1996 Ford Escort LX review from North America

New battery.

Front Brakes and Rotors.

PCV joint needed to be replaced.

Front tie rod was replaced.

Dome light doesn't work when the door is opened. It wasnt working when I got the car from my mom-in-law in Dec. 05. Nor does the trunk light work.

When I turn, the steering column makes a squeaking noise, but it isn't a big deal.

Other than that, I have changed the oil every 3500 miles or so and she hasn't given me any problems yet.

Oh yeah, the paint on the ENTIRE hood has come of and it looks like its been primed. The headlight covers have become quite dull and cloudy looking. I'm thinking of replacing them and putting HID's in. The car sat for about 10 months, so I don't know if that was the cause for the dullness in the paint and headlight covers.

My soon to be ex-girlfriend and I bought this car from her mom and we only had the 98 Explorer in the house since we moved together in 01 and this would be a perfect starter car for me (Since I didn't get my license until 3/06, when I turned 25) Her mom preferred public transportation and didn't really drive the car. It only had 86K when I got it from her in 06.

I find it to be roomy for a compact car, but I wouldn't recommend anyone sitting in the back if both front seats are occupied (by people 5'10 and above) unless your under 5 feet tall. I'm 5'11 300 lbs, and the seats are comfortable. I don't sit @ a 90 degree angle like some people, so I'm pretty comfortable.

This car is too low to the ground. It feels like I have to climb out and fall in. If you're a tall (5'8 and up) person getting in on the passenger side, I wouldn't recommend doing it by the curb.

The gas on this 4cyl is EXCELLENT. I usually fill up ONCE a week, and that will usually last me if I just go to work and back (9 miles each way). but if I decide to go out a few nights or take the long way home, I might burn a tank and a half a week.

The radio is outdated since it comes with a cassette player. Soon, I'll go to an electronics place like best buy or circuit city and get a quality cd player by Pioneer, Kenwood, or JVC for under $150. The only downfall for this car is when you put in an aftermarket radio, the installation kit is $78 (expensive compared to other makes which the price is $20-$30) to match the oval shaped dash. But I'm sure you can find a cheaper price by browsing online somewhere.