The Ford Escort was a popular compact car produced by Ford from 1980 to 2003. Known for its affordability, reliability, and fuel efficiency, the Escort was a practical choice for drivers seeking a dependable everyday vehicle. It offered a comfortable interior with seating for up to five passengers and a spacious trunk for cargo. The Escort was available in various body styles, including sedan, hatchback, and wagon, catering to different preferences. With a range of engine options and trim levels, the Escort provided a versatile driving experience for consumers. Although the Escort is no longer in production, its reputation for practicality and value has left a lasting legacy in the automotive industry.
FORD ESCORT PROBLEMS

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Worst Year
1997
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Worst Module
Electrical

Issues by Year
Click on the chart bars to get detailed information about years to avoid
Malfunction Modules
Click on the car modules reliability chart below for details
Best and Worst Years
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Best Choice
1981 Escort
Total Complaints:
2 issues
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Worst Choice
1997 Escort
Car owners are faced with the first problems after 40 miles.
Total Complaints:
704 issues
Complaints and Common Faults
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1. Engine and Performance Issues:
- Crack in the engine head
- Engine head/cylinder rocker arm cover gasket split
- Engine lost power
- Head gasket bolt snapped
- Engine stalling
- Constant oil leak
- Distributor mounted ignition module failure
- Improper connection of the cooling system to the engine block
- Exhaust, ignition switch, alternator, volt regulator, ignition distributor, and coil issues
- Carburetor failure
- Fuel injectors carbonated
- Hesitation while driving
- Vehicle stalls and cuts off
- Crack in the engine head
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2. Electrical Problems:
- Ignition switch shorted, causing fire
- Electrical short in ignition switch
- Electrical fire in dash and underhood
- Electronic fuel injector failure
- Turn signals going out
- Air conditioner problems due to electrical issues
- Wiring harness failure
- Electrical short causing vacuum pump failure
- Bad smell from ignition
- Ignition switch shorted, causing fire
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3. Fire-related Issues:
- Underhood fire
- Vehicle fire in parking lot
- Ignition switch fire
- Engine compartment fire
- Vehicle caught on fire while parked/driving
- Fire around the steering wheel
- Dashboard fire
- Vehicle fire in the ignition column
- Engine fire
- Electrical short or shock causing vehicle fire
- Aluminum heads overheating/cracking causing engine fire
- Underhood fire
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4. Brake Problems:
- Master cylinder ripped loose from firewall
- Brakes failed, causing accidents
- Vacuum pump (brakes) housing broken
- Emergency parking brake not holding
- Brake fluid leaks
- Rear strut towers rusted out
- Master cylinder ripped loose from firewall
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5. Structural and Frame Issues:
- Seat frame and slide rail supports failed
- Whole underside rusted and rotted
- Frame broken in two places
- Entire frame prematurely rusted
- Rear strut towers rusted out
- Suspension rust causing tire to fall off
- Seat frame and slide rail supports failed
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6. Seat and Seatbelt Issues:
- Electric seat belts failed
- Rear seat belt retractor mechanism failed
- Plastic part inside seat belt buckle became brittle
- Seat belt did not restrain driver during an accident
- Seat belt latch incorporates brittle plastic spacer
- Plastic sleeve covering seat belt buckles failed
- Electric seat belts failed
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7. Miscellaneous Issues:
- Dashboard reflection impairing visibility
- Hood blew up and hit windshield
- Rubber boot around gear shift lever too tight in cold weather
- Gas gauge inoperative
- High-intensity discharge headlights causing glare
- Accelerator pedal getting stuck
- Dashboard reflection impairing visibility
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8. Rust and Corrosion Issues:
- Rust in suspension well
- Left rear unibody rusted through
- Quarter panel over rear passenger tire weakened
- Rust in suspension well
Questions
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Is the Ford Escort reliable?
The Ford Escort has a reputation for being a reliable and dependable vehicle. It is known for its durability, ease of maintenance, and affordability. While newer models may have fewer reported issues, older versions are praised for their longevity and overall reliability. Regular maintenance and proper care can help ensure the Ford Escort continues to perform well over time.
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Why was the Ford Escort discontinued?
The Ford Escort was discontinued due to declining sales and shifting consumer preferences towards larger vehicles such as SUVs and crossovers. The Escort, a compact car, faced competition from other models in the Ford lineup and struggled to keep up with changing market trends. Additionally, advancements in technology, safety standards, and environmental regulations may have also played a role in the decision to discontinue the Escort. Ford shifted its focus to producing more profitable and popular vehicles, leading to the discontinuation of the Escort in favor of other models in the Ford portfolio.
Other Models
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