2002 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 2002 Ford Escort problems
The Ford Escort, produced from 1995 to 2002, was a popular compact car during its time, but like any car, it had its fair share of common issues that owners should be aware of.
Another common issue with the Ford Escort was related to its suspension and steering components. Many drivers experienced problems with the car's power steering, including leaks and failure of the power steering pump.
Fuel system problems were also a common 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.
Electrical issues, such as faulty wiring, blown fuses, and malfunctioning switches, were also common problems reported by Ford Escort owners. These issues could cause problems with the car's lighting, radio, or other electronic features.
In summary, the Ford Escort, like any car, had its fair share of common issues that owners should be aware of. These issues included transmission problems, engine performance issues, suspension and steering problems, and electrical issues. With proper maintenance and repairs, many of these issues could be resolved, allowing drivers to enjoy their Escort for years to come.
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.
What is the value of a 2002 Ford Escort?
How much is a 2002 Ford Escort worth? The value of a used 2002 Ford Escort ranges from $217 to $1,398, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options.
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) |
Why did Ford discontinue the Escort?
As the years went on, the Escort became less popular, less prized, and more dated to the point where the vehicle subtly faded out from the public eye, as opposed to going out with a bang and attracting attention. The Ford Focus was launched in 2000 while the Escort was still being produced.
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 is the value of a 2002 Ford Escort?
How much is a 2002 Ford Escort worth? The value of a used 2002 Ford Escort ranges from $217 to $1,398, based on vehicle condition, mileage, and options.
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 is the high speed of a Ford Escort?
The car's top speed was 150 mph (240 km/h), rivalling cars like the Audi Coupé S2, BMW M3, Nissan 300ZX, Toyota Supra and Porsche 968 and comfortably outperforming traditional "hot hatchbacks" like the Volkswagen Golf GTI.
2002 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:
- Power train problems
- Engine and engine cooling problems
- Suspension problems
- Service brakes problems
- Air bags problems
The graph below shows statistics for all 2002 Ford Escort vehicle components and the number of complaints received.
Latest 25 complaints 2002 Ford Escort
The NHTSA has received 90 complaints about various vehicle components related to the 2002 Ford Escort. Below are the 25 most recent complaints reported for 2002 Ford Escort vehicles.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL,SERVICE BRAKES PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2017-03-04
- 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.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2011-11-01
- VIN: 3FAFP11312R
- Components: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
- Summary: 2002 FORD ESCORT. CONSUMER WRITES IN REGARDS TO VEHICLE STOPPING AND DYING WHILE DRIVING *TGW THE CONSUMER STATED THE BATTERY AND ALTERNATOR WERE REPLACE THREE TIMES, AS WELL AS OTHER COMPONENTS. HOWEVER, THE STALLING CONTINUED. NO ONE HAS BEEN ABLE TO DETERMINE THE REASON FOR THE STALLING. *JB
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2010-08-01
- VIN: 2FMZA51452B
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: 2002 FORD WINDSTAR REAR AXLE PROBLEM WE WERE DRIVING ON 78E AND WERE APPROXIMATELY 30 MINUTES BEFORE ALLENTOWN. ALL OF A SUDDEN WE HEARD A CRACK, SMELLED SMOKE, AND HEARD METAL SCRAPING. THE CAR STARTED FISHTAILING AND MY HUSBAND VIRTUALLY HAD NO CONTROL OF THE CAR AS THE WINDSTAR REPEATEDLY CROSSED 2 LANES AND ALMOST HIT THE MIDDLE BARRIER AND THEN FISHTAILED TOWARD THE OTHER SIDE. LUCKILY THERE WERE NO CARS OR TRUCKS IN FRONT OR IN BACK OF US AND WE WERE AT A SLIGHT UPHILL. FINALLY, MY HUSBAND WAS ABLE TO GAIN CONTROL OF THE VAN AND PULL OVER TO THE SMALL SHOULDER WHICH WAS BARELY BIG ENOUGH TO FIT THE VAN. WE CALLED 911 AND AAA. WHILE WE WAITED ON THE SIDE, WE FEARED THAT WE COULD GET HIT IN THE EVENT THAT A TRUCK OR CAR SWERVED TO THE SIDE. WE WERE SHOCKED TO FIND OUT THAT THE REAR AXLE WAS CRACKED AND THE REAR TIRES WERE CAVED IN. MY AUTO DEALER GILBOY IN WHITEHALL OFFERED TO TOW AND REPAIR THE PROBLEM, BUT ONLY AT MY EXPENSE. FORD EXPLAINED TO ME THAT THERE WAS NO COVERAGE FOR THIS SITUATION BECAUSE THE VEHICLE IS OUTSIDE OF WARRANTY AND THERE CURRENTLY IS NO RECALL FOR THIS PROBLEM. BOTH GILBOY AND FORD TOLD ME THEY WERE NOT AWARE OF THIS PROBLEM WITH THE REAR AXLE. I HAD 3 CHILDREN IN THE CAR, 2 OF WHICH WERE MY OWN. THIS WAS THE SCARIEST MOMENT OF MY LIFE AS I FEARED WHAT POTENTIALLY COULD HAPPEN. LUCKILY, SOMEONE FROM ABOVE WAS LOOKING AFTER US BUT I FEAR THE NEXT FORD WINDSTAR OWNER MAY NOT BE SO LUCKY. PLEASE DO NOT WAIT FOR SOMEONE TO GET KILLED BEFORE TAKING ACTION. PLEASE HAVE THE PROBLEM CORRECTED AS SOON AS POSSIBLE AND ALERT ALL FORD WINDSTAR OWNER OF THE SERIOUS POTENTIAL RISK. *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-01-21
- VIN: 3FAFP11322R
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: WE BOUGHT A NEW 2002 ZX2, ONE MONTH AFTER WE HAD IT THE TRANSMISSION STARTED SLIPPING. NOW THE TRANSMISSION WON'T SHIFT INTO 3RD OR 4TH. WE WERE TOLD WE NEED TO REBUILD OURS.
POWER TRAIN,STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-11-16
- VIN: 3FAFP11372R
- Components: POWER TRAIN,STRUCTURE
- Summary: RE: 2002, FORD ZX2 WE OWN A 2002 STANDARD MODEL FORD ZX2 THAT HAS ONLY 35,500 MILES ON IT. THERE ARE THREE NOTABLE PROBLEMS: 1.THE ENGINE IDLES VERY ROUGHLY 2.THE TRANSMISSION SHIFTS VERY HARD 3.THE FRONT DRIVER DOOR HAS SAGGED AND WON?T CLOSE COMPLETELY. ALL OF THESE ISSUES ARE THE RESULT OF POOR DESIGN AND ESPECIALLY POOR QUALITY PARTS. THIS CAR, I SAY AGAIN, ONLY HAS 35,500 MILES ON IT AND THE PROBLEMS HAVE BEEN APPARENT FOR SOME TIME. THE CAR STARTED VIBRATING ALMOST FROM DAY ONE. THE TRANSMISSION ISSUE I?M TOLD STEMS FROM THE MOTOR AND TRANSMISSION MOUNTS PROBLEMS. THE DOOR SUPPORTS ARE TOO CHEAPLY MADE TO HOLD UP THE DOOR. OUR FATHER TOOK THE CAR TO THE FORD SERVICE DEPARTMENT AND WAS TOLD THAT THIS WAS JUST A CHEAPLY MADE CAR AND TO JUST DEAL WITH IT. WE DID SOME RESEARCH ONLINE AND FOUND NUMEROUS COMPLAINTS ABOUT THESE ISSUES. WE SEE ONLINE THAT OTHERS HAVE ALSO HAD THIS RESPONSE FROM FORD DEALERS. WE THEN DECIDED TO CONTACT THE FORD CUSTOMER SERVICE NUMBER (800-392-3673) AND SPOKE WITH CHRIS. CHRIS TOLD US THAT THOUGH THEY RECOGNIZED THESE PROBLEMS THEY HAD AS YET NOT ESCALATED INTO A RECALL. FORD WOULD THEREFORE NOT BE WILLING TO ASSIST IN THE REPAIRS OF OUR ZX2. IT IS NOW OUR DECISION TO FILE COMPLAINTS ABOUT THIS ISSUE AND REQUEST THAT FORD RECONSIDER ITS DECISION. THE CAR WAS BOUGHT FROM TROY AIKMAN FORD. THERE IS NO HELP THERE SINCE THEY ARE NO LONGER IN BUSINESS. ACCORDING TO OTHER COMPLAINTS WE'VE FOUND THESE PROBLEMS WILL EVENTUALLY LEAD TO TRANSMISSION SLIPPAGE AND SHIFTING PROBLEMS WHICH COULD LEAD TO ACCIDENTS. *TR
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-07-23
- VIN: 2FMDK39C08B
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD ESCORT. WHENEVER THE BRAKES WERE APPLIED, THE CONTACT WOULD HEAR A GRINDING NOISE COMING FROM THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO THE DEALER AND THEY REPLACED THE FRONT ROTORS AND PADS. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 7,367.
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-05-10
- VIN: 2FMZA51482B
- Components: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC,VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: ABS AND BRAKE LIGHTS HAS CONTINUED TO BE ON AND CRUISE CONTROL HAS STOPPED WORKING. *TR
STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2009-04-18
- VIN: 3FAFP11372R
- Components: STEERING,ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: WE HAVE A 2002 ESCORT ZX2 . THE CAR WAS BOUGHT FEBRUARY 2002 . I HAVE HAD SOME REAL PROBLEMS WITH THE TIE -RODS HAVING TO BE REPLACED. BUT THE PROBLEM NOW IS THE WIRING TO THE TAIL LIGHTS. WE HAVE HAD A FEW PROBLEMS WITH THE FUSE BLOWING AND WE REPLACE IT , THEN THE LIGHT BULBS BLOW THEN WE REPLACE THEM . WE HAD A MECHANIC LOOK INTO THE PROBLEM THIS TIME AND HE HAS FOUND THAT THE WIRING HARNESS AND THE REFLECTOR ARE MELTED. THE PROBLEM IS WE HAVE TAIL LIGHTS WORKING WITH NO BRAKE LIGHTS OR CRUISE CONTROL . UPON THE REMOVAL OF THE BULBS THE BULBS HAD GOTTEN SO HOT THE LIGHT BULBS HAD HOLES IN THEM BUT STILL WORKED AS BRAKE LIGHTS . THIS IS A SAFETY ISSUE WITH YOUNG CHILDREN IN THE REAR SEAT CLOSEST TO THE ELECTRICAL PROBLEM. *TR
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-12-05
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 3FAFP11321R
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD ESCORT. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 10 MPH TO MAKE A LEFT TURN, BOTH FRONTAL AIR BAGS DEPLOYED WITHOUT AN IMPACT OR CRASH. THE PASSENGER SUSTAINED MINOR INJURIES. THE WINDSHIELD ON THE PASSENGER SIDE WAS SHATTERED AND THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT BECAME ENGULFED WITH SMOKE. THE VEHICLE WAS DRIVEN TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE AND HAS NOT BEEN DRIVEN SINCE. THE DEALER HAS NOT BEEN NOTIFIED. THE MANUFACTURER STATED THAT THEY WOULD CONTACT HER BY LETTER OR PHONE WITHIN 15 DAYS. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 59,890.
SEAT BELTS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-09-14
- VIN: 3FAFP113X2R
- Components: SEAT BELTS
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2002 FORD ESCORT ZX2. WHEN THE CONTACT ATTEMPTED TO USE THE REAR PASSENGER SIDE SEAT BELT, SHE NOTICED THAT IT WOULD NOT EXTEND OUTWARDS OR RETRACT TO ITS NORMAL POSITION. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO A LOCAL MECHANIC AND THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE SEAT BELT RETRACTOR NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN DIAGNOSED BY THE DEALER. PRIOR TO THE FAILURE, THE CONTACT NOTICED THAT THE SEAT BELT WAS HAVING MINOR RETRACTING ISSUES. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 79,350. UPDATED 02/02/09. *LJ UPDATED 02/03/09. *JB
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-02-10
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: CAR HAVING STARTED HAVING A "PULL" WHEN ACCELERATING FROM STOP SIGNS. THE PULL KEEPS GETTING WORSE AND FEELS NOW LIKE NOT SWITCHING GEARS PROPERLY ON AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION. ALMOST STOPS AND BUMPS BEFORE CONTINUING TO NEXT GEAR. TOOK TO TRANSMISSION CENTER, THERE IS NOTHING WRONG WITH TRANSMISSION. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES,EQUIPMENT PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2003-08-01
- VIN: 1FAFP34P92W
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM,VISIBILITY,LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES,EQUIPMENT
- Summary: I HAVE SEVERAL ISSUES, BOTH BACK DOOR WINDOWS HAVE FALLEN OFF TRACK AND WON'T STAY UP. THIS HAPPENED IN SEPTEMBER OF 07 AND A FEW MONTHS LATER THE SECOND REAR WINDOW DID THE SAME. I HAVE TO USE CLEAR PACKAGING TAPE TO HOLD THEM UP. THE KEY TO THE IGNITION WILL NOT TURN UNLESS I USE SOMETHING WITH A HARD END AND TAP IT SEVERAL TIMES. WHEN THE IGNITION PROBLEM FIRST HAPPENED IN SEPTEMBER OF 2006 I CALLED FORD ROAD SIDE SERVICE AND THEY RECOMMENDED TAPPING THE KEY SEVERAL TIMES AND SAID THEY HAD A GROWING COMPLAINT OF THIS. MY TRUNK LOCK LATCH OFTEN GETS STUCK TOO. JAN OF 2003 THE RADIO SHORTS IN AND OUT, I NEVER KNOW IF IT'S GOING TO STAY ON. LASTLY THE PASSENGER REAR DOOR LOOK DOESN'T LATCH, I THINK THIS HAPPENED IN LATE 2003 OR EARLY 2004. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-03-16
- VIN: 1FAFP3435YW
- Components: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
- Summary: TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 2000 FORD FOCUS. FOR ONE MONTH, THE KEY DIDN'T FIT INTO THE IGNITION AND WHEN IT WAS IN THE IGNITION, IT WOULD NOT TURN. DUE TO THE FAILURE, THE VEHICLE WILL NOT START. AS OF MARCH 16, 2008, THE VEHICLE WILL NO LONGER START. THE VEHICLE WILL BE TOWED TO THE DEALER TO BE DIAGNOSED. THE CURRENT AND FAILURE MILEAGES WERE 98,000.
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2008-01-24
- VIN: 1FMZU72E82U
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: 1) I NOTICED THAT MY RPMS WERE NOT RETURNING TO NORMAL AND MY VEHICLE WAS UNABLE TO STOP COMPLETELY. 2) I OWN A 2002 FORD EXPLORER XLS 4X4 WITH THE SOHC 4.0 LITER ENGINE. THE THROTTLE CABLE STUCK IN THE OPEN POSITION CAUSING THE ENGINE TO SURGE UNCONTROLLABLY AT APPROXIMATELY 5000 RPMS. I HAD TO TURN OFF MY IGNITION TO AVOID CRASHING THE VEHICLE INTO NEARBY TRAFFIC. OTA HAS RECEIVED REPORTS OF THIS PROBLEM, NHTSA ACTION NUMBER: PE05037, BUT CLOSED THE CASE ON NOVEMBER 2, 2005. THIS IS A SERIOUS DEFECT THAT COULD HAVE RESULTED IN A SERIOUS CRASH. I BELIEVE THAT OTA SHOULD ISSUE A RECALL FOR THIS PROBLEM AS IT DID FOR CAMPAIGN #03V280000. 3) I WILL BE CONTACTING FORD TOMORROW TO RESOLVE THIS PROBLEM. MY VEHICLE IS CURRENTLY NOT SAFE TO DRIVE. *TR
STEERING PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-12-01
- VIN: 1FMZU73E22Z
- Components: STEERING
- Summary: I PUT MY KEY IN, TURNED IT ON AND WENT TO SHIFT IN TO DRIVE AND THE SHIFTER CAME RIGHT OUT OF THE STEERING COLUMN. THE VEHICLE WAS IN BETWEEN GEARS.*CN
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-12-23
- VIN: 1FAHP55U22G
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: WHILE DRIVING MY 2002 FORD TAURUS I EXPERIENCED THE FAILURE OF BOTH FRONT COIL SPRINGS WHICH CUT OPEN LIKE A CAN OPENER ONE FRONT TIRES AND DAMAGED THE OTHER. I HAD TO HAVE BOTH TIRES AND SPRINGS REPLACED. IF I WAS TRAVELING MORE THAN 15 MPH I FEAR I WOULD NOT BE HERE TODAY.*CN
AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-11-19
- VIN: 1FMZU73E12Z
- Components: AIR BAGS
- Summary: 2002 EXPLORER XLT PURCHASED 1/03 WITH 37,995 MILES. NOW ONLY 39,996 I AM DISABLED AND DON'T DRIVE MUCH. HAD VEHICLE IN DUE TO WARRANTY OVER 11/26/07 TO CHECK THINGS OVER. WHEN I PICKED UP CAR AIR BAG WARNING LIGHT FLASHING. THOUGH IT WAS DUE TO THEIR WORK BECAUSE IT STOPPED. NEXT TIME USED VEHICLE LIGHT FLASHING THEN STAYED ON PERMANENTLY. TOOK TO DEALERSHIP AND THEY CLAIM IT THROWS A CODE #B2292, THEY ALSO SAID A BULLETIN OUT FROM FORD ON THIS #TSB03-11-03 ISSUED TO ALL MECHANICS - THAT THE PRETENSIONER SAFETY HARNESS BOTH NEED TO BE REPLACED (DEFECT). I ADVISED THEM I WILL DISPUTE THIS DUE TO THE FACT THEY ALSO STATED FORD MAY BE DOING A RECALL. I CLAIM VEHICLE FINE TILL THEY WORKED ON IT. PART COMES IN TOMORROW, THEY SAY IT SHOULD BE READY IN A FEW HOURS, AND COST IS AROUND $295.. PLUS TAXES. ALSO HAD TO HAVE A REBUILT TRANY DONE LAST YR. ON THE AIR BAG LIGHT - I READ ALL THESE COMPLAINTS AND I AM SHOCKED THAT FORD HAS NOT ISSUED A RECALL. THIS IS NUTS. WHAT IS SCARY IS ALL THE FIRE REPORTS. *TR
WHEELS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-11-18
- VIN: 3FAFP13P62R
- Components: WHEELS
- Summary: 12/01/05, 03/08/07.11/19/07 HAD TO REPLACE TIE-ROD ION MY 2002 FORD ESCORT. NOTICED THUMPING, TOOK TO MECHANIC. HE SAID HAD I NOT BROUGHT IT IN, THERE COULD HAVE BEEN VERY SERIOUS CONSEQUENCES. THIS FREQUENCY OF THESE INCIDENTS SEEMS TO INDICATE A SERIOUS AND DANGEROUS DEFECT IN THIS CAR. *TR
SUSPENSION PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2006-08-15
- Number Of Injuries: 1
- Components: SUSPENSION
- Summary: ALL FOUR WHEELS BEARINGS ON A 2002 FORD EXPLORER WITH ONLY 70,000 MILES HAD TO BE REPLACED. ONE INCIDENT INCLUDED A WHEEL FALLING OFF DUE TO THE FAILURE OF THESE BEARINGS. *TR
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-11-04
- Fire: 1
- VIN: 1FMRU15W32L
- Components: VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL
- Summary: VEHICLE PARKED IN PARKING LOT AT 9:30P.M. SHERIFF WOKE US UP 2:00 A.M. BANGING ON WINDOWS STATING SUV WAS ON FIRE. 3 OTHER VEHICLES WERE DAMAGED BECAUSE OF FIRE. I AM BLESSED MYSELF AND MY CHILDREN WERE NOT IN SUV AT THAT TIME. ALSO DAMAGED PARKING AREA. *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-11-13
- VIN: 1FMZU63E82U
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: VEHICLE TRANSMISSION FAILED AT 75,000- WE HAD TAKEN THE VEHICLE IN 2 SEPARATE OCCASIONS THE FIRST YEAR OF OWNERSHIP CONCERNING THE TRANSMISSION BUT WAS ADVISED NOTHING WRONG. *TR
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-05-22
- VIN: 1FMZU73K42U
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: THE FIBERGLASS PIECE ON THE HATCHBACK OF THE VEHICLE IS CONSTANTLY CRACKING AND FALLING OFF WHILE THE VEHICLE IS MOVING. THIS IS A ROAD AND SAFETY HAZARD, AS MY PIECE CAME OFF WHILE DRIVING 55MPH. I AM CONTINUOUSLY SEEING OTHER EXPLORERS OF THE SAME MODEL AND YEAR THAT HAVE THE SAME ISSUE. FORD NEEDS TO TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR THEIR DEFECTIVE PRODUCT AND CONDUCT A RECALL. FURTHERMORE, THIS FAULTY PIECE IS OFFERED AT A FORD DEALERSHIP FOR REPLACEMENT AT OVER $300! *TR
POWER TRAIN PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-10-20
- VIN: 1FMZU73K42U
- Components: POWER TRAIN
- Summary: BEGINNING OF 2006, I PURCHASED MY USED 2002 FORD EXPLORER. AROUND 70,000 MILES, ABOUT 9 MONTHS LATER, THE ROARING NOISE IN THE REAR WAS UNBEARABLE. I PUT ALL NEW TIRES,I PUT ALL NEW BRAKES THINKING THIS WAS CAUSING THE NOISE. FINALLY I WENT ONLINE TO FIND THE MANY, MANY COMPLAINTS ABOUT THE REAR END NOISE. I CALLED FORD CUSTOMER SERVICE AND THEY SAID THERE WAS NO RECALLS, EVEN THOUGH THERE ARE MANY COMPLAINTS ON THIS ISSUE, BECAUSE IT IS NOT CONSIDERED A SAFETY ISSUE. THEY SUGGESTED I HAVE IT DIAGNOSED AT A FORD DEALERSHIP. ON 10/20/07, I HAD THIS DIAGNOSIS DONE, AND WAS TOLD IT WAS THE REAR AXLE DIFFERENTIAL AND WAS ADVISED NOT TO DRIVE, OR DRIVE AS LITTLE AS POSSIBLE BECAUSE IT COULD CEASE UP WHILE DRIVING, AND CAN BE A SAFTEY ISSUE IF UNIT FAILS. THE COST OF THIS REPAIR, PARTS AND LABOR IS ABOUT $1200. IS FORD WAITING FOR THIS TO CEASE UP, CAUSING INJURIES OR DEATHS BEFORE THEY DEEM IT A SAFTEY ISSUE, AND RECALL THESE VEHICLES FOR REPAIR. I CANNOT AFFORD TO REPAIR MY VEHICLE AT THIS TIME AND NEED MY VEHICLE. *TR
STRUCTURE PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-10-31
- VIN: 1FMZU73E82U
- Components: STRUCTURE
- Summary: DOOR AJAR LIGHT COMES ON RANDOMLY, TURNING ON INTERIOR LIGHTS AND LOCKING AND UNLOCKING DOORS WHILE DRIVING. IN ADDITION TO BEING DISTRACTING, IT IS PARTICULARLY UNSAFE AT NIGHT TO SUDDENLY HAVE THE INTERIOR LIGHTS COME ON AND UNABLE TO KEEP DOORS LOCKED. FORD SAYS ISSUE IS A DOOR SENSOR, BUT CANNOT TELL WHICH ONE IS BAD. THIS USED TO HAPPEN OCCASIONALLY, NOW IT HAPPENS AT LEAST EVERY OTHER DAY. *TR
SUSPENSION,AIR BAGS PROBLEM
- Date Of Incident: 2007-10-01
- VIN: 1FMZU62E02Z
- Components: SUSPENSION,AIR BAGS
- Summary: I AM AN OWNER OF A 2002 FORD EXPLORER 2WD. AT THE BEGINNING OF OCTOBER THE VEHICLE STARTING MAKING A HORRIBLE NOISE. THE LOUD NOISE WAS COMING FROM THE REAR PASSENGER WHEEL. COME TO FIND OUT, THIS IS A MAJOR WHEEL BEARING ISSUE. I HAVE RECENTLY GOTTEN ONLINE AND DISCOVERED HOW MANY OTHER PEOPLE ARE ALSO HAVING THE SAME ISSUE. WHAT CAN WE DO TO GET THE FORD COMPANY TO BE HELD RESPONSIBLE FOR THIS VERY DANGEROUS DEFECT IN THEIR PRODUCT THAT YOU ARE SUPPOSED TO TRUST NOT ONLY YOUR LIFE BUT THE LIVES OF ALL YOUR PASSENGERS. HOW CAN COMPANIES CONTINUE TO SELL THEIR UNSAFE VEHICLES TO THE PUBLIC. IT IS ENOUGH TO HAVE TO WORRY ABOUT GETTING MY 1 YEAR OLD TO AND FROM HER NANA'S WITHOUT HAVING TO WORRY ABOUT GETTING HIT BY SOMEONE, BUT TO WORRY THAT ANY MOMENT YOUR VEHICLE CAN CAUSE A MAJOR ACCIDENT WITHOUT YOU EVEN BEING AT FAULT BECAUSE OF FAULTY PARTS. PLEASE, CAN SOMEONE WITH ANY KIND OF DECENCY DO SOMETHING TO GET THIS COMPANY TO RECALL EVERY VEHICLE WITH FAULTY PARTS. COMMON SENSE WOULD SAY IT'S THE RIGHT THING TO DO. *TR
2002 Ford Escort recalls
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) has issued 1 recalls for different components of the 2002 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 2002 Ford Escort car reviews
Positive 2002 Ford Escort car reviews
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I recently purchased an Escort with 62000 miles and it drives great. It does idle a little rough, but I understand that it is natural. Changing the oil and spark plugs is a DIY chore, but not too difficult. At 92,000 miles, the car started to misfire, but as a DIY'er, I investigated the problem and found that it was a simple fix with new spark plugs and wires. While I found changing the front disk brakes to be easy, I had trouble removing the rear brake drums and will need to investigate further. Overall, it's a very good little car with great gas mileage. It performs well in steep grade country, getting at least 25 mpg and averaging 33 to 35 mpg. On flat freeways, I have even achieved 48 mpg several times. I am really satisfied with my 02 Escort.
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Hey there! You've got an awesome car with so many after-market products available!
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This is Ford's best-built, highest-quality car in my personal opinion. I have observed that the ZX2 sells as soon as it hits the dealerships, with little or no advertising. This fact by itself is very interesting. It is a very well-built car and a true value for the money. I hope Ford always builds this fine car.
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It's great to hear that you're enjoying your car! I'm glad to hear that it's both fun to drive and fuel-efficient. It sounds like you've been a loyal customer, having owned a 1998 model before upgrading to your current 2002 car. Thanks for sharing your positive experience with us!
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I'm thrilled with the Focus and would highly recommend it. The design, handling, comfort, and fun-to-drive factor are all top-notch. So far, with only 25,000 miles on it, the car has held up great, and I haven't encountered any issues. The only downside is that my car gets lower gas mileage than advertised, with about 20 city/30 highway compared to the advertised 27 city/30 highway.
Additional sources
More sources of information about 2002 Ford Escort problems:
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 ...
2002 Ford Escort Problems and Complaints - 4 Issues
Top 2002 Ford Escort Problems · The Constant Control Relay Module May Fail · Valve Seats on Cylinder Head May Fall Out and Cause Rough Running/Noise · Cylinder ...
various issues on 2002 Ford Escort ZX2 -- is it worth repairing? : r ...
Apr 20, 2014 ... various issues on 2002 Ford Escort ZX2 -- is it worth repairing? · Lower ball joints, tie rods need replacement · Engine noise from idler.
2002 Ford Escort Reviews - Carsurvey.org
Oct 14, 2011 ... Front right CV Boot leaking grease. Replaced entire axle shaft. Left front wheel bearing replaced. Emergency brake adjuster replaced---all the ...
2000 Ford Escort ZX2: Troubleshooting Common Problems ...
Feb 11, 2009 ... 2000 Ford Escort ZX2. cranking issue (but starts easily and without hesitation). Had it for the past 4 years from 21k to - Answered by a ...
Other years of Ford Escort
Are you having problems with your 2002 Ford Escort?
Wilber Kassulke 2024-06-29
I bought this car as a way for me to get back and forth from school. Shortly after, however, I moved out of town and found that this car is not suitable for long drives. In the city, it does alright, except for the fact that it has a horrible vibration that I've been told can't be fixed. But overall, it's a good car that saves me quite a bit on gas.
Garrick Schroeder 2024-04-23
I purchased the automatic deluxe model, but I wish I had gone for the manual transmission. While the body style is great and it handles well, the car is unfortunately underpowered. Additionally, I've noticed that both window seals leak air when driving at highway speeds, and the engine vibrates severely at stoplights due to faulty engine mounts (as per Ford Service Techs). I also found out that my 2002 ZX2 had depreciated 60% in just 4 months, and most dealers only offered $7,000 tops on trade. Despite these setbacks, I still find the car dependable.
Josiah Robel 2024-02-15
This car is a great option for single people on a budget! However, if you need to install a car seat, there may be some challenges, especially with rear-facing models. It's important to note that there is no middle seatbelt in the back seat, so children will need to be seated behind the driver or passenger, which may not be the safest option.
Llewellyn Eichmann 2024-01-21
If you're curious about the ZX2's purpose and how it compares to the Focus ZX3, let me share with you. First and foremost, it's a stunning car that catches the eye of many. In terms of performance, it may have some limitations, but it's important to keep in mind that it's an affordable car designed to look great.