1998 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 1998 Ford Escort problems
The 1998 Ford Escort is known to have several common problems based on complaints from owners. These issues include electrical problems, engine problems, and issues with the Front End Accessory Drive (FEAD) belt.
Electrical problems are a significant issue in the 1998 Ford Escort. These problems include battery drainage, no start no power, and issues with the key fob. The car may act as if the battery is dead, even with a brand new battery.
Engine problems are also common in the 1998 Ford Escort. The engine may make a loud grinding metal sound due to a faulty valve seat drop, requiring a new engine.
The Front End Accessory Drive (FEAD) belt on the 1998 Ford Escort can be prone to a high-pitched noise due to lack of tension on the belt, which can be solved by fitting a new belt and tightening the tensioner.
In summary, the 1998 Ford Escort is known to have several common problems, including electrical issues, engine problems, and issues with the FEAD belt. These issues can cause significant inconvenience and expense for owners, and it is essential to address them promptly to ensure the safe and reliable operation of the vehicle.
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 much is a 1998 Ford Escort?
Used 1998 Ford Escort Pricing
| Original MSRP | KBB Fair Purchase Price (nat'l average) | |
|---|---|---|
| LX Sedan 4D | $12,490 | $1,625 |
| SE Sedan 4D | $12,995 | $1,698 |
| SE Wagon 4D | $14,195 | $1,912 |
| ZX2 Coupe 2D | $14,325 | $1,825 |
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) |
Does a 1998 Ford Escort have airbags?
What features does the Ford Escort 1998 have? 1998 Ford Escort features include AM/FM Radio, Child Door Locks, and Driver Airbag.
1998 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:
- Air bags problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Suspension problems
- Electrical system problems
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1998 Ford Escort vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1998 Ford Escort
The NHTSA has received 416 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1998 Ford Escort. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1998 Ford Escort vehicles.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2019-09-18
- 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
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 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.
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2013-01-05
- VIN: 1FAFP13P2WW
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 FORD ESCORT. THE VEHICLE WAS EQUIPPED WITH KELLY SPRINGFIELD TIRE SIZE 185/65/14. THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 5 MPH AND HE HEARD A LOUD, ABNORMAL NOISE COMING FROM THE REAR TIRES. THE CONTACT DETECTED THAT BOTH REAR TIRES HAD A DEFECT WITHIN THE INNER LINER AND THE CORDS WERE VISIBLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKING TO THE DEALER AND THE TIRES WERE REPLACED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS AWARE OF THE PROBLEM. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 40,000. UPDATED 10/31/13*CN
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-12-19
- VIN: 1FAFP13P5WW
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 FORD ESCORT. THE TIRE BRAND WAS BRIDGE STONE INSIGNIA SL, TIRE SIZE WAS P175/65R14. THE DOT WAS UNKNOWN. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 67 MPH, THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FRONT RIGHT PASSENGER TIRE BLEW OUT WITHOUT WARNING. THE TIRES WERE ON THE VEHICLE WHEN IT WAS PURCHASED. THE DEALER NOR THE MANUFACTURER WERE NOTIFIED. THERE WERE NO RECALLS OR WARRANTIES ON THE TIRES. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE APPROXIMATELY 150,000. UPDATED 02/08/11*LJ UPDATE 02/14/11
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-10-16
- VIN: 1FAFP10P3WW
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 FORD ESCORT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE REAR COIL SPRINGS BROKE IN 2003 AND WERE REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS AT A REPAIR SHOP GETTING AN OIL CHANGE WHEN THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE REAR COIL SPRINGS HAD BROKEN AGAIN. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN INSPECTED OR REPAIRED. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE APPROXIMATELY 26,000. UPDATED 01/04/11*LJ UPDATED 01/10/11*JB
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-03-10
- VIN: 1FAFP13P4WW
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 FORD ESCORT. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE SITTING IDLE AT A TRAFFIC STOP WITH THE BRAKES DEPRESSED, THE VEHICLE ABNORMALLY ACCELERATED TO 80 MPH. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO AVOID A CRASH BY WEAVING IN AND OUT OF TRAFFIC AND ATTEMPTED TO SHIFT INTO PARK BUT TO NO AVAIL. THE CONTACT THEN ENGAGED THE EMERGENCY BRAKE WITH THE ASSISTANCE OF THE PASSENGER. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THERE WAS VERY LITTLE BRAKE FLUID IN THE VEHICLE BUT ENOUGH THAT THE BRAKES SHOULD HAVE STOPPED THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS INSPECTED AT A LOCAL REPAIR FACILITY WHERE THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE THROTTLE BODY AND EXHAUST/ GAS RECIRCULATION FLAW WERE DEFECTIVE AND POSSIBLY THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. NEITHER THE MANUFACTURER NOR THE DEALER WAS CONTACTED TO REPORT THE FAILURE. THE CONTACT STATED SHE DID NOT FEEL SAFE DRIVING THE VEHICLE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 150,000. UPDATED 10/15/10 *BF THE CONSUMER STATED THE PROBLEM HAS BEEN FIXED. UPDATED 10/21/10*JB
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-03-15
- VIN: 1FAFP13P4WW
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: FAILURE OF THE REAR SPRINGS ON 1998 FORD ESCORT FIRST IN 2003 AT 12,195MILES AND THE REPLACEMENTS BOTH FAILED AGAIN IN 2009 AT 36, 000 MILES. FAILURE APPEARS DUE TO SALT CORROSION ENHANCEMENT DUE TO COVERED SPRING SURFACE. FORD WAS CONTACTED AND EVEN THOUGH THERE IS A TSB ON THIS ISSUE THEY WOULD OFFER NO ASSISTANCE. FAILURE RATES ARE VERY SHORT. VEHICLE WAS NEVER OVERLOADED AND IS GENTLY DRIVEN. *TR
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-04-17
- VIN: 1FAFP13P4WW
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: DURING A STATE REQUIRED INSPECTION FOUND BOTH REAR COIL SPRINGS BROKEN. FORD WILL NOT TAKE RESPONSIBILITY. THIS IS THE SECOND TIME THIS HAS OCCURRED. *TR
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-10-24
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1FAFP10P6WW
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: MY SON WAS DRIVING MY 1998 FORD ESCORT LX ON A 35 MPH ROAD WHEN THE DRIVER IN FRONT OF HIM SLAMMED ON HIS BRAKES. MY SON IMMEDIATELY TRIED TO STOP THE CAR, BUT HE REAR-ENDED THE OTHER CAR BEFORE HE COULD COME TO A COMPLETE STOP. DURING THE IMPACT, THE DRIVER'S SEAT BELT DID NOT LOCK IN PLACE AND THE DUAL AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY - ALLOWING MY SON'S UPPER BODY TO CONTINUE FORWARD UNTIL HIS FACE HIT THE STEERING WHEEL. THE LAP BELT FUNCTIONED PROPERLY, HOLDING MY SON'S LOWER BODY IN PLACE. *TR
AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-08-01
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 3FAKP1134WR
- Components: AIR BAGS,SEAT BELTS
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 FORD ESCORT. WHILE DRIVING BETWEEN 35-40 MPH, REAR ENDED ANOTHER VEHICLE. AT THE TIME OF THE CRASH, THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. BOTH OCCUPANTS WERE WEARING SEAT BELTS, BUT THAT DID NOT PREVENT THEM FROM BEING THROWN TO THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE AND INJURED. THE DRIVER SUSTAINED INJURIES TO THE HEAD AND FACE. A POLICE REPORT WAS FILED. THE VEHICLE WAS PARTIALLY DESTROYED AND THE FRONT BUMPER, BUMPER SUPPORT, RADIATOR AND SUPPORT, AIR CONDITIONER CONDENSER, AND POWER STEERING RESERVOIR WERE DAMAGED. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 81,756.
SUSPENSION,PARKING BRAKE,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-02-13
- VIN: 3FALP1138WR
- Components: SUSPENSION,PARKING BRAKE,STRUCTURE
- Summary: I WAS SOLD A 1998 FORD ESCORT ZX2 FOR 800 DOLLARS, FROM BUT BEHIND A LOCAL DEALERSHIP. THE DEALERSHIP DID THE NOTARY, AND THEY WERE THE ONES WHO SIGNED OFF ON THE CAR AND GAVE ME A HAND WRITTEN RECEIPT WITH SOMEONE ELSE'S NAME ON IT. THEY ALSO DID THE INSPECTION LATER ON AFTER WE REPLACED ONE OF THE BALL JOINTS. WE HAD THE CAR LOOKED AT BY ANOTHER OFFICIAL INSPECTION STATION AND THEY SAID THE CAR WAS A DEATH TRAP. WE CONTACTED A STATE TROOPER. HE DID AN INSPECTION, FAILED THE CAR, AND TOOK THE STICKER. THERE WAS A LONG LIST OF PROBLEMS. I TRIED TO GET A REFUND BEFORE I GOT THE COPS INVOLVED AND HE REFUSED. THIS WAS ALSO BEFORE THE 10 DAYS WERE UP FOR THE INSPECTION. I PAID FOR THE CAR ON THE 13TH OF FEB. 2008. *TR
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-06-09
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: THE HEADLAMP COVERS ARE AWFUL AND DANGEROUS. THEY ARE SO CLOUDY THEY MAKE VISIBILITY ALMOST NIL IN MANY CIRCUMSTANCES (ESP FOGGY NIGHTS). I FEEL THE MATERIAL THEY ARE MADE OF IS SUB PAR, CAUSING THE PROBLEM AND THERE SHOULD BE A RECALL ON THEM. *TR
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-01-06
- Fire: 1
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: 1998 FORD EXPEDITION CAUGHT FIRE AS A RESULT OF A FAULTY CRUISE CONTROL SWITCH (ACCORDING TO INSURANCE FIRE INVESTIGATOR) - FORD CLAIMED THEY SENT 3 RECALL NOTICES, BUT I NEVER RECEIVED ANY UNTIL 3 DAYS AFTER THE FIRE - I SUFFERED PERSONAL PROPERTY AND OTHER DAMAGES AND FORD HAS REFUSED LIABILITY. *TR
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-08-27
- VIN: 1FAFP13P5WW
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 FORD ESCORT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE STEERING LOCKED UP WHILE DRIVING. SHE PULLED TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND ATTEMPTED TO RESTART THE VEHICLE, HOWEVER, IT FAILED TO RESTART IMMEDIATELY. SHE STATED THAT THE POWER STEERING FLUID WAS DARK COLORED AND LEAKING. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE POWER STEERING NEEDED TO BE DRAINED AND MORE TESTS WERE NEEDED TO DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF FAILURE. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 176,432. UPDATED 12/12/2007 *BF UPDATED 12/12/07. *JB
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-06-16
- VIN: 1FAFP13P8WW
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: COIL SPRING ON 1998 FORD ESCORT BROKE AND ALMOST BLEW OUT THE TIRE. BROUGHT IT TO THE REPAIR SHOP TO GET IT FIXED AND REPLACED THE TIRE.*AK
AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-11-01
- VIN: 3FAFP15P7WR
- Components: AIR BAGS,STRUCTURE,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL* - THE CONTACT STATED HORN HAS NOT WORKED PROPERLY SINCE SHE PURCHASED THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE CURRENTLY HAS 31,000 MILES. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO DEALER FOR REPAIRS, AND WAS TOLD THAT THE AIRBAG WAS DEFECTIVE , AND THAT ITWAS CAUSING THE HORN NOT TO WORK. THE HORN HAS BEEN REPLACED, BUT IT STILL DID NOT WORK. THE CONTACT STATED THE HORN WOULD JUST COME ON AND WOULD NOT STOP. THE CONTACT REMOVED THE CIRCUIT BREAKER A FEW WEEKS AGO, BUT NOW THE SERVICE ENGINE LIGHT WILL NOT TURN OFF. THE DEALER CHECKED THE COMPUTER SYSTEM AND FOUND NOTHING WRONG WITH THE VEHICLE. THE DRIVER'S SIDE FRONT HAD A LEAK IN THE FIREWALL. THE CONTACT HAD THE LEAK REPAIRED FOUR TIMES. *AK
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-10-15
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: BROKEN REAR SPRINGS. *JB
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-08-08
- VIN: 1FAFP13P9WW
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: BOTH REAR SPRINGS BROKE. THIS IS THE SECOND TIME IN LESS THEN 6 MONTHS FOR THE 2002. THIS SEEMS TO BE A MAJOR DESIGN FLAW IN FORD ESCORT. I HAVE A 1998 & 2002 AND BOTH HAVE BROKEN REAR SPRINGS. ALSO EVERY TECHNICIAN I HAVE TALKED TO KNOWS THE PROBLEM. *JB
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-07-14
- VIN: 1FAFP13P4WW
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: WHILE HAVING POSSIBLE BRAKE NOISES CHECKED, THE MECHANIC, WHILE THE CAR WAS ON THE LIFT, SAW THAT BOTH REAR COIL SPRINGS WERE BROKEN. HE STATED THAT THE MARKS HE SAW INDICATED THAT THEY HAD BEEN BROKEN FOR A WHILE. *JB
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,POWER TRAIN,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-04-26
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE,POWER TRAIN,STRUCTURE
- Summary: I HAVE HAD NEAR ACCIDENTS RELATING TO CAR FUEL PUMP OR TRANSMISSION SHOPS COULDN'T FIND ANY PROBLEMS BUT THE DRIVABLITY OF MY 98 ESCORT ZX2 COST ME MORE MONEY IN PROBLEM SOLVING, 1,500 PLUS IN RECENT REPAIRS INCLUDING EMERGENCY AND REPEAT REPAIRS AND FAULTY REPAIRS. MY FUEL ECONOMY IS 160 MILES PER TANK TO ALMOST 200 MILES. NO ONE CAN SEEM TO FIND THE PROBLEM(S). LARGE THUNKING IN REAR TRUNK (SCARY)WHEN IM TAKING OFF AND REACHING A STEADY SPEED. TAKE THE CAR TO MAJOR FORD DEALERSHIPS, TO NO AVAIL. CAR DOESN'T ALWAYS "GO" FROM A COMPLETE STOP IN TRAFFIC,THIS HAS CAUSED QUITE A SCARE AS WELL. THANK YOU FOR HELPING AND MAKING NOTE OF MY ACCOUNT. DEBBIE
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-05-08
- VIN: 3FALP1137WR
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: DT*: THE CONTACT STATED THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ILLUMINATED HOWEVER THE VEHICLE EXHIBITED NO PROBLEMS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS ALERTED.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-02-13
- VIN: 1FAFP13P3WW
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: WAS HAVING MY 1998 ESCORT SERVICED. MECHANIC FOUND BOTH REAR COIL SPRINGS HAD FRACTURED IN SAME SPOT. HAD THEM REPAIRED THERE INSTANTLY AT A COST OF $710.10 . I CALLED FORD THEY SAID NO RECALL, I THEN BROUGHT SPRINGS TO MY FORD DEALER TO SHOW THEM AND TO ASK FOR REIMBURSEMENT FOR DEFECTIVE PARTS, I AM STILL WAITING FOR AN ANSWER. HOWEVER FORD DID OFFER TO GET RID OF THE SPRINGS FOR ME BUT I STILL HAVE THEM IN MY TRUNK. *JB
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-12-29
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1FMRU1764WL
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: MY 1998 FORD EXPEDITION CAUGHT ON FIRE AT 4:00 AM BY ITSELF. IT WAS LAST DRIVEN 14 HOURS PRIOR TO CATCHING ON FIRE. THE FIRE WAS SO HOT IT MELTED THE HOOD OF THE CAR. THE CAR WAS COMPLETELY DESTROYED. THE FIRE INSPECTOR SAID IT STARTED WHERE THE CRUISE CONTROL SWITCH WAS LOCATED.*AK
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1998-03-15
- VIN: 3FAFP15P6WR
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: DT: THE CONTACT STATES THE VEHICLE HAS A LOUD ROAR WHEN IDLING. THE VEHICLE ALSO ACCELERATES RAPIDLY ON ITS OWN. HE TOOK THE VEHICLE TO AN INDEPENDENT GARAGE. THE TECHNICIAN SUGGESTED A NEW SPEED CONTROL AND AN IDLE CONTROL MODULE. THIS WAS REPLACED TWICE BUT DID NOT CORRECT THE PROBLEM. A DIAGNOSTIC CHECK DID NOT DETECT ANY CODES. THE DEALER WAS UNABLE TO DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF THIS PROBLEM. THERE HAVE BEEN NO FURTHER REPAIRS AT THIS TIME. *JB UPDATED 12/27/2005 - THIS PROBLEM SEEMED WORSE IN COLD WEATHER. IN ORDER FOR THE VEHICLE TO IDLE DOWN THE CONSUMER HAD TO TURN THE VEHICLE OFF THEN TURN IT BACK ON. THE PROBLEM WOULD SOMETIMES RESURFACE A FEW MINUTES LATER, A FEW WEEKS LATER OR A FEW MONTHS LATER. *NM
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2005-10-27
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 2FMDA5147WB
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: I WAS DRIVING FROM THE STORE ON 10/27/05 ,WHEN I STOP TO A RED LIGHT AND I SAW SMOKE COME FROM THE SIDE AND FRONT OF THE CAR. THE LIGHT TURNED GREEN AND I PROCEEDED TO GO HOME ,WHEN I GOT HOME I RAN UP THE STAIRS TO WHERE I LIVE AND EXPLAIN TO MY BOYFRIEND SMOKE IS COMING FROM THE CAR HE WENT DOWN STAIRS TO CHECK AND THERE WAS A FIRE UNDER MY HOOD MY BOYFRIEND PUT THE FIRE OUT AND THEN WE TALKED ABOUT THE FIRE AND WE ALSO DROVE TO THE FORD DEALERSHIP WHICH WE GOT NO ANSWERS. NOW ON 10/28/05 WE HAD A WRECKER TO TOW THE CAR TO A FORD DEALERSHIP SO THEY WOULD SEE THE DAMAGE THEY LOOKED ON THE COMPUTER AND WE WERE INFORMED THERE'S NO RECALL ON THE FORD WINDSTAR GL, BUT THEY WOULD FIX IT BUT NOT UNDER WARRANTY, I ASK THE MANAGER WHAT DID HE SUGGEST HE SAID, CALL MY INSURANCE AND SEE WHAT THEY SAY. BUT INSTEAD OF DOING THAT I TOWED THE CAR TO A ELECTRITION AND HIS DESCRIPTION WAS THE PIGTALE WAS BURNT AND ALSO THE BRAKE PRESSURE SWITCH WAS BURNT UP AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED I DON'T KNOW MUCH ABOUT CARS, BUT I KNOW THERE SHOULD NOT HAVE BEEN A FIRE.*JB
1998 Ford Escort recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 1998 Ford Escort.
- 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.
Negative 1998 Ford Escort car reviews
Positive 1998 Ford Escort car reviews
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I bought this car back in 2005 and have had it for almost 6 years now. During this time, I have driven close to 50,000 miles in it. This car has been through snow storms and near floods, but it has never let me down. It has never broken down on me or failed to start, not even once. I must say, this has been the most low maintenance car I've ever had. Over the past 6 years, I haven't spent more than $1,200 on it, which is an average of $300 a year, including oil changes and tire replacements. I absolutely love this car, and even at 140,000 miles, it's still running like it just left the dealer's lot.
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Take care of it and it will last. I just sold mine today with 145,000 miles on it, and I believe it will go another 30,000 miles. It never gave me a bit of problem.
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I bought this car with 165k on it in January of 08, and now it has 200k on it. Despite the high mileage, it has been incredibly reliable and cost-effective. Over the years, I have only had to replace the wheel bearings, serpentine belt, and tires. I am so impressed with this car that I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable and affordable vehicle. It's a shame they stopped making them, but if and when this one finally gives out, I will definitely be purchasing another one.
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I hope you're doing well! I just wanted to say that I'm really glad to hear that you've been enjoying your vehicle for almost a year now. It's great to hear that you're satisfied with its performance and gas mileage, averaging about 32 mpg driving a mixture of about 70% interstate and 30% city. I also appreciate your suggestions for interior improvements, which I'll be sure to pass along to the appropriate team. Thank you for sharing your feedback with us!
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Hi there! I'm so glad to hear that you've been enjoying your car. It's great to know that you've been able to put 75,000 miles on it without any issues. Plus, the gas mileage sounds fantastic - 34 city and 39 highway is really impressive! It sounds like you've got a reliable and efficient mode of transportation. :)
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1998 Ford Escort problems:
1998 Ford Escort Problems and Complaints - 4 Issues
Top 1998 Ford Escort Problems · The Constant Control Relay Module May Fail. 212 people have reported this · Valve Seats on Cylinder Head May Fall Out and Cause ...
A Few Issues with my 1998 Ford Escort SE | FEOA Forums
May 5, 2012 ... It could also be a valve seat trying to drop. If it were a valve seat that could be a cause to your NVH issue in #5. You can check for a valve ...
Ford Escort Questions - 1998 Ford Escort 2.0 engine problem ...
Mar 9, 2013 ... not all problems show up on a o.b.d. start simple if you cant afford a mechanic,the problem could be a simple vac, leak or but not very likely ...
Common problems with zx2?? | FEOA Forums
Jun 13, 2011 ... the most common issues are: bad pcv elbows. ... worn shifter bushings. thats about it. just look for the normal used car stuff. a 2002 is a good ...
Common Ford Escort Problems: Troubleshooting Rough Running ...
Nov 9, 2009 ... I've got a problem with a 1998 Ford Escort. When the car starts up it drives fine for a few miles. Then it starts - Answered by a verified ...
Other years of Ford Escort
Are you having problems with your 1998 Ford Escort?
Fredrick Dietrich 2024-06-26
I drive about 500 miles a week in this car for my daily commute to work. I have been waiting for it to break down since I graduated college and got my long distance job, but it has never let me down. Since I took it over, I have only had to replace the tires and the tape deck/radio, which I was planning to do anyway. One year, I even forgot to change the oil from inspection to inspection, but it still ran perfectly. I wish I had a reason to get a new car, but this one is so reliable, even at 130K. Whoever said foreign cars are more reliable than domestic needs to check the date - it's not the 80s anymore!
Rupert Mitchell 2024-02-02
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I just wanted to share my experience with my car. I've had it for 6 months now and have already put on 10000 miles, but the best part is that I haven't had to replace anything yet! I use synthetic racing oil and the engine is just as good as any import. The mpg is amazing too - I get a hair over 40 on the highway and I've never gotten below 35 mpg. The engine is also really fun at higher speeds with the 5 speed. However, I do have one complaint - the tire noise is actually much louder than the engine noise on the highway. It's also a bit rough when idling at a drive through. But overall, I think this car is great and if Ford still built these with a higher overdrive and a better interior, it would be even more amazing!