1990 FORD ESCORT
2 recalls, 128 complaints - 36 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.
89V174000 Oct 13, 1989
VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD
Defect Description
SPECIAL PRIMER THAT PROMOTES THE BONDING OF A URETHANE ADHESIVE TO THE GLASS WAS NOT APPLIED TO THE WINDSHIELDS BEFORE INSTALLATION.
Consequence
OMISSION OF THE PRIMER COULD CAUSE THE WINDSHIELD NOT TOBE PROPERLY ADHERED TO BODY, AND VEHICLE WOULD NOT COMPLY WITH FMVSS 212.
Remedy
REMOVE AND PROPERLY INSTALL WINDSHIELD USING SPECIAL PRIMER.
Complaint Statistics
128 total complaints
8 crashes 49 fires 15 injuries
Top Reported Components
| Component | Complaints |
|---|---|
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH | 20 |
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION | 12 |
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FRONT UNDERHOOD | 7 |
| SEAT BELTS | 7 |
| ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE | 7 |
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:INTERIOR/UNDER DASH | 6 |
| SEATS | 4 |
| FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE | 3 |
| ELECTRICAL SYSTEM | 3 |
| FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY | 3 |
STRUCTURE:BODY
Aug 21, 2010
Incident date: Apr 25, 1997
WHILE TRAVELING ON A FREEWAY AT THE SPEED LIMIT OF 65 MILES PER HOUR, I ENDED UP IN A SKID ON DRY PAVEMENT. I DON'T REMEMBER HOW I GOT INTO THE SKID DUE TO HEAD INJURIES RECEIVED IN THE RESULTING ACCIDENT. THE CAR SKIDDED SIDEWAYS FOR QUITE A WAYS AND DID NOT RESPOND NORMALLY TO ATTEMPTS TO STEER IT... Read more
Crash
1 injured
SEAT BELTS
Aug 21, 2010
Incident date: Apr 25, 1997
WHILE TRAVELING ON A FREEWAY AT THE SPEED LIMIT OF 65 MILES PER HOUR, I ENDED UP IN A SKID ON DRY PAVEMENT. I DON'T REMEMBER HOW I GOT INTO THE SKID DUE TO HEAD INJURIES RECEIVED IN THE RESULTING ACCIDENT. THE CAR SKIDDED SIDEWAYS FOR QUITE A WAYS AND DID NOT RESPOND NORMALLY TO ATTEMPTS TO STEER IT... Read more
Crash
1 injured
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
Feb 23, 2010
Incident date: Feb 23, 2001
1990 FORD ESCORT WITH 1.9 L ENGINE, THROTTLE-BODY FUEL INJ, AND MAN 5-SPEED TRANSM. APPROX 8 HWY MILES FROM HOME, PASSING THRU SMALL TOWN WITH 25-MPH LIMIT, SIGNAL LIGHT, AND RR CROSSING, THE FORD'S ENGINE SUDDENLY REVVED TO INCREDIBLY HIGH RPM'S. FRIGHTENED, I IMMEDIATELY PUSHED IN THE CLUTCH. NO F... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Feb 19, 2007
Incident date: Jan 31, 2007
VEHICLE WAS PARKED AT GAS PUMP ISLAND, IGNITION OFF. ENGINE COMPARTMENT ERRUPTED INTO FLAMES. ALL COMPONENTS CONTAINED WITHIN THE ENGINE COMPARMENT OTHER THAN METAL COMPONENTS COMPLETELY MELTED OR BURNED. VEHICLE WAS MANUALLY PUSHED AWAY FROM GAS PUMP ISLAND WHILE ABLAZE, THEN EXTINGUISHED BY ... Read more
Fire
1 injured
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
Sep 3, 2003
Incident date: Sep 3, 2003
THE CAR STARTS FINE WHEN COLD. AFTER DRIVING TO TOWN SOMETIMES WON'T START RIGHT OFF,SOMETIMES IT DOES. MOSTOF THE TIME I HAVE TO TRY AND TRY.SOME TIMES WHEN IT DOES START IT REVS UP THEN DIES. THEN TRY TO START AGAIN, SOMETIME THE SAME THING SOMETIME WILL START. WHEN STARTED IT RUNS JUST FINE. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
Jul 2, 2003
Incident date: Jul 2, 2003
WHILE TRAVELING ABOUT 55MPH ON THE HIGHWAY VEHICLE STALLED WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING.*AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE
Aug 23, 2002
Incident date: Aug 17, 2002
WHILE DRIVING AT 25MPH ON FLAT SURFACE AND WITH NO WARNING VEHICLE SHUT OFF. CONSUMER HAD TO PULL OVER. DEALER NOTIFIED.*AK
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH
Aug 8, 2001
REAR DOORS HAVE BEEN INOPERABLE FOR MORE THAN A YEAR. RECENTLY, VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT THAT RESULTED IN CONSUMER BEING UNABLE TO GET THE DOORS OPEN. PLEASE PROVIDE FURTHER DETAILS.*AK
Crash
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:LINKAGES
Jul 11, 2001
Incident date: Jul 8, 2001
WHEN DRIVING AT 50 MPH THE VEHICLE SUDDENLY ACCELERATED WITHOUT PRIOR WARNING, AND WITHOUT DRIVER DEPRESSING ON ACCELERATOR PEDAL. THIS CAUSED UNWANTED AND UNEXPECTED ACCELERATION. CONSUMER HAS CONTACTED DEALER, DEALER UNABLE TO DETERMINE THE CAUSE. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY FURTHER DETAILS.*AK
SEAT BELTS
Jun 27, 2001
Incident date: Jun 1, 1995
SHOULDER BELT WILL STICK IN ONE POSITION IN THE TRACK, FAILING TO PROPERLY RESTRAIN DRIVER OF VEHICLE. DEALERSHIP HAS EXAMIND VEHICLE, AND WILL REPAIR PROBLEM AT CONSUMER'S COST. PLEASE PROVIDE ANY ADDITIONAL INFORMATION/ATTACHMENTS. *AK
TIRES
Jun 25, 2001
Incident date: Jun 24, 2001
VEHICLE WAS INSIDE OF A WORK SHOP, AND NOTICED THAT THERE WAS A DENT INSIDE OF TIRE. HE COULD PUT A PRINT DEPRESSION SIZE OF A DIMPLE. DEALERSHIP IS AWARE OF PROBLEM. *AK
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:INTERIOR/UNDER DASH
Feb 13, 2001
Incident date: Jan 31, 2001
THIS WAS AN ORIGINAL PART THAT FAILED AND CAUGHT ON FIRE. IT BURNED THE PART ITSELF UP, THE WIRING, AND STUFF UNDER THE DASH. THIS COULD HAVE BEEN FATAL AS THIS PART IS LOCATED INSIDE THE STEERING WHEEL. HAS THERE BEEN A RECALL ON THIS PART. I DO NOT HAVE THE VIN WITH ME AT WORK. I WILL GET IT ... Read more
Fire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
Feb 8, 2001
Incident date: Jan 28, 2000
MERGING INTO TRAFFIC ON FREEWAY, CAR LOST POWER, IT DIDN'T STALL IMMEDIATELY BECAUSE I HAD BRAKES FOR AWHILE TO GET OFF THE ROAD AND STOP. THERE WAS NO WARNING, THE DRIVE-TRAIN JUST LOST POWER. FURTHER INSPECTION SHOWED THAT FUEL WAS BEING INJECTED. I COULD TURN THE KEY, IT WOULD FIRE AND DIE. H... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ALTERNATOR/GENERATOR/REGULATOR
Nov 15, 2000
I HAVE GONE THROUGH 14 ALTERNATORS AND 6 BATTRIES SINCE I DROVE IT OFF THE SHOWROOM FLOOR IN THE FALL OF 1990! RUSTY ECK SEARCHED FOR THE PROBLEM BUT COULD NEVER FIND IT1 EVEN SUGGESTED TAKING IT TO "ELECTRICAL SPECIALTY SHOPS" THEY TOO CAN NOT FIND THE PROBLEM! IT HAS BEEN SUGGESTED THAT THE PR... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY
Nov 15, 2000
I HAVE GONE THROUGH 14 ALTERNATORS AND 6 BATTRIES SINCE I DROVE IT OFF THE SHOWROOM FLOOR IN THE FALL OF 1990! RUSTY ECK SEARCHED FOR THE PROBLEM BUT COULD NEVER FIND IT1 EVEN SUGGESTED TAKING IT TO "ELECTRICAL SPECIALTY SHOPS" THEY TOO CAN NOT FIND THE PROBLEM! IT HAS BEEN SUGGESTED THAT THE PR... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
Sep 18, 2000
Incident date: Jan 1, 2000
AFTER I PURCHASED MY FORD ESCORT, THE FIRST THING I NOTICED WAS THE WINDSHIELD MADE NOISE AS I WOULD DRIVE, IT SOUNDED LIKE IT WAS POPPING OUT OF THE CAR,AND THEN THE WINDSHEILD CRACKS AT THE TOP SEAM OF THE CAR . I CALLED FORD TO BE TOLD THEY WERE NOT RESPONSIBLE. NEXT MY IGNITION STARTS MALFUNCT... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
Sep 18, 2000
Incident date: Aug 29, 2000
SINCE THE IGNITION SWITCHED HAS BEEN REPLACED VEHICLE STILL STALLED OUT.NOTICED THAT THE ENGINE AT IDLE SPEED LOOPS OR IDLES ERRATICALLY.TRANSMISSION ALSO SHIFTS SLOPPY HAVE TAKEN THE CAR TO TWO TRANSMISSION PLACES AND FOUND NOTHING.ALSO COSMETIC LIGHT ON PASSENGER SIDE VISOR STAYS LIT WHEN FLAP IS ... Read more
POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION
Sep 18, 2000
Incident date: Aug 29, 2000
SINCE THE IGNITION SWITCHED HAS BEEN REPLACED VEHICLE STILL STALLED OUT.NOTICED THAT THE ENGINE AT IDLE SPEED LOOPS OR IDLES ERRATICALLY.TRANSMISSION ALSO SHIFTS SLOPPY HAVE TAKEN THE CAR TO TWO TRANSMISSION PLACES AND FOUND NOTHING.ALSO COSMETIC LIGHT ON PASSENGER SIDE VISOR STAYS LIT WHEN FLAP IS ... Read more
SEATS
Sep 18, 2000
Incident date: Jan 1, 2000
AFTER I PURCHASED MY FORD ESCORT, THE FIRST THING I NOTICED WAS THE WINDSHIELD MADE NOISE AS I WOULD DRIVE, IT SOUNDED LIKE IT WAS POPPING OUT OF THE CAR,AND THEN THE WINDSHEILD CRACKS AT THE TOP SEAM OF THE CAR . I CALLED FORD TO BE TOLD THEY WERE NOT RESPONSIBLE. NEXT MY IGNITION STARTS MALFUNCT... Read more
VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD
Sep 18, 2000
Incident date: Jan 1, 2000
AFTER I PURCHASED MY FORD ESCORT, THE FIRST THING I NOTICED WAS THE WINDSHIELD MADE NOISE AS I WOULD DRIVE, IT SOUNDED LIKE IT WAS POPPING OUT OF THE CAR,AND THEN THE WINDSHEILD CRACKS AT THE TOP SEAM OF THE CAR . I CALLED FORD TO BE TOLD THEY WERE NOT RESPONSIBLE. NEXT MY IGNITION STARTS MALFUNCT... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
Sep 11, 2000
Incident date: Aug 29, 2000
SINCE THE IGNITION SWITCHED HAS BEEN REPLACED VEHICLE STILL STALLED OUT.NOTICED THAT THE ENGINE AT IDLE SPEED LOOPS OR IDLES ERRATICALLY.TRANSMISSION ALSO SHIFTS SLOPPY HAVE TAKEN THE CAR TO TWO TRANSMISSION PLACES AND FOUND NOTHING.ALSO COSMETIC LIGHT ON PASSENGER SIDE VISOR STAYS LIT WHEN FLAP IS ... Read more
VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD
Sep 11, 2000
Incident date: Jan 1, 2000
AFTER I PURCHASED MY FORD ESCORT, THE FIRST THING I NOTICED WAS THE WINDSHIELD MADE NOISE AS I WOULD DRIVE, IT SOUNDED LIKE IT WAS POPPING OUT OF THE CAR,AND THEN THE WINDSHEILD CRACKS AT THE TOP SEAM OF THE CAR . I CALLED FORD TO BE TOLD THEY WERE NOT RESPONSIBLE. NEXT MY IGNITION STARTS MALFUNCT... Read more
POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION
Sep 11, 2000
Incident date: Aug 29, 2000
SINCE THE IGNITION SWITCHED HAS BEEN REPLACED VEHICLE STILL STALLED OUT.NOTICED THAT THE ENGINE AT IDLE SPEED LOOPS OR IDLES ERRATICALLY.TRANSMISSION ALSO SHIFTS SLOPPY HAVE TAKEN THE CAR TO TWO TRANSMISSION PLACES AND FOUND NOTHING.ALSO COSMETIC LIGHT ON PASSENGER SIDE VISOR STAYS LIT WHEN FLAP IS ... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
Sep 11, 2000
Incident date: Jan 1, 2000
AFTER I PURCHASED MY FORD ESCORT, THE FIRST THING I NOTICED WAS THE WINDSHIELD MADE NOISE AS I WOULD DRIVE, IT SOUNDED LIKE IT WAS POPPING OUT OF THE CAR,AND THEN THE WINDSHEILD CRACKS AT THE TOP SEAM OF THE CAR . I CALLED FORD TO BE TOLD THEY WERE NOT RESPONSIBLE. NEXT MY IGNITION STARTS MALFUNCT... Read more
SEATS
Sep 11, 2000
Incident date: Jan 1, 2000
AFTER I PURCHASED MY FORD ESCORT, THE FIRST THING I NOTICED WAS THE WINDSHIELD MADE NOISE AS I WOULD DRIVE, IT SOUNDED LIKE IT WAS POPPING OUT OF THE CAR,AND THEN THE WINDSHEILD CRACKS AT THE TOP SEAM OF THE CAR . I CALLED FORD TO BE TOLD THEY WERE NOT RESPONSIBLE. NEXT MY IGNITION STARTS MALFUNCT... Read more
TIRES:TREAD/BELT
Aug 11, 2000
Incident date: Jun 20, 2000
MODEL CONTINENTAL LTE 3000 TIRE P17570R14 ; TREAD SHREADED OFF A TIRE WHILE DRIVING AT 55 MPH, CAUSING DAMAGE TO WHEELWELL/TORE OFF MUD SLAP, AND TURN LIGHT HOUSING.TIRE ONLY HAD 28,000 MILES, AND STAYED INFLATED. *AK DOT# ACFP3CC447. *SLC
STRUCTURE:BODY
May 19, 2000
Incident date: May 16, 2000
A PLASTIC PIECE OF DEFLECTOR UNDER FRONT RIGHT WHEEL WAS RUBBING AGAINST THE BRAKE ROTORS, CAUSING TIRES TO OVERHEAT AND CATCH ON FIRE. MANUFACTURER NOTIFIED. PROVIDE FURTHER DETAILS. *AK PLASTIC DEFLECTOR ON RIGHT FRONT WHEEL ASSEMBLY EITHER CRACKED OR LOOSENED, RUBBED AGAINST BRAKE ROTOR AND C... Read more
Fire
POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION
Nov 3, 1999
MY TRANSMISSION NOW IN ANY GEAR SOUNDS LIKE THERE IS SOMETHING LOOSE AND RATTLES? I DON'T KNOW WHAT IT IS AND GETS ON MY NERVES!
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
Oct 26, 1999
Incident date: Oct 9, 1999
HAD JUST PARKED VEHICLE IN GARAGE & LEFT. HALF HOUR LATER SMELLED SMOKE & CHECKED OUT WINDOW. NOTICED SMOKE COMING FROM THE GARAGE. CALLED FIRE DEPARTMENT WHO ARRIVED AND EXTINGUISHED THE FLAMES. ONLY INDICATION OF ORIGIN WAS ELECTRICAL WIRES COULD HAVE CAUSED FIRE. VEHICLE WAS COMPLETELY TOTALED. ... Read more
Fire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FRONT UNDERHOOD
May 10, 1999
Incident date: May 7, 1999
ABOUT ONE HOUR AFTER ARRIVING HOME FROM WORK SOMEONE KNOCKED ON MY DOOR TO NOTIFY ME THAT THE 1990 FORD ESCORT THAT I HAD PURCHASED USED ON MARCH 31,1999 WAS SMOKING. I CALLED THE FIRE DEPARTMENT, BY THIS TIME FLAMES WERE SHOOTING FROM UNDER THE HOOD AND THE HORN WAS BLARING. THE FIRE WAS EXTINGUSHE... Read more
Fire
EQUIPMENT:OTHER:OWNERS/SERVICE/OTHER MANUAL
Apr 8, 1999
VEHICLE OWNERS MANUAL STATES 8.3 QUARTS OF TRANSMISSION FLUID IS TO BE USED WHEN REFILLING, CONSUMER ACTED ACCORDINGLY RESULTING IN DAMAGE/FAILURE OF TRANSMISSION TO THE POINT OF BEING UNUSEABLE. MANUAL INFORMATION IS INCORRECT, THE CORRECT AMOUNT OF FLUID IS 4.5 QUARTS.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
Mar 25, 1999
Incident date: Mar 16, 1995
IGNITION SWITCH FIRE PRIOR TO RECALL. (96V-071)
Fire
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM
Jan 28, 1999
Incident date: Jan 8, 1999
KNOWN FAILURE OF VANE AIR FLOW METER CAUSE BUCKING OF CAR AT HIGHWAY AND STREET SPEEDS.SEE FORD TSB 94-23-8. CAR LOCKS FRONT WHEELS ON SNOWY CONDITIONS WHEN ENGINE BUCKS. THE TSB CALLS FOR KIT FOPZ-9K672-A AND VFMETER E9FZ-12B529-A. KIT DESIGNED IN 1994 WHILE MY CAR WAS STILL UNDER WARRANTY. NO NO... Read more
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:DOORS:LATCH
Jan 22, 1999
WHILE DRIVING THE DRIVER'S DOOR SHAKES OPEN ON ITS OWN WHILE TURNING A CORNER. DEALER HAS BEEN CONTACTED. *AK
SEAT BELTS
Jan 5, 1999
IN COLD WEATHER (LESS THAN 15 F), THE DRIVER'S SIDE AUTOMATIC SEATBELT MOTOR FAILED ON MUTILPLE OCCASIONS TO EITHER RETRACT OR ADVANCE THE AUTOMATIC SHOULDER BELT. THE SHOULDER BELT MOTOR EVENTUALLY BROKE ENTIRELY (MILEAGE AROUND 60,000 AT THE TIME). THIS DEFECT FIRST SHOWED UP WHEN I MOVED TO A C... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
Dec 2, 1998
Incident date: Nov 25, 1998
THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN EXPERIENCING PROBLEMS WITH IGNITION SWITCH. WHEN DRIVER TURNS VEHICLE OFF, THE VEHICLE STILL CONTINUES TO RUN. THE MANUFACTURER HAS YET TO BE CONTACTED. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE
Jun 24, 1998
Incident date: Mar 5, 1998
ENGINE FIRE.
Fire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
May 27, 1998
Incident date: Mar 16, 1995
TURN IGNITION ON, HEARD CRACKLING SOUND, THEN NOISE WENT TO A POPLIN SOUND, SMOKE CAME FROM HOOD AND VENT INSIDE, FLAMES NOW EVITABLE, RESULTING IN TOTALLED.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
May 6, 1998
Incident date: Apr 9, 1998
THERE WAS A RECALL LISTED ON THIS MAKE AND YEAR, BUT THE OWNER NEVER RECEIVED A NOTICE. ON APR.9,1998, THE VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE AROUND THE STEERING COLUMN. THE VEHICLE WAS TOTAL LOSS. CONTACTED THE DEALER AND THEY WILL NOT GET BACK IN TOUCH WITH THE OWNER. WOULD LIKE TO HAVE AN ENGINEER CALL AN... Read more
Fire
EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER
Apr 2, 1998
Incident date: Apr 1, 1998
AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM MALFUNCTIONED. *AK
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
Mar 23, 1998
PISTON ROD IS DETERIORATING, ENGINE CAN NOT FUNCTION SHOULD THE PISTON ROD MALFUNCTION.
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
Mar 2, 1998
Incident date: Oct 1, 1996
CAR CAUGHT ON FIRE, POSSIBLE DUE TO FAULTY IGNITION SWITCH.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM
Jan 16, 1998
SMOG TEST WAS ABORTED DUE TO HIGH RMPS.
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE
Oct 14, 1997
AFTER VEHICLE HAD BEEN DRIVEN ON INTERSTATE OWNER WENT TO A REST STOP. WHEN OWNER RETURNED VEHICLE WAS ENGULFED IN FLAMES. FIRE CAME FROM ENGINE COMPARTMENT.CAUSE UNKNOWN. *AK
Fire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ALTERNATOR/GENERATOR/REGULATOR
Sep 4, 1997
Incident date: Jun 24, 1997
ALTERNATOR FAILED FOUR TIMES, TWICE SETTING VEHICLE ON FIRE. *AK
Fire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
Aug 5, 1997
Incident date: Mar 3, 1995
CONSUMER'S VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE DUE TO ELECTRICAL SYSTEM. INVESTIGATOR DETERMINED THE THE FIRE STARTED IN THE IGNITION. VEHICLE WAS TOTALLY LOST. *AK
Fire
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY
Jun 20, 1997
FLAMES STARTED SHOOTING UP FROM UNDER THE CAR. FLAMES CAME FROM FUEL LINE LEAK. *AK
Fire
SEATS
Jun 10, 1997
Incident date: Apr 4, 1997
THE PASSENGER'S SIDE SEAT JUST BROKE OFF THE BRACKETS WITHOUT AN OCCUPANT. *AK
LATCHES/LOCKS/LINKAGES:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE:LOCK
Mar 25, 1997
Incident date: Nov 20, 1996
OWNER STATES WHILE DRIVING VEHICLE SHE HAD AN ACCIDENT, VEHICLE HIT TREE, OWNER NOTES THAT THE REAR SFETY BELT ON THE PASSENGER'S SIDE CAME LOOSE AND SON WA STHROEN OUT OF HIS SEAT BEFORE VEHICLE HIT TREE. ALSO, SEAT BACK COLLAPSED AND HATCHBACK CAME OPEN. *AK
Crash
3 injured
SEATS:FRONT ASSEMBLY:RECLINER
Mar 25, 1997
Incident date: Nov 20, 1996
OWNER STATES WHILE DRIVING VEHICLE SHE HAD AN ACCIDENT, VEHICLE HIT TREE, OWNER NOTES THAT THE REAR SFETY BELT ON THE PASSENGER'S SIDE CAME LOOSE AND SON WA STHROEN OUT OF HIS SEAT BEFORE VEHICLE HIT TREE. ALSO, SEAT BACK COLLAPSED AND HATCHBACK CAME OPEN. *AK
Crash
3 injured
Showing 50 of 128 complaints.
EPA Fuel Economy, 1990 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) | 23.0 | 29.0 | 26.0 | Regular | $2,350 |
| 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) | 21.0 | 28.0 | 24.0 | Regular | $2,550 |
| 1.9L 4-cyl, Manual 5-spd (Front-Wheel Drive) | 23.0 | 33.0 | 27.0 | Regular | $2,300 |
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, 1990 FORD ESCORT
36 manufacturer communications from 30 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.
Most Affected Components
| Component | Bulletins |
|---|---|
| 103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION | 4 |
| 061100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE | 3 |
| 357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER | 2 |
| 980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER | 2 |
| 034500 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC | 2 |
| 063000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM | 2 |
| 114000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING | 2 |
| 103700 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:TORQUE CONVERTER | 2 |
01194
Oct 1, 2001
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
THIS ARITLCE IS TO PROVIDE INFORMATION ON REPLACEMENT OF OLD STYLE HOOD LAMP SWITCH TO THE RVISED MECHANICAL HOOD LAMP SWITCH. *TT
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
99129
Jun 14, 1999
353400 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.
EXPERIENCING A WHINE / BUZZ TYPE NOISE IN THE SPEAKERS OF THE ENTERTAINMENT RADIO OR TWO-WAY RADIO ON VEHICLES WITH AN IN-TANK ELECTRIC FUEL PUMP. *TT
99816
May 3, 1999
061100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE
FORD MOTOR COMPANY NOW RECOMMENDS SAE 5W-30 VISCOSITY GRADE FOR SERVICING ANY FORD GASOLINE-POWERED VEHICLE REGARDLESS OF MODEL YEAR. *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
9873
Apr 13, 1998
353400 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.
EXPERIENCING A WHINING / BUZZING NOISE IN THE SPEAKERS OF THE ENTERTAINMENT RADIO OR TWO-WAY RADIO. *TT
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
9848
Mar 2, 1998
357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER
ANNOUNCING THE FORD OEM AIR CONDITIONING RETROFIT KIT AVAILABILITY. *YC
9768
Mar 17, 1997
980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER
FUEL ECONOMY- CUSTOMER EXPECTATIONS VERSUS VEHICLE USAGE. *JD
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
RCL93E50
Jul 1, 1994
063140 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:CATALYTIC CONVERTOR
RECALL 93E50 - VEHICLE'S ENGINE MAY BE RELEASING AIR POLLUTANTS WHICH EXCEED US FEDERAL STANDARDS. TO CORRECT THIS CONDITION, DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE CATALYST. *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 (current) | 2 | 128 | |
| 1989 | 1 | 199 | View |
| 1988 | 2 | 206 | View |
| 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 |