. Its strong points are its legendary reliability and affordability. Buyers should focus on civilian LX models with documented maintenance history to avoid potential issues associated with former police vehicles. Given its age, thorough pre-purchase inspections are crucial to ensure its mechanical soundness. While not fuel-efficient, its low acquisition cost and reasonable repair expenses make it an economical long-term ownership proposition for the right buyer.
Simon A
Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.