1995 Ford Escort Wagon review from North America
"Its been a very handy vehicle when not broken down"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Purchased car from Dealer used. Within one year developed overheating problems. Head gasket was blown and a bolt holding the head down was snapped in half. Fixed it myself, repair went well.
At 110,000 the engine was still overheating. A relay and/or the fan switch was bad. I replaced both.
At 115,000 the radiator exploded. Replaced radiator and thermostat.
At 117,000 the ignition switch went bad. It had been malfunctioning since the day we purchased the car. Broke the steering wheel trying to take it off. Ended up not using the $100 switch and getting a whole steering column from the junk yard.
At 120,000 the speedometer bounces wildly at speeds greater than 50mph.
At 128,000 the transmission has developed hard shifting between first and second as well as between second and third.
General comments?
I really like the wagon style. It comfortably fits 4 adults and has plenty of storage area in the back.
It has a roof rack that allowed me to carry sheet rock and plywood.
We have taken it on several 1000+ mile trips and it performed well.
The seat moves back and reclines enough for me since I'm tall, as well as suits my wife who is short.
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  | I like the mileage and the price was right |
| The one and only...Studwagon |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 1999 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 1.9 Automatic |
| Performance marks | 7/10 |
| Reliability marks | 5/10 |
| Comfort marks | 6/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 6/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 97000 miles |
| Most recent distance | 127000 miles |
| Previous car | Ford Truck |
| Date of Entry | 26th August, 2003 |