I have a 1995 Ford Thunderbird LX which has a "Check Engine" and a "ABS" light on on the dash. They tell me at my local auto parts stores thay can't read the codes from this vehicle to tell me whats wrong. How do I know what to fix or replace?

 

I would go to another Auto Parts store.

 

If my memory is correct I've checked with all the Major ones in my area (Advance, Auto Zone and Orielly) and they all tell me the same thing. They do not have the equipment to read the codes from this old of a vehicle.

 

I suppose your T-bird has OBD-1, not OBD-2. You can shop for an OBD-1 scanner on-line.
Or dive into this: How to Read OBD1 Automobile Diagnostic Codes - InfoBarrel

I really like these t-birds. I hope I could help you a little.

 

I used to have a 90 Cougar (3.8L V6, OBD1), and I also had some manuals for that powertrain - if you're not in a rush I'll try to locate the books and get back to you with some info on this.

 

Your best bet would be to find a not-so-famous garage. A bunch of the famous ones were telling me the same thing. That, or they were telling me completely wrong problems. Thats my take on it anyways.