10.0

really awful
Crashes / Fires:
0 / 0
Injuries / Deaths:
0 / 0
Average Mileage:
0 miles

About These NHTSA Complaints:

The NHTSA is the US gov't agency tasked with vehicle safety. Complaints can be spread across multiple & redundant categories, & are not organized by problem. See the Back button — blue bar at the very top of the page — to explore more.

Get notified about new defects, investigations, recalls & lawsuits for the 1997 Ford Escort:

Unsubscribe any time. We don't sell/share your email.

problem #5

Jan 242002

(reported on)

Escort

  • Automatic transmission
  • miles
An electrical short circuit is occurring within vehicle which is causing vehicle battery to completely lose power. Consumer states radio caused battery to drain and speakers to pop, radio replaced 3 times, experiencing other electrical problems with the headlights dimming when the heater is on or when applying brakes, radiator had to be replaced, engine lights come on intermittently, and poor acceleration when going up a hill.

- Taos, NM, USA

problem #4

May 052001

Escort

  • miles
Harmonic balancer failed without warning while vehicle was parked and engine idling. Loud noise such as metal on metal eminated from engine compartment. Vehicle towed to Ford dealer. Advised by dealer that part poorly designed and new design in stock for replacement. Thermostat remained open not allowing engine to reach operating temperature. When replaced, the original thermostat came out of housing in three separate pieces. Fuel pump made whining noise from rear of vehicle. Replaced at no charge.

- San Diego, CA, USA

problem #3

Jan 022001

Escort

  • miles
Radiator replaced, old radiator leaking at tank seam split.

- Schenectad, NY, USA

problem #2

Jan 232000

Escort

  • miles
The head gaskets were sticking causing shaking of the vehicle. The head gaskets, timing belt, thermostat, and other various parts needed to be replaced.

- Berkley, MI, USA

problem #1

Aug 201999

Escort

  • miles
Head gasket failure, resulting in cracked pistons and damaged crank. Failed fuel pump/thermostat.

- Montreal Quebec Canada, AK, USA