1988 FORD ESCORT
2 recalls, 206 complaints - 31 TSBs
96V071000 Apr 25, 1996
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
Defect Description
THE IGNITION SWITCH COULD EXPERIENCE AN INTERNAL SHORT CIRCUIT.
Consequence
THIS CONDITION COULD CAUSE OVERHEATING, SMOKE, AND POSSIBLY FIRE IN THE STEERING COLUMN AREA OF THE VEHICLE.
Remedy
DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE IGNITION SWITCH.
87V139000 Sep 4, 1987
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
Defect Description
SPRING LOCK FUEL LINE COUPLING MAY NOT BE PROPERLY ENGAGED.
Consequence
COUPLING COULD DISENGAGE DUE TO FUEL PRESSURE,VIBRATION, AND ENGINE MOVEMENTS; THIS WOULD CAUSE LOSS OF FUEL WHICH, INPRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE, CREATES A FIRE RISK.
Remedy
INSTALL RETAINER CLIPS OVER THE COUPLINGS TO PREVENT COUPLING SEPARATION AND FUEL LEAKAGE.
Complaint Statistics
206 total complaints
6 crashes 66 fires 8 injuries
Top Reported Components
| Component | Complaints |
|---|---|
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH | 34 |
| ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE | 15 |
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:INTERIOR/UNDER DASH | 10 |
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION | 9 |
| SEAT BELTS | 8 |
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING | 7 |
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ALTERNATOR/GENERATOR/REGULATOR | 7 |
| FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP | 6 |
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FRONT UNDERHOOD | 5 |
| EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS | 5 |
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
Oct 3, 2003
Incident date: Oct 3, 2003
CAR HAS BEEN STALLING REGARDLESS OF SPEED. TOOK TO MECHANIC TO DETERMINE PROBLEM. MECHANIC HAS (SO FAR) IDENTIFIED BAD HEAD GASKET. I AM SECOND OWNER OF THIS VEHICLE AND IT HAS ONLY 67,000 MILES ON IT. VERY FEW MILES FOR AN EXPENSIVE HEAD GASKET REPAIR!! *JB
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:MODULE
May 1, 2003
I BOUGHT THIS VEHICLE FROM MY UNCLE WHEN IT WAS 3 YEARS OLD WITH 40,000 MILES ON IT. IT BEGAN STALLING A YEAR OR SO AFTER I BOUGHT IT. I HAD IT IN TO BOTH A FORD AND INDEPENDENT REPAIR SHOP WITH A VARIETY OF REASONS GIVEN FOR IT STALLING. I REPLACED THE IGNITION MODULE THREE DIFFERENT TIMES ON MY... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
Jul 22, 2002
I BOUGHT THIS VEHICLE FROM MY UNCLE WHEN IT WAS 3 YEAR OLD WITH 40,000 MILES ON IT. IT BEGAN STALLING A YEAR OR SO AFTER I BOUGHT IT. I HAD IT IN TO BOTH A FORD AND INDEPENDENT REPAIR SHOP WITH A VARIETY OF REASONS GIVEN FOR ITS STALLING. I REPLACED THE IGNITION MODULE THREE DIFFERENT TIMES ON M... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
Apr 29, 2002
NO SUMMARY LISTED FOR ABOVE VEHICLE. *AK
Fire
1 injured
SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM:LOWER ARM
Mar 28, 2002
CONSUMER STATES WHILE HAVING VEHICLES OIL CHANGED THE MECHANIC NOTICED HIM THE LOWER ARM SHAFT WAS RUSTED AND NEED TO BE REPLACED. NLM
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:TAIL LIGHTS:SWITCH
Dec 10, 2001
Incident date: Mar 12, 1996
WHEN HEADLIGHTS ARE ON TAILLIGHTS WILL NOT WORK. WHEN MOVING SWITCH TAIL LIGHTS WILL WORK, BUT HEADLIGHTS WII NOT. THIS IS THE THIRD SWITCH. CONTACTED DEALER, AND DEALER WILL REPLACE SWITCH AT CONSUMER'S EXPENSE.*AK
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS:SWITCH
Dec 10, 2001
Incident date: Mar 12, 1996
WHEN HEADLIGHTS ARE ON TAILLIGHTS WILL NOT WORK. WHEN MOVING SWITCH TAIL LIGHTS WILL WORK, BUT HEADLIGHTS WII NOT. THIS IS THE THIRD SWITCH. CONTACTED DEALER, AND DEALER WILL REPLACE SWITCH AT CONSUMER'S EXPENSE.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE
Oct 30, 2001
Incident date: Aug 10, 1993
VEHICLE STALLS AT ANY SPEED, HAS STALLED 4 TIMES. INDEPENDENT REPAIR SHOP REPLACED IGNITION MODULE 4 TIMES.*AK *JB
TIRES
Sep 28, 2001
WHILE TRAVELING, VEHICLE BOUNCED TO LEFT OR TO RIGHT DUE TO UNEVEN WEAR OF TIRES. *AK FRONT END CAN NOT BE ALIGNED PROPERLY TO SPECIFICATION PER DEALER. VEHICLE WOULD NOT START, DEALER REPLACED THE IGNITION COIL AND MODULE 4 DIFFERENT TIMES. *SLC
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
Sep 28, 2001
WHILE TRAVELING, VEHICLE BOUNCED TO LEFT OR TO RIGHT DUE TO UNEVEN WEAR OF TIRES. *AK FRONT END CAN NOT BE ALIGNED PROPERLY TO SPECIFICATION PER DEALER. VEHICLE WOULD NOT START, DEALER REPLACED THE IGNITION COIL AND MODULE 4 DIFFERENT TIMES. *SLC
VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER:MOTOR
Jun 18, 2001
Incident date: May 1, 1992
KNOCKING NOISE IN THE ENGINE BEGAN - DEALER CONTACTED AND STATED NOISE PROBABLY DUE TO BENT ROD. KNOCK SEEMS TO LESSEN DURING COLD WEATHER AND WHEN OIL IS SERVICED. WINDSHIELD WIPERS STOP INTERMITTENTLY DURING OPERATION. REPLACED THE WIPER MOTOR - PROBLEM STILL EXISTS.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
Jun 18, 2001
Incident date: May 1, 1992
KNOCKING NOISE IN THE ENGINE BEGAN - DEALER CONTACTED AND STATED NOISE PROBABLY DUE TO BENT ROD. KNOCK SEEMS TO LESSEN DURING COLD WEATHER AND WHEN OIL IS SERVICED. WINDSHIELD WIPERS STOP INTERMITTENTLY DURING OPERATION. REPLACED THE WIPER MOTOR - PROBLEM STILL EXISTS.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE
Apr 16, 2001
Incident date: Jan 1, 2001
VEHICLE STALLS AT ANY TIME AND ANY SPEED.*AK
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS
Mar 23, 2001
Incident date: Jun 23, 2000
NO SUMMARY LISTED FOR ABOVE VEHICLE. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
Dec 27, 2000
Incident date: May 6, 2000
VEHICLE MAY NOT START AT TIMES. SOMETIMES FUEL PUMP WON'T WORK, IGNITION SWITCH IS FAULTY, AND SOMETIMES SWITCH STICKS IN ON POSITION INSTEAD OF RETURING TO RIGHT POSITION. *AK
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
Dec 27, 2000
Incident date: May 6, 2000
VEHICLE MAY NOT START AT TIMES. SOMETIMES FUEL PUMP WON'T WORK, IGNITION SWITCH IS FAULTY, AND SOMETIMES SWITCH STICKS IN ON POSITION INSTEAD OF RETURING TO RIGHT POSITION. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
Nov 6, 2000
Incident date: Jan 1, 2000
WHEN DRIVING CAR WILL STOP WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE. DEALERSHIP IS AWARE OF PROBLEM.*AK
CHILD SEAT:TETHER: STRAP/WEBBING
Oct 26, 2000
WHILE CHILD IS IN CHILD SEAT SEAT BELTS BECOME UNDONE . CONSUMER CONTACTED MANUFACTURER/ DEALER. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION.*AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
Oct 25, 2000
I BOUGHT THIS VEHICLE FROM MY UNCLE WHEN IT WAS 3 YEAR OLD WITH 40,000 MILES ON IT. IT BEGAN STALLING A YEAR OR SO AFTER I BOUGHT IT. I HAD IT IN TO BOTH A FORD AND INDEPENDENT REPAIR SHOP WITH A VARIETY OF REASONS GIVEN FOR ITS STALLING. I REPLACED THE IGNITION MODULE THREE DIFFERENT TIMES ON M... Read more
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP
Oct 2, 2000
Incident date: May 1, 2000
RADIATOR COOLING FAN MALFUNCTIONED WHILE DRIVING, CAUSING WIRE HARNESS TO CATCH ON FIRE, AND BLOW THE FUSEABLE LINK THAT SHUTS FUEL PUMP OFF. THIS COMPLETELY CAUSED VEHICLE TO SHUT DOWN. FORD HAS BEEN CONTACTED.*AK
Fire
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:FAN
Oct 2, 2000
Incident date: May 1, 2000
RADIATOR COOLING FAN MALFUNCTIONED WHILE DRIVING, CAUSING WIRE HARNESS TO CATCH ON FIRE, AND BLOW THE FUSEABLE LINK THAT SHUTS FUEL PUMP OFF. THIS COMPLETELY CAUSED VEHICLE TO SHUT DOWN. FORD HAS BEEN CONTACTED.*AK
Fire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FRONT UNDERHOOD
Oct 2, 2000
Incident date: May 1, 2000
RADIATOR COOLING FAN MALFUNCTIONED WHILE DRIVING, CAUSING WIRE HARNESS TO CATCH ON FIRE, AND BLOW THE FUSEABLE LINK THAT SHUTS FUEL PUMP OFF. THIS COMPLETELY CAUSED VEHICLE TO SHUT DOWN. FORD HAS BEEN CONTACTED.*AK
Fire
SUSPENSION:FRONT:CONTROL ARM
Sep 28, 2000
Incident date: Aug 1, 1989
FORD ADMITTED TO NEWSPAPER COLUMIST THAT BALL JOINTS ON MANY ESCORTS AND TEMPOS WERE DEFECTIVE. MISSOURI REQUIRED ANNUAL SAFETY INSPECTIONS WHICH CAUGHT MANY OF THESE DEFECTIVE BALL JOINTS BUT MANY STATES DID NOT REQUIRE INSPECTIONS. FORD COVERED THIS PROBLEM UP, SO THERE IS NO WAY OF KNOWING HOW ... Read more
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
Sep 26, 2000
Incident date: Sep 16, 2000
RECALL PERFORMED ON IGNITION SWITCH. IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE RECALL WAS PERFORMED THE LOW BEAM HEADLIGHTS FAILED TO COME ON. DEALER STATED THAT IT COULD NOT NOT BE RELATED. THE FORD TECH THAT DID THE REPLACEMENT DISTURBED OTHER AREAS IN THE STEERING COLUMN CAUSING THE FAILURE. HE/SHE FAILED TO CON... Read more
SEAT BELTS
Sep 8, 2000
Incident date: Mar 3, 1999
LEFT FRONT MOTORIZED SEAT BELT FAILED. YH
STEERING: STEERING WHEEL/HANDLE BAR
Feb 8, 2000
STEERING WHEEL RETAINER BOLT WILL WORK ITS WAY OUT, CAUSING STEERING COLUMN TO BE MOVEABLE. TSB HAS BEEN ISSUED FOR REDESIGNED BOLT. CONSUMER FAILED SAFETY INSPECTION DUE TO THIS DEFECT. *AK
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS:HIGH/LOW BEAM DIMMER SWITCH
Jan 28, 2000
THE HEADLIGHT SWITCH HAS BEEN REPLACED ABOUT 4 TIMES IN THE LAST 3 YEARS. IT LOOKS LIKE IT IS DUE TO EXCESSIVE HEAT OR AN ELECTRICAL SHORT IN THE WIRE CONNECTORS. THE DIMMER SWITCH LOCATED INSIDE THE STEERING COLUMN HAS BEEN REPLACED TWICE IN THE LAST YEAR DUE TO THE SAME PROBLEM. THE CONNECTORS ... Read more
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS:SWITCH
Jan 28, 2000
THE HEADLIGHT SWITCH HAS BEEN REPLACED ABOUT 4 TIMES IN THE LAST 3 YEARS. IT LOOKS LIKE IT IS DUE TO EXCESSIVE HEAT OR AN ELECTRICAL SHORT IN THE WIRE CONNECTORS. THE DIMMER SWITCH LOCATED INSIDE THE STEERING COLUMN HAS BEEN REPLACED TWICE IN THE LAST YEAR DUE TO THE SAME PROBLEM. THE CONNECTORS ... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ALTERNATOR/GENERATOR/REGULATOR
Sep 21, 1999
ALTERNATOR BELT FAILED. NLM
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
Sep 21, 1999
Incident date: Jan 9, 1997
CONSUMER HAD RECALL REPAIR OF THE IGNITION SWITCH (95S28) PERORMED BUT EXPERIENCED AN IGNITION SWITCH FIRE AFTER RECALL REPAIR. NLM
Fire
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:GAS RECIRCULATION VALVE (EGR VALVE)
Sep 21, 1999
PCV VALVE FAILED. NLM
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:HOSES, LINES/PIPING, AND FITTINGS
Sep 21, 1999
FUEL FILTER FAILED. NLM
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS:SWITCH
Sep 21, 1999
Incident date: Nov 21, 1995
HEADLIGHT SWITCH AND WIRES TO SWITCH FAILED, TAILIGHTS ALSO FAILED. NLM
STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST:PUMP
Sep 21, 1999
POWER STEERING BELT FAILED. NLM
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:HORN
Sep 21, 1999
HORN FAILED. NLM
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:TAIL LIGHTS
Sep 21, 1999
Incident date: Nov 21, 1995
HEADLIGHT SWITCH AND WIRES TO SWITCH FAILED, TAILIGHTS ALSO FAILED. NLM
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FUSES AND CIRCUIT BREAKERS
May 26, 1999
Incident date: Apr 1, 1999
WIRING HARNESS MALFUNCTIONED, CAUSING HEADLIGHTS TO GO ON AND OFF, CAUSING VISIBILITY PROBLEMS, AND MAY RESULT IN A CRASH. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
May 26, 1999
Incident date: Apr 1, 1999
WIRING HARNESS MALFUNCTIONED, CAUSING HEADLIGHTS TO GO ON AND OFF, CAUSING VISIBILITY PROBLEMS, AND MAY RESULT IN A CRASH. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER INFORMATION. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
May 13, 1999
IGNITION SWITCH WAS REPAIRED UNDER RECALL 96V071000, TWO YEARS LATER, IGNITION SWITCH WILL NOT TURN OFF. DEALER WILL BE NOTIFIED. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
Mar 22, 1999
Incident date: Jul 1, 1998
IGNITION SWITCH FAILED PRIOR TO RECALL NOTICE.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
Mar 9, 1999
REPLACED THREE WATER PUMP AND TIMING BELTS BEFORE 75,000 MILES.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM
Mar 9, 1999
REPLACED THREE WATER PUMP AND TIMING BELTS BEFORE 75,000 MILES.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
Mar 9, 1999
Incident date: Feb 28, 1996
IGNITION SWITCH FAILED PRIOR TO RECALL NOTICE.
SEAT BELTS:FRONT
Jan 22, 1999
Incident date: Oct 1, 1997
SEAT BELT BUCKLE FAILURE.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE
Jan 4, 1999
Incident date: Mar 1, 1988
VEHICLE EXPERIENCED CONTINUED PROBLEMS WITH STALLING.
SEAT BELTS
Dec 4, 1998
Incident date: Nov 15, 1998
WHEN OPENING THE DOORS ON THE DRIVER'S OR PASSENGER'S SIDE THE AUTOMATIC SEAT BELTS WILL NOT RETRACT PROPERLY. ALSO, AT TIMES THE BELTS WILL COME ALL THE WAY UP, BUT WILL NOT LOCK INTO POSITON, CAUSING THE SEATBELT LIGHT TO COME ON, INDICATING THE BELTS ARE NOT BEING USED. THE DOOR LIGHT ALSO COMES... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
Dec 1, 1998
Incident date: Nov 19, 1998
IGNITION SWITCH WAS REPLACED UNDER RECALL #98S28 ON 05-OCT-98. ON 19-NOV-98, CONSUMER HAD PARKED THE VEHICLE AFTER TRAVELING AND THE VEHICLE BURST INTO FLAMES DUE TO AN ELECTRICAL PROBLEM, ACCORDING TO THE FIRE DEPARTMENT. DEALER HAS BEEN CONTACTED. *AK
Fire
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE
Dec 1, 1998
Incident date: Nov 22, 1998
THE CONSUMER HAS EXPERIENCED PROBLEMS WITH ENGINE. VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE WHILE IT WAS PARKED OUTSIDE OF CONSUMER'S HOUSE. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT CAME TO THE SCENE AND DETERMINED THAT THE FIRE WAS CAUSED BY A DEFECT IN THE ENGINE. THE MANUFACTURER HAS YET TO BE CONTACTED. *AK *ML
Fire
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
Nov 27, 1998
HEADLIGHTS CONTINUALLY SHUT OFF WHILE DRIVING.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
Oct 20, 1998
IGNITION SWITCH FAILED RESULTING IN VEHICLE FIRE PRIOR TO RECALL NOTICE.
Fire
Showing 50 of 206 complaints.
EPA Fuel Economy, 1988 FORD ESCORT
| Trim / Engine | City MPG | Highway MPG | Combined MPG | Fuel Type | Annual Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.9L 4-cyl, Automatic 3-spd (Front-Wheel Drive) | 21.0 | 28.0 | 24.0 | Regular | $2,550 |
| 1.9L 4-cyl, Manual 4-spd (Front-Wheel Drive) | 28.0 | 38.0 | 32.0 | Regular | $1,900 |
| 1.9L 4-cyl, Manual 5-spd (Front-Wheel Drive) | 22.0 | 29.0 | 25.0 | Regular | $2,450 |
| 1.9L 4-cyl, Manual 5-spd (Front-Wheel Drive) | 24.0 | 33.0 | 28.0 | Regular | $2,200 |
CO2 Emissions: -1.0 g/mile (Compact Cars)
Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Actual fuel economy may vary based on driving conditions.
Technical Service Bulletins, 1988 FORD ESCORT
31 manufacturer communications from 25 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.
Most Affected Components
| Component | Bulletins |
|---|---|
| 103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION | 4 |
| 034500 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC | 3 |
| 061100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE | 2 |
| 063000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM | 2 |
| 357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER | 2 |
| 114000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING | 2 |
| 103700 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:TORQUE CONVERTER | 2 |
| 355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL | 1 |
01157
Aug 6, 2001
980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER
INFORMATION REGARDING TRANSMISSION FLUID USAGE CHARTS. *SLC
01156
Aug 6, 2001
138600 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:HEATER CORE
SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT HEATER CORE LEAKS. *SLC
00188
Sep 4, 2000
061100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE
CONCERNS WITH PREMATURE FAILURE OCCURING ON THE 1.9L MOTORCRAFT REMANUFACTURED LONGBLOCK ASSEMBLY AND SHORTBLOCK ASSEMBLY DUE TO INGESTION OF FOREIGN OBJECTS REMAINING IN THE TRANSFERRED INTAKE SYSTEM FROM THE ORIGINAL FAILED ENGINE.
0015
Jan 10, 2000
103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
INFORMATION REGARDING THE NEW TRANSMISSION COOLER FLUSHER- SERVICE TIP. *MJS
99222
Oct 18, 1999
114000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
SUBJECT ON A WIRE HARNESS TERMINAL REPAIR KIT AVAILABLE FOR REPAIRING ELECTRICAL WIRING HARNESSES. *TT
99196
Sep 20, 1999
357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER
INFORMATION ON IDENTIFYING NON-APPROVED / ALTERNATE REFRIGERANTS WHICH COULD CAUSE SAFETY, AND PERFORMANCE CONCERNS IF INSTALLED IN FORD A/C SYSTEMS. *TT
99152
Jul 26, 1999
103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
INFORMATION ON THE NEW FLUSH AND FILL TOOL AVAILABLE THROUGH ROTUNDA. *TT
98246
Dec 7, 1998
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
FORD MOTOR COMPANY HAS RELEASED A NEW ELECTRICAL GREASE ( F8AZ - 19G208-AA ) TO REDUCE THE POSSIBILITY OF MOISTURE CORROSION AT THE TERMINALS. *YC
9888
Apr 27, 1998
103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
INFORMATION ON A NEW TRANSMISSION FLUID USAGE CHART. *YC
9874
Apr 13, 1998
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
A NEW SILICONE GASKET AND SEALANT. *YC
9852
Apr 13, 1998
190000 TIRES
INFORMATION ON TIRE COMPANY TELEPHONE NUMBERS FOR CUSTOMER ASSISTANCE. *YC
9864
Mar 30, 1998
063000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM
INFORMATION ON A BUZZING OR RATTLE NOISE FROM THE EXHAUST SYSTEM. *TT
985A13
Mar 18, 1998
034500 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC
THE USE OF PETROLEUM-BASED GREASE AS A LUBRICANT IN SERVICING DISC BRAKES IS NO LONGER ACCEPTABLE. *YC
9848
Mar 2, 1998
357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER
ANNOUNCING THE FORD OEM AIR CONDITIONING RETROFIT KIT AVAILABILITY. *YC
97511
Mar 3, 1997
103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
FLUID- TRANSMISSION FLUID USAGE CHARTS. *JD
962612
Dec 16, 1996
103700 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:TORQUE CONVERTER
TRANSAXLE - TORQUE CONVERTER REPLACEMENT GUIDELINES AND TORQUE CONVERTER/TRANSAXLE COOLING SYSTEM CLEANING PROCEDURES - SERVICE TIP. *TW
96249
Nov 18, 1996
103700 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:TORQUE CONVERTER
TORQUE CONVERTER - LEAK TEST PROCEDURE - SERVICE TIP. *TW
96246
Nov 18, 1996
114000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
WIRING - ELECTRICAL DIODE IDENTIFICATION AND SERVICE REPLACEMENTS. *TW
96221
Oct 21, 1996
131000 VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD
WINDSHIELD AND INTERIOR GLASS - FOG/FILM. *TW
95212
Oct 1, 1995
036000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP
THE USE OF PETROLEUM-BASED GREASE AS A LUBRICANT IN SERVICING DISC BRAKES IS NO LONGER ACCEPTABLE BECAUSE IT MAY BE INCOMPATIBLE WITH THE RUBBER MATERIAL USED IN THE DISC BRAKE SYSTEM. IF PETROLEUM-BASED GREASE IS USED TO LUBRICATE ANY PAR
95161
Aug 1, 1995
162000 STRUCTURE:BODY
SHEET METAL-ROOF PANEL AND DRIP RAIL REPLACEMENT- SEAM SEALER APPLICATION PROCEDURE.*SD
9582
Apr 1, 1995
136200 VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER:MOTOR
A REVISED SERVICE WINDSHIELD WIPER MOTOR IS NOW AVAILABLE. *TW
9582
Apr 1, 1995
061100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE
A REVISED SERVICE WINDSHIELD WIPER MOTOR IS NOW AVAILABLE. *TW
SFA/94L01
Mar 1, 1995
011000 STEERING: STEERING WHEEL/HANDLE BAR
UNKNOWN
SFA/94L01
Mar 1, 1995
034500 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC
UNKNOWN
SFA/94L01
Mar 1, 1995
063000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM
UNKNOWN
SFA/94L01
Mar 1, 1995
116000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
UNKNOWN
SFA/94L01
Mar 1, 1995
138800 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:FAN/MOTOR
UNKNOWN
SFA/94L01
Mar 1, 1995
355200 EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL
UNKNOWN
9562
Mar 1, 1995
034500 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC
ROUGHNESS CONCERN DURING BRAKE APPLICATION. *TW
94238
Nov 1, 1994
182000 VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:LINKAGES
ROUGH RUNNING AT STEADY HIGHWAY CRUISE SPEEDS. *TW
NHTSA Safety Investigations, FORD ESCORT
Investigations opened by NHTSA into potential safety defects. These are separate from recalls and may or may not result in a recall.
EA02008
Opened: Jun 10, 2002 , Closed: Dec 11, 2002
WATER INTRUSION INTO AIRBAG MONITOR
BY LETTER OF DECEMBER 6, 2002, FORD NOTIFIED THE AGENCY THAT IT WOULD CONDUCT A SAFETY RECALL ON ALL 1997 FORD ESCORT AND MERCURY TRACER VEHICLES.FORD FOUND THAT ELECTRICAL SHORTING OF THE INTEGRATED AIR BAG MONITOR (IABM)DUE TO LIQUID INTRUSION OF WATER OR ENGINE COOLANT CAN OCCUR IN THE SUBJECT VE... Read more
PE02010
Opened: Jan 30, 2002 , Closed: Jun 10, 2002
INTEGRATED AIR BAG MONITOR WATER
DP01001
Opened: Apr 19, 2001 , Closed: Nov 1, 2001
AIR BAG NON-DEPLOYMENT
RQ97010
Opened: Sep 11, 1997 , Closed: May 22, 2000
FUEL TANK ASSEMBLY
There is no summary currently available
EA95002
Opened: Feb 24, 1995 , Closed: Sep 30, 1996
FIRES IN STEERING COLUMN
ELECTRICAL FIRES IN THE STEERING COLUMN.
PE94089
Opened: Nov 25, 1994 , Closed: Mar 24, 1995
FRONT BRAKE FIRES
There is no summary currently available
PE94078
Opened: Nov 4, 1994 , Closed: Feb 24, 1995
FIRES IN STEERING COLUMN
There is no summary currently available
EA94002
Opened: Jan 28, 1994 , Closed: Jan 31, 1995
FUEL PUMP WIRING SHORTAGE
There is no summary currently available
PE93076
Opened: Sep 3, 1993 , Closed: Jan 28, 1994
FUEL PUMP WIRING SHORTAGE
There is no summary currently available
EA93007
Opened: Feb 26, 1993 , Closed: Apr 26, 1993
INADVERT. STEERING LOCKUP
There is no summary currently available
PE92082
Opened: Oct 6, 1992 , Closed: Feb 26, 1993
INADVER. STEERING LOCKUP
There is no summary currently available
EA92012
Opened: Apr 15, 1992 , Closed: Sep 17, 1992
FUEL TANK LEAKAGE
There is no summary currently available
PE91150
Opened: Dec 3, 1991 , Closed: Apr 15, 1992
FUEL TANK LEAKAGE
There is no summary currently available
PE91025
Opened: Dec 17, 1990 , Closed: Apr 10, 1991
FUEL PUMP FAILURE
There is no summary currently available
DP91003
Opened: Nov 29, 1990 , Closed: Jan 31, 1991
ENGINE STALLING
ENGINE STALLING
PE90063
Opened: Mar 21, 1990 , Closed: Jul 31, 1990
SAFETY BELT D-RING
There is no summary currently available
EA90008
Opened: Dec 27, 1989 , Closed: Dec 31, 1991
FAILED PASSIVE RESTRAINT
WE HAVE RECEIVED NUMEROUS REPORTS WHICH ALLEGE A MALFUNCTION OR FAILURE OF THE PASSIVE RESTRAINT SYSTEM.ADDITIONAL REPORTS ALLEGE THAT THE PASSIVE RESTRAINT SYSTEM FAILED TO RESTRAIN/ADEQUATELY PROTECT THE OCCUPANT DURING AN ACCIDENT
PE89143
Opened: Jul 18, 1989 , Closed: Dec 27, 1989
PASSIVE BELT FAILURE
===
EA88038
Opened: Aug 29, 1988 , Closed: May 11, 1990
REAR SAFETY BELT FIT
===
PE88046
Opened: Apr 15, 1988 , Closed: Jul 11, 1988
HEADLAMP SWITCH FAILURE
SUMMARY: HEADLAMP SWITCH RETAINING BEZEL CRACKS CAUSING HEADLIGHTS TO REMAIN ON AND OCCASIONALLY FLICKER OFF. FORD HAS ISSUED A TECHNICAL SERVICE BULLETIN, ARTICLE # 87-11-8, TO REPLACE THE FAULTY BEZEL WITH AN IMPROVED PART.CONCLUSIONS: THE PE SHOULD BE CLOSED IN THE ABSENCE OF ANY SAFETY RELATED D... Read more
DP88007
Opened: Jan 11, 1988 , Closed: Aug 24, 1988
REAR SEAT BELT COMPLIANCE
REAR SEAT BELT COMPLIANCE
EA87023
Opened: Sep 24, 1987 , Closed: Nov 16, 1989
SEAT TRACKS
SUMMARY: A FRACTURED FRONT SEAT TRACK RECEIVED FROM AN ESCORT OWNER SHOWSTHAT METAL FATIGUE OCCURRED WHICH COULD CAUSE PARTIAL MOVEMENT OF THE SEAT.ANOTHER OWNER SENT PICTURES SHOWING FRACTURE AT THE SAME LOCATION. TENOF THE EIGHTEEN ODI COMPLAINTS HAVE BEEN RECEIVED IN THE PAST FOUR MONTHS.MANUFACT... Read more
DP87032
Opened: Sep 3, 1987 , Closed: Apr 27, 1988
WINDOW SHATTERING
WINDOW SHATTERING
PE87028
Opened: May 1, 1987 , Closed: Jan 21, 1988
STALLING
NO SAFETY DEFECT TREND HAS BEEN DETECTED.===
PE87026
Opened: Apr 28, 1987 , Closed: Sep 24, 1987
SEAT TRACK FAILURE
SUMMARY: A FRACTURED FRONT SEAT TRACK RECEIVED FROM AN ESCORT OWNER SHOWSTHAT METAL FATIGUE OCCURRED WHICH COULD CAUSE PARTIAL MOVEMENT OF THE SEAT.ANOTHER OWNER SENT PICTURES SHOWING FRACTURE AT THE SAME LOCATION. TENOF THE EIGHTEEN ODI COMPLAINTS HAVE BEEN RECEIVED IN THE PAST FOUR MONTHS.MANUFACT... Read more
EA87005
Opened: Dec 1, 1986 , Closed: Oct 31, 1989
FIRES
SUMMARY OF INFORMATION FROM MANUFACTURER:THE ALLEGED FIRES RESULT FROMA VARIETY OF CAUSES.FIRE RATE REMAINS ABOUT THE SAME DESPITE MAJORCHANGES WITH 85-1/2 MODELS.IT BELIEVES THAT THE FIRE RATE IS LESS THANINDUSTRY AVERAGE.MFGR REQUEST COPIES OF SPECIFIC FIRE REPORTS FOR TRENDANALYSIS.ANALYSIS:SEVER... Read more
DP86016
Opened: Jul 24, 1986 , Closed: Aug 7, 1986
STALLING
STALLING
PE86048
Opened: Apr 23, 1986 , Closed: Dec 1, 1986
FIRES
SUMMARY OF INFORMATION FROM MANUFACTURER:THE ALLEGED FIRES RESULT FROM A WIDE VARIETY OF CAUSES, WITH THE REPORTEDRATES OF FIRES FOR 1984-85 MODELS VERSUS THE 85 1/2 MODELS REMAININGAPPROXIMATELY THE SAME.THESE RATES ARE SIGNIFIGANTLY LESS THAN THEINDUSTRY AVERAGE FOR NON-COLLISION VEHICLE FIRES AS ... Read more
EA86010
Opened: Mar 26, 1986 , Closed: Jul 28, 1989
SEATBACK FAILURE
SUMMARY OF INFORMATION FROM MANUFACTURER:FORD BELIEVES THAT THE AL-LEGED DEFECT ONLY OCCURS IN A SMALL NUMBER OF THE SUBJECT VEHICLES ANDRECALLED ABOUT 195,732 1984 TEMPO/TOPAZ VEHICLES IN JUNE 1986.ANALYSIS: VEHICLES POTENTIALLY INVOLVED INCLUDE TEMPO/TOPAZ, ESCORT/LYNX/EXP, MUSTANG/CAPRI, LTD/MARQ... Read more
DP85009
Opened: Jan 29, 1985 , Closed: Feb 27, 1985
FAILURE OF SEAT BACK SECURING BOLTS
FAILURE OF SEAT BACK SECURING BOLTS
DP84017
Opened: May 30, 1984 , Closed: Sep 10, 1984
STALLING AND CARBURETOR MALFUNCTIONS
STALLING AND CARBURETOR MALFUNCTIONS
DP84009
Opened: Jan 16, 1984 , Closed: Jul 17, 1984
TIMING CHAIN FAILURE
TIMING CHAIN FAILURE
EA83013
Opened: Mar 23, 1983 , Closed: Jan 26, 1989
FRONT SEATBACK FAILURE
STATUS: DISCUSSING WITH CANADA.===
DP83004
Opened: Nov 9, 1982 , Closed: Mar 10, 1983
FUMES AND DUST IN PASSENGER COMPARTMENT
FUMES AND DUST IN PASSENGER COMPARTMENT
FORD ESCORT - All Years Overview
Complete safety history for the FORD ESCORT across all model years (1981, 2003).
64
Total Recalls
5,063
Total Complaints
34
Investigations
629
Reported Crashes
613
Reported Fires
26
Reported Deaths
FORD ESCORT - Year by Year
Compare recalls and complaints across model years. Click any year to see full details.
| Year | Recalls | Complaints | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2003 | 1 | 13 | View |
| 2002 | 1 | 41 | View |
| 2001 | 1 | 85 | View |
| 2000 | 2 | 128 | View |
| 1999 | 2 | 413 | View |
| 1998 | 1 | 470 | View |
| 1997 | 2 | 729 | View |
| 1996 | 1 | 257 | View |
| 1995 | 5 | 725 | View |
| 1994 | 2 | 351 | View |
| 1993 | 3 | 480 | View |
| 1992 | 3 | 222 | View |
| 1991 | 4 | 413 | View |
| 1990 | 2 | 128 | View |
| 1989 | 1 | 199 | View |
| 1988 (current) | 2 | 206 | |
| 1987 | 3 | 65 | View |
| 1986 | 2 | 53 | View |
| 1985 | 3 | 31 | View |
| 1984 | 3 | 27 | View |
| 1983 | 5 | 7 | View |
| 1982 | 5 | 5 | View |
| 1981 | 10 | 2 | View |