1990 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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Common 1990 Ford Escort problems
The Ford Escort, produced from 1986 to 1992, was a popular car in its time. However, like any vehicle, it had its fair share of common issues that owners should be aware of. Here are some of the most common problems with the fourth-generation Ford Escort, grouped by model year:
- 1986-1987 Ford Escort: Electrical problems were a common issue with the 1986 and 1987 Ford Escort, including issues with the alternator and starter motor. Owners should check the condition of the battery and charging system, and may need to replace these components if they are faulty. Suspension problems were also common with the 1986 and 1987 Escort, including issues with the shock absorbers and springs. Owners should check the condition of these components, and may need to replace them to improve ride quality and handling.
- 1988-1989 Ford Escort: Transmission problems were a common issue with the 1988 and 1989 Ford Escort, including issues with the clutch and gearbox. Owners should check the condition of these components, and may need to replace them if they are worn or damaged. Cooling system problems were also common with the 1988 and 1989 Escort, including issues with the radiator and water pump. Owners should check the condition of these components, and may need to replace them to avoid engine damage.
- 1990-1991 Ford Escort: Engine performance could be an issue with the 1990 and 1991 Ford Escort, particularly with the smaller engines. Owners should check the condition of the spark plugs and carburetor, and may need to rebuild or replace these components to improve performance. Rust was also a common issue with the 1990 and 1991 Escort, particularly in the doors and sills. Owners should inspect the body panels carefully, and may need to have them repaired or replaced to prevent further rust damage.
- 1992 Ford Escort: Electrical problems were a common issue with the 1992 Ford Escort, including issues with the battery and charging system. Owners should check the condition of these components, and may need to replace them if they are faulty. Suspension problems were also common with the 1992 Escort, including issues with the shock absorbers and springs. Owners should check the condition of these components, and may need to replace them to improve ride quality and handling.
In addition to these common issues, the Ford Escort was also known for fuel system problems, cooling system problems, transmission problems, and electrical faults. Fuel system problems were a particular issue with the 1986 Ford Escort, including issues with the fuel pump and injectors. Owners should check the condition of these components, and may need to replace them to improve fuel economy and performance. Cooling system problems were also common with the 1986 Escort, including issues with the radiator and water pump. Owners should check the condition of these components, and may need to replace them to avoid engine damage.
In summary, the Ford Escort, produced from 1986 to 1992, was a popular car in its time, but it had its fair share of common issues that owners should be aware of. These issues include electrical problems, suspension problems, transmission problems, cooling system problems, and fuel system problems. Owners should check these components regularly and replace them if necessary to ensure the longevity and reliability of their vehicle.
Is the 1990 Ford Escort reliable?
Fairly reliable and easy to work on, parts are getting scarce. Enjoyable to drive and good acceleration with 5- speed and 1.9 liter engine.
Was Ford Escort a good car?
The Escort has been Ford's bread-and-butter car for over 15 years. Think of it as the car that brings consumers into the Ford family. The Escort's low price, decent reliability and above-average crash test scores have consistently offered recent college grads and young families an attractive set of American wheels.
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) |
How much did a Ford Escort cost in 1991?
The Ford Motor Company said the average price of its 1991 Ford Escort car with popular options would be about 2.5 percent more than comparably equipped 1990 models. Base prices for two-door, four-door and station wagon models will range from $7,565 to $11,063.
Is the 1990 Ford Escort reliable?
Fairly reliable and easy to work on, parts are getting scarce. Enjoyable to drive and good acceleration with 5- speed and 1.9 liter engine.
Was Ford Escort a good car?
The Escort has been Ford's bread-and-butter car for over 15 years. Think of it as the car that brings consumers into the Ford family. The Escort's low price, decent reliability and above-average crash test scores have consistently offered recent college grads and young families an attractive set of American wheels.
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 engine is in a 1991 Ford Escort?
Used 1991 Ford Escort - Specs & Features
| Engine | |
|---|---|
| Base engine size | 1.8 L |
| Cylinders | Inline 4 |
| Base engine type | Gas |
| Horsepower | 127 hp @ 6,500 rpm |
1990 Ford Escort car problems categorized by type of issue
After analyzing all complaints sent to the NHTSA and researching popular Ford Escort problems, we found that the most common problems with these 2023 model year vehicles are:
- Electrical system problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Seat belts problems
- Gasoline problems
- Fuel system problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1990 Ford Escort vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1990 Ford Escort
The NHTSA has received 130 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1990 Ford Escort. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1990 Ford Escort vehicles.
SEAT BELTS,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1997-04-25
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- Components: SEAT BELTS,STRUCTURE
- Summary: WHILE TRAVELING ON A FREEWAY AT THE SPEED LIMIT OF 65 MILES PER HOUR, I ENDED UP IN A SKID ON DRY PAVEMENT. I DON'T REMEMBER HOW I GOT INTO THE SKID DUE TO HEAD INJURIES RECEIVED IN THE RESULTING ACCIDENT. THE CAR SKIDDED SIDEWAYS FOR QUITE A WAYS AND DID NOT RESPOND NORMALLY TO ATTEMPTS TO STEER IT. PERHAPS THE ENGINE STALLED AND THE POWER STEERING WAS NO LONGER WORKING. THE CAR EVENTUALLY HIT THE RAISED CONCRETE RUMBLE STRIPS WHILE SKIDDING SIDEWAYS. THE CAR THEN FLIPPED OVER IN THE AIR AND TUMBLED DOWN THE MEDIAN, WITH THE FIRST IMPACT LIKELY TO THE DRIVER'S SIDE ROOF, KNOCKING OUT THE DRIVER. THE CAR CONTINUED TO TUMBLE DOWN THE MEDIAN UNTIL THE CAR VAULTED AND LANDED ON ITS TOP. I REMEMBER BEING UPSIDE DOWN IN THE AIR, BUT NOTHING ELSE UNTIL I CAME TO HANGING UPSIDE DOWN FROM MY SEAT BELT WITH BLURRED VISION. I HAD 2 LARGE LUMPS ON THE TOP OF THE HEAD, A BADLY SWOLLEN JAW AND GUMS, A SWOLLEN TONGUE (BITTEN ON BOTH SIDES), ONE NOSTRIL FILLED WITH BLOOD, THE BACK OF MY HEAD NECK AND SHOULDERS WERE SWOLLEN BY WHAT FELT LIKE ABOUT 1/4 TO 1/2 INCH THICK. I HAD BRUISES AROUND MY RIGHT ELBOW, ON MY RIGHT THIGH, AND LIKELY OTHER PLACES, AS WELL AS A COMPRESSION FRACTURE OF THE SECOND LUMBAR VERTEBRA FROM THE BOTTOM (L4?). SINCE I HAD DIFFICULTY BREATHING, THEY DID A TRACHEOTOMY ON ME WHILE WAITING FOR THE AMBULANCE. THEY PRIED OPEN THE REAR HATCH TO GET ME OUT OF THE VEHICLE. I WAS IN THE HOSPITAL 5 DAYS, OUT OF WORK 5 WEEKS, AND IN VARIOUS DEGREES OF PAIN FOR ABOUT 1 YEAR. THE ROOF FAILED TO PROTECT ME, THE INERTIA LOCK SHOULDER HARNESS FAILED TO PREVENT MY CHIN FROM HITTING THE STEERING WHEEL AND ITS FAILURE TO WORK LIKELY RESULTED IN THE COMPRESSION FRACTURE WHICH THE DOCTOR SAID WAS PROBABLY FROM LUNGING FORWARD. THE ONLY THING THAT KEPT ME IN THE CAR WAS THE MANUAL ADJUSTED LAP BELT, WHICH IS NO LONGER INSTALLED IN FORDS. ALL BELTS ARE INERTIA LOCK, LIKE THE SHOULDER BELT OF THIS CAR WAS. THE VEHICLE HAD A MANUAL TRANSMISSION. *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-02-23
- VIN: 1FAPP9194LW
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: 1990 FORD ESCORT WITH 1.9 L ENGINE, THROTTLE-BODY FUEL INJ, AND MAN 5-SPEED TRANSM. APPROX 8 HWY MILES FROM HOME, PASSING THRU SMALL TOWN WITH 25-MPH LIMIT, SIGNAL LIGHT, AND RR CROSSING, THE FORD'S ENGINE SUDDENLY REVVED TO INCREDIBLY HIGH RPM'S. FRIGHTENED, I IMMEDIATELY PUSHED IN THE CLUTCH. NO FLOOR MAT OR STUCK ACCELERATOR/MECHANICAL PROBLEMS EXISTED. APPARENTLY THIS WAS A COMPUTER CAUSE. WITHIN SECONDS, PERHAPS 4 TO 8 SECONDS, I WAS PREPARED TO TURN OFF THE KEY IGNITION TO THE VEHICLE. I TRIED PRESSING THE ACCELERATOR ONCE (IN FORMER CARBURETED AUTOS, SUCH AN ACTION WOULD SETTLE A REVVED ENGINE NORMALLY). PRESSING ACCELERATOR HAD NO EFFECT. THEN WITHIN THAT RANGE OF JUST SECONDS, THE VEHICLE SETTLED ITSELF PRIOR TO MY REACHING A RAILROAD CROSSING. CONDITIONS INVOLVED SMOOTH ROADWAY, A GRADUAL DECLINE OF SPEED (NORMAL OPERATION THROUGH MOST OF THIS) FROM 55 TO 45 TO 35 TO 25 NEAR THE SIGNAL LIGHT AND "DOWNTOWN" AREA. I OWNED AND DROVE THE 1990 ESCORT FROM 1992 UNTIL 2006, FROM ABOUT 20,000 VEHICLE MILES TO ABOUT 184,000. THIS UNACCOUNTABLE ACCELERATION NEVER HAPPENED AGAIN. THE VEHICLE WAS FAMOUS FOR LOSING IGNITION MODULES. THE MOST DANGEROUS OCCASION INVOLVED APPROACHING THE SAME TOWN, ABOUT 6 MILES FROM HOME. AT 55 MPH, ENGINE STOPPED COLD. FORTUNATELY, I REALIZED SITUATION, PRESSED IN THE CLUTCH, AND WITHOUT POWER STEERING AND LITTLE POWER BRAKES COASTED INTO CHURCH PARKING LOT HANDILY NEAR. LATER, I TRANSPORTED WITH THE VEHICLE AT ALL TIMES A SPARE IGNITION MODULE AND NECESSARY TOOLS FOR INSTALLATION. THROUGH THE YEARS THE VEHICLE REQUIRED ABOUT 5 MODULES. AT OTHER TIMES THE ESCORT IDLED SO SLOWLY, THAT WHEN CLUTCH WAS DEPRESSED, VEHICLE WOULD STALL. FULL TUNE-UPS NEVER AFFECTED THE STALL TENDENCY. AS FAR AS TOYOTA'S CURRENT SUDDEN SURGES, I THINK THE PROBLEM IS VERY LIKELY COMPUTER RELATED. WE ARE CURRENT OWNERS OF A 1.8 L 2005 COROLLA WITH AUTO TRANSMISSION AND 2004 PONTIAC VIBE (SAME 1.8 L W/ MAN TRANSM), AND WILL CONTINUE TO WATCH THE TOYOTA PROBLEMS. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-01-31
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1FAPP9892LT
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: VEHICLE WAS PARKED AT GAS PUMP ISLAND, IGNITION OFF. ENGINE COMPARTMENT ERRUPTED INTO FLAMES. ALL COMPONENTS CONTAINED WITHIN THE ENGINE COMPARMENT OTHER THAN METAL COMPONENTS COMPLETELY MELTED OR BURNED. VEHICLE WAS MANUALLY PUSHED AWAY FROM GAS PUMP ISLAND WHILE ABLAZE, THEN EXTINGUISHED BY HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT. VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO A SECURE LOCATION, NOTHING HAS BEEN DONE TO THE VEHICLE SINCE THE FIRE. *NM
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-09-03
- VIN: 1FAPP9194LT
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THE CAR STARTS FINE WHEN COLD. AFTER DRIVING TO TOWN SOMETIMES WON'T START RIGHT OFF,SOMETIMES IT DOES. MOSTOF THE TIME I HAVE TO TRY AND TRY.SOME TIMES WHEN IT DOES START IT REVS UP THEN DIES. THEN TRY TO START AGAIN, SOMETIME THE SAME THING SOMETIME WILL START. WHEN STARTED IT RUNS JUST FINE. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-07-02
- VIN: 1FAPP9597LW
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WHILE TRAVELING ABOUT 55MPH ON THE HIGHWAY VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2002-08-17
- VIN: 1FAPP9190LT
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING AT 25MPH ON FLAT SURFACE AND WITH NO WARNING VEHICLE SHUT OFF. CONSUMER HAD TO PULL OVER. DEALER NOTIFIED.*AK
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Crash: 1
- VIN: N/A
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: REAR DOORS HAVE BEEN INOPERABLE FOR MORE THAN A YEAR. RECENTLY, VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT THAT RESULTED IN CONSUMER BEING UNABLE TO GET THE DOORS OPEN. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER DETAILS.*AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-07-08
- VIN: 1FAPP9599LT
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: WHEN DRIVING AT 50 MPH THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING, AND WITHOUT DRIVER DEPRESSING ON ACCELERATOR PEDAL. THIS CAUSED UNWANTED AND UNEXPECTED ACCELERATION. CONSUMER HAS CONTACTED DEALER, DEALER UNABLE TO DETERMINE THE CAUSE. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER DETAILS.*AK
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1995-06-01
- VIN: FILL IN PLE
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: SHOULDER BELT WILL STICK IN ONE POSITION IN THE TRACK, FAILING TO PROPERLY RESTRAIN DRIVER OF VEHICLE. DEALERSHIP HAS EXAMIND VEHICLE, AND WILL REPAIR PROBLEM AT CONSUMER'S COST. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION/ATTACHMENTS. *AK
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-06-24
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: VEHICLE WAS INSIDE OF A WORK SHOP, AND NOTICED THAT THERE WAS A DENT INSIDE OF TIRE. HE COULD PUT A PRINT DEPRESSION SIZE OF A DIMPLE. DEALERSHIP IS AWARE OF PROBLEM. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2001-01-31
- Fire: 1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: THIS WAS AN ORIGINAL PART THAT FAILED AND CAUGHT ON FIRE. IT BURNED THE PART ITSELF UP, THE WIRING, AND STUFF UNDER THE DASH. THIS COULD HAVE BEEN FATAL AS THIS PART IS LOCATED INSIDE THE STEERING WHEEL. HAS THERE BEEN A RECALL ON THIS PART. I DO NOT HAVE THE VIN WITH ME AT WORK. I WILL GET IT FROM MY DAUGHTER SO THAT I CAN FORWARD TO YOU.*AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-01-28
- VIN: 1FAPP9593LT
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: MERGING INTO TRAFFIC ON FREEWAY, CAR LOST POWER, IT DIDN'T STALL IMMEDIATELY BECAUSE I HAD BRAKES FOR AWHILE TO GET OFF THE ROAD AND STOP. THERE WAS NO WARNING, THE DRIVE-TRAIN JUST LOST POWER. FURTHER INSPECTION SHOWED THAT FUEL WAS BEING INJECTED. I COULD TURN THE KEY, IT WOULD FIRE AND DIE. HAD I BEEN IN THE MIDDLE OF THE FREEWAY, THERE LIKELY COULD'VE BEEN AN ACCIDENT. I CALLED FORD, THEY KNEW ABOUT THE SPECIFIC PROBLEM AND SAID "SORRY, WE HAVEN'T BEEN ORDERED TO REPAIR THAT YET." APPARENTLY, THERE HAS BEEN A NUMBER OF THESE PROBLEMS, BECAUSE THE DEALERSHIPS EVEN KNEW EXACTLY WHAT I WAS TALKING ABOUT, THEY SAID I'D HAVE TO PAY ABOUT $250.00 FOR THEM TO FIX THE DEFECT. ANOTHER PERSON I KNOW HAS HAD TO REPAIR HIS THREE TIMES ALREADY. THIS IS A DANGEROUS PROBLEM THAT FORD KNOWS ABOUT, A SERIOUS ACCIDENT WAITING TO HAPPEN. IT IS VERY COSTLY TO TOW AND HAVE THE PROBLEM REPAIRED. FORD SAID THAT THEY KNOW THAT A JUDGE IN CA ORDERED THEM TO FIX AND PAY FOR THE PROBLEM, FORD SAID THEY DIDN'T HAVE TO DO WHAT A STATE JUDGE ORDERED OF THEM, ONLY WHAT A FEDERAL JUDGE OR THE NHTSA. PLEASE HELP US ON THIS.*AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1FAPP93J8LW
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I HAVE GONE THROUGH 14 ALTERNATORS AND 6 BATTRIES SINCE I DROVE IT OFF THE SHOWROOM FLOOR IN THE FALL OF 1990! RUSTY ECK SEARCHED FOR THE PROBLEM BUT COULD NEVER FIND IT1 EVEN SUGGESTED TAKING IT TO "ELECTRICAL SPECIALTY SHOPS" THEY TOO CAN NOT FIND THE PROBLEM! IT HAS BEEN SUGGESTED THAT THE PROBLEM MAY BE BURIED IN THE "WIRING LOOM"! NO ONE KNOWS FOR SURE, BUT I HAVE ALL OF THE WORK-ORDERS AND RECEIPTS FROM OVER THE YEARS AS PROOF! I AM HANDICAPPED AND THIS CAR WORKS WONDERFULLY FOR ME OTHERWISE! IT IS IN EXCELLENT CONDITION AND RUNS PERFECT -- AGAIN, OTHERWISE! HOWEVER, I CANNOT TRUST IT ON THE OPEN-ROAD! WHEN THE "CHECK ENGINE" LIGHT COMES ON, ITS ABOUT TO BLOW ANOTHER ALTERNATOR -- LIKE NOW -#15!!! WHY CAN'T FORD FIND THIS PROBLEM AND FIX IT? HAS IT EVER BEEN A PROBLEM ON OTHER 1990 ESCORTS? I BOUGHT MY DAUGHTER AN 1989 ESCORT LX AND IT NEVER HAD ANY MAJOR PROBLEMS, NOT ONE! SHE DROVE IT FOR WELL OVER 125,000 MILES THEN TRADED IT IN ON A 1998 SABLE RECENTLY! PLEASE HELP ME! I CAN'T AFFORD TO PURCHASE ANOTHER AUTO, BESIDES I DON'T WANT ANOTHER ONE! SINCERELY, DR. JAMES A. GRAY, SR.*AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY,SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-01-01
- VIN: 1FAPP909XLW
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY,SEATS
- Summary: AFTER I PURCHASED MY FORD ESCORT, THE FIRST THING I NOTICED WAS THE WINDSHIELD MADE NOISE AS I WOULD DRIVE, IT SOUNDED LIKE IT WAS POPPING OUT OF THE CAR,AND THEN THE WINDSHEILD CRACKS AT THE TOP SEAM OF THE CAR . I CALLED FORD TO BE TOLD THEY WERE NOT RESPONSIBLE. NEXT MY IGNITION STARTS MALFUNCTIONING, SOMETIMES THE KEY WONT GO IN, OTHER TIMES THE IGNITION WILL TURN ON WITHOUT A KEY , THE KEY IS TORN UP, THE IGNITION UNIT RECENTLY WONT TURN THE KEY IN IT , I HAVE ACTUALLY BEEN STUCK IN PUBLIC CAUSE THE IGNITION WOULD NOT WORK. I REALLY DO NOT UNDERSTAND WHY? BUT BOTH MY BUCKET SEATS IN THE CAR BREAK AT THE SAME TIME? I'M DRIVING THE CAR, AND THE NEXT THING I KNOW IS THAT I'M LAYING IN MY DAUGHTERS LAP IN THE BACK SEAT., THIS WAS A VERY, SCARY EXPERIENCE. THANK GOD NO ONE WAS HURT, ARE THE SEATS SUPPOSED TO MALFUNCTION IN THIS WAY? LAST MY HATCHBACK RATTLES , IT ACTS LIKE THE HINGES AT THE TOP ARE BREAKING , AND THE HATCHBACK LOCK STOP UNLOCKING THE HATCHBACK, I CALLED FORD AND WAS TOLD THEY WOULD SEND ME INFORMATION, BUT THIS NEVER HAPPENED. CAN YOU HELP ME?
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY,SEATS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-01-01
- VIN: 1FAPP909XLW
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY,SEATS
- Summary: AFTER I PURCHASED MY FORD ESCORT, THE FIRST THING I NOTICED WAS THE WINDSHIELD MADE NOISE AS I WOULD DRIVE, IT SOUNDED LIKE IT WAS POPPING OUT OF THE CAR,AND THEN THE WINDSHEILD CRACKS AT THE TOP SEAM OF THE CAR . I CALLED FORD TO BE TOLD THEY WERE NOT RESPONSIBLE. NEXT MY IGNITION STARTS MALFUNCTIONING, SOMETIMES THE KEY WONT GO IN, OTHER TIMES THE IGNITION WILL TURN ON WITHOUT A KEY , THE KEY IS TORN UP, THE IGNITION UNIT RECENTLY WONT TURN THE KEY IN IT , I HAVE ACTUALLY BEEN STUCK IN PUBLIC CAUSE THE IGNITION WOULD NOT WORK. I REALLY DO NOT UNDERSTAND WHY? BUT BOTH MY BUCKET SEATS IN THE CAR BREAK AT THE SAME TIME? I'M DRIVING THE CAR, AND THE NEXT THING I KNOW IS THAT I'M LAYING IN MY DAUGHTERS LAP IN THE BACK SEAT., THIS WAS A VERY, SCARY EXPERIENCE. THANK GOD NO ONE WAS HURT, ARE THE SEATS SUPPOSED TO MALFUNCTION IN THIS WAY? LAST MY HATCHBACK RATTLES , IT ACTS LIKE THE HINGES AT THE TOP ARE BREAKING , AND THE HATCHBACK LOCK STOP UNLOCKING THE HATCHBACK, I CALLED FORD AND WAS TOLD THEY WOULD SEND ME INFORMATION, BUT THIS NEVER HAPPENED. CAN YOU HELP ME?
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-08-29
- VIN: 1FAPP9192LT
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: SINCE THE IGNITION SWITCHED HAS BEEN REPLACED VEHICLE STILL STALLED OUT.NOTICED THAT THE ENGINE AT IDLE SPEED LOOPS OR IDLES ERRATICALLY.TRANSMISSION ALSO SHIFTS SLOPPY HAVE TAKEN THE CAR TO TWO TRANSMISSION PLACES AND FOUND NOTHING.ALSO COSMETIC LIGHT ON PASSENGER SIDE VISOR STAYS LIT WHEN FLAP IS CLOSED.
POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-08-29
- VIN: 1FAPP9192LT
- Components: POWER TRAIN,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: SINCE THE IGNITION SWITCHED HAS BEEN REPLACED VEHICLE STILL STALLED OUT.NOTICED THAT THE ENGINE AT IDLE SPEED LOOPS OR IDLES ERRATICALLY.TRANSMISSION ALSO SHIFTS SLOPPY HAVE TAKEN THE CAR TO TWO TRANSMISSION PLACES AND FOUND NOTHING.ALSO COSMETIC LIGHT ON PASSENGER SIDE VISOR STAYS LIT WHEN FLAP IS CLOSED.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-06-20
- VIN: 1FAPP9899LT
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: MODEL CONTINENTAL LTE 3000 TIRE P17570R14 ; TREAD SHREADED OFF A TIRE WHILE DRIVING AT 55 MPH, CAUSING DAMAGE TO WHEELWELL/TORE OFF MUD SLAP, AND TURN LIGHT HOUSING.TIRE ONLY HAD 28,000 MILES, AND STAYED INFLATED. *AK DOT# ACFP3CC447. *SLC
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2000-05-16
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 2FAPP36X5LB
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: A PLASTIC PIECE OF DEFLECTOR UNDER FRONT RIGHT WHEEL WAS RUBBING AGAINST THE BRAKE ROTORS, CAUSING TIRES TO OVERHEAT AND CATCH ON FIRE. MANUFACTURER NOTIFIED. PROVIDE FURTHER DETAILS. *AK PLASTIC DEFLECTOR ON RIGHT FRONT WHEEL ASSEMBLY EITHER CRACKED OR LOOSENED, RUBBED AGAINST BRAKE ROTOR AND CAUGHT FIRE DESTROYING OR DAMAGING BRAKE LINE AND SCORCHING TIRE ( BUT TIRE DID NOT BURN) , ABLE TO EXTINGUISH BEFORE TIRE CAUGHT FIRE. *YH
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1FAPP93J9LT
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: MY TRANSMISSION NOW IN ANY GEAR SOUNDS LIKE THERE IS SOMETHING LOOSE AND RATTLES? I DON'T KNOW WHAT IT IS AND GETS ON MY NERVES!
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-10-09
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1FAPP9590LW
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: HAD JUST PARKED VEHICLE IN GARAGE & LEFT. HALF HOUR LATER SMELLED SMOKE & CHECKED OUT WINDOW. NOTICED SMOKE COMING FROM THE GARAGE. CALLED FIRE DEPARTMENT WHO ARRIVED AND EXTINGUISHED THE FLAMES. ONLY INDICATION OF ORIGIN WAS ELECTRICAL WIRES COULD HAVE CAUSED FIRE. VEHICLE WAS COMPLETELY TOTALED. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-05-07
- Fire: 1
- VIN: IFAPP9596LT
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: ABOUT ONE HOUR AFTER ARRIVING HOME FROM WORK SOMEONE KNOCKED ON MY DOOR TO NOTIFY ME THAT THE 1990 FORD ESCORT THAT I HAD PURCHASED USED ON MARCH 31,1999 WAS SMOKING. I CALLED THE FIRE DEPARTMENT, BY THIS TIME FLAMES WERE SHOOTING FROM UNDER THE HOOD AND THE HORN WAS BLARING. THE FIRE WAS EXTINGUSHED , BUT THE CAR IS NOW TOTALLY USELESS. *AK
EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- VIN: 1FAPP9193LW
- Components: EQUIPMENT
- Summary: VEHICLE OWNERS MANUAL STATES 8.3 QUARTS OF TRANSMISSION FLUID IS TO BE USED WHEN REFILLING, CONSUMER ACTED ACCORDINGLY RESULTING IN DAMAGE/FAILURE OF TRANSMISSION TO THE POINT OF BEING UNUSEABLE. MANUAL INFORMATION IS INCORRECT, THE CORRECT AMOUNT OF FLUID IS 4.5 QUARTS.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-01-08
- VIN: 1FAPP93J8LT
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: KNOWN FAILURE OF VANE AIR FLOW METER CAUSE BUCKING OF CAR AT HIGHWAY AND STREET SPEEDS.SEE FORD TSB 94-23-8. CAR LOCKS FRONT WHEELS ON SNOWY CONDITIONS WHEN ENGINE BUCKS. THE TSB CALLS FOR KIT FOPZ-9K672-A AND VFMETER E9FZ-12B529-A. KIT DESIGNED IN 1994 WHILE MY CAR WAS STILL UNDER WARRANTY. NO NOTIFICATION ON TSB'S ACCORDING TO FORD POLICY. PLEASE SEND ADDRESS I CAN SEND MY DOCUMENTATION TO DATE, TO YOUR OFFICE. THANK YOU. *AK
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2024-11-24
- Components: LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING THE DRIVER'S DOOR SHAKES OPEN ON ITS OWN WHILE TURNING A CORNER. DEALER HAS BEEN CONTACTED. *AK
1990 Ford Escort recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1990 Ford Escort.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
- Summary: THE IGNITION SWITCH COULD EXPERIENCE AN INTERNAL SHORT CIRCUIT.
- Consequence: THIS CONDITION COULD CAUSE OVERHEATING, SMOKE, AND POSSIBLY FIRE IN THE STEERING COLUMN AREA OF THE VEHICLE.
- Remedy: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE IGNITION SWITCH.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD
- Summary: SPECIAL PRIMER THAT PROMOTES THE BONDING OF A URETHANE ADHESIVE TO THE GLASS WAS NOT APPLIED TO THE WINDSHIELDS BEFORE INSTALLATION.
- Consequence: OMISSION OF THE PRIMER COULD CAUSE THE WINDSHIELD NOT TOBE PROPERLY ADHERED TO BODY, AND VEHICLE WOULD NOT COMPLY WITH FMVSS 212.
- Remedy: REMOVE AND PROPERLY INSTALL WINDSHIELD USING SPECIAL PRIMER.
Negative 1990 Ford Escort car reviews
Positive 1990 Ford Escort car reviews
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Good car! It's reliable and a great value for the money. I plan on keeping it for years to come.
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I've had this car for almost a year now and it's never had any problems, although sometimes it shifts into 2nd kind of hard.
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I bought this car a few years ago with 135k and haven't had any major problems with it. I get about 25 mpg in city driving. It's sweet and fun to drive!
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After 160,000+ miles, my car finally started to lose or burn enough oil that I was afraid it would not pass the emissions test. However, it always started on the first try no matter what. I am proud to say that it is still on its original clutch and transmission, and the only engine work it needed was a head gasket replacement at 130,000 miles. The ignition module is still the original one too! I hope my new car will give me the same long and reliable life.
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Your car sounds like a real trooper! Despite being in three accidents, it's still going strong and has proven to be quite durable. It's impressive that you were able to enhance its performance with some simple modifications, and it sounds like you've had a lot of fun taking it drifting and off-roading. Plus, it's great that you were able to sell it for a decent price even after five years and 150K miles. Overall, it seems like you got a lot of value out of your purchase and took good care of it with routine maintenance.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1990 Ford Escort problems:
Very simple question... is a 1st gen Escort any good? | FEOA Forums
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2000 Ford Escort Problems and Complaints - 4 Issues
Problem with your 2000 Ford Escort? Our list of 4 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 2000 Ford Escort.
Other years of Ford Escort
Are you having problems with your 1990 Ford Escort?
Austin Lakin 2025-01-02
If you have the option, it may be best to avoid purchasing a Ford vehicle that is older than 4-5 years, as it may cause some inconvenience. However, it is worth noting that the fuel economy performance of these cars is really good. It is important to keep in mind that repairs and maintenance may be costly, and reliability may be a concern.
Ricardo Rohan 2024-11-16
I got the car when it was 12 years old with 76000 miles on it. Since then, I've put 34000 miles on it and it still starts every time. It has only needed regular maintenance, such as oil changes, filter replacements, and tune-ups. I did have to replace the fuel pump, but other than that, it has been a reliable car. It now has 100000 miles and is still going strong. I hope my next car is just as dependable!
Sedrick Witting 2024-05-23
I purchased this car with 71,000 miles on it and have put almost 103,000 miles on it over the past 3 and a half years. Unfortunately, I have had to spend over $1,500 on repairs during that time (even though I only paid $1,200 for it). I have had to replace several parts, including the ball joint, fuel pump, spark plug wires, starter, brake line, and throttle. When I replaced it with a Nissan, I noticed that the exhaust (at the exhaust manifold) was going bad. While it's a good car, it requires frequent repairs and trips to the shop.