1997 Ford Escort Ghia X review from UK and Ireland
"Good cheap reliable car - but watch out for corrosion"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Thermostat stuck open at 90,000.
Corrosion on rear arches and seals, which I had to removed and undersealed. I caught it early enough for it not to cause problems.
Rear chassis rails corroded badly and will need to be repaired before its next annual MOT test.
General comments?
Very cheap to buy. Did not require any mechanical repair apart from thermostat. Service parts were very cheap.
Handling is not great but comfortable. Just don't try to push it through corners fast.
Biggest problem with Escorts is corrosion. Ford did not do a good job on this car. You need to keep on top of it or it can get bad quickly.
If you want a cheap run around, then it is perfect, but watch out for corrosion.
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| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model year | 1997 |
| Year of manufacture | 1997 |
| First year of ownership | 2007 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2009 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.8L Manual |
| Performance marks | 6 / 10 |
| Reliability marks | 9 / 10 |
| Comfort marks | 7 / 10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 10 / 10 |
| Overall marks (average of all marks) | |
| Distance when acquired | 86000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 107000 miles |
| Previous car | Ford Mondeo |
| Date of Entry | 18th September, 2009 |