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Ford Escort Repair and Maintenance

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Ford Escort Questions and Answers

Fran D 739, 1997 Ford Escort

I have a 1997 Ford Escort wagon, approaching 60k miles. The Service Guide says NOTHING about replacing the timing belt. Is it supposed to last forever?? If not, when is it supposed to be replaced?

89tempo, 1996 Ford Escort, 1.9L 4 cylinder, Newark, OH

all of a sudden the power steering fluid foams up and pours out the top of the reservoir. What would cause this?

shorty, 1997 Ford Escort, 2.0L, Manvel, ND

I have a 97 Escort, that I have been having heating problems with. Thermostat has been changed twice, and the last time, bypass gasket was also changed. I have to drive it for approx. 5 miles befor...

Bren405, 1997 Ford Escort, 2.0L, Newport, MI

My car has heat but the fan will not work. What would be wrong with it and what would the repair cost?

sikpony, 1999 Ford Escort, 2.0L SOHC 4 cylinder, Hollister, CA

where is the tempature sensor located?on the motor or the radiator?near the top or bottom?

MsPerfect, 1993 Ford Escort, Central Islip, NY

Hello Everyone! I just bought this vehicle from someone and it runs great except for this one problem. Yes my fan is working, but when I try to turn on the heat or air....NOTHING happens. It sounds...

Mike94Escort, 1994 Ford Escort, 1.9L 4 cylinder, Crystal City, MO

My speedometer makes a rattleing noise, and the needle likes to wave at me when I go over forty mph, and usually shows me doing about 10-15 mph over what I really am. I tried pulling the gauges out...

mission bay, 1994 Ford Escort, 1.9L 4 cylinder, Encinitas, CA

The check engine light came on in my 94 Ford Escort after having transmission work done. The trouble codes are 335,326 and 172, and supposedly relate to the DPFE sensor. I installed a new sensor,...

jhog, 1998 Ford Escort, 4 cylinder, Overland Park, KS

I have a 98 Ford Escort. I have taken it in to 2 dealers. Both have told me that a blower switch was stuck on cold. They switch it to hot and replace then it stops working after 2-3 weeks. What...

Sugie, 2002 Ford Escort, 4 cylinder, Cleveland, OH

need a wiring diagram and position for a solenoid on a 2002 Ford Escort

dlw1959, 1997 Ford Escort, 4 cylinder, Omaha, NE

I've removed the inside part how do I remove the outside mirror?

joshmyers55, 2001 Ford Escort, 4 cylinder, Munday, TX

How do you replace the themostat on 2001 Ford Escort?

killer, 1999 Ford Escort, 4 cylinder, Naugatuck, CT

After washing the engine down with degresser, the engine begain the rev up , I would have to hit the gas sseveral times for it to drop down, than while driving the car it would just shut off, what'...

phoenixjmw, 1999 Ford Escort, 2.0L DOHC 4 cylinder, Buffalo, NY

GF's 99 escort: Turning on the heater keeps blowing the wiper fuse. Both work fine until fuse blows then no wipers and no blower motor at any selected speed. Problem comes and goes. I am not famili...

nassau, 1997 Ford Escort, 2.0L DOHC, Fort Worth, TX

spark plug gap

cardog71, 1995 Ford Escort, 1.8L 4 cylinder, Portland, OR

i have no wipers front or back and no heater motor ive check the fuses and they are all good it cant be a main relay because everything else works any answers help its cold and i live in oregon nee...

cardog71, 1995 Ford Escort, 1.8L 4 cylinder, Portland, OR

i have no wipers front or back and no heater motor ive check the fuses and they are all good it cant be a main relay because everything else works any answers help its cold and i live in oregon nee...

yusaki, 1994 Ford Escort, 1.8L 4 cylinder, Waco, TX

i have a 94 Escort wagon and i need to replace the heads but don't know the bolt torques or patten

ajovitsky, 2002 Ford Escort, 4 cylinder, Temecula, CA

Increasingly loud high pitched humming is causing concern. Gets good mileage, over 100,000 mi, I bought it with about 20,000 on it. No knocking, pinging, all fluids topped up and hoses okay....

rosci, 2002 Ford Escort, 2.0L DOHC 4 cylinder, Eagle, WI

Where's the EGR vacuum solenoid located on my 2002 Ford Escort. Can I see it from the top of the engine?

Ford Escort Car Reviews (16)

2000 Ford Escort, Liz K., Westchester, IL, February 17, 2010 19:07

I bought my Ford Escort ZX@ brand new back in 2000 and had my first problem with it at only two days old when it died. The rear struts had to be replaced at 3 months old, and the drivers' side window got stuck down at less than a year old. Since then, I have had seven different motors installed in the drivers' side door, six of which came before my car was 3 years old. I went to the head of the dealership I bought the car from and asked about the lemon law. He said, "Sue me," so I called Ford corporate who wouldn't help me. I was in college, so I couldn't afford to sue over the lemon law, so I had to keep driving my car. After the third motor was installed in my door, I picked up my car and headed to my friend's house. While I was on the highway, my door started to come off the hinges, so I had to go back to the dealership, which had my car for another few days while they put the door back on, fixed the hinges, and repaired the motor again. I've had countless problems ever since which included broken timing and serpetine belts. Most recently, my horn went on and stayed on while I was driving. I pulled over, shut the car off, and the horn kept blaring. It dies after about 10 minutes, along with my car alarm. I wouldn't recommend this car to anyone. It'sbeen problems ever since I drove it off the lot, and Ford (the dealership and corporate) was no help to me.

Btw, the only good thing about my car has been its heating system. The car heats up quickly in the winter, which has been nice.

1997 Ford Escort, Revman50, Royal Oak, MI, January 28, 2010 04:35

I have had three Escorts (1988, 1997 & 1998) all delivered great fuel economy and all started faithfully no matter what the weather.
For the money, this little car gives great value. I have driven virtually every competitor, both foreign and domestic and found that the Escort holds up very well in comparison.

Honda's double wishbone suspension and overall engine technology are better, Toyota's overall quality ratings are better but they cost more; especially in the used market.

So, for what you get for what you pay, buy an Escort.

1995 Ford Escort, paul013, Memphis, TN, November 07, 2009 15:33

I just bought my 1996 escort LX wagon with 175,900 miles for $200. I have to say it has been much better than I expected for a $200 car. All I have done to it is change brakes (master cylinder, 1 caliper, 2 rotors,pads and shoes all around.) new tires, all fluids changed, new air, fuel, and oil filters, and now the car runs like a top. $200 for the car $500 for the tires and parts and fluids I've spent $700 total...Not bad at all:-)

1992 Ford Escort, minimoon192000, Southbury, CT, October 09, 2009 12:17

I got my 1992 Ford Escort GT 4 months ago. It currently has 325,000+ miles. It sat for two years before I got it on the road and now I am having a few problems with it. The electrical seat belts no longer work (not a problem with the fuses), the interior fan does not operate on 4, but will occasionally turn on, part of my instrument panel does not light up unless i smack the dash, my shift lights don't work, and there is a rattle in the motor. The trani shifts hard and there are many leaks consisting of oil and coolant... from multiple places. Despite all of this.. I love my escort. Had a 94' escort wagon before this that got to 217,000. I'm hoping to see 400,000 with this one. ^_^

1998 Ford Escort, dawn45638, Madisonville, KY, September 01, 2009 08:40

not a bad car, but lately having alot of problems with it, the car when i start it seem sok, but when i give it gas, it wants to die, so i just let it die, and then when i restart it, it runs fine like nothing was ever wrong with it..

1994 Ford Escort, RJR, Washington, DC, August 10, 2009 08:37

Got from Mom, 35,000 Mi.,Now has80,000.Had to leave outside All bad weather.body needs a paint job.But run great.

2000 Ford Escort, mrsmoore, Yulee, FL, July 20, 2009 14:34

Bought the 2000 Ford Escort second hand for daughter. It has been a great running car for her with minor maintenance. She got it for her 17th birthday and just turned 24, so she has gotten the money we invested in it. My son liked hers so much that when it was time for his, we got him a 2000 Escort ZX, of course, the boys want those 'need for speed'. Now he has been in 3 accidents where he has gone up under pickup trucks. He finally learned his lesson but he has never done any mechanical work but he decided his last accident he would do his own repair because his father refused to. The car is very friendly for the novice to learn on. He had to do some body work and replaced the radiator and front end. Still a work in progress but engine wise it has been a great running vehicle.

I have to say this is ONE model of Ford that have felt it was worth the money.

1998 Ford Escort, roxy brown, Philadelphia, PA, April 28, 2009 05:22

i bought a 1998 ford escort zx2 last year. i love the car its reliable its quick sometimes i feel my engine losing power other then that i never have a problem. I bought it for $500. the guy i bought it form bought 3 cars since i had my escort. i would like to update the style and make it personalized however i have no job.

1995 Ford Escort, ich_bin_der_dorn, Eden, NC, April 22, 2009 08:46

this is a 95 escort. my mom bought it back in 96. new. i just bought it from my mom with over 225,000 miles on it and it runs great. and people say ford is found on road dead.
pshhht
its first on race day.

1998 Ford Escort, miamibill, Allentown, PA, April 12, 2009 01:49

MY ESCORT IS A 98 I BOUGHT IT BACK IN 99.WHEN I BOUGHT IT IT HAD AROUND 32000 MILES ON IT.10 YRS LATER I HAVE 153000MILES ON IT.I REPLACED THE ENGINE A YEAR AND A HALF AGO.I ONLY REPLACE THE BRAKES ONECE IN 10 YRS.I NEED TO REPLACE THE REAR OXYGEN SENSOR 2 PASS THE EMISSIONS TEST THIS YEAR.MY ESCORT OUTLASTED MY 2 MARRAGES.ALOT OF PEOPLE SAY FORDS SUCK,BUT I DISAGREE WITH THEM.MINE HAS BEEN MY TRANSPORTATION FOR THE LAST 10 YRS AND STILL GOING STRONG.

1991 Ford Escort, jms1681, Mahanoy City, PA, February 23, 2009 06:09

i wish the horn would work

1995 Ford Escort, ajdurling, Beverly Hills, CA, February 08, 2009 16:16

Bought this little car with 140,000 km on it a few years ago. Now have 240,000 km, with little trouble. I have replaced a lot of parts, but things that wear out, such as struts, brakes, and the clutch, parts are reasonably priced, and the maintenance, which I do myself, is fairly straight forward and simple, however, I have a mechanical background.

Oh, I'm in Canada, not California, but its the only zip code I know, hahaha

1995 Ford Escort, fernando, Alameda, CA, December 18, 2008 09:00

I bought my Ford Escort 95 with around 10,000 miles. Right away the very first week it began to overheat, on my way to the dealer to have it check the car broke down in the middle of the freeway. They said that the radiator fan stopped working. After fixing this problem, it continued overheating. Plus countless troubles with the A/C, electric windows, noisy engine and brakes, this is the worst automobile I have owned.

1993 Ford Escort, oldslady, Fostoria, OH, October 16, 2008 17:11

Car hood rust and paint fade is really bad but car runs pretty good..not real happy with it but am stuck with it for now. It's a go to work car.

2001 Ford Escort, peepslover, Swansboro, NC, October 14, 2008 16:00

i bought the car in 2001 and it has been great i have 135,000 only one problem with the coil last month

1998 Ford Escort, pongee, California City, CA, September 29, 2008 19:58

I purchased this car new in 1998 and never had a bit of trouble with it.It now has 97,000 miles..

Ford Escort Problems

Engine
  • If you experience difficulty starting the engine when cold, stalling at idle, or hesitations during acceleration, it may be the idle air bypass valve. This valve helps the vehicle idle steadily and run when the accelerator pedal is not pressed.
  • A cylinder head replacement could be needed if the vehicle overheats and causes the cylinder head to crack between the valves.
  • Valve seats (components on the cylinder head that help seal the valve) can fall out. When this happens, it causes rough running and creates noise. Replacement of the cylinder head will fix the problem.
  • Engine oil leaks externally because the rubber O-ring that seals around the distributor has failed. A new O-ring seal will be needed.
  • The distributor may become internally contaminated with engine oil because of an internal seal failure. This causes ignition failure because the distributor cap has filled with oil. If this happens, the car will not start.
Suspension & Steering
  • While steering, if you hear a clunk or a rattle, or if you experience premature tire wear, this could indicate that the inner tie rod ends are loose or worn.
  • Failure to change the power steering fluid can cause the fluid to become gray with metal particles. The power steering pump then makes a growling noise when the wheel is turned; the pump should be replaced. Life of the power steering rack and pump will be shortened if the fluid is not serviced regularly.
Electrical & Lights The electrical ignition switch poses a fire hazard. An updated switch is available.

Ford Escort Recalls and TSBs

Ford Escort Recalls (Recent)

Body, Interior & Misc.: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
Campaign Number: 94V218000
Dates Manufactured: 09/1994 to 10/1994
Number of Vehicles Affected: 240
Model Years Affected: 1994, 1995
Date Owner Notified: 12/1994

Defect Summary: THE DRIVER SIDE AIR BAG MODULE CAN HAVE AN INADEQUATELY WELDED INFLATOR CANISTER.

Consequence Summary: IN THE EVENT OF A COLLISION, THE WELD SEAM CAN SEPARATE, CAUSING THE AIR BAG TO FAIL TO DEPLOY PROPERLY AND HOT GASES TO BE EXPELLED FROM THE BACK OF THE STEERING WHEEL. THIS CAN RESULT IN AN INCREASED RISK OF PERSONAL INJURY FROM THE HOT GASES AND THE AIR BAG FAILURE.

Corrective Summary: DEALERS WILL INSTALL A NEW AIR BAG MODULE.

Recall Notes: SYSTEM: INTERIOR SYSTEMS; PASSIVE RESTRAINT; AIR BAG; DRIVER SIDE.VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER CARS.NOTE: IF YOUR VEHICLE IS PRESENTED TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND THE REMEDY IS NOT PROVIDED FREE OF CHARGE WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME OR THE REMEDY DOES NOT CORRECT THE DEFECT, PLEASE CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673. ALSO, CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINSTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-800-424-9393.

Body, Interior & Misc.: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL
Campaign Number: 94V197000
Dates Manufactured: 08/1994 to 09/1994
Number of Vehicles Affected: 29,000
Model Years Affected: 1995
Date Owner Notified: 12/1994

Defect Summary: TWO BOLTS THAT ATTACH THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG SUPPLEMENTAL RESTRAINT SYSTEM MODULE TO THE INSTRUMENT PANEL ARE MISSING. IN THE EVENT OF A FRONTAL IMPACT, THE MODULE CAN COME OUT OF THE INSTRUMENT PANEL.

Consequence Summary: THIS WOULD NOT RESTRAIN THE PASSENGER AND WOULD RESULT IN AN INCREASED RISK OF INJURY.

Corrective Summary: DEALERS WILL INSPECT AND, IF NECESSARY, INSTALL AND TORQUE TO SPECIFICATION THE MOUNTING BOLTS FOR THE PASSENGER SIDE AIR BAG.

Recall Notes: SYSTEM: INTERIOR SYSTEMS; PASSIVE RESTRAINTS; AIR BAG; DRIVER.VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES.NOTE: IF YOUR VEHICLE IS PRESENTED TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND THE REMEDY IS NOT PROVIDED FREE OF CHARGE WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME OR THE REMEDY DOES NOT CORRECT THE DEFECT, PLEASE CONTACT FORD AT 1-800-392-3673. ALSO, CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-800-424-9393.

Body, Interior & Misc.: AIR BAGS:FRONTAL:SENSOR/CONTROL MODULE
Campaign Number: 02V323000
Dates Manufactured: 11/1995 to 09/1997
Number of Vehicles Affected: 396,217
Model Years Affected: 1997
Date Owner Notified: 02/2003

Defect Summary: 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 Summary: 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.

Corrective Summary: 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 AT 1-866-436-7332.

Recall Notes: CUSTOMERS CAN ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION¿S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).

Body, Interior & Misc.: SEAT BELTS
Campaign Number: 00V228001
Dates Manufactured: 04/2000 to 08/2000
Number of Vehicles Affected: 144,435
Model Years Affected: 2000
Date Owner Notified: 10/2000

Defect Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES, LIGHT DUTY TRUCKS, SPORT UTILITY VEHICLES, AND MINI VANS EQUIPPED WITH TRW SEAT BELT BUCKLE ASSEMBLIES. THE BUCKLE BASE OF THESE SEAT BELT ASSEMBLIES WERE NOT PROPERLY HEAT TREATED AND THEREFORE DO NOT PASS THE LOAD BEARING REQUIREMENT OF FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 209, "SEAT BELT ASSEMBLIES."

Consequence Summary: IN THE EVENT OF A VEHICLE CRASH, THE OCCUPANT MAY NOT BE PROPERLY RESTRAINED.

Corrective Summary: DEALERS WILL INSPECT THE DATE CODE ON CERTAIN SEAT BELT BUCKLES OF YOUR VEHICLE AND REPLACE ALL SEAT BELT BUCKLES THAT FALL WITHIN THE SUSPECT DATE CODE RANGE. OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN OCTOBER 26, 2000. 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 AT 1-800-392-3673.

Recall Notes: ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).

Body, Interior & Misc.: SEAT BELTS:FRONT
Campaign Number: 04E048000
Number of Vehicles Affected: 388
Model Years Affected: 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003
Date Owner Notified: 08/2004

Defect Summary: 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 VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 209, SEAT BELT ASSEMBLIES.

Consequence Summary: 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.

Corrective Summary: TRW WILL NOTIFY THE CUSTOMERS WHO PURCHASED THE REPLACEMENT SEAT BELT ASSEMBLIES FREE OF CHARGE. THE RECALL BEGAN ON AUGUST 27, 2004.

Recall Notes: THIS RECALL ONLY PERTAINS TO SERVICE REPLACEMENT EQUIPMENT FOR USE IN 1997-2003 MODEL YEAR FORD ESCORT AND MERCURY TRACER 4-DOOR AND STATION WAGON VEHICLES AND HAS NO RELATION TO ANY ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT INSTALLED IN FORD VEHICLES BY FORD MOTOR COMPANY.FOR MORE INFORMATION CUSTOMERS CAN CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION¿S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).

Body, Interior & Misc.: SEATS
Campaign Number: 94V055000
Dates Manufactured: 05/1993 to 06/1993
Number of Vehicles Affected: 3,500
Model Years Affected: 1993
Date Owner Notified: 05/1994

Defect Summary: THE LOCK PLATE OF THE DRIVER SIDE INBOARD SEAT TRACK ADJUSTERS WERE MANUFACTURED WITH AN UNAUTHORIZED MODIFICATION TO THE FABRICATION PROCESS WHICH CAUSES THE SEAT NOT TO FULLY ENGAGE IN CERTAIN SEATING POSITIONS NEAR THE MID-POINT OF THE SEAT TRACK TRAVEL.

Consequence Summary: IN THE EVENT OF A CRASH THE SEAT CAN MOVE, WHICH WOULD RESULT IN REDUCED OCCUPANT PROTECTION.

Corrective Summary: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE DRIVER SIDE INBOARD SEAT TRACK.

Recall Notes: SYSTEM: INTERIOR SYSTEMS; SEAT TRACKS AND ANCHORS.VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES.NOTE: IF YOUR VEHICLE IS PRESENTED TO AN AUTHORIZED DEALER ON AN AGREED UPON SERVICE DATE AND THE REMEDY IS NOT PROVIDED WITHIN A REASONABLE TIME AND FREEOF CHARGE OR THE REMEDY DOES NOT CORRECT THE DEFECT OR NONCOMPLIANCE, PLEASE CONTACT FORD SERVICE CENTER AT 1-800-392-3673. ALSO, CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-800-424-9393.

Drive Train: POWER TRAIN:MANUAL TRANSMISSION:SHIFT PATTERN INDICATOR
Campaign Number: 99V276000
Dates Manufactured: 05/1999 to 06/1999
Number of Vehicles Affected: 106
Model Years Affected: 1999
Date Owner Notified: 11/1999

Defect Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH THE S/R OPTION. THE S/R OPTION INCLUDES, AMONG OTHER FEATURES, A 5-SPEED MANUAL TRANSMISSION. ON THESE VEHICLES, THE TRANSMISSION SHIFT PATTERN IS NOT DISPLAYED IN THE OCCUPANT COMPARTMENT IN VIEW OF THE DRIVER. THIS DOES NOT COMPLY WITH THE REQUIREMENTS OF FMVSS NO. 102, "TRANSMISSION SHIFT LEVER SEQUENCE, STARTER INTERLOCK, AND TRANSMISSION BRAKING EFFECT."

Consequence Summary: THE DRIVER MAY NOT BE AWARE OF THE TRANSMISSION POSITION OF THE VEHICLE.

Corrective Summary: OWNERS WILL BE PROVIDED WITH AN ADHESIVE BACKED PLAQUE CONTAINING THE SHIFT PATTERN, ALONG WITH MATERIALS AND INSTRUCTIONS FOR LOCATING AND AFFIXING THE PLAQUE TO THE VEHICLE CENTER CONSOLE, JUST FORWARD OF THE SHIFT LEVER. OWNERS WILL ALSO BE ADVISED THAT THEIR DEALER CAN AFFIX THE PLAQUE IF THEY PREFER.

Recall Notes: FORD RECALL NO. 99S31.OWNER NOTIFICATION BEGAN NOVEMBER 2, 1999. 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 AT 1-800-392-3673.ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-DASH-2-DOT (1-888-327-4236).

Electrical & Lights: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION
Campaign Number: 96V071000
Dates Manufactured: 08/1987 to 09/1992
Number of Vehicles Affected: 7,900,000
Model Years Affected: 1990
Date Owner Notified: 06/1996

Defect Summary: THE IGNITION SWITCH COULD EXPERIENCE AN INTERNAL SHORT CIRCUIT.

Consequence Summary: THIS CONDITION COULD CAUSE OVERHEATING, SMOKE, AND POSSIBLY FIRE IN THE STEERING COLUMN AREA OF THE VEHICLE.

Corrective Summary: DEALERS WILL REPLACE THE IGNITION SWITCH.

Recall Notes: SYSTEM: ELECTRICAL; IGNITION SWITCH. VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER AND MULTI-PURPOSE VEHICLES AND LIGHT DUTY TRUCKS. NOTE: 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 AT 1-800-392-3673. ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-800-424-9393.

Electrical & Lights: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM:IGNITION:ANTI-THEFT CONTROLLER
Campaign Number: 93V057000
Dates Manufactured: 07/1990 to 05/1991
Number of Vehicles Affected: 91,000
Model Years Affected: 1991
Date Owner Notified: 06/1993

Defect Summary: THE ROLL PINS SECURING THE IGNITION LOCK IN THE STEERING COLUMN HOUSING CAN SEPARATE OR MOVE OUT OF POSITION.

Consequence Summary: THE IGNITION LOCK CYLINDER MAY DISENGAGE FROM THESTEERING COLUMN HOUSING WHICH COULD CAUSE THE STEERING COLUMN TO LOCK UP,RESULTING IN LOSS OF VEHICLE CONTROL AND A POSSIBLE ACCIDENT.

Corrective Summary: IF ONE OR BOTH OF THE ROLL PINS ARE MISSING OR NOT FULLY INSERTED, THE IGNITION LOCK HOUSING WILL BE REPLACED, ALONG WITH THE DOOR-LOCKS AND THE LIFTGATE OR DECK-LID LOCKS SO THAT KEY COMPATIBILITY IS MAINTAINED. IF BOTH PINS ARE PRESENT AND FULLY INSERTED, A PLASTIC SNAP-ON SLEEVE WILL BE INSTALLED AS A PRECAUTION TO PREVENT THE ROLL PINS FROM COMING OUT.

Recall Notes: SYSTEM: STEERING.VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER CARS.

Electrical & Lights: EXTERIOR LIGHTING
Campaign Number: 06E026000
Number of Vehicles Affected: 61,944
Model Years Affected: 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996
Date Owner Notified: 04/2006

Defect Summary: CERTAIN PRO-A MOTORS CORNER LAMPS, TURN SIGNALS, AND HEADLIGHTS SOLD AS REPLACEMENT LAMPS FOR USE ON CERTAIN PASSENGER VEHICLES LISTED ABOVE. SOME COMBINATION LAMPS THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH AMBER SIDE REFLECTORS FAIL TO CONFORM TO FEDERAL MOTOR VEHICLE SAFETY STANDARD NO. 108, LAMPS, REFLECTIVE DEVICES, AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT.

Consequence Summary: WITHOUT THE AMBER REFLECTORS, THE VEHICLE WILL BE POORLY ILLUMINATED, POSSIBLY RESULTING IN A VEHICLE CRASH WITHOUT WARNING.

Corrective Summary: PRO-A MOTORS WILL NOTIFY OWNERS AND OFFER TO REPURCHASE THE LAMPS. THE RECALL BEGAN ON APRIL 3, 2006. OWNERS MAY CONTACT PRO-A MOTORS AT 323-838-2988.

Recall Notes: THIS RECALL ONLY PERTAINS TO PRO-A MOTORS AFTERMARKET LAMPS AND HAS NO RELATION TO ANY ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT INSTALLED ON THE LISTED PASSENGER VEHICLES.FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE LAMP MODEL NUMBERS, CLICK ON DOCUMENT SEARCH AND VIEW DOCUMENT TITLED "LAMP MODEL NUMBERS."CUSTOMERS MAY CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION¿S VEHICLE SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-888-327-4236 (TTY: 1-800-424-9153); OR GO TO HTTP://WWW.SAFERCAR.GOV.

Electrical & Lights: EXTERIOR LIGHTING:BRAKE LIGHTS:SWITCH
Campaign Number: 92V103000
Dates Manufactured: 09/1991 to 10/1991
Number of Vehicles Affected: 43,000
Model Years Affected: 1992
Date Owner Notified: 09/1992

Defect Summary: THE STOP LAMP SWITCHES COULD INTERMITTENTLY MALFUNCTION RESULTING IN THE STOP LAMPS NOT ILLUMINATING WHEN THE BRAKES ARE APPLIED.

Consequence Summary: THIS COULD RESULT IN FOLLOWING MOTORISTS NOT BEINGSIGNALED THAT THE VEHICLE IS BRAKING, AND COULD RESULT IN A COLLISION.

Corrective Summary: REPLACE THE FAULTY STOP LAMP SWITCHES.

Recall Notes: SYSTEM: STOP LAMPS.VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER CARS.

Engine: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE
Campaign Number: 92V117000
Dates Manufactured: 04/1991 to 08/1991
Number of Vehicles Affected: 22,000
Model Years Affected: 1991, 1992
Date Owner Notified: 11/1992

Defect Summary: FATIGUE CRACKS CAN DEVELOP IN THE SOLDER JOINT BETWEEN THE FUEL RETURN TUBE AND THE FUEL PUMP SENDING UNIT LOCATED AT THE TOP OF THE FUEL TANK.

Consequence Summary: SHOULD A CRACK DEVELOP, FUEL VAPOR CAN ESCAPE FROM THETANK WHEN THE TANK IS FULL, AND A SMALL AMOUNT OF FUEL CAN LEAK FROM THE CRACK.FUEL LEAKS CAN RESULT IN FIRE WHEN EXPOSED TO A SOURCE OF IGNITION.

Corrective Summary: INSTALL A NEW FUEL PUMP SENDING ASSEMBLY.

Recall Notes: SYSTEM: FUEL SYSTEM.VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH FUEL PUMP SENDINGASSEMBLIES PRODUCED BY FORD ELECTRICAL AND FUEL HANDLING DIVISION (FEHD).

Engine: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
Campaign Number: 97V145000
Dates Manufactured: 04/1995 to 10/1995
Number of Vehicles Affected: 600
Model Years Affected: 1995
Date Owner Notified: 09/1997

Defect Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 1.9L ENGINES, BUILT AT THE HERMOSILLO ASSEMBLY PLANT AND ORIGINALLY SOLD OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN ARIZONA. CRACKS CAN DEVELOP IN THE FUEL TANK NEAR THE HEAT SHIELD ATTACHMENT RESULTING IN FUEL LEAKAGE IF THE CRACKS GO THROUGH THE FUEL TANK WALL.

Consequence Summary: FUEL LEAKAGE IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE CAN RESULT IN A VEHICLE FIRE.

Corrective Summary: DEALERS WILL REMOVE THE HEAT SHIELD ATTACHMENTS. THIS WILL NOT AFFECT HEAT SHIELD LOCATION OR FUNCTION, AS THE ATTACHMENTS ARE INTENDED TO KEEP THE SHIELD IN PLACE UNTIL THE FUEL TANK IS INSTALLED IN THE VEHICLE. AFTER INSTALLATION, THE FUEL TANK STRAPS RETAIN THE HEAT SHIELD.

Recall Notes: OWNER NOTIFICATION WILL BEGIN SEPTEMBER 30, 1997.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 AT 1-800-392-3673.ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-800-424-9393.

Engine: FUEL SYSTEM, GASOLINE:STORAGE:TANK ASSEMBLY
Campaign Number: 97V144000
Dates Manufactured: 04/1995 to 10/1995
Number of Vehicles Affected: 64,000
Model Years Affected: 1995
Date Owner Notified: 09/1997

Defect Summary: VEHICLE DESCRIPTION: PASSENGER VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 1.9L ENGINES, BUILT AT THE HERMOSILLO OR WAYNE ASSEMBLY PLANTS AND ORIGINALLY SOLD OR CURRENTLY REGISTERED IN NEVADA, FLORIDA, HAWAII, TEXAS, CALIFORNIA, LOUISIANA, GEORGIA, SOUTH CAROLINA, MISSISSIPPI, OKLAHOMA, ALABAMA AND ARKANSAS. CRACKS CAN DEVELOP IN THE FUEL TANK NEAR THE HEAT SHIELD ATTACHMENT RESULTING IN FUEL LEAKAGE IF THE CRACKS GO THROUGH THE FUEL TANK WALL.

Consequence Summary: FUEL LEAKAGE IN THE PRESENCE OF AN IGNITION SOURCE CAN RESULT IN A VEHICLE FIRE.

Corrective Summary: DEALERS WILL REMOVE THE HEAT SHIELD ATTACHMENTS. THIS WILL NOT AFFECT HEAT SHIELD LOCATION OR FUNCTION, AS THE ATTACHMENTS ARE INTENDED TO KEEP THE SHIELD IN PLACE UNTIL THE FUEL TANK IS INSTALLED IN THE VEHICLE. AFTER INSTALLATION, THE FUEL TANK STRAPS RETAIN THE HEAT SHIELD.

Recall Notes: OWNER NOTIFICATION WILL BEGIN SEPTEMBER 30, 1997.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 AT 1-800-392-3673.ALSO CONTACT THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT 1-800-424-9393.

Suspension & Steering: SUSPENSION:FRONT
Campaign Number: 94E019000
Dates Manufactured: 12/1992 to 05/1994
Number of Vehicles Affected: 919
Model Years Affected: 1991, 1992, 1993
Date Owner Notified: 05/1994

Defect Summary: THE OFFSET TOE ADJUSTING PIN CAN FRACTURE UNDER CONDITIONS SUCH AS TORSIONAL LOADS, FLEXING MOTION, IMPACT LOADS, AND OVERTORQUING.

Consequence Summary: THIS CAN RESULT IN LOSS OF VEHICLE STEERING CONTROL ANDAN ACCIDENT.

Corrective Summary: DANA WILL PAY FOR REPLACEMENT AND LABOR COSTS OF THE ADJUSTMENT PIN WITHOUT CHARGE TO THE INSTALLING FACILITY AND THE VEHICLE OWNER. THESE PINS SHOULD BE REPLACED BY A FORD ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT PIN ASSEMBLY. OWNER OR INSTALLER INQUIRIES CONCERNING THIS RECALL CAMPAIGN SHOULD CONTACT DANA SERVICE CENTER AT 1-800-248-9606.

Recall Notes: SYSTEM: SUSPENSION; INDEPENDENT FRONT.EQUIPMENT DESCRIPTION: OFFSET REAR TOE ADJUSTING PIN.NOTE: IF YOU HAVE ANY PROBLEMS WITH THE PIN REPLACEMENT REIMBURSEMENT PROGRAM,PLEASE CONTACT DANA SERVICE CENTER AT 1-800-248-9606. ALSO, CONTACT THENATIONAL HIGHWAY TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION'S AUTO SAFETY HOTLINE AT1-800-424-9393.

Ford Escort Technical Service Bulletins (Recent)

Body, Interior & Misc.: SEAT BELTS:FRONT:RETRACTOR
Service Bulletin Number: 04V09
NHTSA Number: 10009870
Model Years Affected: 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003
Date of Bulletin: 11/2004

Bulletin Summary: 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.

Brakes: SERVICE BRAKES, HYDRAULIC:SWITCHES:BRAKE LIGHT
Service Bulletin Number: 2176
NHTSA Number: 10008580
Model Years Affected: 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002
Date of Bulletin: 08/2004

Bulletin Summary: LAMP-BRAKE-INVADVERTENT DISABLING OF BRAKE SHIFT INTERLOCK.

Drive Train: POWER TRAIN:AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION:CONTROL MODULE (TCM, PCM)
Service Bulletin Number: 42107
NHTSA Number: 10014086
Model Years Affected: 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003
Date of Bulletin: 04/2005

Bulletin Summary: GENERAL (PCM) POWER TRAIN CONTROL MODULE PROGRAMMING PROCEDURES.

Electrical & Lights: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Service Bulletin Number: 3181
NHTSA Number: 10004027
Model Years Affected: 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003
Date of Bulletin: 11/2003

Bulletin Summary: REMOTE KEYLESS ENTRY (RKE) - SERVICE TIPS.

Electrical & Lights: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Service Bulletin Number: 4174
NHTSA Number: 10013116
Model Years Affected: 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003
Date of Bulletin: 04/2005

Bulletin Summary: MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP (MIL) ILLUMINATED - SYSTEM LEAN DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES (DTC'S) - SERVICE TIPS. VARIOUS MODELS INCLUDING 2004 F-SERIES.

Electrical & Lights: VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER SYSTEM:REAR WINDOW
Service Bulletin Number: 4189
NHTSA Number: 10014062
Model Years Affected: 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003
Date of Bulletin: 04/2005

Bulletin Summary: REAR WINDOW DEFROSTER GRID/INTEGRAL ANTENNA DIAGNOSIS AND REPAIR - TERMINAL TAB REPAIR.

Electrical & Lights: VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER SYSTEM:WINDSHIELD:CONTROLS/WIRING
Service Bulletin Number: 31501
NHTSA Number: 10009321
Model Years Affected: 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003
Date of Bulletin: 09/2004

Bulletin Summary: INOPERATIVE ELECTRIC REAR WINDOW DEFROSTER (HEATED BACKLITE) GRID LINES, INTEGRAL ANTENNA CONCERNS.

Electrical & Lights: VISIBILITY:DEFROSTER/DEFOGGER SYSTEM:WINDSHIELD:CONTROLS/WIRING
Service Bulletin Number: 41514
NHTSA Number: 10011159
Model Years Affected: 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003
Date of Bulletin: 01/2005

Bulletin Summary: REAR WINDOW DEFROSTER GRID/INTEGRAL ANTENNA DIAGNOSIS AND REPAIR - TERMINAL TAB REPAIR.

Engine: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
Service Bulletin Number: 31515
NHTSA Number: 10003194
Model Years Affected: 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003
Date of Bulletin: 10/2003

Bulletin Summary: IDLE VIBRATION ON VEHICLES EQUIPPED WITH 2.0L SPI OR ZETEC ENGINE ONLY.

Engine: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
Service Bulletin Number: 16746
NHTSA Number: 10002649
Model Years Affected: 2000, 2001, 2002
Date of Bulletin: 09/2003

Bulletin Summary: HIGHER THAN NORMAL IDLE SPEED, RUNS ROUGH AT IDLE AND/OR DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODE (DTC) P0171.

Engine: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE
Service Bulletin Number: 31514
NHTSA Number: 10003193
Model Years Affected: 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003
Date of Bulletin: 10/2003

Bulletin Summary: THE MALFUNCTION INDICATOR LAMP (MIL) MAY BE ILLUMINATED AND DIAGNOSTIC TROUBLE CODES (DTCS) P1380, P1381, P1383, AND/OR P0340 MAY BE STORED IN MEMORY.

Engine: ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:ENGINE:GASOLINE:BELTS AND ASSOCIATED PULLEYS
Service Bulletin Number: 19016
NHTSA Number: 10019076
Model Years Affected: 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003
Date of Bulletin: 02/2006

Bulletin Summary: REPLACE TIMING BELT IDLER PULLEY DURING 2.0L ZETEC ENGINE CYLINDER HEAD REPLACEMENT - SERVICE TIP.

Engine: FUEL SYSTEM, OTHER
Service Bulletin Number: 398
NHTSA Number: 10002780
Model Years Affected: 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003
Date of Bulletin: 09/2003

Bulletin Summary: 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.

Heating & Air Conditioning: ELECTRICAL SYSTEM
Service Bulletin Number: 15858
NHTSA Number: 637708
Model Years Affected: 2002
Date of Bulletin: 12/2002

Bulletin Summary: SUBJECT REGARDING FUSE BOX COVER AND #7 FUSE LOCATION.

Heating & Air Conditioning: EQUIPMENT:ELECTRICAL:AIR CONDITIONER
Service Bulletin Number: 2208
NHTSA Number: 10013060
Model Years Affected: 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003
Date of Bulletin: 04/2005

Bulletin Summary: CLIMATE CONTROL A/C SERVICE TECH TIPS.

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