1997 FORD ESCORT

2 recalls, 729 complaints - 151 TSBs

04E048000 Jul 12, 2004
SEAT BELTS:FRONT
Defect Description
CERTAIN TRW DRIVER'S SIDE SEAT BELTS MANUFACTURED ON DECEMBER 6 AND 9, 2002, FOR USE AS REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR 1997 FORD ESCORT 4-DOOR AND STATION WAGON PLATFORM VEHICLES, FORD'S P/N F7CZ54611B09AAC. THE SEAT BELT ASSEMBLIES EXHIBIT A NO-LOCK CONDITION WHICH DOES NOT COMPLY WITH FEDERAL MOTOR V... Read more
Consequence
IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH, THE RESTRAINT SYSTEM MAY NOT PROVIDE ADEQUATE PROTECTION TO THE SEAT OCCUPANT, WHICH MAY INCREASE THE RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY.
Remedy
TRW WILL NOTIFY THE CUSTOMERS WHO PURCHASED THE REPLACEMENT SEAT BELT ASSEMBLIES FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 27, 2004.
388 vehicles affected
Manufacturer: TRW OCCUPANT SAFETY SYSTEMS
02V323000 Dec 9, 2002
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE-INACTIVE
Defect Description
ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES, THE INTEGRATED AIR BAG MONITOR (IABM) CAN BE CONTAMINATED WITH WATER OR OTHER LIQUIDS AND COULD EXPERIENCE INTERNAL ELECTRICAL SHORTING.
Consequence
THIS MAY, IN TURN, CAUSE THE AIR BAG READINESS LIGHT TO ILLUMINATE AND IN VERY RARE OCCURRENCES, AIR BAG DEPLOYMENT, MELTED WIRING, OR FIRE MAY OCCUR.
Remedy
DEALERS WILL INSTALL THE SHIELD OVER THE IABM AND APPLY NYOGEL GREASE TO THE CONNECTOR. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN FEBRUARY 11, 2003. OWNERS WHO TAKE THEIR VEHICLES TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND DO NOT RECEIVE THE FREE REMEDY WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME SHOULD CONTACT FORD ... Read more
396,217 vehicles affected
Manufacturer: FORD MOTOR COMPANY

Complaint Statistics

729 total complaints 78 crashes 134 fires 74 injuries

Top Reported Components

ComponentComplaints
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL63
AIR BAGS55
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM51
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING34
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE30
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE28
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:HORN24
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL24
VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:HEATER CORE24
SUSPENSION:REAR:SPRINGS23
ENGINE Jul 7, 2023
Incident date: Jul 7, 2023
On Tuesday June 20, 2023 at 7:20am I was awakened by my neighbor who informed me that my car was on fire. A report was done by the fire department and they did not believe it was done on purpose but something with my car. My car was totally consumed with fire nothing but ashes.
Fire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM Jan 24, 2019
Incident date: Jan 21, 2019
FLASHING AIR BAG READINESS LIGHT IN A "51" PATTERN.
AIR BAGS Sep 6, 2016
Incident date: Aug 30, 2016
SAFETY HORN STICKS AND REMAINS IN ON POSITION CREATING A DRIVING SAFETY RISK. DEALER EXPLAINS THAT THE HORN SWITCH IS ASSOCIATED WITH THE AIR BAG. BASED ON ALL INTERNET COMPLAINTS AND AIR BAG PROBLEMS, MIGHT BE TIME TO FURTHER INVESTIGATE FORD'S COMMITMENT TO SAFETY AND AIRBAG PERFORMANCE. HTTP://WW... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM Jan 26, 2016
Incident date: Sep 7, 2009
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD ESCORT. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 35 MPH, THE POWER STEERING SEIZED WITHOUT WARNING. THE VEHICLE HAD TO BE TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. THE VEHICLE WAS TAKEN TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC WHERE IT WAS DIAGNOSED THAT THE WIRES AND FUSES NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE ... Read more
AIR BAGS May 17, 2014
Incident date: Oct 6, 2004
MY MOTHER AND I WERE DRIVING TO MY GRANDPARENTS HOUSE WHEN SHE HIT A BABY DEER GOING ABOUT 35 MPH. I WAS 12 YEARS OLD AT THE TIME AND SITTING IN THE FRONT SEAT. THE AIRBAGS DEPLOYED HITTING ME IN RIGHT SIDE OF THE FACE. MY TEETH WENT INTO MY LIP, AND I HAD BURN MARKS FROM THE AIRBAG ON MY CHEEKBONES... Read more
Crash 2 injured
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM Mar 5, 2014
Incident date: Jan 20, 2014
I TURNED RIGHT INTO A PARKING LOT AND SLOWLY TURNED RIGHT AGAIN INTO A PARKING SPACE. WHILE I WAS BRAKING, THE CAR ACCELERATED AND HIT A BUILDING. *TR
Crash
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL Mar 5, 2014
Incident date: Jan 20, 2014
I TURNED RIGHT INTO A PARKING LOT AND SLOWLY TURNED RIGHT AGAIN INTO A PARKING SPACE. WHILE I WAS BRAKING, THE CAR ACCELERATED AND HIT A BUILDING. *TR
Crash
ENGINE Dec 3, 2013
Incident date: Nov 20, 2013
VALVE SEAT NO. 4 FELL OUT OF HEAD AND WAS DESTROYED, DAMAGING NO. 4 AND NO. 3 PISTON, AND THE HEAD ITSELF. WE WERE FORTUNATE THAT THE TOTAL FAILURE OCCURRED WHILE PARKED RATHER THAN ON THE INTERSTATE, AT WHICH TIME POWER STEERING AND POWER BRAKES WOULD HAVE FAILED. THIS IS A WELL KNOWN MODE O... Read more
SERVICE BRAKES Aug 31, 2013
Incident date: Jul 15, 2013
THE BRAKES FAILED WHILE MY WIFE WAS DRIVING THIS CAR. IT WAS NOT VERY DIFFICULT TO DIAGNOSE THE PROBLEM. THE BRAKE FLUID LEAKED OUT OF A BRAKE LINE IN THE REAR OF THE CAR. THE LOCATION OF THE BRAKE LINE FAILURE IS WHERE THE LINE IS FASTENED TO THE BODY WHEN THE CAR WAS MANUFACTURED. IT IS MY OPINION... Read more
AIR BAGS Jul 25, 2012
Incident date: Jul 21, 2012
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD ESCORT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT WHILE DRIVING 30 MPH, THE AIR BAG LIGHT ILLUMINATED AND SMOKE EMITTED FROM UNDER THE DASHBOARD. THE CONTACT MANEUVERED TO THE SHOULDER AND THE VEHICLE STALLED. THE VEHICLE WAS THEN TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S HOME. WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS PAR... Read more
Fire
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING Apr 30, 2012
Incident date: Apr 1, 2008
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD ESCORT. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 60 MPH, THE VEHICLE BEGAN TO SHAKE VIGOROUSLY AND STALLED. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO AN INDEPENDENT MECHANIC FOR DIAGNOSTIC. THE MECHANIC STATED THAT THE ENGINE WOULD HAVE TO BE REPLACED. THE VEHICLE WAS REPAIRED BUT THE FAILURE REC... Read more
AIR BAGS Dec 22, 2010
Incident date: Dec 6, 2010
AIR BAG CONTROL DIAGNOSTIC MODULE SHORTED OUT DUE TO RUPTURED HEATER CORE. WHEN I SPOKE WITH THE LOCAL DEALERSHIP THEY TOLD ME TO CONTACT A LOCAL JUNK YARD. THERE IS A RECALL ON THIS ITEM. I NEVER RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE. *TR
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM Dec 22, 2010
Incident date: Dec 6, 2010
AIR BAG CONTROL DIAGNOSTIC MODULE SHORTED OUT DUE TO RUPTURED HEATER CORE. WHEN I SPOKE WITH THE LOCAL DEALERSHIP THEY TOLD ME TO CONTACT A LOCAL JUNK YARD. THERE IS A RECALL ON THIS ITEM. I NEVER RECEIVED A RECALL NOTICE. *TR
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL Aug 20, 2010
Incident date: Aug 16, 2010
TL-THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD ESCORT. AS A PASSENGER IN THE VEHICLE BEEN DRIVEN 5 MPH IN A DRIVEWAY BOTH FRONTAL AIR BAGS DEPLOYED. SHE STATED THE DRIVER WAS KNOCKED UNCONSCIONUS AND THE OTHER PASSENGER HAD A INJURY TO THE FACE. THE VEHICLE CRASHED INTO A TREE AND A BRANCH HIT THE WINDSHIELD. THE ... Read more
Crash 2 injured
STRUCTURE Feb 5, 2010
Incident date: Nov 21, 2009
1997 FORD ESCORT LX WAGON COMPONENT: STRUCTURE:HATCHBACK HYDRAULIC CYLINDER:TRUNK CYLINDER MANUFACTURER: FORD MOTOR COMPANY THE CLIPS THAT HOLD THE HYDRAULIC CYLINDER TO THE FRAME HAVE COME OFF THE PASSENGER SIDE LIFTGATE ASSIST. HOW THIS WAS DETERMINED WAS I OPENED THE HATCHBACK AND LEANED ... Read more
1 injured
SUSPENSION:REAR Aug 18, 2009
Incident date: Apr 15, 2008
NOISE THAT COULD NOT BE LOCATED IN REAR. REAR SPRINGS WERE BROKE . *TR
SUSPENSION Aug 18, 2009
Incident date: Apr 15, 2008
NOISE THAT COULD NOT BE LOCATED IN REAR. REAR SPRINGS WERE BROKE . *TR
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE Feb 24, 2009
Incident date: Jan 17, 2009
1997 FORD ESCORT RUBBER FILL PIPE DETERIORATES SPILLING GASOLINE ON GROUND WHEN REFILLING FUEL TANK. *TR
EQUIPMENT Sep 11, 2008
Incident date: Sep 11, 2008
I TOOK MY ESCORT IN FOR AN INSPECTION AND THE REAR COIL SPRINGS ARE BROKEN AGAIN THE FIRST TIME THEY BROKE THE DEALER REPLACED THEM AND SAID HE THOUGHT A RECALL WOULD BE ISSUED BECAUSE FORD NEW THERE WAS A PROBLEM WITH THEM NOW ONCE AGAIN THEY ARE BROKEN AND THERE IS STILL NO RECALL IF SOMEONE K... Read more
SUSPENSION:REAR Sep 11, 2008
Incident date: Sep 11, 2008
I TOOK MY ESCORT IN FOR AN INSPECTION AND THE REAR COIL SPRINGS ARE BROKEN AGAIN THE FIRST TIME THEY BROKE THE DEALER REPLACED THEM AND SAID HE THOUGHT A RECALL WOULD BE ISSUED BECAUSE FORD NEW THERE WAS A PROBLEM WITH THEM NOW ONCE AGAIN THEY ARE BROKEN AND THERE IS STILL NO RECALL IF SOMEONE K... Read more
SUSPENSION:REAR Jul 11, 2008
Incident date: Jul 10, 2008
1997FORD ESCORT WAGON. HAVING HAD THIS CAR FOR EIGHT YEARS, WHERE I NEEDED TO REPLACE THE REARS SPRING ONCE, I AM NOW IN THE PROCESS OF SCHEDULING TO REPLACE THE REAR SPRINGS A SECOND TIME TO THE AMOUNT OF $700.00. AFTER SOME RESEARCH I HAVE FOUND FROM MECHANICS AND FROM THE INTERNET THAT THIS IS A ... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING Jun 26, 2008
Incident date: Oct 2, 2006
ENGINE LIGHT CONTINUALLY COMES ON , EVEN AFTER NUMEROUS TIMES OF TAKING IT TO THE AUTO SHOP TO BE HOOKED TO THE COMPUTER TO SEE WHAT IS WRONG AND AFTER HAVING IT FIXED OVER AND OVER AGAIN. *TR
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS Apr 30, 2008
Incident date: Apr 30, 2008
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD ESCORT. WHEN MAKING A RIGHT TURN AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE CONTACT HEARD A CLUNKING SOUND COMING FROM THE FRONT END BALL JOINTS. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE BRAKE PADS, ROTORS, DRUMS, AND FRONT WHEEL BEARING ON THE PASSENGER SIDE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE CONTACT STAT... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL Apr 30, 2008
Incident date: Apr 30, 2008
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD ESCORT. WHEN MAKING A RIGHT TURN AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE CONTACT HEARD A CLUNKING SOUND COMING FROM THE FRONT END BALL JOINTS. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE BRAKE PADS, ROTORS, DRUMS, AND FRONT WHEEL BEARING ON THE PASSENGER SIDE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE CONTACT STAT... Read more
VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD Apr 30, 2008
Incident date: Apr 30, 2008
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD ESCORT. WHEN MAKING A RIGHT TURN AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE CONTACT HEARD A CLUNKING SOUND COMING FROM THE FRONT END BALL JOINTS. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE BRAKE PADS, ROTORS, DRUMS, AND FRONT WHEEL BEARING ON THE PASSENGER SIDE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE CONTACT STAT... Read more
SUSPENSION Apr 30, 2008
Incident date: Apr 30, 2008
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD ESCORT. WHEN MAKING A RIGHT TURN AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE CONTACT HEARD A CLUNKING SOUND COMING FROM THE FRONT END BALL JOINTS. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE BRAKE PADS, ROTORS, DRUMS, AND FRONT WHEEL BEARING ON THE PASSENGER SIDE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE CONTACT STAT... Read more
STEERING:LINKAGES:TIE ROD ASSEMBLY Apr 30, 2008
Incident date: Apr 30, 2008
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD ESCORT. WHEN MAKING A RIGHT TURN AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE CONTACT HEARD A CLUNKING SOUND COMING FROM THE FRONT END BALL JOINTS. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE BRAKE PADS, ROTORS, DRUMS, AND FRONT WHEEL BEARING ON THE PASSENGER SIDE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE CONTACT STAT... Read more
SUSPENSION:FRONT:WHEEL BEARING Apr 30, 2008
Incident date: Apr 30, 2008
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD ESCORT. WHEN MAKING A RIGHT TURN AT VARIOUS SPEEDS, THE CONTACT HEARD A CLUNKING SOUND COMING FROM THE FRONT END BALL JOINTS. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE BRAKE PADS, ROTORS, DRUMS, AND FRONT WHEEL BEARING ON THE PASSENGER SIDE NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE CONTACT STAT... Read more
TIRES Feb 29, 2008
Incident date: Jan 8, 2008
PURCHASED (4) COOPER TIRES(185/65R14 TRENDER SETTER; D.O.T. UT75C2H1602 ON 8-12-2002. A SIDEWALL DEFECT(2X1" BUBBLE) WAS NOTICED AND MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED ON 1/2006. TIRE(SAME TYPE) WAS REPLACED AT OWNER'S COST. ANOTHER TIRE SIDEWALL DEFECT(2X1" BUBBLE) WAS NOTICED ON 1/2008 IN THE SAME LOCAT... Read more
EQUIPMENT Feb 29, 2008
Incident date: Jan 8, 2008
PURCHASED (4) COOPER TIRES(185/65R14 TRENDER SETTER; D.O.T. UT75C2H1602 ON 8-12-2002. A SIDEWALL DEFECT(2X1" BUBBLE) WAS NOTICED AND MANUFACTURER WAS NOTIFIED ON 1/2006. TIRE(SAME TYPE) WAS REPLACED AT OWNER'S COST. ANOTHER TIRE SIDEWALL DEFECT(2X1" BUBBLE) WAS NOTICED ON 1/2008 IN THE SAME LOCAT... Read more
TIRES:BEAD Jan 15, 2008
Incident date: Jan 15, 2008
FAILURE OF AMERICA DISCOUNT TIRE CO. TO HONOR TIRE WARRANTY. SIDE WALL OF TIRES HAVE PREMATURELY DEVELOPED CRACKS SURROUNDING THE BEAD AREA. BASED ON COMMENTS BY THAT COMPANIES REPRESENTATIVE, THE TIRES ARE LIKENED/COMPARED TO A TIME BOMB READY TO GO OFF. *TR
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE Nov 15, 2007
Incident date: Nov 1, 2007
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD ESCORT. THE CONTACT SMELLED A STRONG BURNING ODOR WHILE DRIVING 60 MPH. THE DEALER STATED THAT THE PART WOULD BE ORDERED AND REPLACED UNDER NHTSA CAMPAIGN ID NUMBER 02V323000 (AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE). THE CONTACT SMELLED THE ODOR AGAIN THE FOLLOWING... Read more
Fire
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL:GAS RECIRCULATION VALVE (EGR VALVE) Aug 4, 2007
Incident date: Aug 4, 2007
1997 FORD ESCORT FUEL EVAPORATIVE EMISSION CONTROL SYSTEM. PURGE CONTROL VALVE CIRCUIT MALFUNCTIONED. *JB
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE Jul 26, 2007
Incident date: Jun 4, 2007
I AM THE SERVICE MANAGER AT C.H.URNESS MOTOR CO IN THE DALLES,OR, I PURCHASED A 1997 FORD ESCORT FOR MY DAUGHTER ON 06/02/2007,THEN ON 06/04/2007,THE CAR HAD A FIRE UNDER THE DASH,UPON INSPECTION WE FOUND AN OPEN RECALL "02S44"FOR THIS EXACT FAILURE,I CONTACTED THE LOCAL FORD DEALER(RAY SCHULTENS FO... Read more
Fire
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:HORN Jul 9, 2007
Incident date: Jan 28, 2003
WHILE PARKED HORN WENT OFF ON ITS OWN. OWNER HAD TAKEN FUSE OUT TO STOP HORN FROM BLOWING. SPOKE TO DEALER & INFORMED SMALL PLASTIC PIECE HAD WORN AWAY BETWEEN HORN & AIR BAG MODULE. IT NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. SEEMS TO BE A VERY COMMON PROBLEM AND WAS OBVIOUSLY A HAZARD (COULD POSSIBLY PREMATURELY AC... Read more
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL Jul 9, 2007
Incident date: Jan 28, 2003
WHILE PARKED HORN WENT OFF ON ITS OWN. OWNER HAD TAKEN FUSE OUT TO STOP HORN FROM BLOWING. SPOKE TO DEALER & INFORMED SMALL PLASTIC PIECE HAD WORN AWAY BETWEEN HORN & AIR BAG MODULE. IT NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. SEEMS TO BE A VERY COMMON PROBLEM AND WAS OBVIOUSLY A HAZARD (COULD POSSIBLY PREMATURELY AC... Read more
SUSPENSION:REAR:SPRINGS Mar 2, 2007
Incident date: Jan 1, 1901
1997 FORD ESCORT HAD REAR SPRINGS PROBLEMS. **CC BOTH REAR SPRINGS ON THE VEHICLE BROKE. THE BREAKS WERE IDENTICAL, THE LOWER COILS. THE CONSUMER CONTACTED THE MANUFACTURER AND INDICATED THAT THEY SHOWED LACK OF INTEREST. *NM
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC Mar 2, 2007
Incident date: Jan 1, 1901
1997 FORD ESCORT HAD REAR SPRINGS PROBLEMS. **CC BOTH REAR SPRINGS ON THE VEHICLE BROKE. THE BREAKS WERE IDENTICAL, THE LOWER COILS. THE CONSUMER CONTACTED THE MANUFACTURER AND INDICATED THAT THEY SHOWED LACK OF INTEREST. *NM
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING Sep 25, 2006
Incident date: Sep 20, 2006
DT*: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS IN AN IDLE POSITION A SMELL OF SMOKE WAS OBSERVED COMING FROM UNDERNEATH THE DASHBOARD. UPON INSPECTION, THE ENGINE FUSE BOX WAS FOUND TO BE BURNT. BEFORE THE SMOKE ERUPTED, THE AIRBAG LIGHT ILLUMINATED FOR A FEW SECONDS AND THEN BLINKED ONCE. THE VE... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FUSES AND CIRCUIT BREAKERS Sep 25, 2006
Incident date: Sep 20, 2006
DT*: THE CONTACT STATED WHILE THE VEHICLE WAS IN AN IDLE POSITION A SMELL OF SMOKE WAS OBSERVED COMING FROM UNDERNEATH THE DASHBOARD. UPON INSPECTION, THE ENGINE FUSE BOX WAS FOUND TO BE BURNT. BEFORE THE SMOKE ERUPTED, THE AIRBAG LIGHT ILLUMINATED FOR A FEW SECONDS AND THEN BLINKED ONCE. THE VE... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM Jul 26, 2006
Incident date: Jul 26, 2006
DT*: THE CONTACT STATED THERE IS A CRACK LOCATED AT THE BOTTOM OF THE EXHAUST MANIFOLD. THE DEALERSHIP HAS NOT BEEN INFORMED.
VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:HEATER CORE Jan 13, 2006
Incident date: Jan 13, 2006
DT*: THE CONTACT STATED THERE WAS A RECALL FOR THE VEHICLE, NHTSA # 02V323000, CONCERNING THE AIR BAG SENSOR. HOWEVER, THE RECALL REMEDY DID NOT CORRECT THE PROBLEM. THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED AT AN INDEPENDENT REPAIR SHOP. THE TECHNICIAN NOTICED THE WINDOWS FOGGING UP AND OPENED THE DRIVER SIDE DOOR... Read more
1 injured
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE Jan 13, 2006
Incident date: Jan 13, 2006
DT*: THE CONTACT STATED THERE WAS A RECALL FOR THE VEHICLE, NHTSA # 02V323000, CONCERNING THE AIR BAG SENSOR. HOWEVER, THE RECALL REMEDY DID NOT CORRECT THE PROBLEM. THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED AT AN INDEPENDENT REPAIR SHOP. THE TECHNICIAN NOTICED THE WINDOWS FOGGING UP AND OPENED THE DRIVER SIDE DOOR... Read more
1 injured
TIRES Dec 3, 2005
Incident date: Dec 1, 2005
DAUGHTER WAS DRIVING CAR, HAD A TIRE BLOW OUT, AND CAR SUDDENLY ACCELERATED OUT OF CONTROL. SHE TRIED SHIFTING GEARS, USING BRAKES, AND PULLING PARKING BRAKE TO NO AVAIL. SHE CRASHED INTO PARKED CARS AFTER TRAVELING ABOUT 200 YARDS UPHILL. WITNESSES SAY SHE WAS GOING ABOUT 30 TO 40 MPH. AFTER THE... Read more
Crash
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL Dec 3, 2005
Incident date: Dec 1, 2005
DAUGHTER WAS DRIVING CAR, HAD A TIRE BLOW OUT, AND CAR SUDDENLY ACCELERATED OUT OF CONTROL. SHE TRIED SHIFTING GEARS, USING BRAKES, AND PULLING PARKING BRAKE TO NO AVAIL. SHE CRASHED INTO PARKED CARS AFTER TRAVELING ABOUT 200 YARDS UPHILL. WITNESSES SAY SHE WAS GOING ABOUT 30 TO 40 MPH. AFTER THE... Read more
Crash
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE Nov 9, 2005
Incident date: Sep 1, 2005
1997 FORD ESCORT PCV NEEDED TO BE REPLACED AFTER BEING INSTALLED A YEAR AGO. ***NO ANSWER REQUIRED*** *TS *SC
VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:HEATER CORE Nov 4, 2005
Incident date: Aug 1, 2004
DT: THE CONTACT STATED THE HEATER CORE RUPTURED, WHICH CAUSED WATER TO GET INTO THE ELECTRICAL SYSTEM, AND VEHICLE CAUGHT ON FIRE. THE VEHICLE HAS NOT BEEN INSPECTED TO DETERMINE THE CAUSE OF THE PROBLEM. *AK UPODATED11/29/05. *JB
Fire
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY:FUEL PUMP Oct 17, 2005
Incident date: Oct 1, 2004
DT: THE CONTACT OWNS A 1997 FORD ESCORT. WHILE HE DRIVING AND WHEN THE VEHICLE WAS IDLING THERE WERE FUEL FUMES INSIDE THE VEHICLE. WHEN DRIVING THE VEHICLE IT TOOK APPROXIMATELY 5 MINUTES FOR THE FUMES TO ENTER THE VEHICLE. WHILE IDLING THE FUEL FUMES WERE WORSE UPON ENTERING THE VEHICLE. ... Read more
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION Aug 20, 2005
Incident date: Apr 30, 2002
MY MOM BOUGHT THE CAR, CERTIFIED USED, WITH ONLY 16,000 MILES ON IT. AS IT NEARED 37,000 MILES IT NEEDED A NEW TRANSMISSION. I HAD TO PAY FOR IT. AFTER THAT THE TRANSMISSION HAD TO BE REPLACED 2 MORE TIMES BEFORE IT REACHED 70,000 MILES.
SUSPENSION:REAR Aug 9, 2005
Incident date: Aug 1, 2005
1997 FORD ESCORT FAILED INSPECTION DUE TO A LEAK IN THE RIGHT REAR SPRING COILS.*MR *JB

Showing 50 of 729 complaints.

EPA Fuel Economy, 1997 FORD ESCORT

Trim / Engine City MPG Highway MPG Combined MPG Fuel Type Annual Fuel Cost
2.0L 4-cyl, Automatic 4-spd (Front-Wheel Drive) 23.0 31.0 26.0 Regular $2,350
2.0L 4-cyl, Manual 5-spd (Front-Wheel Drive) 24.0 34.0 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, 1997 FORD ESCORT

151 manufacturer communications from 150 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.

Most Affected Components

ComponentBulletins
980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER22
061100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE11
034000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS8
103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION7
116200 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:MODULE6
063000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM6
353400 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.6
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE5
042107 Dec 13, 2004
103100 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)
GENERAL (PCM) POWER TRAIN CONTROL MODULE PROGRAMMING PROCEDURES. *TT
04V09 Aug 12, 2004
151300 SEAT BELTS:FRONT:RETRACTOR
TRW VEHICLE SAFETY SYSTEMS, INC. IS RECALLING CERTAIN SERVICE REPLACEMENT SEATBELT RETRACTORS (DRIVER'S SIDE FRONT RETRACTOR IN GRAY) MANUFACTURED IN DECEMBER 2002 AND SOLD AS A SERVICE REPLACEMENT PART BETWEEN DECEMBER 2002 AND JULY 2004.
020901 May 17, 2004
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
ROUGH IDLE, LOW POWER AND / OR STALL AT IDLE, A MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP ILLUMINATED AND DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES P0300 THROUGH P0304 STORED IN MEMORY. *TT
03181 Sep 15, 2003
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
REMOTE KEYLESS ENTRY (RKE) - SERVICE TIPS. *TT
031515 Aug 4, 2003
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
IDLE VIBRATION ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 2.0L SPI OR ZETEC ENGINE ONLY. *TT
0398 May 12, 2003
090000 FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP (MIL) ILLUMINATION WITH DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES P0442, P0455, P0456, P0457, P1442 OR CHECK FUEL CAP LAMP ILLUMINATED WITH DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE P0457. *TT
02208 Oct 14, 2002
357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER
CLIMATE CONTROL A/C SERVICE TECH TIPS. *EH
02176 Sep 2, 2002
125100 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH
LAMP-BRAKE-INVADVERTENT DISABLING OF BRAKE SHIFT INTERLOCK. *MJ
0291 May 13, 2002
980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER
SOME VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH THE 2.0L SPI ENGINE MAY EXHIBIT A MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP (MIL) ILLUMINATED AND DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES (DTC) P0300 THROUGH P0304 STORED. *TT
0214 Jan 21, 2002
061100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE
SOME ENGINE ASSEMBLIES WITH ALUMINUM CYLINDER HEADS REPAIRED IN-VEHILE HAVE BEEN FOUND TO LEAK COOLANT AND/OR OIL FROM THE CYLINDER HEAD GASKET AREA. *TT
01246 Dec 10, 2001
061100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE
ENGINE OIL SYSTEM PRIMING PROCEDURES, SERVICE TIPS FOR REPORTS OF PREMATURE ENGINE FAILURE. *TT
01205 Oct 15, 2001
061100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE
SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT VACUUM OR AIR LEAKS IN THE INTAKE MANIFOLD AND / OR ENGINE SYSTEM CAUSING DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES P0171 AND OR P0174. *TT
01181 Sep 17, 2001
103800 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:PARK/NEUTRAL START INTERLOCK SWITCH
BRAKE SHIFT INTERLOCK.*JB
01156 Aug 6, 2001
138600 VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER/HVAC SYSTEM:HEATER CORE
SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT HEATER CORE LEAKS. *SLC
01157 Aug 6, 2001
980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER
INFORMATION REGARDING TRANSMISSION FLUID USAGE CHARTS. *SLC
14993 Jun 1, 2001
022000 SUSPENSION:REAR
SOME VEHICLES PRODUCED THROUGH JULY 1999 MAY EXHIBIT REAR SUSPENSION SPRING FAILURE WITH NO RESULTING OPERATIONAL CONCERN. *TT
14846 Apr 1, 2001
061100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE
SOME VEHICLES WITH 2.0L SPI ENGINE ONLY, MAY EXHIBITA BURNING OIL SMELL NOTED FROM OUTSIDE OR FROM WITHIN THE PASSENGER COMPARTMENT. *TT
0069 Mar 20, 2000
034000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS
SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT A GRINDING NOISE WHILE BRAKING, BRAKE DRAG AND/OR UNEVEN FRONT BRAKE PAD WEAR MAY OCCUR. *MJS
0059 Mar 6, 2000
061100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE
SUBJECT CONCERNING THE IDLE-VIBRATION- 2.0L AND ZETEC ENGINES- SERVICE TIP. *MJS
8316 Mar 1, 2000
353400 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.
SOME VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH COMPACT DISC CHANGER MAY EXHIBIT A 6 DISC CD CHANGER THAT IS NOT EJECTING THE MAGAZINE OR IS NOT RESPONDING TO COMMAND FROM THE RADIO.
0015 Jan 10, 2000
103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
INFORMATION REGARDING THE NEW TRANSMISSION COOLER FLUSHER- SERVICE TIP. *MJS
7369 Nov 1, 1999
034000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS
SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT GRINDING NOISE, OR GREATER THAN NORMAL BRAKE ROUGHNESS, WHEN APPLYING THE BRAKES IMMEDIATELY AFTER INSTALLING MOTORCRAFT FRONT BRAKE PAD PART NUMBER BR-18 (XU2Z-2V001-RA). *T
13494 Nov 1, 1999
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
SOME VEHICLES WITH THE 2.0L SPI ENGINE MAY EXHIBIT A LACK OF HEAT AND TEMPERATURE GAUGE READING COLD. *TT
99222 Oct 18, 1999
114000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
SUBJECT ON A WIRE HARNESS TERMINAL REPAIR KIT AVAILABLE FOR REPAIRING ELECTRICAL WIRING HARNESSES. *TT
13421 Oct 1, 1999
034000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS
SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT GRINDING NOISES, OR GREATER THAN NORMAL BRAKE ROUGHNESS WHEN APPLYING THE BRAKES IMMEDIATELY AFTER INSTALLING MOTORCRAFT BR-18 FRONT BRAKE PAD. *TT
7292 Oct 1, 1999
980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER
NNERS OF THE EDSR-OF-THE-MONTH QUALITY AWARD ANNOUNCEMENT FOR SEPTEMBER. *TT
983162 Sep 22, 1999
136000 VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD WIPER/WASHER
CONCERNS WITH PAINT STAINS ON THE HOOD WHICH MAY BE CAUSED BY WINDSHIELD WASHER SOLVENT LEAKING FROM THE WINDSHIELD WASHER JETS WHILE DRIVING. *TT
99194 Sep 20, 1999
034000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS
INFORMATION FOR SERVICING AND DIAGNOSING BRAKE VIBRATION, BRAKE INSPECTION, AND BRAKE FRICTION MATERIAL REPLACEMENT. *TT
99195 Sep 20, 1999
357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER
SERVICE INFORMATION FOR MUSTY AND MILDEW TYPE ODORS COMING FROM THE AIR CONDITIONING / HEATING SYSTEM. *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
6932 Sep 1, 1999
103100 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)
SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT TRANSMISSION AND / OR MIL ON CONCERNS RELATING TO THE DIAGNOSIS AND REPLACEMENT OF THE TRANSMISSION RANGE SENSOR. *TT
6934 Sep 1, 1999
980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER
CONCERNS WITH A MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LIGHT ON WITH A DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE P1744. *TT
7076 Sep 1, 1999
034510 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:CALIPER
INFORMATION REGARDING BRAKE CALIPER PIN CORROSION. *MJS
13214 Sep 1, 1999
034510 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:CALIPER
INFORMATION REGARDING BRAKE CALIPER PIN CORROSION. *MJS
996877 Aug 1, 1999
060000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING
SOME VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 2.0L SPI ENGINE MAY EXHBIT A LACK OF HEAT AND TEMPERATURE GAUGE READING COLD. *TT
13107 Aug 1, 1999
062100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:COOLING SYSTEM:RADIATOR ASSEMBLY
CONCERNS WITH LACK OF HEAT / THERMOSTAT CONTAMINATION. *TT
13160 Aug 1, 1999
103100 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)
VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT TRANSMISSION AND / OR MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP ON CONCERNS RELATING TO THE DIAGNOSIS AND REPLACEMENT OF THE TRANSMISSION RANGER SENSOR (TRS). *TT
13162 Aug 1, 1999
980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER
SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT A MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LIGHT ON WITH A DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE P1744. *TT
99152 Jul 26, 1999
103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
INFORMATION ON THE NEW FLUSH AND FILL TOOL AVAILABLE THROUGH ROTUNDA. *TT
99139 Jun 28, 1999
125000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS
CONDITIONS WITH THE BRAKE LAMPS INADVERTENTLY DISABLING THE BRAKE SHIFT INTERLOCK. *TT
99111 Jun 14, 1999
980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER
INFORMATION DESIGNED TO AID IN THE DIAGNOSIS, TESTING AND REPAIR OF NOISE, VIBRATION AND HARSHNESS (NVH) CONCERNS. *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
991210 Jun 14, 1999
980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER
FORD MOTOR COMPANY HAS RELEASED A PRIVATE LABELED MATERIAL TO BE USED FOR IRON PARTICLE / ACID RAIN SERVICE REPAIRS. *TT
6416 Jun 1, 1999
103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
BRIEF INFORMATION REGARDING TRANSMISSION FLUID APPEARANCE. *TT
12834 Jun 1, 1999
102000 POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION
BRIEF INFORMATION REGARDING TRANSMISSION FLUID. *TT
99810 May 3, 1999
034000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS
EXHIBITING A CLICKING NOISE HEARD WHILE APPLYING THE BRAKES AFTER CHANGING VEHICLE DIRECTION ON SOME VEHICLES. *TT
99-8-15 May 3, 1999
162300 STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR
SUBJECT REGARDING DOOR TRIM PANEL REPLACEMENT - SERVICE TIP. *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
9943 Mar 8, 1999
100000 POWER TRAIN
INFORMATION REGARDING REPROGRAMMING POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULES (PCMS). *TT
9943 Mar 8, 1999
116200 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:MODULE
INFORMATION REGARDING REPROGRAMMING POWERTRAIN CONTROL MODULES (PCMS). *TT
12594 Mar 1, 1999
103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT TRANSMISSION AND / OR MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP ON CONCERNS RELATING TO THE DIAGNOSIS AND REPLACEMENT OF THE TRANSMISSION RANGE SENSOR (TR). *TT
98259 Dec 21, 1998
980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER
SOME VINYL COVERED ITEMS SUCH AS DASH PANELS, DOOR TRIM PANELS, CONSOLES, ETC., MAY EXHIBIT A SMALL DENT, SCUFF, ABRASION AND/ OR DISCOLORATION RESULTING FROM ASSEMBLY, TRANSIT, DEALER PREP AND/OR CUSTOMER USAGE. *YC
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
5203 Dec 1, 1998
185000 VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:CRUISE CONTROL
SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT A HARD START / LONG CRANK, COLD START STALL, COLD ROUGH IDLE CONCERN. *TT
5264 Dec 1, 1998
034510 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:CALIPER
INFORMATION CONCERNING CLICK NOISE FROM FRONT CALIPERS DURING BRAKE APPLICATION. *TT
5381 Dec 1, 1998
350000 EQUIPMENT
BRIEF INFORMATION STATING THAT THE NGS FUEL ECONOMY TEST ON SOME VEHICLES MAY NOT FUNCTION PROPERLY. *TT
12216 Dec 1, 1998
036000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP
THIS BULLETIN MENTIONS THAT FOR ALL VEHICLES WITH ANTILOCK BRAKE MODULE CONCERNS THAT REQUIRE A MODULE REPLACEMENT, THE TECHNICIAN MUST CALL FOR APPROVAL BEFORE REMOVING AND / OR REPLACING THE MODULE. *TT
12294 Dec 1, 1998
350000 EQUIPMENT
SUBJECT REGARDING THE NGS FUEL ECONOMY TEST. *TT
12295 Dec 1, 1998
063100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL
SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LIGHT ON, STALL AT TIP-IN FROM IDLE, ENGINE HESITATION, AND / OR SURGE CAUSED BY THE MASS AIR FLOW (MAF) SENSOR. *TT
982310 Nov 23, 1998
063100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL
MASS AIR FLOW (MAF)- SENSOR CONTAMINATION- SERVICE TIP. *AK
12174 Nov 1, 1998
061100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE
SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT A HARD START/LONG CRANK, COLD START STALL, COLD ROUGH IDLE CONCERN. *MJS
98204 Oct 12, 1998
980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER
A PORTION OF FOAM TAPE AT THE WINDSHIELD AND INSTRUMENT PANEL (I/P) MAY BE STICKING OUT ON SOME VEHICLES. *YC
982010 Oct 12, 1998
063000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM
EXPERIENCING A " BUZZING " OR " RATTLING " NOISE FROM THE EXHAUST SYSTEM. *YC
982017 Oct 12, 1998
061100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE
EXPERIENCING " SQUEAKING " AND / OR " RATTLING " NOISES MAY OCCUR DURING DIFFERENT DRIVING CHARACTERISTICS AND FROM VARYING POINTS ON THE VEHICLE. *YC
981512 Aug 3, 1998
063100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM:EMISSION CONTROL
A DIRECT REPLACEMENT PART FOR THE EVAPORATIVE EMISSION CANISTER AND BRACKET ASSEMBLY. AK
981520 Aug 3, 1998
140000 AIR BAGS
INTEGRATED AIR BAG MONITOR REPLACEMENT SERVICE KIT. YD
11769 Aug 1, 1998
061100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE
SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT BRIEF SPARK KNOCK ON ACCELERATION DURING HOT WEATHER ONCE THE ENGINE HAS THOROUGHLY WARMED UP. *TT
9888 Apr 27, 1998
103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
INFORMATION ON A NEW TRANSMISSION FLUID USAGE CHART. *YC
9852 Apr 13, 1998
190000 TIRES
INFORMATION ON TIRE COMPANY TELEPHONE NUMBERS FOR CUSTOMER ASSISTANCE. *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
9874 Apr 13, 1998
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
A NEW SILICONE GASKET AND SEALANT. *YC
980316 Apr 1, 1998
061100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE
CONDITION REGARDING THE ENGINE MISFIRE CODE ( DTC P0304 ). *YC
982534 Apr 1, 1998
114000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT A CUSTOMER CONCERN OF STEADY OR INTERMITTENT MISS WITH DTCS P0300 AND P0304. THIS MAY BE CAUSED BY A SPREAD ELECTRICAL TERMINAL IN CONNECTORS AT INJECTOR. REPAIR TERMINAL/CONNECTOR CONCERN BY USING A SMALL SCRE
983218 Apr 1, 1998
121000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
ENGINEERING IS INVESTIGATING IF ANY HEADLAMP CONCERNS EXIST FOR SOME VEHICLES. *YC
9811473 Apr 1, 1998
061100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE
SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT A CUSTOME CONCERN OF STEADY OR INTERMITTENT MISS WITH DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES P0300 AND P0304. *TT
11518 Apr 1, 1998
110000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT CONCERNS CREATED BY WATER INGESTION INTO THE INTEGRATED RELAY CONTROL MODULE (IRCM). *TT
11525 Apr 1, 1998
980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER
INFORMATION ON THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF REMOTE KEYLESS ENTRY SYSTEMS. *TT
11526 Apr 1, 1998
102000 POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION
THE WORKSHOP MANUAL REFERENCE TO TRANSMISSION FLUID TEMPERATURE SENSOR RESISTANCE IS INCORRECT. THIS BULLETIN LIST THE CORRECT RESISTANCE. *TT
9861 Mar 30, 1998
116100 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:SWITCH
DIFFICULTIES REMOVING KEY FROM IGNITION ON SOME VEHICLES. *YC
9864 Mar 30, 1998
063000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:EXHAUST SYSTEM
INFORMATION ON A BUZZING OR RATTLE NOISE FROM THE EXHAUST SYSTEM. *TT
985A5 Mar 18, 1998
034530 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:ROTOR
HUB-MOUNT BRAKE ROTOR MACHINING EQUIPMENT FROM ROTUNDA IS NOW APPROVED FOR WARRANTY AND SERVICE USE. *YC
985A11 Mar 18, 1998
034000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS
SERVICE TIP INFORMATION REGARDING ELIMINATION OF SANDING ROTORS AND DRUMS. *YC
985A12 Mar 18, 1998
354600 EQUIPMENT:MECHANICAL:WRECKER AND WHEEL LIFT DEVICES
RECOMMENDED GUIDELINES FOR TOWING BEHIND RECREATIONAL VEHICLES. *TT
9845 Mar 2, 1998
045300 SERVICE BRAKES, AIR:DISC:ROTOR
AVAILABILITY OF HUB-MOUNT BRAKE ROTOR MACHINING EQUIPMENT. *YC
983103 Feb 24, 1998
980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER
CONDITIONS WITH CARPET PULLING OUT FROM UNDERNEATH THE LEFT / RIGHT COWL SIDE TRIM PANEL. *TT
9831 Feb 16, 1998
162000 STRUCTURE:BODY
REPAIRS TO VINYL COVERED SURFACES. *YC
982037 Feb 1, 1998
021000 SUSPENSION:FRONT
INITIAL PRINTING OF 1997 SERVICE MANUAL CONTAINED INCORRECT ALIGNMENT SPECIFICATIONS.GN
9811340 Feb 1, 1998
114000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING
INFORMATION ON REPLACING THE WIRING HARNESS ON SOME VEHICLES. *TT
9811345 Feb 1, 1998
116000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
ENGINEERING IS INVESTGATING VEHICLES EXHIBITING A CONDITION IN WHICH THE IGNITION KEY IS DIFFICULT TO TURN AND / OR DIFFICULT TO REMOVE THE FROM THE SWITCH. *TT
9814 Jan 19, 1998
034530 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:ROTOR
SUBJECT REGARDING THE AVAILABILITY OF HUB-MOUNT BRAKE ROTOR MACHINING EQUIPMENT. *TT
9819 Jan 19, 1998
330000 INTERIOR LIGHTING
SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT INTERMITTENT OPERATION OR INOPERATIVE INTERIOR DOME LAMP. *TT
97111097234 Nov 10, 1997
113000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:STARTER ASSEMBLY
VEHICLES EXHIBITING A "SQUEAKING" OR "CHIRPING" FROM THE BLOWER MOTOR AT LOW BLOWER MOTOR SPEEDS. *YC
BC2231970501 May 1, 1997
015000 STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
THE POWER STEERING TRANSDUCER IS NOW RELEASED AS A SERVICEABLE COMPONENT. *TW
BC2430970501 May 1, 1997
103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT A SLIGHT DELAY FROM PARK-TO-REVERSE AND PARK-TO-DRIVE AFTER BEING PARKED FOR A LENGTHY PERIOD OF TIME. *TW
BC3218970501 May 1, 1997
121000 EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS
ENGINEERING IS INVESTIGATING IF ANY HEADLAMP CONCERNS EXIST FOR 97 ESCORT/TRACER. *TW
BC105139705 May 1, 1997
116200 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:MODULE
SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT A MIL (MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP) AND DTC (DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE) P1443 STORED IN MEMORY WITH NO DRIVEABILITY CONCERNS. *TW
97050110606 May 1, 1997
015000 STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM
THE POWER STEERING TRANSDUCER IS NOW AVAILABLE AS A SERVICEABLE COMPONENT. *TW
97050110628 May 1, 1997
116200 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:MODULE
FUEL DIAGNOSTICS WERE COMPUTER EXHIBITS DTC 300. *YC
9705013906 May 1, 1997
353400 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.
HOTLINE INFORMATION REGARDING AUDIO REPAIR. *YC
9768 Mar 17, 1997
980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER
FUEL ECONOMY- CUSTOMER EXPECTATIONS VERSUS VEHICLE USAGE. *JD

Showing 100 of 151 bulletins.

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
EA, Closed , Model Year: 1997
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
PE, Closed , Model Year: 1997
INTEGRATED AIR BAG MONITOR WATER
DP01001 Opened: Apr 19, 2001 , Closed: Nov 1, 2001
DP, Closed , Model Year: 1998
AIR BAG NON-DEPLOYMENT
RQ97010 Opened: Sep 11, 1997 , Closed: May 22, 2000
RQ, Closed , Model Year: 1995
FUEL TANK ASSEMBLY
There is no summary currently available
EA95002 Opened: Feb 24, 1995 , Closed: Sep 30, 1996
EA, Closed , Model Year: 1990
FIRES IN STEERING COLUMN
ELECTRICAL FIRES IN THE STEERING COLUMN.
PE94089 Opened: Nov 25, 1994 , Closed: Mar 24, 1995
PE, Closed , Model Year: 1990
FRONT BRAKE FIRES
There is no summary currently available
PE94078 Opened: Nov 4, 1994 , Closed: Feb 24, 1995
PE, Closed , Model Year: 1990
FIRES IN STEERING COLUMN
There is no summary currently available
EA94002 Opened: Jan 28, 1994 , Closed: Jan 31, 1995
EA, Closed , Model Year: 1991
FUEL PUMP WIRING SHORTAGE
There is no summary currently available
PE93076 Opened: Sep 3, 1993 , Closed: Jan 28, 1994
PE, Closed , Model Year: 1991
FUEL PUMP WIRING SHORTAGE
There is no summary currently available
EA93007 Opened: Feb 26, 1993 , Closed: Apr 26, 1993
EA, Closed , Model Year: 1991
INADVERT. STEERING LOCKUP
There is no summary currently available
PE92082 Opened: Oct 6, 1992 , Closed: Feb 26, 1993
PE, Closed , Model Year: 1991
INADVER. STEERING LOCKUP
There is no summary currently available
EA92012 Opened: Apr 15, 1992 , Closed: Sep 17, 1992
EA, Closed , Model Year: 1991
FUEL TANK LEAKAGE
There is no summary currently available
PE91150 Opened: Dec 3, 1991 , Closed: Apr 15, 1992
PE, Closed , Model Year: 1991
FUEL TANK LEAKAGE
There is no summary currently available
PE91025 Opened: Dec 17, 1990 , Closed: Apr 10, 1991
PE, Closed , Model Year: 1987
FUEL PUMP FAILURE
There is no summary currently available
DP91003 Opened: Nov 29, 1990 , Closed: Jan 31, 1991
DP, Closed , Model Year: 1989
ENGINE STALLING
ENGINE STALLING
PE90063 Opened: Mar 21, 1990 , Closed: Jul 31, 1990
PE, Closed , Model Year: 1987
SAFETY BELT D-RING
There is no summary currently available
EA90008 Opened: Dec 27, 1989 , Closed: Dec 31, 1991
EA, Closed , Model Year: 1987
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
PE, Closed , Model Year: 1987
PASSIVE BELT FAILURE
===
EA88038 Opened: Aug 29, 1988 , Closed: May 11, 1990
EA, Closed , Model Year: 1984
REAR SAFETY BELT FIT
===
PE88046 Opened: Apr 15, 1988 , Closed: Jul 11, 1988
PE, Closed , Model Year: 1987
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
DP, Closed , Model Year: 1984
REAR SEAT BELT COMPLIANCE
REAR SEAT BELT COMPLIANCE
EA87023 Opened: Sep 24, 1987 , Closed: Nov 16, 1989
EA, Closed , Model Year: 1985
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
DP, Closed , Model Year: 1985
WINDOW SHATTERING
WINDOW SHATTERING
PE87028 Opened: May 1, 1987 , Closed: Jan 21, 1988
PE, Closed , Model Year: 1984
STALLING
NO SAFETY DEFECT TREND HAS BEEN DETECTED.===
PE87026 Opened: Apr 28, 1987 , Closed: Sep 24, 1987
PE, Closed , Model Year: 1985
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
EA, Closed , Model Year: 1984
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
DP, Closed , Model Year: 1983
STALLING
STALLING
PE86048 Opened: Apr 23, 1986 , Closed: Dec 1, 1986
PE, Closed , Model Year: 1985
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
EA, Closed , Model Year: 1983
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
DP, Closed , Model Year: 1981
FAILURE OF SEAT BACK SECURING BOLTS
FAILURE OF SEAT BACK SECURING BOLTS
DP84017 Opened: May 30, 1984 , Closed: Sep 10, 1984
DP, Closed , Model Year: 1981
STALLING AND CARBURETOR MALFUNCTIONS
STALLING AND CARBURETOR MALFUNCTIONS
DP84009 Opened: Jan 16, 1984 , Closed: Jul 17, 1984
DP, Closed , Model Year: 1981
TIMING CHAIN FAILURE
TIMING CHAIN FAILURE
EA83013 Opened: Mar 23, 1983 , Closed: Jan 26, 1989
EA, Closed , Model Year: 1981
FRONT SEATBACK FAILURE
STATUS: DISCUSSING WITH CANADA.===
DP83004 Opened: Nov 9, 1982 , Closed: Mar 10, 1983
DP, Closed , Model Year: 1982
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 (current) 2 729
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 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

Other FORD Models

Model Recalls Complaints
MUSTANG 1,104 11,600 View
RANGER 928 10,371 View
F-350 SD 776 2,363 View
F-450 SD 692 624 View
F-150 692 46,142 View
F-250 SD 638 3,635 View
EXPLORER 624 42,549 View
F-550 SD 578 603 View