1998 FORD ESCORT

1 recalls, 470 complaints - 128 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

Complaint Statistics

470 total complaints 102 crashes 17 fires 94 injuries 1 deaths

Top Reported Components

ComponentComplaints
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL59
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE26
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION24
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM19
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:ANTILOCK/TRACTION CONTROL/ELECTRONIC LIMITED SLIP15
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE15
SUSPENSION:REAR:SPRINGS15
AIR BAGS14
SUSPENSION11
UNKNOWN OR OTHER10
ENGINE Sep 19, 2019
Incident date: Sep 18, 2019
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 FORD ESCORT. WHILE DRIVING 20 MPH, THE VEHICLE CAUGHT FIRE UNDER THE HOOD WITHOUT WARNING. THE FIRE DEPARTMENT ARRIVED AND EXTINGUISHED THE FIRE. THE VEHICLE WAS TOWED TO THE CONTACT'S RESIDENCE. THERE WERE NO INJURIES. THE LOCAL DEALER WAS NOT CONTACTED. THE VEHICLE WAS ... Read more
Fire
STRUCTURE:BODY Jan 26, 2019
Incident date: Jan 26, 2019
I AM CONCERNED REGARDING REAR BUMPER COVER. THIS VERY IMPORTANT PAFT ON TBIS VEHICLE IS MADE TOTALLY OF FIBERGLASS OR A SIMILAR PRODUCT WHICH BECOMES MORE CRACKED WITH TIME AND THE MAIN ISSUE IS THAT IT HAS NO HARD METAL BAR FOR PROTECTION IN THE EVENT OF A REAR IMPACT . THIS BUMPER WHICH I HAD REM... Read more
TIRES Sep 6, 2013
Incident date: Jan 5, 2013
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 FORD ESCORT. THE VEHICLE WAS EQUIPPED WITH KELLY SPRINGFIELD TIRE SIZE 185/65/14. THE CONTACT WAS DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 5 MPH AND HE HEARD A LOUD, ABNORMAL NOISE COMING FROM THE REAR TIRES. THE CONTACT DETECTED THAT BOTH REAR TIRES HAD A DEFECT WITHIN THE INNER LINER AND... Read more
TIRES Dec 20, 2010
Incident date: Dec 19, 2010
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 FORD ESCORT. THE TIRE BRAND WAS BRIDGE STONE INSIGNIA SL, TIRE SIZE WAS P175/65R14. THE DOT WAS UNKNOWN. WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 67 MPH, THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE FRONT RIGHT PASSENGER TIRE BLEW OUT WITHOUT WARNING. THE TIRES WERE ON THE VEHICLE WHEN IT WAS PURCHAS... Read more
SUSPENSION:REAR:SPRINGS Oct 18, 2010
Incident date: Oct 16, 2010
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 FORD ESCORT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE REAR COIL SPRINGS BROKE IN 2003 AND WERE REPAIRED. THE VEHICLE WAS AT A REPAIR SHOP GETTING AN OIL CHANGE WHEN THE CONTACT WAS INFORMED THAT THE REAR COIL SPRINGS HAD BROKEN AGAIN. THE VEHICLE HAD NOT BEEN INSPECTED OR REPAIRED. THE... Read more
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL Jul 26, 2010
Incident date: Mar 10, 2010
TL* THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 FORD ESCORT. THE CONTACT STATED WHILE SITTING IDLE AT A TRAFFIC STOP WITH THE BRAKES DEPRESSED, THE VEHICLE ABNORMALLY ACCELERATED TO 80 MPH. THE CONTACT WAS ABLE TO AVOID A CRASH BY WEAVING IN AND OUT OF TRAFFIC AND ATTEMPTED TO SHIFT INTO PARK BUT TO NO AVAIL. THE CONT... Read more
SUSPENSION:REAR Feb 24, 2010
Incident date: Mar 15, 2009
FAILURE OF THE REAR SPRINGS ON 1998 FORD ESCORT FIRST IN 2003 AT 12,195MILES AND THE REPLACEMENTS BOTH FAILED AGAIN IN 2009 AT 36, 000 MILES. FAILURE APPEARS DUE TO SALT CORROSION ENHANCEMENT DUE TO COVERED SPRING SURFACE. FORD WAS CONTACTED AND EVEN THOUGH THERE IS A TSB ON THIS ISSUE THEY WOULD ... Read more
SUSPENSION:REAR Apr 23, 2009
Incident date: Apr 17, 2009
DURING A STATE REQUIRED INSPECTION FOUND BOTH REAR COIL SPRINGS BROKEN. FORD WILL NOT TAKE RESPONSIBILITY. THIS IS THE SECOND TIME THIS HAS OCCURRED. *TR
SEAT BELTS Oct 29, 2008
Incident date: Oct 24, 2008
MY SON WAS DRIVING MY 1998 FORD ESCORT LX ON A 35 MPH ROAD WHEN THE DRIVER IN FRONT OF HIM SLAMMED ON HIS BRAKES. MY SON IMMEDIATELY TRIED TO STOP THE CAR, BUT HE REAR-ENDED THE OTHER CAR BEFORE HE COULD COME TO A COMPLETE STOP. DURING THE IMPACT, THE DRIVER'S SEAT BELT DID NOT LOCK IN PLACE AND T... Read more
Crash 1 injured
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL Oct 29, 2008
Incident date: Oct 24, 2008
MY SON WAS DRIVING MY 1998 FORD ESCORT LX ON A 35 MPH ROAD WHEN THE DRIVER IN FRONT OF HIM SLAMMED ON HIS BRAKES. MY SON IMMEDIATELY TRIED TO STOP THE CAR, BUT HE REAR-ENDED THE OTHER CAR BEFORE HE COULD COME TO A COMPLETE STOP. DURING THE IMPACT, THE DRIVER'S SEAT BELT DID NOT LOCK IN PLACE AND T... Read more
Crash 1 injured
SEAT BELTS Aug 26, 2008
Incident date: Aug 1, 2008
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 FORD ESCORT. WHILE DRIVING BETWEEN 35-40 MPH, REAR ENDED ANOTHER VEHICLE. AT THE TIME OF THE CRASH, THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. BOTH OCCUPANTS WERE WEARING SEAT BELTS, BUT THAT DID NOT PREVENT THEM FROM BEING THROWN TO THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE AND INJURED. THE DRIVE... Read more
Crash 2 injured
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL Aug 26, 2008
Incident date: Aug 1, 2008
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 FORD ESCORT. WHILE DRIVING BETWEEN 35-40 MPH, REAR ENDED ANOTHER VEHICLE. AT THE TIME OF THE CRASH, THE AIR BAGS FAILED TO DEPLOY. BOTH OCCUPANTS WERE WEARING SEAT BELTS, BUT THAT DID NOT PREVENT THEM FROM BEING THROWN TO THE FRONT OF THE VEHICLE AND INJURED. THE DRIVE... Read more
Crash 2 injured
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS Mar 6, 2008
Incident date: Feb 13, 2008
I WAS SOLD A 1998 FORD ESCORT ZX2 FOR 800 DOLLARS, FROM BUT BEHIND A LOCAL DEALERSHIP. THE DEALERSHIP DID THE NOTARY, AND THEY WERE THE ONES WHO SIGNED OFF ON THE CAR AND GAVE ME A HAND WRITTEN RECEIPT WITH SOMEONE ELSE'S NAME ON IT. THEY ALSO DID THE INSPECTION LATER ON AFTER WE REPLACED ONE OF T... Read more
SUSPENSION Mar 6, 2008
Incident date: Feb 13, 2008
I WAS SOLD A 1998 FORD ESCORT ZX2 FOR 800 DOLLARS, FROM BUT BEHIND A LOCAL DEALERSHIP. THE DEALERSHIP DID THE NOTARY, AND THEY WERE THE ONES WHO SIGNED OFF ON THE CAR AND GAVE ME A HAND WRITTEN RECEIPT WITH SOMEONE ELSE'S NAME ON IT. THEY ALSO DID THE INSPECTION LATER ON AFTER WE REPLACED ONE OF T... Read more
PARKING BRAKE Mar 6, 2008
Incident date: Feb 13, 2008
I WAS SOLD A 1998 FORD ESCORT ZX2 FOR 800 DOLLARS, FROM BUT BEHIND A LOCAL DEALERSHIP. THE DEALERSHIP DID THE NOTARY, AND THEY WERE THE ONES WHO SIGNED OFF ON THE CAR AND GAVE ME A HAND WRITTEN RECEIPT WITH SOMEONE ELSE'S NAME ON IT. THEY ALSO DID THE INSPECTION LATER ON AFTER WE REPLACED ONE OF T... Read more
EXTERIOR LIGHTING:HEADLIGHTS Jan 14, 2008
Incident date: Jun 9, 2005
THE HEADLAMP COVERS ARE AWFUL AND DANGEROUS. THEY ARE SO CLOUDY THEY MAKE VISIBILITY ALMOST NIL IN MANY CIRCUMSTANCES (ESP FOGGY NIGHTS). I FEEL THE MATERIAL THEY ARE MADE OF IS SUB PAR, CAUSING THE PROBLEM AND THERE SHOULD BE A RECALL ON THEM. *TR
STEERING:HYDRAULIC POWER ASSIST SYSTEM Aug 30, 2007
Incident date: Aug 27, 2007
TL*THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 FORD ESCORT. THE CONTACT STATED THAT THE STEERING LOCKED UP WHILE DRIVING. SHE PULLED TO THE SIDE OF THE ROAD AND ATTEMPTED TO RESTART THE VEHICLE, HOWEVER, IT FAILED TO RESTART IMMEDIATELY. SHE STATED THAT THE POWER STEERING FLUID WAS DARK COLORED AND LEAKING. THE DEA... Read more
SUSPENSION:REAR:SPRINGS:COIL SPRINGS Jul 5, 2007
Incident date: Jun 16, 2007
COIL SPRING ON 1998 FORD ESCORT BROKE AND ALMOST BLEW OUT THE TIRE. BROUGHT IT TO THE REPAIR SHOP TO GET IT FIXED AND REPLACED THE TIRE.*AK
STRUCTURE:BODY Dec 28, 2006
Incident date: Nov 1, 1998
TL* - THE CONTACT STATED HORN HAS NOT WORKED PROPERLY SINCE SHE PURCHASED THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE CURRENTLY HAS 31,000 MILES. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO DEALER FOR REPAIRS, AND WAS TOLD THAT THE AIRBAG WAS DEFECTIVE , AND THAT ITWAS CAUSING THE HORN NOT TO WORK. THE HORN HAS BEEN REPLA... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:HORN Dec 28, 2006
Incident date: Nov 1, 1998
TL* - THE CONTACT STATED HORN HAS NOT WORKED PROPERLY SINCE SHE PURCHASED THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE CURRENTLY HAS 31,000 MILES. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO DEALER FOR REPAIRS, AND WAS TOLD THAT THE AIRBAG WAS DEFECTIVE , AND THAT ITWAS CAUSING THE HORN NOT TO WORK. THE HORN HAS BEEN REPLA... Read more
AIR BAGS Dec 28, 2006
Incident date: Nov 1, 1998
TL* - THE CONTACT STATED HORN HAS NOT WORKED PROPERLY SINCE SHE PURCHASED THE VEHICLE. THE VEHICLE CURRENTLY HAS 31,000 MILES. THE CONTACT TOOK THE VEHICLE TO DEALER FOR REPAIRS, AND WAS TOLD THAT THE AIRBAG WAS DEFECTIVE , AND THAT ITWAS CAUSING THE HORN NOT TO WORK. THE HORN HAS BEEN REPLA... Read more
SUSPENSION:REAR:SPRINGS Dec 27, 2006
Incident date: Oct 15, 2006
BROKEN REAR SPRINGS. *JB
SUSPENSION:REAR:SPRINGS Dec 12, 2006
Incident date: Aug 8, 2005
BOTH REAR SPRINGS BROKE. THIS IS THE SECOND TIME IN LESS THEN 6 MONTHS FOR THE 2002. THIS SEEMS TO BE A MAJOR DESIGN FLAW IN FORD ESCORT. I HAVE A 1998 & 2002 AND BOTH HAVE BROKEN REAR SPRINGS. ALSO EVERY TECHNICIAN I HAVE TALKED TO KNOWS THE PROBLEM. *JB
SUSPENSION:REAR:SPRINGS:COIL SPRINGS Jul 14, 2006
Incident date: Jul 14, 2006
WHILE HAVING POSSIBLE BRAKE NOISES CHECKED, THE MECHANIC, WHILE THE CAR WAS ON THE LIFT, SAW THAT BOTH REAR COIL SPRINGS WERE BROKEN. HE STATED THAT THE MARKS HE SAW INDICATED THAT THEY HAD BEEN BROKEN FOR A WHILE. *JB
FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:DELIVERY May 18, 2006
Incident date: Apr 26, 2006
I HAVE HAD NEAR ACCIDENTS RELATING TO CAR FUEL PUMP OR TRANSMISSION SHOPS COULDN'T FIND ANY PROBLEMS BUT THE DRIVABLITY OF MY 98 ESCORT ZX2 COST ME MORE MONEY IN PROBLEM SOLVING, 1,500 PLUS IN RECENT REPAIRS INCLUDING EMERGENCY AND REPEAT REPAIRS AND FAULTY REPAIRS. MY FUEL ECONOMY IS 160 MILES PE... Read more
STRUCTURE:FRAME AND MEMBERS:UNDERBODY SHIELDS May 18, 2006
Incident date: Apr 26, 2006
I HAVE HAD NEAR ACCIDENTS RELATING TO CAR FUEL PUMP OR TRANSMISSION SHOPS COULDN'T FIND ANY PROBLEMS BUT THE DRIVABLITY OF MY 98 ESCORT ZX2 COST ME MORE MONEY IN PROBLEM SOLVING, 1,500 PLUS IN RECENT REPAIRS INCLUDING EMERGENCY AND REPEAT REPAIRS AND FAULTY REPAIRS. MY FUEL ECONOMY IS 160 MILES PE... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE May 18, 2006
Incident date: Apr 26, 2006
I HAVE HAD NEAR ACCIDENTS RELATING TO CAR FUEL PUMP OR TRANSMISSION SHOPS COULDN'T FIND ANY PROBLEMS BUT THE DRIVABLITY OF MY 98 ESCORT ZX2 COST ME MORE MONEY IN PROBLEM SOLVING, 1,500 PLUS IN RECENT REPAIRS INCLUDING EMERGENCY AND REPEAT REPAIRS AND FAULTY REPAIRS. MY FUEL ECONOMY IS 160 MILES PE... Read more
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION May 18, 2006
Incident date: Apr 26, 2006
I HAVE HAD NEAR ACCIDENTS RELATING TO CAR FUEL PUMP OR TRANSMISSION SHOPS COULDN'T FIND ANY PROBLEMS BUT THE DRIVABLITY OF MY 98 ESCORT ZX2 COST ME MORE MONEY IN PROBLEM SOLVING, 1,500 PLUS IN RECENT REPAIRS INCLUDING EMERGENCY AND REPEAT REPAIRS AND FAULTY REPAIRS. MY FUEL ECONOMY IS 160 MILES PE... Read more
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING May 8, 2006
Incident date: May 8, 2006
DT*: THE CONTACT STATED THE CHECK ENGINE LIGHT ILLUMINATED HOWEVER THE VEHICLE EXHIBITED NO PROBLEMS. THE MANUFACTURER WAS ALERTED.
SUSPENSION:REAR:SPRINGS:COIL SPRINGS Feb 20, 2006
Incident date: Feb 13, 2006
WAS HAVING MY 1998 ESCORT SERVICED. MECHANIC FOUND BOTH REAR COIL SPRINGS HAD FRACTURED IN SAME SPOT. HAD THEM REPAIRED THERE INSTANTLY AT A COST OF $710.10 . I CALLED FORD THEY SAID NO RECALL, I THEN BROUGHT SPRINGS TO MY FORD DEALER TO SHOW THEM AND TO ASK FOR REIMBURSEMENT FOR DEFECTIVE PARTS, I... Read more
VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL Nov 15, 2005
Incident date: Mar 15, 1998
DT: THE CONTACT STATES THE VEHICLE HAS A LOUD ROAR WHEN IDLING. THE VEHICLE ALSO ACCELERATES RAPIDLY ON ITS OWN. HE TOOK THE VEHICLE TO AN INDEPENDENT GARAGE. THE TECHNICIAN SUGGESTED A NEW SPEED CONTROL AND AN IDLE CONTROL MODULE. THIS WAS REPLACED TWICE BUT DID NOT CORRECT THE PROBLEM. A DIA... Read more
STEERING:LINKAGES:TIE ROD ASSEMBLY Oct 7, 2005
Incident date: Sep 30, 2005
DT: CONSUMER TOOK 1998 FORD ESCORT FOR A OIL CHANGE ON SEPTEMBER 30, 2005. THE MECHANIC FOUND BOTH REAR COILS SPRINGS BROKE. THE REAR STRUTS WERE DAMAGED, AND THE LEFT FRONT TIE ROD WAS BROKEN. THE MILEAGE ON MY VEHICLE AT TIME OF SERVICE WAS 71, 127 MILES. THE CONSUMER USED THE CAR FOR SHOPP... Read more
SUSPENSION:REAR Oct 7, 2005
Incident date: Sep 30, 2005
DT: CONSUMER TOOK 1998 FORD ESCORT FOR A OIL CHANGE ON SEPTEMBER 30, 2005. THE MECHANIC FOUND BOTH REAR COILS SPRINGS BROKE. THE REAR STRUTS WERE DAMAGED, AND THE LEFT FRONT TIE ROD WAS BROKEN. THE MILEAGE ON MY VEHICLE AT TIME OF SERVICE WAS 71, 127 MILES. THE CONSUMER USED THE CAR FOR SHOPP... Read more
SUSPENSION:REAR:SPRINGS:COIL SPRINGS Oct 7, 2005
Incident date: Sep 30, 2005
DT: CONSUMER TOOK 1998 FORD ESCORT FOR A OIL CHANGE ON SEPTEMBER 30, 2005. THE MECHANIC FOUND BOTH REAR COILS SPRINGS BROKE. THE REAR STRUTS WERE DAMAGED, AND THE LEFT FRONT TIE ROD WAS BROKEN. THE MILEAGE ON MY VEHICLE AT TIME OF SERVICE WAS 71, 127 MILES. THE CONSUMER USED THE CAR FOR SHOPP... Read more
AIR BAGS:FRONTAL Sep 28, 2005
Incident date: Aug 3, 2004
DT: THE CONSUMER'S VEHICLE WAS INVOLVED IN AN ACCIDENT, AND THE DRIVER'S SIDE AIR BAG DEPLOYED. WHEN THE AIRBAG DEPLOYED IT CAUSED THE CONSUMER TO BE SEVERALLY BURNED. THE PASSENGER SIDE AIRBAG DID NOT DEPLOY COMPLETELY. THIS OCCURRED ON AUGUST 3, 2004. THE CONSUMER'S VEHICLE HIT A POST. T... Read more
Crash 1 injured
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ALTERNATOR/GENERATOR/REGULATOR Sep 3, 2005
Incident date: Sep 3, 2005
AFTER EXITING HIGHWAY FROM A 20 MILE TRIP, THE IDLE ON THE VEHICLE BECAME ROUGH WHEN STOPPED. THE BEST DESCRIPTION WAS THAT THE IDLE STARTED TO SURGE AND PULSE WITH THE BRAKE ENGAGED AND THE VEHICLE FULLY STOPPED. JUST PRIOR TO PULLING INTO DRIVEWAY (LESS THAN A MILE FROM HIGHWAY) THE RADIO AND VE... Read more
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION Sep 1, 2005
Incident date: Aug 29, 2005
THE FAILURE INVOLVES THE INTERLOCK THAT KEEPS YOU FROM SHIFTING OUT OF PARK WITHOUT APPLYING THE BRAKE. MY LEFT REAR TURN SIGNAL BULB HAD BURNED OUT. I STOPPED THE CAR, PUT IT IN PARK, AND SET THE EMERGENCY BRAKE, TO GET OUT AND CHECK THE OTHER TURN SIGNALS. FIRST I TURNED ON THE LEFT SIDE AND VE... Read more
SUSPENSION:REAR:SPRINGS:COIL SPRINGS Aug 19, 2005
Incident date: Jan 1, 2005
DT: THE CONTACT OWNS A 1998 FORD ESCORT WAGON. WHILE HAVING ROUTINE MAINTENANCE ON VEHICLE THE MECHANIC FOUND THAT THE REAR COIL SPRING BROKE WITH SOMETHING HOLDING IT INTO PLACE. THE REAR COIL SPRING NEEDED TO BE REPLACED. THE CONTACT SHE HAS NOT CONTACTED THE MANUFACTURER.*AK
AIR BAGS Aug 18, 2005
Incident date: Aug 3, 2004
DT: THE CONSUMER STATES THAT THE 1998 FORD ESCORT CRASHED INTO A LIGHT POLE. THE DRIVER HIT THE POLE AND THE AIR BAG DEPLOYED AND BROKE. THE INSIDE OF THE AIR BAG SPRAYED THE CHEMICALS ON THE DRIVER, THE CHEMICALS BURNT HER HANDS AND ARM. SHE SAID THAT SHE COULD NOT FIND A LAWYER IN HER TOWN TO TAK... Read more
Crash 1 injured
ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:BELTS AND ASSOCIATED PULLEYS Aug 10, 2005
Incident date: Jul 25, 2005
DT: 1998 FORD ESCORT. THE CONSUMER TOOK THE VEHICLE TO DEALER TO BE SERVICED, AND THE SERVICE DEPARTMENT NOTICED THE REAR COIL SPRINGS WERE BROKEN , APPROXIMATELY 1 TURNS FROM THE TOP. THE CONSUMER CONTACTED FORD, AND THEY TOLD HIM THE PART WAS NOT UNDER WARRANTY. THE COIL SPRINGS WERE REPLACE... Read more
SUSPENSION:REAR:SPRINGS:COIL SPRINGS Aug 10, 2005
Incident date: Jul 25, 2005
DT: 1998 FORD ESCORT. THE CONSUMER TOOK THE VEHICLE TO DEALER TO BE SERVICED, AND THE SERVICE DEPARTMENT NOTICED THE REAR COIL SPRINGS WERE BROKEN , APPROXIMATELY 1 TURNS FROM THE TOP. THE CONSUMER CONTACTED FORD, AND THEY TOLD HIM THE PART WAS NOT UNDER WARRANTY. THE COIL SPRINGS WERE REPLACE... Read more
SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:CALIPER Aug 10, 2005
Incident date: Jul 25, 2005
DT: 1998 FORD ESCORT. THE CONSUMER TOOK THE VEHICLE TO DEALER TO BE SERVICED, AND THE SERVICE DEPARTMENT NOTICED THE REAR COIL SPRINGS WERE BROKEN , APPROXIMATELY 1 TURNS FROM THE TOP. THE CONSUMER CONTACTED FORD, AND THEY TOLD HIM THE PART WAS NOT UNDER WARRANTY. THE COIL SPRINGS WERE REPLACE... Read more
SEAT BELTS:REAR/OTHER Aug 1, 2005
Incident date: Jul 25, 2005
DT: 1998 FORD ESCORT. BOTH OF THE REAR SEAT BELTS DO NOT WORK. THE SEAT BELT STRAPS WILL NOT PULL OUT FROM THE SEAT, WHICH MAKES IT IMPOSSIBLE TO USE THEM. ABOUT A YEAR AGO THE DRIVER'S SIDE REAR SEAT BELT STOPPED RETRACTING. THIS WAS IN JUNE OF 2004. AND ON 7-25-05 THE PASSENGER SIDE REAR SEA... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:ALTERNATOR/GENERATOR/REGULATOR Jul 18, 2005
Incident date: Jul 15, 2005
DT: THERE WAS NO WARNING, NO LIGHTS, NO NOISE BEFORE THE ALTERNATOR FAILED. THE VEHICLE LOST ALL POWER AND WAS CONCERNED ABOUT WHAT WOULD HAPPEN WHILE DRIVING ALONG A CROWDED HIGHWAY. THE CONSUMER CONTACTED FORD AND WAS WAITING FOR A RESPONSE. THIS HAPPENED FRIDAY JULY 15TH, 2005. *AK *NM
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM Jul 8, 2005
Incident date: Jul 4, 2005
I OWN A 1998 FORD ESCORT WITH 32,000 MILES AND RECENTLY HAD THE AIR CONDITIONER CONTROL MODULE REPLACED.WHEN THE REPAIR SHOP ATTEMPTED TO LOCATE A NEW PART, THEY WERE TOLD THAT THIS PART WAS ON NATIONAL BACKORDER. THIS LEADS ME TO BELIEVE THAT THERE HAS BEEN MANY PROBLEMS THROUGHOUT THE COUNTRY AND ... Read more
ELECTRICAL SYSTEM Jul 6, 2005
Incident date: Jun 5, 2005
MY DAUGHTER WAS ON HER WAY TO WORK , WHEN SHE CALLED ME & SAID "DAD MY CAR HAS LOSS POWER & IS RUNNING VERY ROUGH". I TOLD HER TO PULL OVER & I WOULD BE THERE SHORTLY, SINCE SHE WAS ONLY ABOUT 8 MILES DOWN THE ROAD. AS I WAS PREPAIRING TO LEAVE, MY DAUGHTER CALLED ME BACK & SAID THERE WAS A FIRE UND... Read more
Fire
POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM) Jun 30, 2005
Incident date: Feb 20, 2005
DT: CONSUMER STATED THE VEHICLE WAS PARKED IN THE GARAGE WHEN A FIRE STARTED IN THE LEFT FRONT UNDERNEATH THE HOOD. THE VEHICLE HAD BEEN DRIVEN THE PREVIOUS NIGHT, AND HAD BEEN SITTING FOR APPROXIMATELY 15 HOURS. THE FIRE INVESTIGATOR DETERMINED THE CAUSE OF FIRE WAS FROM THE POWER CONTROL MODUL... Read more
Fire
SUSPENSION:REAR:SPRINGS May 23, 2005
Incident date: May 22, 2005
DT: VEHICLE BROKE REAR SPRINGS 2 YEARS AGO. *AK
SUSPENSION:REAR:SPRINGS Apr 26, 2005
Incident date: Apr 26, 2005
BOTH REAR COIL SPRINGS ARE BROKEN. THE VEHICLE HAS SEEN MOSTLY HIGHWAY MILES AND IS WELL KEPT. THERE WAS LITTLE TO NO SYMPTOMS OF THE PROBLEM ,AND WAS FOUND DURING AN INSPECTION OF THE REAR BRAKES. IT WAS EXPLAINED THAT THIS COULD HAVE CAUSED THE WHEEL TO SEPARATE HAD IT NOT BEEN FOUND. *AK
AIR BAGS Mar 15, 2005
Incident date: Mar 10, 2005
WHILE DRIVING APPROXIMATELY 20 MPH CONSUMER'S VEHICLE REAR ENDED ANOTHER VEHICLE. UPON IMPACT, SEAT BELTS DID NOT LOCK, AND AIR BAGS DID NOT DEPLOY. *AK
Crash 1 injured

Showing 50 of 470 complaints.

EPA Fuel Economy, 1998 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) 22.0 31.0 25.0 Regular $2,450
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, 1998 FORD ESCORT

128 manufacturer communications from 122 unique bulletins. TSBs describe known problems and recommended fixes from the manufacturer.

Most Affected Components

ComponentBulletins
980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER14
061100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE14
162000 STRUCTURE:BODY7
103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION7
034000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS7
357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER6
353400 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.5
103100 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)5
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
0245 Mar 4, 2002
111000 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:12V/24V/48V BATTERY
INFORMATION REGARDING DISCHARGED BATTERY CHARGING SERVICE TIPS AND GUIDELINES. *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
00E11 Feb 1, 2001
103100 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)
SERVICE ACTION 00E11, SUPPLEMENT #1 - UPDATE INFORMATION REGARDING ON-BOARD DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM UPGRADE. *TT
00E11 Dec 1, 2000
350000 EQUIPMENT
SERVICE ACTION BULLETIN REGARDING ON-BOARD DIAGNOSTIC SYSTEM UPGRADE. *TT
14379 Sep 1, 2000
357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER
VEHICLES MAY EXPERIENCE INOPERATIVE OR INCORRECT A/C OPERATION AFTER REPLACING THE CCRM. *JB
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
9912701 Dec 6, 1999
103000 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION
ENGINEERING IS INVESTIGATING CONCERNS WITH VEHICLES EXHIBITING DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES PO705, PO708 OR P1705 (TRANSMISSION RANGE SENSOR).
99234 Nov 15, 1999
980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER
INFORMATION ON DIAGNOSING A VEHICLE WITH MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP ILLUMINATED AND DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES P0442 AND P0455 STORED IN CONTINUOUS MEMORY. *TT
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
99-3370 Oct 7, 1999
061000 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
SUBLECT REGARDING THE VALVE BODY ON SOME VEHICLES WAS REVISED TO ELIMINATE THE OIL PIPE. *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
7131 Oct 1, 1999
980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER
SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT A CONDITION OF THE MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LIGHT ON AND DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE P0455 (EVAPORATIVE EMISSION) IN MEMORY. *TT
7235 Oct 1, 1999
185000 VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:CRUISE CONTROL
VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH THE 2.0L SPI ENGINE WITH MANUAL OR AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION MAY EXHIBIT AN RPM FLUCTUATION (IDLE ROLL) OR POSSIBLE STALL AT IDLE. *TT
7249 Oct 1, 1999
357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER
INFORMATION ON USING PEANUT STYLE A/C FITTINGS. *TT
7292 Oct 1, 1999
980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER
NNERS OF THE EDSR-OF-THE-MONTH QUALITY AWARD ANNOUNCEMENT FOR SEPTEMBER. *TT
13355 Oct 1, 1999
357100 EQUIPMENT:APPLIANCE:AIR CONDITIONER
INFORMATION REGARDING A/C PEANUT O-RING COLOR. *TT
13296 Oct 1, 1999
185000 VEHICLE SPEED CONTROL:CRUISE CONTROL
SOME VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH THE 2.0L SPI ENGINE, WITH MANUAL OR AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION, MAY EXHIBIT AN RPM FLUCTUATION (IDLE ROLLL) OR POSSIBLE STALL AT IDLE. *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
13249 Sep 1, 1999
980000 UNKNOWN OR OTHER
SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT A CONDITION OF THE MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP LIGHT ON AND DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE P0455 IN MEMORY. *TT
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
6503 Jul 1, 1999
353400 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.
SOME VEHICLES MAY EXIBIT ICP (RADIO) CONCERNS OF NOISES COMING FROM THE TAPE DECK. *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
12846 Jun 1, 1999
114400 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FUSES AND CIRCUIT BREAKERS
SUBJECT ON INSTALLING FUSES AT PDI (PRE-DELIVERY INSPECTION). *TT
12892 Jun 1, 1999
353400 EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:RADIO/TAPE DECK/CD ETC.
EXPERIENCING TAPE DECK NOISE. *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
996105 May 1, 1999
131000 VISIBILITY:WINDSHIELD
EXPERIENCING WINDNOISE FROM THE DOOR GLASS BELTLINE WEATHERSTRIP AREA. *TT
996105 May 1, 1999
162300 STRUCTURE:BODY:DOOR
EXPERIENCING WINDNOISE FROM THE DOOR GLASS BELTLINE WEATHERSTRIP AREA. *TT
12701 May 1, 1999
103100 POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM/PCM/TECM)
THIS BULLETIN ADDRESSES CONCERNS WITH THE TRANSMISSION RANGE SENSOR. *TT
5963 May 1, 1999
114400 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FUSES AND CIRCUIT BREAKERS
INFORMATION ON INSTALLING FUSES AT PRE-DELIVERY. *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
12547 Mar 1, 1999
071110 FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY:FILLER PIPE AND CAP
COMPLAINTS THAT FUEL FILL NOZZLE CLICKS OFF OR DIFFICULTY ADDING FUEL. *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
12597 Mar 1, 1999
114400 ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:WIRING:FUSES AND CIRCUIT BREAKERS
INFORMATION ON INSTALLING FUSES AT PRE-DELIVERY. *TT
98203 Jan 1, 1999
160000 STRUCTURE
CONCERNS WITH THE POTENTIAL EFFECTS OF ADHESIVES USED FOR BODY PANEL REPAIRS. *TT
98203 Jan 1, 1999
162000 STRUCTURE:BODY
CONCERNS WITH THE POTENTIAL EFFECTS OF ADHESIVES USED FOR BODY PANEL REPAIRS. *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
982517 Dec 21, 1998
162600 STRUCTURE:BODY:HATCHBACK/LIFTGATE
CONCERNS WITH THE REAR HATCH DOESNT UNLOCK WHEN USING THE DOOR PANEL SWITCH AND/OR THE ALARM SOUNDS INADVERTENTLY IF THE REAR HATCH DOOR IS UNLOCKED USING THE " TRUNK " BUTTON ON THE KEY FOB ON SOME VEHICLES. *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
5260 Dec 1, 1998
162000 STRUCTURE:BODY
BRIEF INFORMATION CONCERN IDLE VIBRATION (TYPICALLY IN GEAR) FELT THRU THE STEERING WHEEL AND / OR BODY. *TT
5264 Dec 1, 1998
034510 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS:DISC:CALIPER
INFORMATION CONCERNING CLICK NOISE FROM FRONT CALIPERS DURING BRAKE APPLICATION. *TT
5294 Dec 1, 1998
061100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE
INFORMATION CONCERNING VEHICLES EXPERIENCING AN ENGINE IDLE VIBRATION WHILE IN GEAR AND LOADED (A/C ON, HEADLIGHTS ON, AND / OR REAR DEFROSTER ON). *TT
5309 Dec 1, 1998
034000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS
INFORMATION REGARDING VEHICLES EXHIBITING A CLICK SOUND WHEN APPLYING THE BRAKES WHILE CHANGING DIRECTION. *TT
5381 Dec 1, 1998
350000 EQUIPMENT
BRIEF INFORMATION STATING THAT THE NGS FUEL ECONOMY TEST ON SOME VEHICLES MAY NOT FUNCTION PROPERLY. *TT
12215 Dec 1, 1998
061100 ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE
SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT AN ENGINE IDLE VIBRATION CONCERN WHILE IN GEAR AND LOADED (A/C ON, HEADLIGHTS ON, AND / OR REAR DEFROSTER ON). *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
12241 Dec 1, 1998
034000 SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:FOUNDATION COMPONENTS
SOME VEHICLES MAY EXHIBIT A CLICK SOUND WHEN APPLY THE BRAKES WHILE CHANING DIRECTIONS. ENGINEERING IS INVESTIGATING THIS CONCERN. *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
982113 Nov 1, 1998
106000 POWER TRAIN:AXLE ASSEMBLY
AN ERRATIC SHIFT WITH DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE (DTC) P0712. *YC
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
98203 Oct 12, 1998
162000 STRUCTURE:BODY
CONCERNS WITH ADHENSIVES NOT RECOMMENDED FOR BODY PANEL REPAIRS. *YC
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
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

Showing 100 of 128 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 (current) 1 470
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 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