12th Sep 2010, 18:43

Everything worked on our Ford when it was traded at 325,000 miles (for another Ford, of course). It had cost us a whopping $500 in repairs over the 17 years we owned it. Fords are now, and always have been VERY reliable cars. We also were cursed with three imports. All were totally falling apart by 100,000 miles.

26th Nov 2010, 14:34

1999 Ford Escort. Vibration; did all 3 motor mounts, cleaned MAF, and there is no difference, and I only have 40,000 miles on this car.

29th Nov 2010, 20:54

I got a 1999 Ford Escort ZX2 as my first car, and boy was this a mistake. I've replaced the alternator, transmission, the battery 4 times, the ignition, the starter, and many other parts and my car STILL has problems bad enough to where I cannot drive it.

Just recently, after replacing the alternator AGAIN after breaking down in the middle of the highway, my car is idling and running very rough. My Check Engine Light flashes at me, what else could be wrong with this car?

I would wish this upon nobody. Do not buy a car like this. The saying is true, FORD: Found On Road Dead. This car is nothing but a headache and rarely does it get me from A to B.

Good Luck!

31st May 2011, 10:49

I agree with you. I own a 2001 ZX2 and love it. I bought it new. I have maintained it all along. I get 28-29 in city and 35-36 on the highway. I will be at a loss when it finally needs replacing.

7th Jun 2012, 19:00

I bought a used 1998 Ford Escort ZX2 in Jan 2010. I have not had one problem with that car; regular oil changes, brake pads. That is all.

Yesterday the service engine soon light came on, but the car still runs great.

2nd Oct 2012, 21:17

So Mr. Ford Maintenance Man, what might cause a 1999 ZX2 to not only have low idle, but also cause the front driver tire to stop spinning on a working axle? My husband is a mechanic, but we're totally stumped.

4th Dec 2012, 14:17

I have the same problem / same year. Did you get it solved?

6th Jun 2017, 19:39

I used to have that problem... you need to replace your idler pulley or the tensioner... Also sounds like you're missing the inner fender cover.

24th Dec 2023, 22:15

Sounds like a timing belt issue! Once these belts get a little out of spec they start to buck, and will cause the tranny to throw shift code because of the lack of power being able to be pushed to the transmission. The bucking from the engine causing erratic shifting.