Ford Escort problems
The North American version of the Ford Escort is a range of cars that was sold by Ford from the 1981 to 2003 model years. The direct successor of the Ford Pinto, the Escort also largely overtook the role of the European-imported Ford Fiesta as the smallest vehicle in the Ford model line in North America. Produced across three generations, the first generation was a subcompact; the latter two generations were compact cars. Becoming highly successful in the marketplace, the Escort became the best-selling car in the United States after 1982, a position it would hold for much of the 1980s.
Produced across three generations, the Escort was the first world car developed by Ford, with the first-generation American Escort designed alongside Ford of Europe, who transitioned the Escort Mk III to front-wheel drive. During its production, the Escort also underwent a wide use of platform sharing and rebranding. The first generation served as the basis of the longer-wheelbase Ford Tempo/Mercury Topaz, the two-seat Ford EXP/Mercury LN7 and was rebranded as the Mercury Lynx. The second generation was introduced for 1991, growing into the compact segment. Moving away from a shared design with Ford of Europe, the Escort now shared a platform with the Mazda 323 and sharing a body with the Ford Laser (a model line sold in Asia and Oceania); the Mercury Lynx was replaced by the Mercury Tracer. For 1997, the third generation served as an extensive redesign of the previous-generation sedan; the Escort ZX2 two-door was introduced, with the Mercury Tracer adopting a similar redesign.
Ford introduced the Ford Focus in North America for 2000 as its third "world car", phasing it in as the successor of the Escort. After 2000, the four-door Escort was moved primarily to fleet sales (with the coupe remaining available); production ended entirely after the 2002 model year. In contrast to the first-generation American Escort and Escort Mk III of Ford of Europe (and the Mondeo/Contour and Mercury Mystique), the Focus adopted a much larger degree of commonality between its European and North American variants, in effect, becoming the original world car Ford had originally envisioned with the Escort.
During its entire production, the Escort was produced by Wayne Stamping & Assembly in (Wayne, Michigan) and the first generation was also produced by Edison Assembly in (Edison, New Jersey), San Jose Assembly Plant in (Milpitas, California), and Oakville Assembly in (Oakville, Ontario, Canada) while the second and third generations were also produced by Hermosillo Stamping and Assembly in (Hermosillo, Sonora, Mexico).
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Ford Escort model years
Common Ford Escort problems
Based on the complaints from owners of Ford Escort cars, several common problems have been reported:
- Engine Issues:
- Complaints include dropped valve seat cylinder #4 in the 1999 Escort, rough running in the 1997 Escort, engine knocking in the 2001 Escort, and rattling noises leading to engine failure in the 1995 Escort. These issues point to significant engine malfunctions that can affect performance and reliability.
- Electrical Problems:
- Owners have reported 29 complaints related to electrical issues in Ford Escorts. While these faults are rare, they can be troublesome. One specific problem mentioned is the fuse box rotting through, causing various electrical malfunctions.
- Transmission Troubles:
- Transmission problems have been a concern, with 25 complaints from owners. Issues like slipping, rough shifting, and complete transmission failure have been highlighted, particularly in automatic transmissions.
- HVAC System Concerns:
- The HVAC system has been a source of trouble for some owners, with 15 complaints reported. Problems such as a lack of cold air or strange odors from the vents have been mentioned, impacting the comfort and functionality of the vehicle.
- Braking Issues:
- While less common, there have been 8 complaints regarding the brakes in Ford Escorts. Specific details about these brake problems were not provided in the search results, but brake issues can significantly affect the safety of the vehicle.
These common problems reported by Ford Escort owners highlight a range of issues that can impact the performance, safety, and reliability of these vehicles. Regular maintenance and timely repairs are crucial to address these issues and prevent them from escalating into more serious and costly problems.
Is the Ford Escort a reliable car?
Reliability: Overall, the Ford Escort gained a reputation for reliability, particularly in its earlier iterations. Its straightforward mechanical design and durable construction made it a dependable choice for everyday driving.
How long did the Ford Escort last?
Ford Escort (Europe)
| Ford Escort | |
|---|---|
| Production | January 1968–July 2002 |
| Body and chassis | |
| Class | Small family car (C) |
| Layout | Front-engine, rear-wheel-drive (1967–1981, 1987) Front-engine, front-wheel-drive (1980–2004) Front-engine, four-wheel-drive (1990–2004) |
What car replaced the Ford Escort?
The Focus
The Focus was Ford's replacement for the Escort. The Mk1 was introduced in 1968, making its debut at the Brussels motor show in January that year. Initially only available as a two-door saloon, its distinctive “coke-bottle” styling was derived from the American cars of Detroit.
What was the fastest Ford Escort?
Powered by a 227bhp 2.0-litre Cosworth tuned engine with a Garrett turbocharger, the permanent four-wheel drive Ford Escort RS Cosworth was good for 147mph.
Percentage distribution of complaints by Ford Escort years
We have researched Ford problems and analysed all the complaints filed against Ford Escort cars and compiled the top 5 most problematic Ford Escort model years:
Below you can see the percentage distribution of known problems by Ford Escort model years.
Distribution of the number of complaints by Ford Escort years
We've also compiled a chart for you with the number of complaints about Volkswagen Jetta cars of certain model years:
Ford Escort car problems categorized by type of issue
After analysing all complaints related to Ford Escort , it was concluded that the most common issues with these cars are:
- Electrical system problems
- Seat belts problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Air bags problems
- Fuel system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all Ford Escort vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Distribution of the number of complaints where the accident occurred by Escort model years
A total of 543 complaints were registered in which the accident occurred. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with fire by Escort model years
There were a total of 592 complaints that resulted in a fire. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with injuries by Escort model years
There were a total of 548 complaints that resulted in a injuries. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
Distribution of the number of complaints with deaths by Escort model years
There were a total of 28 complaints that resulted in a death. In the graph you can see the distribution of the number of complaints by model year.
The NHTSA has received 4692 complaints about various vehicle components related to the Ford Escort . Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for Ford Escort vehicles.
Latest 25 complaints
Ford Escort 1997
- Date Of Incident: 2023-07-07
- Date Complaint: 2023-07-07
- VIN: 3FALP15P6VR
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: The rubber fuel filler neck hose that connects the metal fuel filler neck to the gas tank failed for the first time in 2013. During fueling, a large pool of gasoline leaked onto the pavement under the vehicle, presenting an environmental and fire hazard. The filler neck hose was replaced with a Ford OEM hose purchased from a local Ford dealer in Sacramento, CA. The replacement hose failed in a similar manner the original hose in less than two years time - thus requiring replacement in 2015. A genuine Ford OEM replacement was obtained from a dealer in the Sacramento area and installed. This hose failed in less than 2 years time, in 2017. Again a replacement hose was obtained from a Sacramento area Ford dealer ind installed. This hose then failed in 2019 and was replaced with another Ford dealer-obtained part... which failed in 2021 and was replaced with another Ford dealer-obtained part. The hose has failed again in less than 2 years time. It is apparent that the replacement parts that Ford has been selling through their dealers are made of a material that is not suitable for the application. Since the original part lasted 16 years, it should be possible to make a replacement part last a similar period of time. The vehicle has been a 'one family' ownership since purchased new in 1997, so the service history is well known by the present owners. The (lack of quality) of this part presents a safety and environmental hazard. Similar quality issues have been reported by other owners of the same vehicle. It is likely that other vehicle models are experiencing similar issues if the supplier of this part is also supplying other similar parts. See Ford Escort Owners Association online forum (with search feature) to read about other's experiences with these parts - here's a few: https://www.feoa.net/threads/gas-filler-neck-hose-cracking.112610/post-1076796 https://www.feoa.net/threads/fuel-hose-tank-to-filler-neck-how-long-should-it-last.105585/post-995753
Ford Escort 1992
- Date Of Incident: 2022-05-27
- Date Complaint: 2022-06-02
- VIN: 1FAPP1282NW
- Components: SUSPENSION,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: I have a very bad gas leak and have Always smelt fuel since I have owned the car, the front suspension is also affected and my rear lights are faulty
Ford Escort 1998
- Date Of Incident: 2019-09-18
- Date Complaint: 2019-09-19
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 3FAFP1132WR
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 FORD ESCORT. WHILE DRIVING 20 MPH, THE VEHICLE CAUGHT FIRE UNDER THE HOOD WITHOUT WARNING. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT ARRIVED AND EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE LOCAL DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS CONTACTED AND DID NOT ASSIST. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 144,998. *AS
Ford Escort 1999
- Date Of Incident: 2014-09-01
- Date Complaint: 2019-05-28
- Crash: 1
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 FORD ESCORT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED AND NO OCCUPANT INSIDE, THE VEHICLE ROLLED BACKWARDS AND CRASHED INTO ANOTHER VEHICLE. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE GEAR SHIFT LEVER WAS IN THE PARK POSITION AT THE TIME. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED NOR REPAIRED. NEITHER THE DEALER NOR THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 90,000. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE.
Ford Escort 1998
- Date Of Incident: 2019-01-26
- Date Complaint: 2019-01-26
- VIN: 1FAFP13P2WW
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: I AM CONCERNED REGARDING REAR BUMPER COVER. THIS VERY IMPORTANT PAFT ON TBIS VEHICLE IS MADE TOTALLY OF FIBERGLASS OR A SIMILAR PRODUCT WHICH BECOMES MORE CRACKED WITH TIME AND THE MAIN ISSUE IS THAT IT HAS NO HARD METAL BAR FOR PROTECTION IN THE EVENT OF A REAR IMPACT . THIS BUMPER WHICH I HAD REMOVED TO RPLACED WHAT WAS LEFT OF IT HAS SOMETHING THAT APPEARS TO BE A BAR ATTACHED OR PART OF IT YET IT IS NOT ANY TYPE OF METAL THAT WOULD IN ANY WAY HELP ENDURE THE REAR OF THE VEHICLE IN THE EVENT OF A REAR IMPACT. IN FACT I AM CONCERNED THAT IT CAN EASILY SERIOUSLY CAUSE SERIOUS INJURY TO REAR PASSENGERS IF NOT DEATH BECAUSE THERE IS NO PROTECTION WITH THIS BUMPER. BESIDES THIS AND MAKING IT MORE DANGEROUS , THE GAS TANK IS RIGHT NEXT TO THIS SAID BUMPER AND THIS MAKES IT MUCH MORE DANGEROUS . I DON'T KNOW IF THERE WAS A RECALL FOR THIS ITEM , I JUST WANT TO LET NHTSA KNOW THE SAFETY HAZARD THIS IS AND THE DANGER IT POSES TO THE REAR PASSENGERS AND REALLY ALL PEOPLE IN THIS VEHICLE IN THE EVENT OF A REAR IMPACT.
Ford Escort 1997
- Date Of Incident: 2019-01-21
- Date Complaint: 2019-01-24
- VIN: 3FALP15P6VR
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: FLASHING AIR BAG READINESS LIGHT IN A "51" PATTERN.
Ford Escort 1994
- Date Of Incident: 2018-09-24
- Date Complaint: 2018-10-21
- VIN: 1FARP11J3RW
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: AUTOMATIC SEATBELT IS JAMMED AND SEATBELT NO LONGER WORKS
Ford Escort 1995
- Date Of Incident: 2017-12-22
- Date Complaint: 2018-01-05
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: THE PASSIVE SEAT RESTRAINT DOES NOT RETRACT FULLY. THIS OCCURS WHEN YOU TURN THE VEHICLE OFF. IT HAS TO BE MANUALLY DISCONNECTED. WHEN TURNING THE VEHICLE ON IT HESITATES BEFORE RETRACTING TO DRIVERS BODY. THE CAR IS STATIONARY WHEN THIS OCCURS.
Ford Escort 1999
- Date Of Incident: 2017-10-05
- Date Complaint: 2017-10-06
- VIN: 1FAFP13PXXW
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: VEHICLE AIRBAG LIGHT CAME ON AND IS STILL ACTIVATED, WON'T TURN OFF. THERE HAS BEEN NO COLLISIONS OR ACTIVITY THAT CAUSED LIGHT TO BE ACTIVATED.
Ford Escort 1999
- Date Of Incident: 2017-04-15
- Date Complaint: 2017-05-29
- VIN: 1FAFP10P3XW
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING , THE CAR LOST POWER AND THE STEERING WHEEL WAS HARD TO TURN, AFTER COMING TO A STOP, WE TRIED TO START THE CAR UP AGAIN IT BSOUNDED LIKE IT WANTED TO TURN OVER BUT DIDN'T AFTER A FEW TRIES IT STOPPED MAKING ANY NOISE. A MECHANIC SAID THE ENGINE BLEW AND THAT IT WAS A ON GOING PROBLEM FOR THIS YEAR AND MAKE OF CAR. THE ENGINE WAS PUT IN THE CAR WHEN WE BOUGHT IT, IT WAS ADVERTISED AS NEW SO THE PREVIOUS OWNER MUST HAVE HAD THISHAPPEN TO THEM AND KNOWINGLY SOLD US THEIR PROBLEM. PLEASE WE NEED HELP.
Ford Escort 2002
- Date Of Incident: 2017-03-04
- Date Complaint: 2017-03-06
- Number Of Injuries: 5
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 3FAFP13P92R
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 2002 FORD ESCORT. WHILE DRIVING AT AN UNKNOWN SPEED, THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE REAR ENDED ANOTHER VEHICLE. THE DRIVER OF THE CONTACT'S VEHICLE AND FOUR OCCUPANTS IN THE OTHER VEHICLE WERE INJURED. MEDICAL ATTENTION WAS RECEIVED. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED ON IMPACT. PRIOR TO THE CRASH, THE VEHICLE ACCELERATED WHILE THE BRAKES WERE BEING APPLIED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED AND DEEMED A TOTAL LOSS. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 144,000.
Ford Escort 1999
- Date Of Incident: 2017-01-23
- Date Complaint: 2017-01-23
- VIN: 1FAFP10P9XW
- Components: ENGINE
- Summary: SINCE 2001, I HAVE HAD MY CAR SERVICED AT FORD AND SEARS REPAIR SHOP TO ADDRESS MY COMPLAINTS THAT WHEN MY CAR IS STATIONARY IT HAS EXCESSIVE VIBRATION. I WAS TOLD BY MANY FORD SHOPS THAT IT WAS NOTHING THAT I NEED TO REPLACE THE MOTOR MOUNTS. IT WAS REPLACED THE MOUNTS AND IT LAST LONG AND STILL THE VIBRATION CONTINUED. RECENTLY, I TOOK MY CAR TO A LOCAL REPAIR SHOP REGARDING THAT SAME COMPLAINT AND THEY FOUND IT IS AN "ENGINEER DEFECT: ENGINE-IDLE VIBRATION". CAN THIS BE REPAIRED BY FORD AND AT NO COST TO ME?
Ford Escort 1997
- Date Of Incident: 2016-08-30
- Date Complaint: 2016-09-06
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: SAFETY HORN STICKS AND REMAINS IN ON POSITION CREATING A DRIVING SAFETY RISK. DEALER EXPLAINS THAT THE HORN SWITCH IS ASSOCIATED WITH THE AIR BAG. BASED ON ALL INTERNET COMPLAINTS AND AIR BAG PROBLEMS, MIGHT BE TIME TO FURTHER INVESTIGATE FORD'S COMMITMENT TO SAFETY AND AIRBAG PERFORMANCE. HTTP://WWW.CARCOMPLAINTS.COM/FORD/ESCORT/1997/ACCESSORIES-INTERIOR/COMMUNICATIONS-HORN_ASSEMBLY.SHTML
Ford Escort 1996
- Date Of Incident: 2015-08-10
- Date Complaint: 2016-05-11
- VIN: 1FASP11J5TW
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1996 FORD ESCORT. WHILE DRIVING THE VEHICLE, THERE WAS A FUEL ODOR IN THE CABIN. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE FUEL FILLER LINE FAILED AND WOULD NEED TO BE REPAIRED. THE FAILURE OCCURRED ONCE PREVIOUSLY. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 60,000.
Ford Escort 1995
- Date Of Incident: 2016-03-30
- Date Complaint: 2016-04-01
- VIN: 1FASP11J6SW
- Components: FUEL/PROPULSION SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1995 FORD ESCORT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS A STRONG FUEL ODOR IN THE VEHICLE. THE CONTACT ALSO STATED THAT THE FUEL WAS OBSERVED LEAKING FROM THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE FUEL TANK CRACKED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT INCLUDED IN NHTSA CAMPAIGN NUMBER: 97V144000 (FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE). THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT ALSO MENTIONED THAT THE REPLACEMENT PART FOR THE REPAIR WOULD NOT BE AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 85,000.
Latest 5 recalls Ford Escort
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 64 recalls for different components of the Ford Escort.You can explore the year of the Volkswagen Jetta you are interested in by selecting it from the list.
- Model: Ford Escort 1993
- Report Received Date: 2006-03-23
- Manufacturer: PRO-A MOTORS, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.
- Model: Ford Escort 1996
- Report Received Date: 2006-03-23
- Manufacturer: PRO-A MOTORS, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.
- Model: Ford Escort 1995
- Report Received Date: 2006-03-23
- Manufacturer: PRO-A MOTORS, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.
- Model: Ford Escort 1994
- Report Received Date: 2006-03-23
- Manufacturer: PRO-A MOTORS, INC.
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.
- Consequence: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.
- Remedy: PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.
- Model: Ford Escort 1997
- Report Received Date: 2004-07-12
- Manufacturer: TRW OCCUPANT SAFETY SYSTEMS
- Components: SEAT BELTS:FRONT
- Summary: CERTAIN TRW DRIVER'S SIDE SEAT BELTS MANUFACTURED ON DECEMBER 6 AND 9, 2002, FOR USE AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR 1997 FORD ESCORT 4-DOOR AND STATION WAGON PLATFORM VEHICLES, FORD'S P/N F7CZ54611B09AAC. THE SEAT BELT ASSEMBLIES EXHIBIT A NO-LOCK CONDITION WHICH DOES NOT COMPLY WITH FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 209, SEAT BELT ASSEMBLIES.
- Consequence: IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, THE RESTRAINT SYSTEM MAY NOT PROVIDE ADEQUATE PROTECTION TO THE SEAT OCCUPANT, WHICH MAY INCREASE THE RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY.
- Remedy: TRW WILL NOTIFY THE CUSTOMERS WHO PURCHASED THE REPLACEMENT SEAT BELT ASSEMBLIES FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 27, 2004.
Latest negative Ford Escort car reviews
Latest positive Ford Escort car reviews
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Vehicle year: 2003
I bought this car brand new with only 13 miles on it and have driven it for over 143,000 miles. I absolutely love this car, especially with its standard transmission that makes driving it even more enjoyable. Although there are some vibrations from the motor at idle, it's not too bothersome. In stop and go traffic, it still manages to get an impressive 34 MPG. The interior is very comfortable and the exterior has a sporty look. I have never experienced any mechanical problems with it, making it a very dependable car. Even after all those miles, the ride is still very smooth. I plan on driving it until the wheels fall off because it is MY car! Apologies for any misspellings.
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Vehicle year: 1996
This car was picked up for town use but has quickly become our everyday ride. The Escort performs far better than expected in every way and is very reliable. We have recorded up to 50 miles per gallon across Nevada(5 speed) with more than 150,000 miles on the odometer. A/C is ice cold and the heater is a furnace. One of my better auto purchases and there have been many.
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Vehicle year: 1994
I hope you're doing well! I just wanted to share my experience with my car. I purchased it back in 2000 and it has been a great ride ever since. The only issue I've had was with the battery, but other than that, it has been a very reliable car. Take care!
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Vehicle year: 1999
I recently purchased a salvage 1998 Ford Escort SE Sedan with 63,000 miles and absolutely loved it. It was my trusty companion for almost seven years, but unfortunately, I had to part ways with it due to a rusted frame. At the time of parting, it had 138,000 miles and was still running strong. I loved it so much that I decided to buy a 1999 Ford Escort with 65,000 miles. However, I'm disappointed to say that the engine idle vibration and constant exhaust-like noise have forced me to request a replacement vehicle. It's worth noting that my 1998 Escort never had this problem, although it did have broken coil springs. I came across TSB 031515, but the local Ford dealership informed me that the problem may or may not be resolved with mount replacements and such, so my GM dealership didn't take the chance on the costs of repairs.
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Vehicle year: 1999
This has been the most reliable car I have ever owned. The mileage has always been great and I have not had any major repairs that weren't covered by the warranty. It's definitely an economical and efficient car. And, of course, I would buy it again!
Are you having problems with your Ford Escort?
Thaddeus Trantow 2025-05-12
Vehicle year: 2003
This car is actually quite surprising, especially if you don't typically consider Mercedes. We were able to get a loaded model for only $11607, complete with power windows, locks, CD, tilt, and remote. I think it drives really well, making it a great option for young people who want to get the most car for their money.
Arturo Deckow 2025-05-07
Vehicle year: 1992
Hi there! I purchased my Escort back in February of 2004. It wasn't in the best condition, but with some fresh oil and new spark plugs, it started running pretty well. Although the exterior has quite a bit of rust and the interior is falling apart on the doors, it has been a great car for driving around the city with its 143,000 miles. I don't need to go on the highway too often, which is a good thing because the car feels like it might stall if I go above 60. In the year that I've had it, it has been good to me. I only had to put new tires on it and buy a new 10 dollar belt. Thanks for listening!
Willy Oberbrunner 2025-05-05
Vehicle year: 2001
I bought this car back in 2010 with 68,000 miles on it. Since then, I've been using it to commute to and from work every day, which is a 75-mile round trip. The best part about this car is that it gets amazing gas mileage, usually between 32-37 miles per gallon. Of course, this depends on how you drive it. If you try to go 80mph, you'll get terrible mileage. I usually stay at 2800rpm or about 72mph on the highway to get the best mileage (2500rpm or 68mph to get 37mpg). It's important to remember that this isn't a performance car and shouldn't be driven like one if you want to get the best mileage. However, it does surpass all other models in its category.
Antone Kub 2025-05-01
Vehicle year: 1990
I strongly advise against purchasing this car. I personally bought it new and experienced frequent mechanical issues, particularly with the ignition system. In just 20 months, I had to replace the ignition module three times. Based on my experience, I cannot recommend this car.
Gabriel Nolan 2025-04-26
Vehicle year: 1997
Hey there! I bought this car second hand about a year ago. I needed a cheap car to get me to work and I was a bit worried it might die on me since it had already done 220000 K's. But guess what? It's still going strong with 310000 K's on the clock! It may not be the fastest car out there and the suspension is a bit wobbly in the corners, but it gets me from A to B just fine. The only issue I've had is that sometimes it doesn't want to go into first gear, but that seems to sort itself out. Overall, I'm really happy with my purchase and I haven't had any other problems with it. :)