1990 Ford Escort LX review from North America

At 16,000 miles, front passenger side tie-rod replaced.

At 40,000 miles, transmission started leaking fluid. Needed to be resealed.

At 64,000 miles, replaced timing belt.

At 90,000 miles, started a long series of troubles with emission control system, (i.e.;replacing Exhaust Gas Regulation valve; replacing throttle-position sensor several times, etc.).

At 115,000 miles, replaced multi-function switch in steering column.

At 124,000 miles, replaced timing belt.

At 153,000 miles, replaced multi-function switch again.

At 160,000 miles, replaced timing belt.

At 182,000 miles, driver's side seat broke down. Switched it with the passenger side seat.

At 193,000 miles, car finally said "No more!".

All in all, this car has been quite reliable.

With the exception of the emission control issues, (far too complex for such a small car; impossible for a shade tree mechanic to diagnose or fix), and the VERY poorly thought-out timing belt design, (you have to raise the engine to remove the timing belt), this car has been mechanically strong.

It's a nice car to drive. A lot of quickness for a four cylinder. The front seats are very comfortable, but the back seats have NO leg-room. They might be fine for kids, but not adults.

The bumpers are very strong. The car was rear-ended four times with no discernible effect.

The paint job is fantastic. The car STILL looks great after a washing and I've never waxed it!

The cooling system was a wonder. It still had the same fluid in it as when I got the car!!