1992 Ford Escort LX review from North America
"A rock solid, gas sipping engine, fitted into a rusty framework"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
My brother and I first learned to drive stick on this car and we raced the car hard. The tranny went at 240,000 and was replaced with a 2nd hand tranny.
The engine thermostat went at 200,000km.
Two timing belts and two water pumps were replaced.
Serious rust problem, even in the first year of owning the car. The dealer was of no use.
The ignition lock was replaced at 410,000km.
The wiper control module was replaced at 415,000km.
The rear left passenger door lock seized up and remained locked from about 360,000km.
Front CV joints and complete suspension overhaul at around 400,000km.
General comments?
This is the best car I've ever owned. The performance of the 1.9 engine was weak and noisy when pushed, but the reliability of the engine was outstanding. No matter how hot or cold, the engine always started without drama, misfire, or hesitation. Thankfully, I experienced no electrical problems.
Poor handling, (major under-steer), made for nervous drives in bad weather.
The body of the car rusted out completely. Chunks of rust would fall off the car ever time I closed the trunk in the last year I owned the car.
I loved the seats and interior was great. Lots of leg room up front, and the trim held together well. The original tape deck still works, but the speakers were garbage.
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Don't Know |
| First year of ownership | 1992 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.9 Manual |
| Performance marks | 2/10 |
| Reliability marks | 10/10 |
| Comfort marks | 9/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 10/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 0 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 485000 kilometres |
| Date of Entry | 11th April, 2003 |