Faults:

Constant motor& transmission mounts, rear wheel bearings, front struts, a/c blower fan, dashboard bulbs, pre heater hose, two engine control modules, two starter motors, front cv boots, plastic vacum connectors, master cylinder. A dealer had to replace recalled catalyst converter, stereo speakers disintegrated plus all the regular costs of required service brakes, fluids, etc.

General Comments:

I honestly tell you it was the biggest mistake I could have made. It was my first new car and I had hoped to have it several years after it was paid off. I took care of it like the manual stated but it didn't make much difference. After the third year, it seemed to break down or needed some kind of service every three months or so. I know it sounds silly, but you almost had to check under the hood after the end of each driving day. Because if you didn't, when you did get around to check, things would be coming apart! Hoses, connectors, bolts, seeps and leaks; really I mean it! Would you believe things went out under warranty during the second year of ownership? Twice for electronic distributor module. I mean stranded at night both times. I had payments of $222.13 for five years. It ran 2 months more after the last payment then the transmission went out. All of that money and repair expense and I'm left with nothing. The used car place offered me $100.00 for it. I won't forget it! Had I bought that used Cressida that I looked at before I went to the Ford lot, I truly believe I would have had better service from it, even as unattractive as the body style was at that time. I think it was a 1986 Toyota Cressida. I was sold on the Escort because of the electric seat belts. What was I thinking? I let a fancy seat belt cloud my judgment and it cost me dearly.

Faults:

Replaced clutch and pressure plate.

Engine developed blow-by at 240000 miles.

General Comments:

The reliability is great; I've had it for almost 20 years and the two items listed were the only major problems that have occurred, and I've found a re-manufactured engine to replace this one.

Great gas mileage (with blow-by) compared to today's new cars.

Would have liked more gauges on the dash instead of a "check engine" light.

Mechanic friendly.

Faults:

Head gasket and new head.

Heater core.

Fuel pump.

Clutch replaced.

Valve cover gasket.

Tie rods, struts and strut mounts.

Wheel bearings.

General Comments:

My dad bought this car brand new back in '88 and nothing major has worn out on it. but it is what, close to 20 years old? and I am a teenage driver, so this car should be toast. I drive back and forth to school every day and I get 32 mpg. but if driven the speed limit I can easly get close to 40. this car is not a mustang, but can trump a Honda any day. when you pop the clutch your is pinned to the headrest. and spinning the tires is TOO easy sometimes. but overall this car is one the better cars on the road in my opinion, obviously not the nicest, but never the less it my little red escort and I love every part of it.