Is the 1987 Lincoln Continental reliable?

It can be reliable as a classic driver if it has good maintenance history and you stay proactive with cooling, fuel/drivability upkeep, and electrical basics. Neglected examples often develop recurring issues that feel like “chasing problems.”

What are the most common 1987 Lincoln Continental problems?

Common issues include hard starting or stalling (fuel delivery, vacuum leaks, aging sensors), cooling system leaks/overheating (hoses, radiator, water pump), transmission shift concerns on high-mileage cars, and power accessory/electrical faults.

Are maintenance costs high for a 1987 Lincoln Continental?

Routine maintenance is usually manageable, but costs rise when you’re catching up on deferred service or diagnosing electrical and drivability issues. Budget extra for rubber parts, cooling system refreshes, and intermittent electrical repairs.

What are the best years to buy for this Continental era?

The best choice is typically the year with the cleanest body, the strongest service records, and the most consistent recent driving—condition matters more than the badge year on 1980s luxury cars. Look for examples with documented cooling and transmission servicing.

What should I check before buying a 1987 Lincoln Continental?

Check for overheating signs, coolant leaks, and stable temperature on a long test drive; confirm smooth transmission shifts; test every power feature (windows, locks, seats, lights, gauges); and inspect for vacuum leaks, rough idle, and fuel smell or seepage. For full specifications, option details, and the correct maintenance intervals, get a complete owner’s guide with full specs and maintenance schedules before you buy or begin restoring your 1987 Lincoln Continental.

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Reliability AnalysisBased on known issue patterns, repair cost data, and ownership trends · How we score

1987 Lincoln Continental Reliability ReportKeepScore 68/100 · top failure points · buy or avoid

68/ 100

KeepScore

MODERATE RISK

Grade: C+

A classic comfortable cruiser, but be prepared to tackle its signature air suspension and electrical gremlins.

Full system breakdown + what I would do

Quick Facts · 1987 Lincoln Continental

Outscores the 1988 Lincoln Continental by 13 points — one of the stronger nearby years to consider.
The system most likely to surface first: electronic air suspension (major severity).
Has 1 NHTSA recall on record — the most notable involves the fuel system, gasoline:delivery:hoses, lines/piping, and fittings.

1987 Lincoln Continental: Buy or Avoid?

The 1987 Lincoln Continental, the final year of its Fox-body platform and 5.0L V8 engine, offers a classic American luxury experience but demands diligent maintenance due to its age and specific design quirks. While its drivetrain is generally robust, expect an elevated risk of issues with its advanced (for the era) air suspension and aging electrical systems. This is a car to be enjoyed by an enthusiast willing to invest in its upkeep, not a budget daily driver.

Biggest Strengths

Robust 5.0L V8 engine platform (302ci)
Generally comfortable and smooth ride (when air suspension functions)
Strong aftermarket support for many mechanical components (shared with other Ford platforms)

1987 Lincoln Continental — Known Trouble Spots

The systems that break first on the 1987 Lincoln Continental. Mileage windows, repair costs, and fix-before-you-buy notes are in the full report.

Electronic Air Suspensionmajor

Electrical Systemmoderate

Cooling Systemmoderate

Typical mileage, cost ranges, and the exact what-to-check list are in the full report.

Safety Recalls on the 1987 Lincoln Continental

1 recall on record from NHTSA. Check your VIN atnhtsa.gov to see if the repair was performed.

FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS

SPRING LOCK FUEL LINE COUPLING MAY NOT BE PROPERLY ENGAGED.

What breaks on the 1987 Lincoln Continental?

Full reliability breakdown — engine, transmission, rust, electrical. With repair costs and mileage danger zones.

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Lincoln Continental — Year-by-Year Comparison

Compare KeepScores across nearby years of the Lincoln Continental. Click any year for its full report.

All Lincoln Continental years ranked →Lincoln Continental years to avoid →Lincoln Continental common problems →

Competing 1987s Worth a Look

Similar class, similar year range — ranked by KeepScore.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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