Faults:

The back spring on the passenger side has broken.

The air conditioner runs all the time regardless if it is shut off or not.

The windshield is coming out.

The rear passengers seal on the door is coming off.

The paint and clear coat is coming off.

General Comments:

This car has a bit of spunk to it. When the gas is pressed it will take off. It has a bit of edge.

This car however will rev itself up on its own.

It also will inch forward in drive.

On long car rides it could be a bit more comfortable.

Faults:

I owned the Escort for 5 1/2 years. The only thing that needed to be replaced was the alternator at 99k miles.

General Comments:

Very efficient, reliable. I thoroughly enjoyed ownership.

Faults:

The day after I bought the car the service engine soon light came on. Nobody could figure out what was wrong with it. I had to have taken the car in at least 10 times. Each time they would reset it, the next day it would come back on.

Just recently the check water light has been on, when it has enough water in it.

It is hard to get it first, third, fifth, and reverse.

The alternater locks up sometimes.

General Comments:

Most of the problems with the car are because of me. I race the poor thing at least 6 or 7 times a day. It really hasn't done that bad.

Faults:

Transmission replaced at 114000 - no oil found in it when taken out - strange.

After market cruise control wiring melted due to a mechanic's mistake.

Faulty tie rod end replaced under the warranty with no questions when purchasing the car.

General Comments:

I love my car even though people constantly make fun of me for driving a "family car", but when I explain my 40 m.p.g., they shut up. Considering the fuel economy, it is a pretty peppy little car- enough to kick a Cavalier's ass. Awesome handling with good tires, looks great if you get attached.

The little problems I've had with my car are overcome by the love I have for my car.

Faults:

Tires wear unevenly, car stalls all the time in traffic. Insides are falling apart.

General Comments:

It was cheap and now I see why.

Faults:

Head gasket blown twice now, front rotors warped causing front brakes to go out constantly.

Electrical short in wiring harness causing A/C to malfunction.

General Comments:

Thank god for the warranty, I'm getting rid of this thing as soon as I can.

Faults:

Replaced the brakes.

General Comments:

This is by far the best car that I have ever owned or have ever driven. I love my car, I liked it so much that I just traded it in on the new ZX2 S/R, I hope that the reliablity comes with me.

Great car, better than all the cars in its class.

Faults:

Nothing but regular maintenance.

General Comments:

This car is great.

0-60 in 8 seconds (manual transmission) is enough to beat most cars in its class in a drag race, if you're into that sort of thing. Very confident handling and excellent brake feel. The shifter is a little notchy, but it's never hard to find and hit the gears. Very sporty design. Variable camshaft timing allows the engine to produce most of its torque at low rpm, so it pulls great throughout its entire range.

Tall drivers (6'0 or taller) might feel a little uncomfortable driving this car, though.

Excellent cargo space due to split-folding rear seats.

Good gas mileage (26/33 EPA). I've gone up to 310 miles with one gallon left in the tank once (12.8 gallon tank).

Stay away from the automatic, though. Fords are known for having problematic automatic transmissions.