1999 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 1999 Ford Escort problems
The 1999 Ford Escort has several common problems based on complaints from owners.
Another prevalent issue is engine problems, which can range from the engine not running after chassis work to the car turning on but not wanting to go or idling poorly. Specific engine issues include dropped valve seat cylinder #4 in the 1999 Escort, which has been reported nine times, and the engine running roughly in the 1997 Escort, which has been reported seven times.
The 1999 Ford Escort also has issues with the fuel system, such as water in the fuel system causing the car not to start. This issue has been reported twice for the 1994 Escort Wagon and once for the 1999 Escort.
Battery problems are also common in the 1999 Ford Escort. These issues include the battery losing charge, which has been reported twice for the 1997 Escort, and the battery dying, which has been reported once for the 1997 Escort Hatchback.
Fuse box problems have also been reported in the 1990 Ford Escort, with fuses blowing and causing issues with the windshield wipers and blower motor.
Finally, the 1999 Ford Escort has issues with starting, with some cars not turning over at all, even with a new battery and starter motor.
While these issues are common, it is essential to note that many owners have reported that the 1999 Ford Escort is a reliable car that can take a beating and keep on ticking. However, it is crucial to address these issues promptly to ensure the car's longevity and reliability.
Are Ford Escort good cars?
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.
What kind of engine does a 1999 Ford Escort have?
1999 Ford Escort Specs, Features & Options
| 1 of 2 Escort LX Sedan 4D | 2 of 2 Escort SE Sedan 4D |
|---|---|
| See Pricing See Cars in Stock | See Pricing See Cars in Stock |
| 110 @ 5000 RPM | 110 @ 5000 RPM |
| Engine | |
| 4-Cyl, 2.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, 2.0 Liter |
How many miles per gallon does a 1999 Ford Escort get?
Based on data from 71 vehicles, 4,476 fuel-ups and 1,182,105 miles of driving, the 1999 Ford Escort gets a combined Avg MPG of 28.39 with a 0.17 MPG margin of error.
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) |
1999 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:
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Air bags problems
- Suspension problems
- Electrical system problems
- Power train problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 1999 Ford Escort vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 1999 Ford Escort
The NHTSA has received 365 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 1999 Ford Escort. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 1999 Ford Escort vehicles.
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-09-01
- 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.
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-10-05
- 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.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-04-15
- 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.
ENGINE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 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?
SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-07-11
- VIN: 3FAFP15P3XR
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 FORD ESCORT. THE CONTACT STATED THE VEHICLE WAS RUSTED ON THE FRONT DRIVERS SIDE BRAKE LINES. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT DIAGNOSED OR REPAIRED. THE MANUFACTURER WAS NOT MADE AWARE OF THE FAILURE. THE APPROXIMATE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 137,000.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-06-12
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: TOOK CAR IN FOR OIL CHANGE. TECH DISCOVERED BOTH REAR SPRINGS ARE BROKEN. WAS QUOTED $1200 TO REPLACE, INCLUDING STRUTS (STILL GOOD). I AM IN MINNESOTA AND THIS CAR HAS NO TRACTION IN THE SNOW. I CAN DRIVE AT 10 MPH AND THE BACK STILL BREAKS TRACTION. I HAVE SPUN OUT MORE DRIVING THIS CAR THAN I HAVE WITH ANY OTHER VEHICLE. I DO THINK FORD DESIGNED AND SOLD AN UNSAFE VEHICLE. *TR
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2014-04-18
- VIN: 3FAKP1130XR
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: TOOK CAR IN TO HAVE THE MUFFLER FIX AND THEY SAID THE FRAME WAS BUSTED AND COMING UP THROUGH THE FLOOR BOARDS SEPARATING FROM THE CAR. ALSO THE FRAME UNDER DOORS ARE ERODING. THEY SAID IT IS UNSAFE TO DRIVE AND IF I HIT ONE BIG POTHOLE I WOULD BE IN BIG TROUBLE. *TR
EXTERIOR LIGHTING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-06-14
- VIN: 3FAKP1135XR
- Components: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 FORD ESCORT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE DRIVER'S SIDE HEADLIGHT BURNED OUT SEVERAL TIMES AND WOULD RECUR SPORADICALLY. THE CONTACT DID NOT TAKE THE VEHICLE TO THE DEALER FOR REPAIRS OR INSPECTION. THE FAILURE MILEAGE WAS UNKNOWN, BUT THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 143,000.
AIR BAGS,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-10-05
- Number Of Injuries: 2
- Crash: 1
- Components: AIR BAGS,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: 1999 FORD ESCORT,HAD A WRECK AND THE CAR WAS TOTALED OUT BY INSURANCE ADJUSTER,THE AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY AND EVEN THE INSURANCE ADJUSTER STATED WOW THE AIRBAGS DIDN'T EVEN DEPLOY. ME AND MY GIRLFRIEND WERE INJURED AND WENT TO THE EMERGENCY ROOM AND HAVE NOT BEEN ABLE TO WORK SINCE OCTOBER 2011 AND HAVE OVER 100,000 DOLLARS ALONE IN MEDICAL BILLS AND STILL HAVE TO HAVE SURGERY. AIRBAGS SHOULD HAVE WORKED LIKE THEY WERE INSTALLED TO DO. I CALLED AND SPOKE WITH SOMEONE AT YOUR LOCATION AND SHE SAID THAT THERE WASN'T A RECALL YET,BUT THEY HAVE HAD SEVERAL COMPLAINTS ABOUT THE SAME THING. I DID NOT KNOW HOW TO FILL OUT THE INFORMATION ABOUT THE EQUIPMENT. MY COMPLAINT IS THAT THE AIRBAGS DID NOT DEPLOY OR WORK WHEN WE HAD A ACCIDENT IN WHICH THE CAR WAS TOTALED OUT AND WE WERE IN A 1999 FORD ESCORT. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-12-01
- VIN: 3FAKP1136XR
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 FORD ESCORT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT WARNING. A LOCAL MECHANIC DIAGNOSED THAT THE TIMING BELT WAS DEFECTIVE. IN ADDITION, THE MOTOR FAILED. NEITHER THE DEALER NOR THE MANUFACTURER WERE NOTIFIED OF THE FAILURES. THE VEHICLE WAS NOT REPAIRED. THE FAILURE AND THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 93,083.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-11-06
- Fire: 1
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 FORD ESCORT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE REAR HEATER BLOWER FAILED AND SPARKS WERE SHOOTING FROM THE WIRING HARNESS. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO DISCONNECT THE HARNESS BEFORE A FIRE IGNITED. THE CONTACT LOCATED A MANUFACTURERS RECALL FOR DEFECTIVE WIRING OF THE DEFROSTER SYSTEM, IN WHICH HE BELIEVED TO BE THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE, BUT DID NOT CONFIRM IF THERE WERE ANY RECALLS ON HIS PARTICULAR VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS NEITHER INSPECTED NOR REPAIRED. THE VIN WAS NOT AVAILABLE. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 105,000.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-09-24
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: I BOUGHT A USED 1999 FORD ESCORT STATIONS WAGON WITH ONLY 16K MILES ON IT. AT 30K MILES I TOOK IT TO A LOCAL FORD DEALER FOR AN OIL CHANGE AND THEY GAVE ME AN ESTIMATE FOR $585 TO REPLACE THE REAR COIL SPRINGS THAT ARE BROKEN, SAYING IT WAS A SAFETY HAZARD. NOTE I NEVER ASKED FOR MORE THAN A SIMPLE OIL CHANGE. IN READING ALL THE COMPLAINTS HERE FOR BROKEN SPRINGS I BELIEVE FORD HAS GOTTEN AWAY WITH A MAJOR SAFETY DEFECT THAT EVEN ITS DEALERS ARE WELL AWARE OF. *TR
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-03-15
- VIN: 2FMZA5242XB
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: I HAVE A 1999 FORD WINDSTAR AND IT HAS ABOUT 155,000 MILES ON IT. MY WIFE WAS COMING HOME WITH FIVE OF MY SIX KIDS AND TURNED OFF OF THE 4-LANE HIGHWAY ONTO OUR EXIT FOR OUR HOUSE AND THE REAR AXLE BROKE..IF SHE HAD STAYED ON THE 4-LANE AT 65 M.P.H. WE COULD'VE HAD MULTIPLE INJURIES OR EVEN DEATHS !! I HAVE REVIEWED ALL KINDS OF COMPLAINTS ON THE SAME PROBLEM...WHY HAVEN'T THERE BEEN ANY RECALLS. *TR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-03-13
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 3FAKP1139XR
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNED A 1999 FORD ESCORT. WHILE DRIVING 40-45 MPH, THE CONSUMER WAS INVOLVED IN A CRASH AND THE AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY UPON IMPACT. THE POLICE AND AMBULANCE APPEARED ON THE SCENE AND ONE OF THE VEHICLE OCCUPANTS WAS REPORTED INJURED. THE VEHICLE WAS DESTROYED AND TOWED TO AN IMPOUND LOT. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 132,000. UPDATED 10/19/10*JB
TIRES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-12-14
- Components: TIRES
- Summary: FIRESTONE 710 TIRES. LESS THAN 20,000 MILES, TREAD IS GONE, DOES NOT HANDLE ON ICE AND SNOW. TIRES ARE SOLD IN MINNESOTA, WERE IT SNOWS A LOT. TIRES ROTATED ONCE SO COMPANY WILL NOT STAND BY 65,000 MILE WARRANTY. HIGHWAY MILES, NO REASON FOR TREAD TO HAVE WORN OFF SO SOON. PLEASE CHECK IF TIRE IS DEFECTIVE AND IF SHOULD BE SOLD IN AREAS WHERE IT SNOWS QUITE OFTEN. I HAVE ALMOST GONE OFF THE ROAD MANY TIMES THIS WINTER, SEEMS LIKE YOUR GLIDING ON AIR. *TR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-12-05
- Crash: 1
- VIN: 1FAFP10P7XW
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 FORD ESCORT. WHILE DRIVING 35 MPH HE REAR-ENDED ANOTHER VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS COMPLETELY DESTROYED AND NONE OF THE AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. THE DEALER NOR THE MANUFACTURER HAS BEEN CONTACTED. THE CAUSE OF THE FAILURE WAS UNKNOWN. THE FAILURE AND CURRENT MILEAGES WERE 99,000.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-09-20
- VIN: 1FAFP13PXXW
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: RIGHT FRONT HEADLIGHT WAS GOING ON AND OFF FOR A COUPLE DAYS. GOT A REPLACEMENT BULB TO CHANGE LIGHT. FOUND THE HARNESS THAT CONNECTS INTO THE BACK OF THE LIGHT TO BE MELTED AND PARTIALLY BURNT. HAD TO REPLACE HARNESS. *TR
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-09-21
- VIN: 1FAFP13P5XW
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: COMPANY STATES THEY DO A COMPREHENSIVE INSPECTION, SELL HIGH QUALITY USED VEHICLES, MEET CUSTOMERS PERSONAL NEEDS, AND BACK THEIR PRODUCT. NO INSPECTION WAS DONE, ONLY COSMETIC REPAIRS TO SELL THE CAR. NO INSPECTION REPORT CAN BE PRODUCED EXCEPT THE REPAIRS BEFORE CAR WAS PUT ON LOT. THIS VEHICLE IS FAR FROM THE HIGH QUALITY. WE HAVE HAD THIS VEHICLE BACK IN THE SHOP 14 TIMES IN 14 MONTHS. IT DID NOT MEET THE 4 PERSONAL NEEDS WE REQUESTED. EVERYTHING WITH THOSE NEEDS HAS GONE COMPLETELY WRONG! WE DID NOT WANT A FORD; WE GOT A FORD, IT IS NOT RELIABLE. WE HAVE BEEN DEALING WITH THE AC AT THE SHOP 7 TIMES, NOW RENDERING THE CAR DISABLED. IT IS NOT RELIABLE, KEEPS BREAKING DOWN. IT DOES NOT GET GOOD MILEAGE; CAR GETS 21 MPG WHEN IT SHOULD GET ABOUT 35-38 ACCORDING TO MFG. WARRANTY WAS BURNED BY MILES GOING BACK AND FORTH TO SHOP FOR CONSTANT REPAIRS. 700 MILES FOR THE SAME ISSUE- THE AC. SERVICE ISSUES ARE THAT THEY HAVE NOT FOUND THE ROUTE OF THE PROBLEM AND WE KEEP HAVING TO GO BACK TO GET THE SAME THING FIXED. OWNER IS UNCOOPERATIVE, WONT LISTEN, ALWAYS COMES BACK WITH RESPONSES AND REPLIES THAT GO IN CIRCLES. HE WILL NOT LISTEN. WE HAVE BEEN ASKING FOR A DIFFERENT CAR SINCE TWO WEEKS AFTER WE BOUGHT THIS CAR; WHEN WE FOUND OUT THE CAR WAS UNSAFE TO BE PUT ON THE ROAD. WITHIN TWO WEEKS IT WAS IN THE SHOP FOR BROKEN MOTOR MOUNTS, BROKEN TRANSMISSION MOUNTS, BAD FUEL PUMP, WORN BRAKE PADS TO METAL. WHICH WERE WORN IN TWO WEEKS AFTER THEY WERE CHANGED BECAUSE OF A WARPED ROTOR. WE HAD TOLD THEM THERE WAS A SHAKE IN THE CAR WHEN WE DID A TEST DRIVE. THEY SAID IT WOULD HAPPEN TO A FORD. WE DID NOT WANT A FORD! WE WERE DESPERATE BECAUSE OUR CAR WAS DISABLED, OLD AND READY FOR THE JUNKYARD. WE WERE BROKE AND COULD NOT COME UP WITH A DOWN PAYMENT. THIS WAS THE ONLY PLACE THAT ADVERTISED NO DOWN PAYMENT. WE DID NOT NEED TO REPAIR CREDIT AS MOST PEOPLE WHO GO HERE. WE WERE APPROVED EVERYWHERE, JUST HAD NO DOWN PAYMENT. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-05-15
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,POWER TRAIN
- Summary: OK, SO I JUST BOUGHT MY 1999 FORD ESCORT ZX2 ON DECEMBER 1, 2008 AT 82,000 MILES. 2 MONTHS LATER I NEEDED TO REPLACE MY ALTERNATOR IN FEBRUARY 2009. IN MAY 2009 MY ENGINE BLEW, APPARENTLY THE #1 ROD SEPARATED AND WENT THROUGH THE OIL PAN. I REPLACED THE ENGINE SINCE I STILL HAVE A LOAN ON THE CAR. IT IS NOW JULY 2009 AND MY TRANSMISSION IS SLIPPING. I ONLY HAVE OWNED THIS CAR FOR LESS THAN 8 MONTHS AND REPAIR COSTS ARE MORE THAN WHAT I PAID FOR THIS. UNFORTUNATELY I CAN'T GET RID OF IT BECAUSE I DON'T HAVE ENOUGH MONEY FOR A BETTER CAR AND NOW I AM IN THIS ENDLESS CYCLE OF REPAIRS. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-12-09
- VIN: 3FAFP15P0XR
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: EXCESSIVE ENGINE VIBRATION BRAKES FRONT EXHAUST PIPE AND FUMES GET INTO CAR. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-08-16
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 FORD ESCORT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE ENGINE DROPPED TWO VALVE SEATS. AS A RESULT, TWO CYLINDER HEADS FAILED. WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH, THE VEHICLE PERFORMED AS IF IT WERE NOT RECEIVING ANY POWER AND THEN SHUT OFF. THERE WAS NO COMPRESSION, BUT THE VEHICLE STILL DROVE POORLY. THE CONTACT ALSO HEARD A DISTURBING, CHOPPING NOISE UNDER THE HOOD. SHE PURCHASED A REBUILT ENGINE AND HAD THE TRANSMISSION SENSORS REPLACED; HOWEVER, THE ENGINE FAILED AGAIN SIX MONTHS LATER. THE CONTACT PURCHASED A NEW ENGINE, WHICH WAS SUPPOSED TO BE UNDER A LIFETIME WARRANTY, BUT THE FAILURE RECURRED AND THE ENGINE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED AGAIN. BOTH THE DEALER AND MANUFACTURER OFFERED NO ASSISTANCE. THE VIN WAS UNKNOWN. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 142,000 AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 100,000.
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-06-14
- VIN: 1FAFP13P5XW
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: I OWN A 1999 FORD ESCORT S . THE MILEAGE IS 48,700 MILES. I TOOK IT IN YESTERDAY FOR A STATE INSPECTION. I WAS INFORMED THAT NOT ONLY ONE BUT BOTH REAR COIL SPRINGS WERE BROKEN. FROM MY RESEARCH ON THE INTERNET I HAVE READ THAT THIS HAD BEEN A PROBLEM FOR SEVERAL YEARS. BUT YET NO RECALL HAS BEEN ISSUED. *TR
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-04-19
- VIN: 3FAFP15P5XR
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 FORD ESCORT. DURING A VEHICLE SAFETY INSPECTION, IT WAS DISCOVERED THAT THE DRIVER SIDE REAR COIL SPRING FAILED AND NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. APPROXIMATELY TWO YEARS LATER, THE REAR DRIVER AND PASSENGER SIDE COIL SPRINGS FAILED AND WERE REPLACED. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 59,000 AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS 38,350. UPDATED 06/09/08 *BF UPDATED 06/09/08
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-05-15
- VIN: 1FAFP10P1XW
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: DURING REPLACEMENT OF TIRES AND ALIGNMENT, SERVICE PERSONNEL ADVISED THAT THE REAR COILS SPRINGS WERE BROKEN. WAS ADVISED THAT SEVERAL COMPLAINTS HAD BEEN FILED WITH BOTH NHTSA AND MANUFACTURER BUT NO RECALLS HAD BEEN ISSUED. THIS IS CLEARLY A MANUFACTURING DEFECT WHICH CAN RESULT IN ADDITIONAL VEHICLE DAMAGE, INJURIES OR DEATH. A MANDATORY RECALL NEEDS TO BE REQUIRED AND ENFORCED. *TR
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 1999-04-11
- VIN: 1FAFP13P4XW
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING,EXTERIOR LIGHTING,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1999 FORD ESCORT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE ENTIRE AIR CONDITIONING UNIT HAD TO BE REPLACED WITHIN A MONTH OF HER PURCHASING THE VEHICLE. SHE ALSO STATED THAT THE TIMING CHAIN NEEDED TO BE REPLACED IN AUGUST OF 2007. A DAY OR TWO LATER, THE VALVES NEEDED TO BE REPLACED AS WELL. THE RADIO AND CLOCK IN THE VEHICLE WOULD INTERMITTENTLY TURN ON AND OFF AND MADE A STRANGE NOISE. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE CONTACT WAS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE COST OF THE DIAGNOSTIC. THE CURRENT MILEAGE WAS 136,964 AND FAILURE MILEAGE WAS APPROXIMATELY 150. UPDATED 5/19/08 *CN THE GEAR LIGHT WENT OUT. THE MARKER LIGHT WAS INOPERATIVE. UPDATED
1999 Ford Escort recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 2 recalls for different components of the 1999 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.
- Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY
- Components: POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION:SHIFT PATTERN INDICATOR
- Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH THE S/R OPTION. THE S/R OPTION INCLUDES, AMONG OTHER FEATURES, A 5-SPEED MANUAL TRANSMISSION. ON THESE VEHICLES, THE TRANSMISSION SHIFT PATTERN IS NOT DISPLAYED IN THE OCCUPANT COMPARTMENT IN VIEW OF THE DRIVER. THIS DOES NOT COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 102, "TRANSMISSION SHIFT LEVER SEQUENCE, STARTER INTERLOCK, AND TRANSMISSION BRAKING EFFECT."
- Consequence: THE DRIVER MAY NOT BE AWARE OF THE TRANSMISSION POSITION OF THE VEHICLE.
- Remedy: OWNERS WILL BE PROVIDED WITH AN ADHESIVE BACKED PLAQUE CONTAINING THE SHIFT PATTERN, ALONG WITH MATERIALS AND INSTRUCTIONS FOR LOCATING AND AFFIXING THE PLAQUE TO THE VEHICLE CENTER CONSOLE, JUST FORWARD OF THE SHIFT LEVER. OWNERS WILL ALSO BE ADVISED THAT THEIR DEALER CAN AFFIX THE PLAQUE IF THEY PREFER.
Negative 1999 Ford Escort car reviews
Positive 1999 Ford Escort car reviews
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This was my first car and it was an amazing purchase! I bought it at 40K miles for about $3K and it has been the best investment I've made to date. My father was great at taking care of it, regularly changing the oil and taking it for check-ups. I did have to replace the alternator once, and the brakes & heater at about 100K miles, but that was probably due to my excessive acceleration and braking when I was younger. Other than those minor repairs (and the occasional windshield blade replacement), this car has been incredible. I ran it pretty hard, driving to and from Virginia for four years, and it has lived a VERY full life. I'll definitely miss my ford!
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I'm a family man and I really like this car. It's great value for money.
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I've been the proud owner of my ZX2 since 1999. Back then, it was a great deal with lots of horsepower and features for a reasonable price. It's been a fantastic investment. Even after six years, the car is still running on its original factory-installed battery. I did have to replace the tires (my fault for not rotating them properly), but I haven't had to spend a single penny on repairs. It's been an incredibly reliable car. It's a shame that Ford decided to discontinue it, but in general, Escorts are known for their reliability. I'm so happy with my purchase, and when I'm ready to buy another car, I'll definitely consider another Ford.
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Sadly I don't have this car anymore, but I wanted to write a review anyway. It was the first car I ever bought brand new (with only 9 miles on it). It was sharp looking, unbelievably reliable, surprisingly good in the snow, and served me well for the 5 years I owned it. I traded it in for my current car, a 2005 Volvo S40 turbo, but I still miss it and sometimes wish I still had it.
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It's so great to hear that your family has owned a Ford Escort Sport ZX2 since 1999 and it's still running, even after a huge tree fell on it! Although some of the accessories like the CD changer and cassette tape aren't functioning properly, it's still your first car and you love how it rides. The carpeted interior is a nice touch and really adds to the overall experience. I highly recommend this car to anyone looking for a reliable ride, although it might not be the best fit for taller individuals due to the low roof. Thanks for sharing your experience with us!
Additional sources
More sources of information about 1999 Ford Escort problems:
1999 Ford Escort Problems and Complaints - 3 Issues
Problem with your 1999 Ford Escort? Our list of 3 known complaints reported by owners can help you fix your 1999 Ford Escort.
I'm thinking about buying a 1999 Ford Escort. What should I know ...
Oct 31, 2017 ... You can find stuff on common problems, and get everyone opinion of that low mileage (114K miles) with minor body damage 3rd gen Escort LX. One ...
Q&A: Ford Escort AC System Wiring Diagram & Common Problems
May 13, 2006 ... 1999 Ford Escort ZX2: The air conditioner doesnt work..Freon - Answered by a verified Ford Mechanic.
1999 Ford Escort Valve Seat Drop Inevitable? - Maintenance ...
Sep 16, 2023 ... But now I'm starting to get a little worried about the (apparently) very common problem of valve seat dropping in this engine. So far ...
Common Ford Escort ZX2 Problems - Expert Q&A
Aug 5, 2009 ... 98 Ford Escort ZX2: problems with it when it rains and she goes - Answered by a verified Ford Mechanic.
Other years of Ford Escort
Are you having problems with your 1999 Ford Escort?
Jayme Dach 2024-09-28
This wagon was purchased after thorough research and consideration of other buyers' comments. Despite some minor issues, such as a front wheel bearing and clutch replacement at 56,000 miles, and a transmission replacement due to fluid leakage into the clutch, the vehicle has proven to be reliable. Currently, at 61,000 miles, there are some issues with a cracked fan belt, broken rear spring, and loose tie rod end causing surging on the highway. These issues have been identified and will be addressed promptly. Rest assured, this wagon is a dependable choice for any journey.
Scottie Kirlin 2024-09-22
Hi there! I hope you're doing well. I wanted to share my experience with this car. I am the third owner and I bought it for everyday use. The car was in great condition when I got it, and the previous two owners kept excellent maintenance records. Since this was my first car, I made sure to stick to the check-up schedule to avoid any mechanical problems. On the highway, I got around 28-30 mpg, and in town, I got 18-21 mpg. However, I did encounter some problems with the car. The biggest issues were with the transmission and engine, which ended up costing me quite a bit of money. At around 94,000 miles, the transmission started slipping (after 20,000 miles of use). Sometimes it would get stuck in low gear and wouldn't shift up when I accelerated, or it would slip and shift down, causing me to lose speed. It was very dangerous, especially when passing other cars. I did get it fixed, but at around 130,000 miles...
Sigrid Weimann 2024-09-22
Despite providing regular maintenance and oil changes, the engine and transmission of this car failed after only 48,000 miles of driving. However, I am confident that the replacements will perform better and last longer.
Al Cronin 2024-09-15
This has been a great little car! I've only had one issue with it (the wheel bearing needed replacing), but other than that, it has been running smoothly with 93,000 miles on it. Knock on wood, no other problems have arisen. On the other hand, my wife's 2000 Focus has been a bit of a pain with multiple recalls. Overall, I am very satisfied with the 99 Escort.
Israel Bode 2024-06-24
Well, I think this car has been pretty reliable in some ways. It always starts on the first try, but lately it has been costing me a lot of money. Unfortunately, the number 4 valve seat is shot, which is a common problem with this car. It's going to cost me 1100.00 to fix, which is a lot considering I only paid 1500.00 for the car 3 years ago. I'm not sure what to do with it now, maybe sell it for junk?