 I've owned my escort since brand new, 
it's only had 2 things ever go wrong, 
stereo when it was fairly new and the 
other the electronic sensor for the 
a/c.  I was told by a Ford mechanic 
that it was a design flaw and in 1999 
it was changed.  This is the best car 
I've ever owned, 100% reliable, great 
gas mileage, roomy inside for a compact 
car.  Sorry to say I was involved in an 
accident this week, got hit by an S10 
truck directly in the left front, and I 
think held up well.  Unfortunately it 
was totalled and I can honestly say I'm 
devastated as it was such a great car!  
Too bad Ford quit making them.