1990 Ford Escort
Introduction
The 1990 Ford Escort was a compact car available in sedan, hatchback, and wagon body styles. It was powered by a range of engines, including a 1.9-liter four-cylinder, a 2.0-liter four-cylinder, and a 1.8-liter diesel. Transmission options included a five-speed manual, a four-speed automatic, and a continuously variable transmission.
The Escort was praised for its fuel efficiency, affordability, and practical design. However, it also faced criticism for its lackluster performance, poor handling, and cramped interior.
Engine
1.9-liter Four-Cylinder
- Cylinder Head Warping Description/Symptoms: Engine overheating, loss of coolant, white smoke from exhaust Solution: Replace cylinder head Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,500 - $2,000+ Recalls: None Found
2.0-liter Four-Cylinder
- Intake Manifold Gasket Failure Description/Symptoms: Rough idle, stalling, reduced power Solution: Replace intake manifold gasket Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500 Recalls: None Found
Transmission
Five-Speed Manual
- Shift Fork Wear Description/Symptoms: Difficult or impossible to shift gears Solution: Replace shift forks Estimated Cost to Fix: $500 - $800 Recalls: None Found
Four-Speed Automatic
- Transmission Fluid Leaks Description/Symptoms: Transmission slipping, whining, or shuddering Solution: Replace transmission fluid pan gasket or seals Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 Recalls: None Found
CVT
- Belt Failure Description/Symptoms: Loss of power, strange noises from transmission Solution: Replace CVT belt Estimated Cost to Fix: $1,000 - $2,500+ Recalls: None Found
Suspension
- Front Strut Mount Failure Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noise over bumps Solution: Replace strut mounts Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400 Recalls: None Found
Electrical
- Alternator Failure Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, electrical issues, battery not charging Solution: Replace alternator Estimated Cost to Fix: $400 - $600 Recalls: None Found
Exterior
- Rust Description/Symptoms: Rust forming on body panels, especially rear wheel arches Solution: Repair and protect from further rusting Estimated Cost to Fix: Varies depending on severity Recalls: None Found
Interior
- Door Panel Clips Breaking Description/Symptoms: Door panels loose or rattling Solution: Replace broken clips Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $100 Recalls: None Found
Summary
The 1990 Ford Escort had several common issues, primarily with its engine and transmission. These issues could be costly to repair, especially in the case of major engine failures. However, the Escort also had its strengths, such as fuel efficiency and affordability, which may have made it a worthwhile option for budget-minded consumers.