1995 Ford Escort GL review from Germany
"Below average, but no lemon"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
A coolant hose blew (and killed the water pump...)
water pump replaced
Head gasket replaced (due to overheating)
Replaced clutch at 120000 km (which is OK, BTW)
Replaced exhaust at 80000 km (borderline OK)
Replaced some rubber bearing thingy in front axle twice
Ceiling starts to fall off
Water pump replaced again (!)
Ignition cable harness needed replacing
Rear seat hinges broke
Suspension struts are shot now
Ignition key #1 wore off
Passenger-side door lock quit working
Rear brake drums are rusted in place and can't be opened for brake pad replacement (!)
General comments?
This Escort was cheap to obtain and costly to maintain. It kind of equalizes things. Parts are cheap, though (compared to Volkswagen).
There is too little headroom for larger drivers.
It drives so-so and looks so-so.
Corrosion was not a problem and the paintwork held up well.
The 5-gear manual transmission is quite good, as is the fuel economy.
I never felt that the engine lacked power or was too noisy.
Handling and comfort are all-right for a car this age and price.
The car is terribly bland: Nothing to love or hate, really. Maybe a little more to hate: 3 water pumps in 130000 km? Come on!
Recommended Reviews:
  | I like the mileage and the price was right |
| Its been a very handy vehicle when not broken down |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | No |
| First year of ownership | 2003 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2008 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.6 Manual |
| Performance marks | 4/10 |
| Reliability marks | 5/10 |
| Comfort marks | 3/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 4/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 70000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 130000 kilometres |
| Previous car | Volkswagen Passat |
| Date of Entry | 15th May, 2008 |