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We found the following complaints for FORD ESCORT (1997)

Read complaints for FORD ESCORT (1997)


Upon replacement of my horn assembly, the driver side air bag light on the dashboard flashes.air bag has not deployed and should have following a minor incident in which i struck a vehicle in front of me.concerned that air bag will not deploy in a serious crash.dt

Consumer stated when vehicle was purchased 3 months ago air bag light was on and later went off.on december 22, 2003, the airbag light came on upon starting , and thenair bags deployed, andsmoke began to come out of the dash. Vehicle caught on fire and was totaled. The fire department stated fire was due to a short in a wire.

Dt: have a recall letter for air bag light, and tookvehicle to dealership service dept to have it fixed.the number on the recall was02s44, they supposedly fixed it, but went, and got in the vehicle and the light was flashing again.hadn't even left the lot. Now they want to chargeconsumer to have it hooked up to a diagnostic machine .

My mother and i were driving to my grandparents house when she hit a baby deer going about 35 mph. I was 12 years old at the time and sitting in the front seat. The airbags deployed hitting me in right side of the face. My teeth went into my lip, and i had burn marks from the airbag on my cheekbones, and chin, also my right eye was swollen shut the next day. I was taken to the emergency room where the police officer informed my mother that the airbags should not have deployed. He said the airbags were so sensitive that he could have kicked the bumper and they would have went off. My mother only received a broken finger from where her hands were resting on the steering wheel.

05/25/1999; while driving at 35 mph, the head gasket on engine "blew out"car was undriveable. On 07/15/1999; the horn started honking continuously on it's own, when car was parked & locked. Had to remove fuse to shut off. Dealer said it was a bad air-bag module, not covered by warranty, cost $ 675.00.07/25/99, crankshaft pulley broke off, car not driveable. I note 4 other reports on this web-site for the crankshaft pulley, and 1 each for the head-gasket & horn/airbag problems + many other airbag problems.

Horn stuck, does not turn off.to replace, dealer must replace airbag also.says airbag may malfunction because horn malfunctioned.about 7 similar problems are listed on this web site.this is a safety feature and a malfunction in the horn shouldn't cause problems in the airbag.plus, it's not a wear and tear item that's wrong with the car.had a problem with the horn while the car was under warranty and the dealer did not catch this problem with the horn/airbag.isn't this a safety issue that could put passengers at risk.who would guess that a problem with the horn may lead to a deployment problem with the airbag?

While driving at 40mph air bag light came on.then, air bag department caught on fire, causing consumer to pull over. Dealer notified.

Heater core leaked onto air bag sensor and module causing air bag warning light to come on.had to replace heater core,air bag sensor and module.

Consumer notice fog coming fromair conditioner vent while air was running. Vehicle caught on fire under dashboard. Dealer was contacted, technician noticed air bag module was the problem. Please provide further information.

Recall 02v323000, consumer noticed that after having recall done for integrated air bag monitor contamination dealer had installed the shield over the iabm ,and applied nyogel grease to the connector one month after consumer noticed smoke coming from the wires.

Vehicle's air bags deployed and dashboard caught on fire while parked in a local garage.*mrthe air bag light was coming on and off the remained on. Consumer allowed the vehicle to cool after smelling smoke. A trooper recommended having the vehicle towed. The vehicle was at a local garage locked up when the fire occurred. The windshield shattered due to the hot temperature. The fire dept. Found the vehicle was under recall fordefective air bags.*ph

Air bags deployed and fire melted dash.

While driving the vehicle the airbag light would appear. Dealer notified. Ts

Heater core failure resulted in failure of airbag system due to placement of airbag computer without moisture shield.

Vehicle is experiencing erratic operation of horn. Horn will go off withoutconsumer engaging it.dealership is replacingairbag as well ashorn to fix this.please provide any additional information.

Consumer receiverecall notice 02-s44 replacement of air bags . Dealer failed to repair the recall. Consumerinformed mechanic that the srs light appeared on the dashboard and remained on. Consumer stated that the light was not on beforerecall repairs were done.service manager tammy.

My client, akruaria wright was driving her 1997 ford escort lx sedan south on ga hwy 300, when both the driver and passenger airbags spontaneously deployed.as noted in the police report, there was no contact or impact with any object or vehicle.the road that she was on is a major road; it is paved and in excellent condition.upon deploying, the airbags forced the dash up and busted the windshield.the airbags, as they deployed, made contact with ms. Wright's face, arms, hands, and chest.on her face, arms , and hands she suffered minor burns from the contact.she also has suffered cervicaland thoracic strain from the contact.at this time, the car is still waiting to be repaired.i have contacted the ford motor company in dearborn, mi, but as of now i have not had a response.

The vehicle was involved in side collision, and the air bags failed to deploy.

False deployment of air bag during 10 mph (tap) of a guardrail, resulting in injury to eyes.

While driving at 50 mph vehicle was involved in a head on collision, and air bags did not deploy.however, two weeks later while vehicle was parked, air bags deployed inadvertently.

Air bag had violent deployment upon collision, causing burns, scrapes and bruises.

Air bag control diagnostic module shorted out due to ruptured heater core. When i spoke with the local dealership they told me to contact a local junk yard. There is a recall on this item. I never received a recall notice.

Smoke was coming fromair conditioner after starting vehicle. Vehicle was towed to dealer, technician statedair bag module was on fire. Please provide further information.

Horn does not blow.was told by a mechanic thatproblem was a defective air bag.

The recall air bag failed prior to recall notice (recall number 02v323000).the vehicle was parked in the consumers driveway when the air bags deployed.as a result the vehicle caught on fire.the consumer requested reimbursement for the loss of the vehicle.*mr*scc *nlm

Vehicle fire involving 1997 ford escort.*mrafter incident occurred a recall was issued advising a manufacturer defect in air bags and air bag modules.however the vehicle was unable to drive because of severe damages so the dealership voided the recall. The consumer felt that ford re -actions where unacceptable, and is requesting to be reimbursed for the loss due to manufacturer defect.the safety recall letter issued is (o2s44).please investigate.

The heater core leaked onto the air bag diagnostic module, causing it to short out and catch on fire. This item was replaced along with the heater core for a cost of $955.00. I had to remove the battery cable to keep the car from catching on fire and burning up, the service manager at stegall ford in pontotoc stated i should not have this problem again because the new part was sealed in plastic. I believe this is a serious design flaw after looking at your odi id logs of 865884,867236,845896 and 845837 along with numerous air bag deployments for this model car for no reason. I believe this part was changed by ford and should have been recalled on all models. I work as a design engineer and if an electrical item is subject to moisture injestion, it should be sealed or potted to eliminate shorts and failure. The placement of this module under the heater core was wrong, i notified ford and they only apoligized for the heater core leak, they did not acknowlege anything about the air bag module, i again notified them that they should be responsible for payment on this item, since the design had been changed, they have not replied to this in over a week, stating it would only take 3 days for a reply. To me this is a serious issue, i have worked in the past under fda guidelines in the medical industry with reporting and i do not like the way this is being handled by ford, they are acting like they are trying to hide something, a persons life or personal injury is not something to sweep under the rug, although no one in my family sustained any injury, they could have, i will now try to sell this car as soon as i am able. Thank you jeffrey l plunk

The contact owns a 1997 ford escort. The contact stated that while driving 30 mph, the air bag light illuminated and smoke emitted from under the dashboard. The contact maneuvered to the shoulder and the vehicle stalled. The vehicle was then towed to the contact's home. While the vehicle was parked, the contact noticed that the dashboard was melting. The fire department appeared on the scene to disconnect the battery. The contact noticed there was a recall associated with nhtsa campaign id number 02v323000 (air bags:frontal:sensor/control module) and planned on contacting the manufacturer. The vehicle was not repaired. The failure mileage was 161,000.

The air bag burned the vehicles dash.this occurred prior to the consumer receiving the recall notification (recall number 02v-323000).*nlm

Safety horn sticks and remains in on position creating a driving safety risk. Dealer explains that the horn switch is associated with the air bag. Based on all internet complaints and air bag problems, might be time to further investigate ford's commitment to safety and airbag performance. Http://www.carcomplaints.com/ford/escort/1997/accessories-interior/communications-horn_assembly.shtml

Airbag light is flashing when vehicle is cool, not when vehicle is hot.

Due to moisture in airbag moduler , the modulershorted out, causing a fire.because windows were rolled up , it smothered fire out.

Consumer was proceeding through a green light when another car traveling about 40 mph hit the consumers vehicle. Theconsumers car went into a spin.none of the airbags deployed. *nlm

Air bag sensor light continually blinked.dealer notified, and informed consumer that the malfunction may be due to a bad clock spring, and repairs would be at consumer's cost.

97 escort was actually purchased for my daughter in 1998, with about 38000 miles on it.my son bought it from her in dec. 01 after he wrecked his ranger.he told me that his air bag indicator light on the dash had come on and wouldn'tgo off.i am in sales at a ford dealership and asked a couple of service advisors and mechanics about the light and they said that 99% of the time it was usually just a clock spring.figuring no big deal, i told my son to keep driving the car (this was about may,02).later he told me that he kept smelling something burning periodically; i could smell it but thought the odor was almost negligible.next thing i know, he told me the under side of the dash, behind the radio and on passenger side of the vehicle (inside the car) had caught fire and he used the kitchen fire extenguisher to put it out.i told him to also disconnect the battery.i have been selling fords for 11 years and did some digging.there was a technical service bulletin article no. 98-15-20 (supercedes article no. 98-14-3)which addresses this problem and tells the service dept. To replace the module and install a watershield to keep this from recurring.this is eligible under bumper to bumper warranty coverage and safety restraint warranty coverage.since my car has about 98000 miles on and was still running fine before this happened, am i out of luck at getting this car running again.preliminary estimate from a mechanic was about $1100 in parts and who knows how much in labor.would appreciate hearing your current case status with ford motor co. On this.thanks.

Nar 04/28/2003 mrthe consumer recieved safetyrecall #(02s44) regarding air bag monitors.prior to thatthe consumer experienced problems with the air bag light flashing on, the vehicle was taken to have repairs madeand it cost over $500.00 for a problem that may have already existed in reference to the recall.

The horn was inoperative and making a clicking noise when it is applied, the dealer found that the horn switch was stuck on part of the air bag, dealer replaced horn and drivers side air bag.nlm

The horn will start to blow by itself without anyone in the car or without the car being started. Fuse has to be taken out in order to stop the horn. Dealer had to replace the horn and the airbag.

My wife hit a deer on interstate 90 near albert lea, mn. Relatively minor damage to the car but sufficient to deploy both air bags.the deployment resulted in a fracture to the dash and windshield that required replacement of those plus all air bag components. The majority of damage to the vehicle was because of air bag deployment. According to information supplied by the dealer, one air bag sensor is unique in this particular vehicle and not readily available.we have waited a number of weeks to get the sensor, otherwise the vehicle has been repaired.the dealer will not release the vehicle as long as a safety component is inoperative.ford says that this is a problem for the dealer to resolve.the dealer says that they have had this part on priority shipment for over three weeks and it still is not available. I believe that the damage may have been sufficient to deploy the air bags though it was unnecessary in this particular crash.however it is unexcuseable that this part causes the majority of damage to the vehicle, plus we are unable to use the vehicle, we lose not only use, we lose warranty, and we do not have a very secure feeling about a part that is so important, yet so rare that it only exists in a few production models. We are grateful for safety devices, we are grateful no one was injured, we would be more grateful to get our car back.why would ford put a safety component on such limited supply?please identify if this is a safety concern for more vehicle owners.thank you,curt kephart should not the entire system be replaced with something more standard?

Ford just recently informed me that the defective horn reported just a few weeks out of warranty. Also involves the airbag. Robin marshall of ford headquarters customer relations informed of this safety risk a couple of weeks ago: (313)845-5831. Ford never informed us of the additional airbag safety risk until this time. I reported the horn malfunction (as it was setting in the garage the horn suddenly sounded at around 2 a.m.). Ford refuses to fix the problem without the payment of at least $300 and only recently agreed to even inspect the vehicle at their expense. As a result of this inspection (apparently) we were told of the airbag defect which, remember, has existed for years now.

While driving the vehicle the airbag light would come on. Dealer notified.

Consumer stated the airbag light was flickering.

Side collision to vehicle and both air bags deployed causing injuries.*mr

Consumer states that was in a collision and air bags did not deploy. Please add more details. Mr

The vehicles air bag caught on fire. *nlm

In oct of 1998 horn started toactivate and won't stop unless driver unplugged it, consumer was out of an airbag and horn for a month, consumer sa0id thatcurrently problem was back, and dealer wastrying to charge consumer $700.00 to fix this problem.

Consumer is 4ft 8in and is concern with the air bags because she sit close to the steering wheel.nlm

Last thursday my husbands 1997 ford escort caught fire, and we think it was because of a faulty air bag sensor.it had been previously recalled, and we took it to the local ford dealer and had the problem corrected.but everything that happened fell in exactly with what the recall letter said would happen if we didn't get it fixed.we would like this matter further investigated because we feel that the ford dealership only installed another faulty air bag sensor into our car instead of fixing it like they were supposed to.neither my husband or i were injuried when the car caught fire, but that was only by the grace of god.if we can prevent this from happening to someone else then we should.

The consumer vehicle experienced symptoms of recall 02-v-323-000 which referenced the air bag monitor.the dealer refused to repair the problem because the vehicle mileage was high.*nlm

Air bag warning light is flashing.vehicle was checked by dealer, who advised consumer of air bags replacement.

Steering wheel locked up,brakes failed to operate properly resulting in an accident, no deployment of air bags during collision.

Air bag light has been on constantly. Consumerhad received a recallwhich it stated thatvehicle had to have a shell on top of the cable so that air bag light will not come on, but after she took the vehicle to get it fixed the problem was still there.dealer will only fix it if the consumer pays for it.

The vehicle was involved in an accident and the air bags did not deploy.

In august 2001the air conditioner started making a noise and then the air bag light and chime started.we took the car to the brandon ford dealership.they fixed the air conditioner.but they said it would be at least $1000 to just look at the air bag.we do not have that kind of money to waste on air bags.i was eight months pregnant at the time and we asked the dealership if the air bags would deploy.they said the air bags would not deploy.now i read an article stating that the air bags in the same type of vehicle have deployed for no reason.so, my husband, my unborn child and myself were at risk and we were under the impression everything was fine.a year later the air conditioner stops working and my husband looked under the dash to see if he could figure out why it stopped working.he found the wires connecting to the air conditioner were all melted.this could have started a fire and again my husband, my son and myself were at risk because the real problem was never really fixed.i read in the article that fires also had occurred for no reason.i would like to know how we will be protected from these failures that have occurred.thank you for your time.

Consumer noticed a month after purchasing the vehicle air bag light flashed on and off. Consumer contacted the dealer several times.dealer has not diagnosed the problem.

While parked horn went off on its own. Owner had taken fuse out to stop horn from blowing. Spoke to dealer & informed small plastic piece had worn away between horn & air bag module. It needed to be replaced. Seems to be a very common problem and was obviously a hazard (could possibly prematurely activate or fail to activatethe airbag). No solution for this problem has been address by the manufature to my knowledge! outside temperature is not a factor at all, occurs on hot, cold or rainy days.

Consumer was involved in a frontal collision, the air bags deployed,however the air bags damaged the front windshield and side window.

While driving 30 mph the consumers vehicle slid on ice and collided with another car.neither the front driver nor passenger air bags deployed.*nlm

Both driver & passenger airbags deployed & shattering passenger side window from the force of the airbag deployment, talked to dealer & airbags knocked out the clock spring, monoitor, dash assembly, dash frame bucket & sensors.

While traveling noticed a half inch drop in road. Consumer drove slowly over the drop without any indication that consumer's air bag deployed.please provide further informaton.

While driving 35 mph the vehicle in front of the consumer suddenly came to a complete stop.as a result the driver rear ended the vehicle. The consumer stated that neither of the frontal air bags deployed which resulted in some injuries. The consumer had the vehicle towed to the dealer.

While traveling on highway and without prior warning appliedhorn and there was no noise.also,dual airbags willnot deploy.dealership is aware of problem.

Vehicle was involved in an accident in whichvehicle rolled into a ditch while coming to a stop at approx. 25 mph in heavy rain condition.upon impact, both air bags deployed and bursted. Driver received chemical burns to his fingers, and passenger received chemical burns to one of his eyes and face. Dealer/manufacturer notified. Seeking help from nhtsa in this matter.

While driving andstopping at a stop sign air bag deployed. Vehicle started to smoke, and the heater coil went out. There was anti freeze all over the floor of the vehicle, and the air bag busted the front windshield.ford will not do anything to help the consumer.

While driving about 35 mph both air bags suddenly deployed without a prior warning, nor hitting anything.

Driver's side seatbelts never locked down. When the passenger side airbag was deployed it shattered the windshield. Glass was on the passenger's seat and if some one was there they would have been cut.

Vehicle wasinvolved in multiple freeway car collision.upimpact estimated at 30 mph,air bag on driver's side failed to deploy. ( passenger's side air bagdid deploy). Dealer notified.

On april 17 my 1997 ford escort was involved with flying road debris on the interstate.a piece of tire was thrown by the vehicle ahead of me into my bumper cover.what would have started out as a minor scratch in the bumper turned into a broken windshield and two blown airbags, which assisted in no way.they caused burns on the arms and created a driving hazard on the road in which i ended up in the median trying to take evasive action.i feel these airbags should not have exploded in this incident.no contact was made with another vehicle to create such conditions for the airbags to deploy.the airbag deployment was too sensitive.could you please investigate whether other incidents of this nature have occurred?has any type of recall been warranted with premature airbag deployment?potential for injuries were tremendous in this incident.i appreciate any assistance in this matter.

While driving at 60 mph both frontal air bags deployed inadvertently. Consumer drovevehicle todealer. While talking to a manufacturer's representative via phone vehicle caught on fire less then 15 minutes while parked. The fire appeared to have started under the hood on the passenger's side. The local fire department arrived to extinguish the fire. The cause of the fire was determined to be electrical.

Consumer noticed thatairbag light was flashing on the dash panel wednesday night.then, next day the light was still flashing,andvehicle started smoking.she hadvehicle parked, then she got inside ofvehicle.turnedvehicle on,and itstarted smoking. Had moved the panel,andnoticed thatfire was comming from there.another vehicle had a fre extinguisher, and putfire out. Vehicle was taken to dealership.mechanic told her that it would take $1300 75 to fixvehicle.

Vehicle was involved in a minor collision in which both driver's and passenger's air bags deployed,causing the window shield to break.please describe further details.

While drivingat 20 mph the driver's and passenger's air bags deployed without an accident occurring or vehicle hitting anything in the road,cause unknown.

While driving 10 mph both frontal air bags deployed inadvertently.this caused the driver to sustain minor injuries.vehicle was taken to the dealer for inspection, and mechanic determined that the air bag moduleneeded to be replaced.

While driving ina residential street hit a dog, and air bags deployed on both driver's and passenger's sides. Passenger's side air bag busted the front window, and consumer's hand was burned badly.

The vehicle accelerated and lurched forward while pulling into a parking space, causing the vehicle to hit a brick wall.upon impact, both frontal air bags failed todeploy.the driver sustained minor injuries, andwas transported to the local hospital.the dealer and the manufacturer were not notified.

Air bags deployed for no reason.when the car came to a stop, it bumped the car in front of it.ford says this was the cause for the deployment.it was not!

While attempting to start the vehiclepassenger's side air bag deployed.as a result, consumer sustained facial injuries.one week later consumer received a recall notice from the manufacturer.

Consumer was traveling about 45mph on a side road andstruck a deer. Airbags inflated at this time, and consumer wasblinded . There was smoke dusteverywhere. Whendriver's side airbag went off, airbag broke his wrist.

Vehicle was struck from the driver side and forced into a concrete pillar at 22 mph impact, and both air bags failed to deploy.

When the consumer applied the brakes to avoid hitting a dog, the air bag deployed.the vehicle filled with smoke and the air bag hit the consumer in the chest and bruised other areas. *scc

Dealership and manufacturer wont honoring the nhtsa recall 02v323000. Certain passenger vehicles, the integrated air bag monitor (iabm) can be contaminated with water or other liquids and could experience internal electrical short.

The vehicle was hit in the passenger side door, which casued the frontal air bags deploy. According to the owners the manual the air bags were not suppose to deploy unless there was severe impact to the front of the vehicle.

Vehicle was involved in acollisionat 45mph,seat beltsdid not retract properly, and the airbag did not deploy until the vehicle came to a complete stop.dealer and manufacturer have been notified.

I was burned on my right hand (3 fingers and thumb) due to both air bags had deployed.no one was in the passenger seat.

Driver's air bag deployed during a rearend collision, burning occupant's hands and injuring the fingers.

Vehicle was at a standstill when both driver's side and passenger's side air bags deployed without a cause. Also,air bag light was illuminating ondashboard, and an odor appeared in the vehicle prior to air bag deployment. Consumer has contacted the dealer. Please provide any further details.

Brakes failed and vehicle rear ended another vehicle at 25mph, and airbags on both sides did not deploy.

Consumer states air bag light is on. Flashing code 51.air bag monitor assembly replaced.

The vehicle was involved in a frontal collision, and the air bagsdeployed3 to 4 minutes later, and then smoke emitted from the air bags.

While stopping on a red light the air bags deployed without a reason.

While driving 67 mph on smooth surface consumer smelled sulphur, then both airbags deployed.

Air bags deployed while driving with no warning and no collision or impact to the sensors for the air bags, both drivers and passenger bags went off and also had broken the windshield.

Vehicle was at a stop light all of a sudden both air bags deployed. Dealer notified, and informedconsumerthat it was caused was bywater intruding on circuit board module located under driver seat. Repairs were made, but water still kept entering. Consumer believed the problemwas due to a/c condensation. Dealer notified and refused to correct problem, knowing this can cause the air bags to deploy again. Seeking nhtsa help inthis matter.

Vehicle was hit in the front center yet the air bags did not deploy. Dealer notified.

While driving the vehicle hit the curb and both air bags deployed which caused the windshield to crack.

Tl-the contact owns a 1997 ford escort. As a passenger in the vehicle been driven 5 mph in a driveway both frontal air bags deployed. She stated the driver was knocked unconscionus and the other passenger had a injury to the face. The vehicle crashed into a tree and a branch hit the windshield. The vehicle has not been taken to a dealer or mechanic. The failure and current mileage was 81,152.vwb

On nov.24,1998 vehicle experienced collision that causing violent deployment of airbag, resulting in injury to drivers left hand.

Consumer states that while driving on highway at approximately 70mph, the front driver'sair bag deployed without warning.ts

While driving on a rampvehicle was involved in an accident and the air bags did not deploy, and the seatbelts did not lock up. Please provide any futher information.

While parked with no passengers both air bags deployed without reason.dealer has been contacted.

While driving at 35mph the airbags deployed. Vehicle was not involved in a collision. Manufacturer and dealer have been notified.

Vehicle hit a bump going about 28 mph and the vehicle's airbags exploded . The explosion caused the windshield to shatter and the panel to burst. Ther is no damage to the vehicle. Manufacturer will repair the vehicle only if insurance company determines that there is a manufacturer'sdefect .

Consumer was driving approximately 45mph when a deer jumped over gaurdrail head-on in front vehicle.air bags deployed, the passenger side damaged consumers eye.

The air bag deployed inadvertently.

While in motion, consumer was involved in a collision and the airbags did not deploy. The seat belt also did not hold.consumer suffered chest injuries to the rib cage.consuemr wishes to have airbags opened and inspected at the local dealership.*jg

While traveling noticed air bag indication light flashing. Then, stopped the next day and indication light flashed. Also,cooling indication light came on. Consumer parked vehicle and air bags deployed. Please provide further information.

Vehicle experienced no deployment of air bag when impacted in the front and rear of the car. (attorney for consumer). Nlm

While driving at 20 mph front air bags deployed without consumer hitting anything. There was no prior warnings. Contacted dealer.

Consumer states that while driving air bag light illuminated.contacted dealer to bring vehicle in for diagnostic.the next day while driving, vehicle began smoking from the steering column and then stalled.related safety investigation ea02008/water ingestion into the air bag monitor ts

Driver was rearended by another vehicle traveling at about 50 mph, and was pushed into the bumper of the vehicle in front.during the collision the seat back mechanisms broke and allowed the recline to a 45 degree angle, the shoulder strap of the seat belt slid down to her arm, and she was thrown into the steering wheel since the air bags were not deployed.vehicle was totalled, and driver sustained injury. *ml

Vehicle had frontal collision at 35mph and driver'sand passenger's side airbags did not deploy. Has not been to dealer.

Consumer was drivingvehicle on highway at 60 mph when noticed a burning smell coming from inside, passenger's side of vehicle.pulled vehicle over tosee what was burning, nothing could be found. Passenger got back into car, while driver was still looking under the hood.less then 30 seconds after passenger got into the vehicle,both air bags deployed. Passenger received chemical burns and cuts on face.also,air bags cracked front windshield. Dealer notified.

Onsumerwas driving on the street and making a left turn whena bus veeredinto her vehicle, and hit vehicle from the back. Consumer lost control of vehicle, and ran into a utility pole,and neither driver's nor passenger's airbagsdeployed.

While driving 5 mph both airbags deployed, no crash. Please provide additional information.

During frontal impact at 30mph, the passenger's side air bag deployed, while driver's side air bag did not deploy, causing consumer to hit steering wheel.

Frontal air bags deployed without warning while driving.

The air bags deployed without impact to the vehicle.

Consumer stated while driving on the interstate, the front drivers side air bagdeployed on its own without impact.the dealer completed the repairs, based on water getting into the air bag module, then into the electrical system.nhtsa# 02v323000scc

Prior to having recall# 02v323000 performed for the air bag monitor,while driving on the interstate flames started coming from underneath the dashboard. The fire burned the entire dashboard and it's components.

The consumer requested a follow up to a letter which was sent regarding a vehicle fire.*mr

I am the service manager at c.h.urness motor co in the dalles,or, i purchased a 1997 ford escort for my daughter on 06/02/2007,then on 06/04/2007,the car had a fire under the dash,upon inspection we found an open recall "02s44"for this exact failure,i contacted the local ford dealer(ray schultens ford and was told they could not help me because the airbag module was no longer available!. I then contacted ford motor co. Customer relations(case # 1433871927).on 07/23/07 i received a letter stating "ford motor co. Was unable to offer any assistance at this time"the customer service rep told me over the phone that i should make the dealer i bought the car at "buy it back,after all you work for them"this car has an unrepaired recall and is unable to be repaired due to no parts available,what is my next step in this process?

Consumer requesting restitution for a house fire that was caused by a vehicle fire.*mr. Prior to the fire the vehicle also experienced a problem with the alternator and the brakes squeaking.

My 1997 escort not only had defective airbag deployment but caught on fire.my vehicle is a total loss.how rare is this occurance?ford is only willing to give me the trade in value for my vehicle not the replacement cost.seems like the consumer is the loser again.i was never notified of this recall.my daughter was driving the car and could have been killed when the bags deployed and the dash was already on fire.the fire was so severe it shattered the windshield and melted the entire dash.*la

The horn failed to operate, there was a recall regarding the air bag senor control module.

The consumer received a recall notice 02v323000 which was remedied on 4-6-03, however on 4-7-03, while driving, there was a "burning" smell and smoke coming the from dashboard area. The consumer pulled over and when he returned for vehicle the next day, it caught fire due to a coolant leak onto the airbag frontal control module.

Consumer had recall 02v323000 remedied in 03/03. The airbag warning light illuminated again and the consumer was very concerned for her safety.the air bag light came on while driving.the air bag light stayed on for two days.the dealer stated they were unable to do anything about it unless it had come back on. *sccthe power window failed to roll down.

The air bag experienced an electrical short as a result of the water contamination to the integrated air bag monitor.consumer then received recall 02v323000 regarding that specific defect.the manufacturer refused to repair air bag even though it may deploy without warning.manufacturer advised they will only install the shield to protect monitor from liquid contamination. Dealer would replace parts and labor free of charge.

The consumer does not want the air bags in her vehicle because she has to sit close to the steering wheel and there was a recent recall regarding the air bags.

Air bag warning indicator illuminated, and vehicle was taken to the dealer.mechanic determined that watergot into the air bag system, and damaged it and wiring harness.dealer informedconsumer thatvehicle was under recall 02v323000, but the damaged parts were not covered under this recall.consumerindicated he never received a recall notice from the manufacturer.

The contact owns a 1997 ford escort.the contact smelled a strong burning odor while driving 60 mph.the dealer stated that the part would be ordered and replaced under nhtsa campaign id number 02v323000 (air bags:frontal:sensor/control module).the contact smelled the odor again the following day and the vehicle shut down.the vehicle was towed to a chrysler dealer.chrysler notified ford and informed them that the air bag monitor burned and caused the vehicle to shut off.ford stated that the failure was not related to the air bag monitor.ford also advised chrysler to have the vehicle towed to them, but any additional damage would not be repaired.the manufacturer filed a report and stated that it would be sent to the legal department and a response would be received in writing.the powertrain was unknown.the current and failure mileages were 146,808.

The air bag experienced an electrical short as a result of water contamination to the integrated air bag monitor.consumer then received recall 0 2 v 32 3000 regarding that specific defect.the manufacturer refused to repair air bag even though it may deploy without warning.manufacturer advised they will only install the shield to protect monitor from liquid contamination.

The consumer took the vehicle for recall repairs on the air bag module on 5/5/2003 to the dealer.the dealer refused to do the repairs without an explanation.on 5/8/2003 the air bag module short circuited and caught on fire.the vehicle exploded.recall # 02v323000.

Recall #02v323000 - ford escort.last may 2003 i had the my car recalled for the above.this week my air bag monitor light was blinking - blink code 5-2. The integrated air bag monitor(iabm)failed - blink code 5-2.within 12 months and 12,000 miles of the recall my iabm fails,and the recall doesn't cover the iabm, but just a shield and grease.shouldn't the recall cover the failing integrated air bag monitor.

Air bag light illuminated. Owner received recall notice 02v323000 concerning integrated air bag monitor contamination. Vehicle was taken to the dealer for repairs on 6/17/2003.when the owner received the vehicleair bag light illuminated.the dealer stated a diagnostic test has to be done at the owners expense. Consumer requested a call from the investigating officer.

The air bag light illuminated on the dash board, there was a recall regarding the issue.

The dealer and various ford officers were unwilling to perform recall 02s44.*ph*nlm

Consumer was informed the parts to perform the recall regarding the air bag sensor/control module were on back order. Recall # 02v323000.

Explosion sound heard under dashboard of vehicle, consumer suspected problems with air bags.*mr the explosion was heard on two separate occasions.dealer stated was not authorized to open the air bag compartment. Five years later, consumer received a recall notice regarding the air bags.

Nhtsa campaign id number: 02v323000when i received the letter from ford it said that the recall was for the air bag module.it did not say anything about just putting a plastic covering over the module.the module in my car was already shorted out and is no good.i made a complaint about his in early 2002.i spoke with an nhtsa investigator about this problem and months later is when the recall happened.but it not even a recall for a fix to the problem i already had.keeping the water out of a bad module is not helping me at all.i was under the impression that the module would be replaced.how can the dealer see that the air bag module is shorted out and just put a plastic covering on it and give it back to us with the air bag light still on?

Last may 23rd 2003 i had the my car recalled for the recall #02v323000. This week my air bag monitor light was blinking. Diagnostic code 52. The integrated airbag monitor(iabm) failed. Only one year later, the iabm fails, and the recall doesn't cover the iabm, but just a shield and grease. Shouldn't the recall cover the failing integrated air bag monitor.

Consumer received a recall notice regarding the air bag sensor control module, however the dealer stated no parts were available.

Consumer was informed no parts were available regarding the recall for the air bag sensor control module.recall #02v323000.

Consumer didn't want to leave his vehicle for two-three days to have recall work performed.*ph (recall #023v23000)

Dt*:the contact stated there was a recall for the vehicle, nhtsa # 02v323000, concerning the air bag sensor.however, the recall remedy did not correct the problem.the vehicle was parked at an independent repair shop. The technician noticed the windows fogging up and opened the driver side door.while inside looking at the gauges the air bag deployed.this pinned the technician between the seat and steering wheel.the deployment cracked the windshield.upon inspection, the technician determined it is the same problem indicated in the recall. There was water accumulated in the integrated air bag monitor.updated 3/1/2006 - the consumer still has the defective parts in her possession.

Air bag light illuminated. Consumer had the problem before. Contacted the ford dealer, but problem recurred.

The air bag experienced an electrical short as a result of the water contamination to the integrated air bag monitor.consumer then received recall 02 v 3 23000 regarding that specific defect.the manufacturer refused to repair air bag even though it may deploy without warning.manufacturer advised they will only install the shield to protect monitor from liquid contamination.8jb

I purchased a new 1997 ford escort in september 1996. After driving the car for about a week the anti-lock brake light came on and the car was losing brake fluid. This happened a couple of times. I took the car back to the dealer and was advised that the brake fitting was missing some threads. Dealer fixed problem. This past january i got a letter from ford about the recall for the air bag monitor/sensor problem and had to take it to the local dealer to have that problem corrected. Now the car has a slow coolant leak. I took it to a repair shop and was advised that the head gasket is leaking. The car only has about 62,850 miles on it and has been very well maintained. It will cost approximately $800.00 - $1000.00 to replace the head gasket. I feel this head gasket failure is premature and ford should pay for it. This was the first ford vehicle i ever purchased and it will probably be the last. I want to know why they cannot put a $14,000 car together correctly and assure its quality to last. I looked at some of the service bulletins and previous complaints on the nhtsa web site regarding the 1997 ford escort and they are distressing to say the least. My next vehicle will be a gm product.

The vehicle experienced a problem with the air bag module, however the dealer stated no parts were available.

Consumer was traveling about 35mph onhighway, andwhile driving another vehiclemade a sudden stop and without prior warning she ran into the back of driver's vehicle.driverside airbag didn't go off fully, butpassenger side airbag broke ofwindow of door. Dealershipwas aware ofproblem.

While traveling 65-70 mph and without any indication passenger's side air bag deployed, damaging windshield.

Driver's side air bag deployed while vehicle was parked, causingwindshield to blowout.

Tether child safety sea tharness strap failed to work properly.

Request for restitution of losses resulting from a vehicle fire. *mr the passenger area trans equipment/electrical wire)the consumer requested restitution. *scc the consumer stated she many mechanical problems with the vehicle.

Consumer states prior to fire, lights were flashing on the dash, there was also an odor that smelled like firecrackers, the next day was when smoke was seen coming from the vehicle, fire was in the floorboards which spread when the doors were opened, claim 35-w686-849.

At any speed intermittently vehicle shuts down, possible cause is the electrical system.dealer is not sure.

Air bag light illuminated, the shop asked the consumer to return the vehicle in 2-3 days, during this time a fire occurred in the center module located in the console, later while the vehicle was parked at the dealership, someone noticed the module was again smoldering, claim 28-3088-664.

Air bag light illuminated, the shop asked the consumer to return the vehicle in 2-3 days, during this time a fire occurred in the center module located in the console, later while the vehicle was parked at the dealership, someone noticed the module was again smoldering, claim 28-3088-664.

The plastic light bulb socket for my center high mount stop lamp (chmsl) has repeatedly melted causing the chmsl to not work.i have gone through two (2) sockets and they have both failed in the same manner.

Vehicle caught on fire in the passenger compartment, there is damage under the dash, claim 53-c737-570.

The vehicle began smoking, then caught on fire, damages are under the dash, claim 53-c737-570.

Vehicle was parked in a parking lot and when consumer came to his vehicle, he noticed it was engulfed in smoke and there was a fire on the passenger seat, claim 30-v210-873.

Vehicle caught fire under dashboard, claim 53-c675-364.

Consumer saw smoke and sparks underneath passenger front seat, vehicle caught on fire quickly after the driver and passenger exited the vehicle, consumer also stated that the area she saw the sparks and smoke is exactly where avr had worked, the fire department stated that the fire was caused by an electrical problem centered under the seat, claim 03-3209-456.

Vehicle was parked in a parking lot and when consumer came to his vehicle, he noticed it was engulfed in smoke and there was a fire on the passenger seat, claim 30-v210-873.

Dash lights began to flash and there was an odor that smelled like a firecracker, vehicle was parked the next day when consumer noticed smoke and fire coming from the floorboards, claim 35-w686-849.

Brake light switch and disengagement of the speed control was out of adjustment.

Passenger compartment fire at dash panel, claim 18-0486-942.

Vehicle experienced fire in the passenger compartment, fire may have started in ignition switch, consumer feels the fire may have occurred due to a prior collision, heater core leaking into the ecs module, causing a short in the wiring harness, claim 40-2188-822.

Vehicle caught fire under dashboard, claim 53-c675-364.

Passenger compartment fire at dash panel, claim 18-0486-942.

Dash lights began to flash and there was an odor that smelled like a firecracker, vehicle was parked the next day when consumer noticed smoke and fire coming from the floorboards, claim 35-w686-849.

The contact owns a 1997 ford escort. While driving approximately 35 mph, the power steering seized without warning. The vehicle had to be towed to the contact's residence. The vehicle was taken to an independent mechanic where it was diagnosed that the wires and fuses needed to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired; however, the failure recurred. The manufacturer was notified of the failure. The vin and failure mileage were unknown.

Consumer had left vehicle at repair shop for the transmission to be checked and to find out why a light in the dash had illuminated, consumer was informed that the heater core had a hole in it, when demanding her vehicle back, she discovered that the vehicle had caught on fire under the dash and that the windshield was burned, nobody contacted her to let her know about the fire, claim 24-5124-338.

Vehicle caught on fire in the passenger compartment, there is damage under the dash, claim 53-c737-570.

Consumer saw smoke and some sparks come from underneath passenger front seat, the area where sparks and smoke came from is the exact same area where avr had worked, fire department stated the fire was an electrical fire centered under the seat, claim 03-3209-456.

Vehicle was parked overnight and an electrical fire in the passenger compartment damaged the vehcile, claim 55-s207-197.

Vehicle caught fire under dashboard, claim 53-c675-364.

Possible electrical failure caused the wires behind the fuse panel to short circuit and melt which could have resulted in injury if a fire occured. However, consumer experienced interior light problems when purchasing the vehicle.

Vehicle burned from the outside, fire started from underneath the dashboard by the floorboards on the passenger side, possible electrical failure, claim 04-1295-042.

Upon turning the vehicle on it stalled . Tried starting it again and it blew up, burning completely to the back seat of the vehicle. There were no warnings or indications.

Consumer came back to vehicle after a day of work and the interior was smokey, dashboard and interior were burned, adjuster stated electrical fire started in the instrument panel, claim 05-4953-366.

Consumer saw smoke and sparks underneath passenger front seat, vehicle caught on fire quickly after the driver and passenger exited the vehicle, consumer also stated that the area she saw the sparks and smoke is exactly where avr had worked, the fire department stated that the fire was caused by an electrical problem centered under the seat, claim 03-3209-456.

The vehicle caught on fire.

Vehicle was parked in parking lot when consumer came out and saw that it was engulfed in smoke, there was a fire in the passenger seat, claim 30-v210-873.

Consumer states prior to fire, lights were flashing on the dash, there was also an odor that smelled like firecrackers, the next day was when smoke was seen coming from the vehicle, fire was in the floorboards which spread when the doors were opened, claim 35-w686-849.

The vehicle began smoking, then caught on fire, damages are under the dash, claim 53-c737-570.

Air bag control diagnostic module shorted out due to ruptured heater core. When i spoke with the local dealership they told me to contact a local junk yard. There is a recall on this item. I never received a recall notice.

Vehicle burned from the outside, fire started from underneath the dashboard by the floorboards on the passenger side, possible electrical failure, claim 04-1295-042.

Vehicle was parked in parking lot when consumer came out and saw that it was engulfed in smoke, there was a fire in the passenger seat, claim 30-v210-873.

Vehicle was parked overnight, an electrical fire in the passenger compartment damaged the vehicle, claim 55-s207-197.

Consumer saw smoke and some sparks come from underneath passenger front seat, the area where sparks and smoke came from is the exact same area where avr had worked, fire department stated the fire was an electrical fire centered under the seat, claim 03-3209-456.

Consumer came back to vehicle after a day of work and the interior was smokey, dashboard and interior were burned, adjuster stated electrical fire started in the instrument panel, claim 05-4953-366.

Vehicle experienced fire in the passenger compartment, fire may have started in ignition switch, consumer feels the fire may have occurred due to a prior collision, heater core leaking into the ecs module, causing a short in the wiring harness, claim 40-2188-822.

Vehicle experience electrical fire.

Vehicle was parked overnight, an electrical fire in the passenger compartment damaged the vehicle, claim 55-s207-197.

Vehicle was parked overnight and an electrical fire in the passenger compartment damaged the vehcile, claim 55-s207-197.

Dt: the vehicle had an electrical short andburned up all of the wiring. When the consumers wife started the vehicle she notice smoke coming from the steering column.

Consumer had left vehicle at repair shop for the transmission to be checked and to find out why a light in the dash had illuminated, consumer was informed that the heater core had a hole in it, when demanding her vehicle back, she discovered that the vehicle had caught on fire under the dash and that the windshield was burned, nobody contacted her to let her know about the fire, claim 24-5124-338.

Vehicle caught fire under dashboard, claim 53-c675-364.

I turned right into a parking lot and slowly turned right again into a parking space. While i was braking, the car accelerated and hit a building.

Flashing air bag readiness light in a "51" pattern.

Consumer had left vehicle at repair shop for the transmission to be checked and to find out why a light in the dash had illuminated, consumer was informed that the heater core had a hole in it, when demanding her vehicle back, she discovered that the vehicle had caught on fire under the dash and that the windshield was burned, nobody contacted her to let her know about the fire, claim 24-5124-338.

The contact owns a 1997 ford escort.when making a right turn at various speeds, the contact heard a clunking sound coming from the front end ball joints.the dealer stated that the brake pads, rotors, drums, and front wheel bearing on the passenger side needed to be replaced.the contact stated that the odometer and speedometer have both been replaced three times, but she does not trust that the speedometer is currently working properly.the failure mileage was 115,000.updated 06-03/08. *ljthe tie rod end, rear spring, windshield, upper ball joint, odometer knob, real passenger seal were all replaced. Updated 05/30/08

While sitting at a lightvehicle shut down, andengine check light came on.vehicle shut completely down due to computer module failure.also, alternator andbattery died out, and engine belt, that runs everythng within the vehicle, disconnecteddue to the harmonic balancer that almost came off. Three sensors were also replaced.

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.

Consumer requesting restitution for a house fire that was caused by a vehicle fire.*mr. Prior to the fire the vehicle also experienced a problem with the alternator and the brakes squeaking.

While sitting at a lightvehicle shut down, andengine check light came on.vehicle shut completely down due to computer module failure.also, alternator andbattery died out, and engine belt, that runs everythng within the vehicle, disconnecteddue to the harmonic balancer that almost came off. Three sensors were also replaced.

Horn sounds intermittently on its own without any one touching the mechanism.*ph

Horn has blown2 times in just over a year, and is not under warranty anymore.

Horn malfunctioed, ,does not stop,had to pull fuse out.

05/25/1999; while driving at 35 mph, the head gasket on engine "blew out"car was undriveable. On 07/15/1999; the horn started honking continuously on it's own, when car was parked & locked. Had to remove fuse to shut off. Dealer said it was a bad air-bag module, not covered by warranty, cost $ 675.00.07/25/99, crankshaft pulley broke off, car not driveable. I note 4 other reports on this web-site for the crankshaft pulley, and 1 each for the head-gasket & horn/airbag problems + many other airbag problems.

Vehicle was parked inside of the parking lot. Horn was blowing constanly and then it started beeping.the consumer contacted the dealership and the mechanic told her that she left her vehicle parked in the sun and the sun damaged the horn.and in order for her to fix it the mechanic needed to go into steering column with airbag and the steering column has to be replaced.

While parked horn went off on its own. Owner had taken fuse out to stop horn from blowing. Spoke to dealer & informed small plastic piece had worn away between horn & air bag module. It needed to be replaced. Seems to be a very common problem and was obviously a hazard (could possibly prematurely activate or fail to activatethe airbag). No solution for this problem has been address by the manufature to my knowledge! outside temperature is not a factor at all, occurs on hot, cold or rainy days.

Ford just recently informed me that the defective horn reported just a few weeks out of warranty. Also involves the airbag. Robin marshall of ford headquarters customer relations informed of this safety risk a couple of weeks ago: (313)845-5831. Ford never informed us of the additional airbag safety risk until this time. I reported the horn malfunction (as it was setting in the garage the horn suddenly sounded at around 2 a.m.). Ford refuses to fix the problem without the payment of at least $300 and only recently agreed to even inspect the vehicle at their expense. As a result of this inspection (apparently) we were told of the airbag defect which, remember, has existed for years now.

Vehicle is experiencing erratic operation of horn. Horn will go off withoutconsumer engaging it.dealership is replacingairbag as well ashorn to fix this.please provide any additional information.

Horn is very difficult to find in an emergency.

Dt: when it rains car getsmoldy, and a fungus smell. It actually causes breathing problems. Also, my horn is going off automatically, and it doesn't stop until consumerhits the steering wheel.hornwas replaced,but it is still automatically goes off. The horn eventually stopped working . The reason she had to have it replaced the first time was because the horn blew so much it went completely out.

Horn activated on its own and stuck on. Eventually both horns failed.problem is due to the horn pad switch which is part of the driver air bag.replacing the horns and air bag costs in excess of $800.

Vehicle was parked. Horn went off on its own. Owner had taken fuse out to stop horn from blowing. Took to dealer & informed small plastic piece had worn away between horn & air bag module. It needed to be replaced.

In oct of 1998 horn started toactivate and won't stop unless driver unplugged it, consumer was out of an airbag and horn for a month, consumer sa0id thatcurrently problem was back, and dealer wastrying to charge consumer $700.00 to fix this problem.

Defective horn pad switch causedhorn to be inoperative which is needed in case of an emergency.*ml

Horn automatically sounds by itself.it sounds at various speeds including parked and it happens mostly when outside termperatures are high.the top left corner of airbag/horn button is very sensitive.thereappears to be an electrical short.

Consumer complains that the horn is inaccessible in an emergency situation.

Horn does not blow.was told by a mechanic thatproblem was a defective air bag.

Consumer took vehicle to dealer because horn was stuck.dealer stated that the only way to repair it was taking the airbag out. Consumer wouldbe charge $ 700-$750. Dealer couldn't explain what caused it.

Horn stuck, does not turn off.to replace, dealer must replace airbag also.says airbag may malfunction because horn malfunctioned.about 7 similar problems are listed on this web site.this is a safety feature and a malfunction in the horn shouldn't cause problems in the airbag.plus, it's not a wear and tear item that's wrong with the car.had a problem with the horn while the car was under warranty and the dealer did not catch this problem with the horn/airbag.isn't this a safety issue that could put passengers at risk.who would guess that a problem with the horn may lead to a deployment problem with the airbag?

The horn activated by itself when the vehicle was parked.*nlm

The horn stuck when in use.consumer had to unhook the horn from the battery. Dealership was notified, but did not resolve the problem.

The horn was inoperative and making a clicking noise when it is applied, the dealer found that the horn switch was stuck on part of the air bag, dealer replaced horn and drivers side air bag.nlm

Gas gauge doesn't show the correct amount of gas once it reaches 1/4of a tank. The vehicle also stalls on highways.the anti-theft alarm goes on for unknown reason.the horn malrunctions too.

While traveling on highway and without prior warning appliedhorn and there was no noise.also,dual airbags willnot deploy.dealership is aware of problem.

Failure on the engine, consumer was driving at high speed and the vehicle cut off without any warning.

Key would not come out of the ignition.consumer took vehicle to dealer and they replaced the intergrated control module.

The keys became stuck in the ignition while in use.the mechanic was unable to get the keys out of the ignition, which have been stuck in the ignition for the past 2 months.

While driving on highway without warningvehicle will completely shut down, cause unknown.the dealer had replaced the transmission twice.

While driving consumer smelled smoke, stoppedcar , popped hood and saw fire near spark plugs, consumer indicated that fire went out by itself, consumer felt itmay have been an electrical problem, and that vehicle was not safe.

When driving at approximately various speeds engine will stall out ,loses power. Put in neutral and give it gas so it can react correctly. Dealer has had vehicle five times. Replaced spark plugs and wires, ignition coil. Defect is stii reocurring.

Heater core is leaking causing fluid to get into air bag sensor and as a result the air bag light flashes off/on, the engine stalls while driving dealer replaced the computer, some electrical wire were replaced because the car began to smoke.*nlm

While sitting at a lightvehicle shut down, andengine check light came on.vehicle shut completely down due to computer module failure.also, alternator andbattery died out, and engine belt, that runs everythng within the vehicle, disconnecteddue to the harmonic balancer that almost came off. Three sensors were also replaced.

Wiring harness break in wagon hatch causing all elec. Components to malfunction, lso engine unable to shut off(with key removed from ignition).

Vehicle experienced passenger compartment fire at dash panel, claim 18-0486-942.

Vehicle was parked when alarm sounded, dealership stated that the wiring shorted out the horn, another dealership stated that the wiring burned into the horn, claim 40-2507-626.

Vehicle quit running due to electrical fire in passenger compartment, claim 28-3088-664.

Consumer came to vehicle after a day of work and interior was smokey, dashboard and interior were burned, electrical fire from the instrument panel, claim 05-4593-366.

Consumer stated when vehicle was purchased 3 months ago air bag light was on and later went off.on december 22, 2003, the airbag light came on upon starting , and thenair bags deployed, andsmoke began to come out of the dash. Vehicle caught on fire and was totaled. The fire department stated fire was due to a short in a wire.

While driving to the store, vehicle caught on fire due to a loose wire, one person was injured, claim 40-2555-468.

Intermittently headlights become inoperable. Headlights would not come on when ca ris warm. If consumer runs the car for an hour with headlights on, then shuts car and lights off, then turns sit back on within an hour or two, headlights will not come on. Dealer checked and replaced relay, but still didn't fix the problem. Possible faulty wiring.

While driving, consumer noticed that something was burning and pulled over, there was a short with a wire in the dash, causing a fire in the passenger compartment, claim 60-c180-623.

Fire started in the dash area, all the wiring was burned, claim 31-3120-259.

While driving engine check light illuminated, causing vehicle to stall. Consumer shut engine off, resulting in vehicle not restarting.consumer tried to investigate, andfound the antifreeze fluid overflowing, and causing electrical wires to melt.

Fire started in the dash area, all the wiring was burned, claim 31-3120-259.

Consumer came to vehicle after a day of work and interior was smokey, dashboard and interior were burned, electrical fire from the instrument panel, claim 05-4593-366.

Dash was on fire and all wiring was burned, claim 31-3120-259.

Car stalled try to restart car caught on fire, now total loss.

Dash was on fire and all wiring was burned, claim 31-3120-259.

While driving, vehicle caught on fire from a loose wire, one person was injured, claim 40-2555-468.

Vehicle burned from the inside, possibly electrical, fire started from underneath the dashboard by the floorboard on the passenger side, claim 04-1295-042.

Dt*:the contact stated while the vehicle was in an idle position a smell of smoke was observed coming from underneath the dashboard.upon inspection, the engine fuse box was found to be burnt.before the smoke erupted, the airbag light illuminated for a few seconds and then blinked once.the vehicle was taken to the service dealer who determined that the condensation from the evaporator case may have dripped onto the airbag diagnostic monitor or wiring harness. The dealer refused to perform a second remedy repair underrecall # 02s44. The manufacurer was contacted however they confirmed the dealer's consensus.

While driving, vehicle caught on fire from a loose wire, one person was injured, claim 40-2555-468.

Air bag light illuminated and vehicle was taken to a shop, the shop asked consumer to bring vehicle back in 2-3 days, however a fire occurred in the center module located in the console, claim 28-3088-664.

Problems with wiring harness resulting in vehicle fire. *mr while the consumer proceeded through a stop light the vehicle began to act erratically, the air bag light illuminated and the vehicle stalled out.the vehicle was towed to the dealer where it later caught fire awaiting diagnosis and repair.there was a recall related to this failure but the consumer didn't received the noticed prior to the fire(recall # 02v323000).the consumer also requested reimbursement.*scc*nlm

While vehicle was parked, the alarm went off, according to one dealership the wiring shorted out the horn and caused the airbags to need replacement, however another dealership stated that the wiring burned into the horn, claim 40-2507-626.

Air bag light illuminated and vehicle was taken to a shop, the shop asked consumer to bring vehicle back in 2-3 days, however a fire occurred in the center module located in the console, claim 28-3088-664.

While parked ondealer 's property for repairs the vehicle caught on fire. The cause was an electrical malfunction. Consumer stated she only owned the vehicle for three weeks, anddealerclaimedno responsibility.

Vehicle burned from the inside, possibly electrical, fire started from underneath the dashboard by the floorboard on the passenger side, claim 04-1295-042.

Vehicle was parked when alarm sounded, dealership stated that the wiring shorted out the horn, another dealership stated that the wiring burned into the horn, claim 40-2507-626.

While driving to the store, vehicle caught on fire due to a loose wire, one person was injured, claim 40-2555-468.

While vehicle was parked, the alarm went off, according to one dealership the wiring shorted out the horn and caused the airbags to need replacement, however another dealership stated that the wiring burned into the horn, claim 40-2507-626.

While driving, consumer noticed something burning and pulled over, there was a short with a wire in the dash and this caused a fire, claim 60-c180-623.

Vehicle experienced passenger compartment fire at dash panel, claim 18-0486-942.

Vehicle quit running due to electrical fire in passenger compartment, claim 28-3088-664.

While driving, consumer noticed that something was burning and pulled over, there was a short with a wire in the dash, causing a fire in the passenger compartment, claim 60-c180-623.

While driving, consumer noticed something burning and pulled over, there was a short with a wire in the dash and this caused a fire, claim 60-c180-623.

While traveling andwithout any indication vehicle stalled. Consumer had vehicle towed, andtechniciannoticed thatelectrical wiring harness was burned out.

Electrical fire due to faulty wires.

My late son's(robert d. Lawrence iii) 1997 ford escort caught fire while sitting parked, with the engine turned off,on voters road in slidell, la. Mechanic advised fire started around the air conditioner. Contacted ford dealer and the ford company, but received no information or advice.both ignored his complaintand stonewalled him.. Robert iii's insurance company (safeway)paid off a total loss to ford and left my late son with over $4,000 still due. Ford motor credit sued him for the balance just before he died on july 16, 2002. The vehicle is sitting in myyard if investigators from the nhtsa would like to see it in connection with the current investigation into sudden fires in1997 ford escorts. Ford should, at least, drop their lawsuit. They should have given the boy another car when that one caught fire.

While driving at 60 mph both frontal air bags deployed inadvertently. Consumer drovevehicle todealer. While talking to a manufacturer's representative via phone vehicle caught on fire less then 15 minutes while parked. The fire appeared to have started under the hood on the passenger's side. The local fire department arrived to extinguish the fire. The cause of the fire was determined to be electrical.

While drivingvehicle caught on fire under the hood, cause unknown..

After parking the vehicle for a few secondsvehicle caught on fire from under the hood near the firewall. Local fire department arrived to extinguish the fire. Dealer was not notified.

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.

Dt*:the contact stated while the vehicle was in an idle position a smell of smoke was observed coming from underneath the dashboard.upon inspection, the engine fuse box was found to be burnt.before the smoke erupted, the airbag light illuminated for a few seconds and then blinked once.the vehicle was taken to the service dealer who determined that the condensation from the evaporator case may have dripped onto the airbag diagnostic monitor or wiring harness. The dealer refused to perform a second remedy repair underrecall # 02s44. The manufacurer was contacted however they confirmed the dealer's consensus.

Heater core leaked onto the airbag monitor which caught on fire and short circuited the electrical system.

The horn will start to blow by itself without anyone in the car or without the car being started. Fuse has to be taken out in order to stop the horn. Dealer had to replace the horn and the airbag.

I was driving my car when it suddenly stop without notice.it was daytime and i had my 13 year old grandson with me.we got the car to the side of the road and went to the nearest house.the women advised me that her husband was a mechanic and he would look at the car when he returned from a errand.upon the mechanic arrival--not associated with ford motors--he looked at the car and said you have a fuse problem.he open the hood and the fuse compartment. After 20 seconds he push a fuse back in and the car started without problems.he advised me that loose fuses on newer fords was a major problem.my main concern is that while this happened in the day what if this happened at night while i was travelling on a dark interstate highway in the middle lane.a stall out caused my an electrical fuse failure could cause a major accident . I'm also concerned with the mechanics statement that this happens on a lot of newer ford.he also said something about auto manufacturers getting around this with "silent recalls".no problem unless you complain.please let me know whether my incident is isolated or the mechanic is right that this is happening but its a silent matter.

Cruise control quit working a few days later i blew a fuse for the brakes lights. I replace the fuse and blew that one. At this same time i noticed that i could not shut off the air conditioning. I will contact dealer next buisness day.

Vehicle caught onfire underdashboard while driving.manufacturer has been notified.

Initial problem was that heater blower would not operate.when brought to the dealer, they determined that there had been an electrical melt-down on a component and stated that we were fortunate that we had not had a fire. They removed and replaced the motor resistor and connector.i am reporting this because when i checked for complaints regarding escorts, there were many others that did have fires due to wiring/electrical problems.

When the vehicle was parked, the consumer noticed smoke was coming from the vehicle, whic eventually caught on fire.the consumer called the fire department to extinguish the fire.there were no injuries.the fire department informed the consumer that the firewas electrical, and started under the dashboard.*sc

While driving at 15 mph consumerturned the heather onto warm up the vehicle andsuddenly vehicle caught on fire.flames and heavy smoke came from under the dashboard.

Consumer states while driving on the interstates highway vehicle caught on fire. She smelled smoke, and looked down, and there were fire coming from under the dash. Dash burned up.she had vehicle towed to a dealership, but he did not diagnose the problem, just said it was thedashboard.

Computer--false warnings.

Vehicle's air bags deployed and dashboard caught on fire while parked in a local garage.*mrthe air bag light was coming on and off the remained on. Consumer allowed the vehicle to cool after smelling smoke. A trooper recommended having the vehicle towed. The vehicle was at a local garage locked up when the fire occurred. The windshield shattered due to the hot temperature. The fire dept. Found the vehicle was under recall fordefective air bags.*ph

Pulled into a parking lot and while waiting for a space heard loud banging noise.dealer replaced crankshaft pully system.electrical system short circuited behind fuse box and melted wiring.additional damage still unknown.caused dashlighting, tail lights, & reverse lights to fail.

Consumer noticed thatairbag light was flashing on the dash panel wednesday night.then, next day the light was still flashing,andvehicle started smoking.she hadvehicle parked, then she got inside ofvehicle.turnedvehicle on,and itstarted smoking. Had moved the panel,andnoticed thatfire was comming from there.another vehicle had a fre extinguisher, and putfire out. Vehicle was taken to dealership.mechanic told her that it would take $1300 75 to fixvehicle.

While being parked over night vehicle caught onfire internally.owner saw windshield black, and dashboard melted.cause of firewas unknown at this time.please describe details.

While drivingwiring harness under the dash had a short circuit on the passenger's side, causing a fire. Fire department came, and determined the cause of the problem.dealer has not been contacted.

The electrical problem under the dash caused the vehicle to catch fire when it was parked.

While driving home from work on 12/1/2002 vehicle began to smoke near dashboard area. Vehicle stalled and was pushed into nearby parking deck.vehicle towed to home the next day much to my surprise the entire dashboard area had caught fire.while in deck and entire dashboard and wiring system completely destroyed.front window also sustained major fire damage.dt

While driving the vehicle started to smoke and die out. Vehicle was towed home. When attempting to restart, vehicle caught on fire underthe dash area. Fire department was called and linked the fire to an electrical short.please provide any further details.

While driving at 25 mph smoke was coming from the vents area, after parking vehicle, attempted to restart it, and vehicle wouldsmoke again and sparks could be seen. This causeddashborad and other front area of the vehicle to burn. Feel free to provide any further information.

The electrical problem under the dash caused the vehicle to catch fire when it was parked.

Passenger compartment fuse blown along with tail light, turn signal, brake light and radio not functioning. Found melted wires under dash by the fuse block making the ignition bell ring without key in ignition. Smoke coming from under dash. Service dealer claims it will be in excess of $2000.00 to repair.

Valve seat no. 4 fell out of head and was destroyed, damaging no. 4 and no. 3 piston, and the head itself. We were fortunate that the total failure occurred while parked rather than on the interstate, at which time power steering and power brakes would have failed.this is a well known mode of failure for this engine but, apparently, ford and nhtsa took no steps to solve the problem.the engine was discontinued in 2005.

While driving 35 mph engine valve guide dropped. As a result, engine was destroyed.

The contact owns a 1997 ford escort. While driving approximately 60 mph, the vehicle began to shake vigorously and stalled. The vehicle was towed to an independent mechanic for diagnostic. The mechanic stated that the engine would have to be replaced. The vehicle was repaired but the failure recurred twice. The vehicle was not repaired. The vin was not available. The approximate failure mileage was 70,000.

Upon turning the vehicle on it stalled . Tried starting it again and it blew up, burning completely to the back seat of the vehicle. There were no warnings or indications.

Engine light continually comes on , even after numerous times of taking it to the auto shop to be hooked to the computer to see what is wrong and after having it fixed over and over again.

While driving engine check light illuminated, causing vehicle to stall. Consumer shut engine off, resulting in vehicle not restarting.consumer tried to investigate, andfound the antifreeze fluid overflowing, and causing electrical wires to melt.

Radiator replaced, old radiator leaking at tank seam split.cj

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.

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

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

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.

Crankshaft pully separated from engine block, causing sudden loss of power steering.vehicle only had 30m miles.

Harmonic balancer crankshaft came off without prior warning. Part was defective frommanufacturerdealershipwas aware of problem.

The vehicles check engine light illuminated.the vehicle was taken to the dealership and given a tune up.a day later the engine siezed.the vehicle was taken back tot he dealer and they replaced the engine.*nlm

While driving 30 mph crankshaft pulley fell off.

Problems with vehicle stalling out.*mr the check engine light came on, which caused the vehicle to idle and almost stall at every stop. The vehicle was service five times for the check engine light.. The spark wires were replaced the fuel injection system was cleaned, the fuel injector was replaced, however the problem continued, the dealer then diagnosed the problem as carbon build up, and it was explained in the service bulletin the new heads should have revised valve guides and exhaust valves to prevent carbon build up

Engine check light appears ondashboard whenconsumer tookvehicle to dealership.whendealership dropped vehicle off there was a knocking noise coming from underneath vehicle. Engine locked up.

Head gasket failure on 1997 ford escort sw.

1997 ford escort pcv needed to be replaced after being installed a year ago.***no answer required****sc

While driving at 60 mphcrankshaft pulley fell off withoutprior warning.

Camshaft crack in half don't know what cause that too happen

Pulled into a parking lot and while waiting for a space heard loud banging noise.dealer replaced crankshaft pully system.electrical system short circuited behind fuse box and melted wiring.additional damage still unknown.caused dashlighting, tail lights, & reverse lights to fail.

Timing belt was broke had replaced it car only runs on 2 cylinders car not running.

Head gasket failure in 1997 ford escort.

Crankshaft/pulley broke as consumer was driving on the highway, and she heard a loud noise coming from underneath the hood. She tookvehicle to a repair shop.

Consumer's daughter was drivingand vehicle shook when in reverse. Tookvehicle to dealer,and they told her tie rods were defective. Another dealertold her it was the motor mounts.

While driving 55 mph vehicle stalled.consumer was unable topull off the road. Consumer had the vehicle towed to the dealer for inspection, andmechanicdetermined that engine failed.

A fire erupted under the hood, when the vehicle was started.

Defective damper pulley in the motor system fell apart, causing the steering and braking to lock up while driving without prior warning, and may cause a crash.

While driving the head gaskets blew out, causing the vehicle to stall, almost resulting in an accident.cause unknown.please provide further details.

Bottom pulley/crankshaft has slowly separated and cut into the firewall. When turning left, the engine tilts and the crankshaft pulley cuts into the right fender.the mechanic says it is due to defect.

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

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

Vehicle would start to sputter when started. Would need to give gas to get vehicle running & then moving. At other times, vehicle would stall while driving. Can smell anti-freeze coming through the vents. Had taken vehicle 4 times to dealer & mechanic replacedhead gasket the last time.the head gasket failed over and over again after being replaced.

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.

Consumer was driving vehicle at approximately 30 mph; heard a loud banging noise, pulled vehicle over, and noticed engine pulley disconnected. Dealer notified and repaired vehicle at the cost to the consumer.

Engine service light stays on while driving. This is caused by an oil sensor failure due to a hole in the oil pan which rusted the belts per mechanic.

The vehicle made a loud noise while driving. Consumer stated a rubber piece was loose inside the engine. The damp assembly separated and moved forward into the fender wall through the serpentine belt. *scc

The vehicle caught on fire under the hood.

Engine stalled at 55 mph. After the repair the check engine light came on, and the dealer couldnt fix the problem with the egr valve.

When making a left hand turn consumer noticed thatthe engine checklight was illuminated on the dash. Consumer contacted the dealer. Dealer stated there was a problem with the emission.consumer stated that dealer made repairs for the check engine light, however now the engine overheats.

When driving at approximately various speeds engine will stall out ,loses power. Put in neutral and give it gas so it can react correctly. Dealer has had vehicle five times. Replaced spark plugs and wires, ignition coil. Defect is stii reocurring.

Vehicle would start to sputter when started. Would need to give gas to get vehicle running & then moving. At other times, vehicle would stall while driving. Can smell anti-freeze coming through the vents. Had taken vehicle 4 times to dealer & mechanic replacedhead gasket the last time.the head gasket failed over and over again after being replaced.

The consumer has experienced two explosions from front of vehicle while driving. The driver has no idea what the cause was or where it came from.

Vehicle would stall out at different speeds. Almost rearended because of stalling unexpectedly. Had vehicle towed back to dealer. Was informed could not find problem for stalling, even had vehicle test driven. Air conditioner blew hot air, dealer repaired wiring assembly.tires experienced wear, consumer did not give specific tire information.engine light illuminated and vehicle was hard to restart, vehicle also lost power and dealer has not been able to resolve the problem.

Heard a funny sound. Tookvehicle back to the dealer, but they said this wasanormal sound for the engine.tookvehicle a second time back to dealer afterengine was makingknocking noises and stalled. Contacted the manufacturer. Vehicle'swarranty expired.

Would like to try to get exstensive information about this vehicle since it has had several major failures.

While exiting a rampengine suddenly shutdown, causingloss of all power.dealer has been contacted.

05/25/1999; while driving at 35 mph, the head gasket on engine "blew out"car was undriveable. On 07/15/1999; the horn started honking continuously on it's own, when car was parked & locked. Had to remove fuse to shut off. Dealer said it was a bad air-bag module, not covered by warranty, cost $ 675.00.07/25/99, crankshaft pulley broke off, car not driveable. I note 4 other reports on this web-site for the crankshaft pulley, and 1 each for the head-gasket & horn/airbag problems + many other airbag problems.

While driving vehicle died and had a fire in the engine compartment without prior warning.dealer cannot determine the cause.another times, the transmission fell out without warning.after repairs, the vehicle started making noises and was slow to take off. Vehicle was traded in..et.

Consumer states there is noise coming from engine compartment.dealer found damper failed belt caught between damper and fender well was damaged.replaced damper and belt.

While vehicle traveling at 60-65 mph, on highway, engine shut down and would not restart.

Service engine soon warning light comes on.has been serviced numerous times by dealer.no explanation can be given.have experienced same problems with check coolant warning light.

Moving at 70mph motor sputtered and died. Unable to restart for aprox 20 min.both times out on the open road and outside temp over 100.engine temp normal. Fuel better than half a tank.

Consumer stated there was a noise coming from the engine compartment, dealer stated the damper failed and the belt was caught between the damper and fender well.

While drivingvehicle completely shutsdown without warning, cause unknown.dealer cannot correctproblem.please give any further details.

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.

How can a dealership not acknowledge the motor/transmission are both foreign items.if i wanted to purchase a foreign car i would have.and for both motor replacement cost $2600 and transmission $2800 to go out the same time. Isn't there some law that states a dealership/mfg must acknowledge the type of equipment (parts) being used in a automobile??

Gas gauge doesn't show the correct amount of gas once it reaches 1/4of a tank. The vehicle also stalls on highways.the anti-theft alarm goes on for unknown reason.the horn malrunctions too.

I purchased a new 1997 ford escort in september 1996. After driving the car for about a week the anti-lock brake light came on and the car was losing brake fluid. This happened a couple of times. I took the car back to the dealer and was advised that the brake fitting was missing some threads. Dealer fixed problem. This past january i got a letter from ford about the recall for the air bag monitor/sensor problem and had to take it to the local dealer to have that problem corrected. Now the car has a slow coolant leak. I took it to a repair shop and was advised that the head gasket is leaking. The car only has about 62,850 miles on it and has been very well maintained. It will cost approximately $800.00 - $1000.00 to replace the head gasket. I feel this head gasket failure is premature and ford should pay for it. This was the first ford vehicle i ever purchased and it will probably be the last. I want to know why they cannot put a $14,000 car together correctly and assure its quality to last. I looked at some of the service bulletins and previous complaints on the nhtsa web site regarding the 1997 ford escort and they are distressing to say the least. My next vehicle will be a gm product.

The vibration damper fails and causes the pully to shift, causing the alt. Belt to rub against the side of the car until it breaks.this caused loss of power steering.extremely dangerous situation caused by a defect in the design of this ford component

Engine service light stays on while driving. This is caused by an oil sensor failure due to a hole in the oil pan which rusted the belts per mechanic.

While sitting at a lightvehicle shut down, andengine check light came on.vehicle shut completely down due to computer module failure.also, alternator andbattery died out, and engine belt, that runs everythng within the vehicle, disconnecteddue to the harmonic balancer that almost came off. Three sensors were also replaced.

While traveling 45mphlost steering power & brakes. Vehicle towed to dealer & was informed by mechanic the alternator beltbroke. The pulley had shifted. The damper had failed & pushed the pulley over & caused the alternator to break.

Dt*: the contact stated there is a crack located at the bottom of the exhaust manifold. The dealership has not been informed.

Check engine light illuminates, indicating a problem with the emission control system.please give any further details..et

When making a left hand turn consumer noticed thatthe engine checklight was illuminated on the dash. Consumer contacted the dealer. Dealer stated there was a problem with the emission.consumer stated that dealer made repairs for the check engine light, however now the engine overheats.

Dt: when it rains car getsmoldy, and a fungus smell. It actually causes breathing problems. Also, my horn is going off automatically, and it doesn't stop until consumerhits the steering wheel.hornwas replaced,but it is still automatically goes off. The horn eventually stopped working . The reason she had to have it replaced the first time was because the horn blew so much it went completely out.

While driving , the steering wheel felt loose and made aloud noise. The dealer replacedthe tie rod at owner's expense.consumer feels that she should be reimbursed for the cost ofrepairs.the vehicle's rear coil springs broke at 16219 miles. The front coil spring broke at 16279 miles and was replaced under warranty.catalytic converter failed causing noise.

Engine stalled at 55 mph. After the repair the check engine light came on, and the dealer couldnt fix the problem with the egr valve.

Erg connector failed. Nlm

1997 ford escort fuel evaporative emission control system. Purge controlvalve circuit malfunctioned.

While driving the plastic underneath the car next to the exhaust intake manifold burst into flames without any warning.pulled vehicle over and put flames out.the vehicle had to be towed to dealer.

Exhaust tail pipe failed.yh

In august 2001the air conditioner started making a noise and then the air bag light and chime started.we took the car to the brandon ford dealership.they fixed the air conditioner.but they said it would be at least $1000 to just look at the air bag.we do not have that kind of money to waste on air bags.i was eight months pregnant at the time and we asked the dealership if the air bags would deploy.they said the air bags would not deploy.now i read an article stating that the air bags in the same type of vehicle have deployed for no reason.so, my husband, my unborn child and myself were at risk and we were under the impression everything was fine.a year later the air conditioner stops working and my husband looked under the dash to see if he could figure out why it stopped working.he found the wires connecting to the air conditioner were all melted.this could have started a fire and again my husband, my son and myself were at risk because the real problem was never really fixed.i read in the article that fires also had occurred for no reason.i would like to know how we will be protected from these failures that have occurred.thank you for your time.

Cruise control quit working a few days later i blew a fuse for the brakes lights. I replace the fuse and blew that one. At this same time i noticed that i could not shut off the air conditioning. I will contact dealer next buisness day.

Ltr fm agnes vanantwerp (fl)mrthe consumer seeked reimbursement for the repair of leakage in the evaporator which caused damage to the air bag monitor dot 2003-2332.since then, there was condensation in the a/c when in use and caused the floor on the passenger side to fill with water.scc

Vehicle would stall out at different speeds. Almost rearended because of stalling unexpectedly. Had vehicle towed back to dealer. Was informed could not find problem for stalling, even had vehicle test driven. Air conditioner blew hot air, dealer repaired wiring assembly.tires experienced wear, consumer did not give specific tire information.engine light illuminated and vehicle was hard to restart, vehicle also lost power and dealer has not been able to resolve the problem.

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.

Consumer called complaining about the air bag light been on all the time on the panel. Dealer was contacted and stated that they don't have any recalls so they can't do nothing. Ts

Both rear brake stop lamps failed to operate when stopping. Vehicle has been taken to a repair shop, and mechanic replaced the brake switch under the hood. Within a few months the problem recurred. Consumer was concerned that the vehicle may become involved in a rear end crash due to this problem. Dealer was notified, who informed consumer that the vehicle's problem was not covered under a recall.

Both rear brake stop lamps failed to operate when stopping. Vehicle has been taken to a repair shop, and mechanic replaced the brake switch under the hood. Within a few months the problem recurred. Consumer was concerned that the vehicle may become involved in a rear end crash due to this problem. Dealer was notified, who informed consumer that the vehicle's problem was not covered under a recall.

While driving down road, turn signals come on and off intermittently. Vehicle gives no prior warning. When using turn signas, both lights will blink on dash, but one will blink on outside. Consumer was told it might be flasher, and flasher was replaced.but, problem was still there.had not contacted dealer. Consumer filed a complaint around march.

Dt:headlights are fogging up due to moisture. Caller is concerned that they will not pass inspection if they get any worse. Dealer said headlights need to be replaced, and that was all they coulddo. Manufacturer has not been called yet. The 2 headlights were replaced.consumer thought when the right directional malfunctioned , it was due to the mositure too.

While driving at night consumer noticed that the headlights were dim. The plastic lens that covered the headlights was frosted.this caused poor visibility.vehicle was taken to the dealer for inspection, and mechanic determined that headlight assembly needed to be replaced.

The passenger side head light seal failed.

The vehicle's headlights were dull which impaired the drivers vision.the dealer has been notified.*nlm

Headlight lens dull, cloudy. Headlights are not as bright as they should be.*la

We have a 1997 ford escort, and the plastic lens that covers the headlights isextremely frosted. This means when driving at night, the amount of light outputby the headlights is reduced, limiting the visibility of the road in front of the vehicle which could be hazardous. When the bright lights are turned on, the additional light output is small, once again due to the frosted lens on both headlights. I have noticed this on another escort, and no doubt it exists on others. A local auto repair shop says it is a defect. The plastic lens should remain clear. I believe ford should replace them. They should remain free of any haze for the life of the vehicle. I checked and to replace both, it would costi believe something like $250 or $300 dollars!

Intermittently headlights become inoperable. Headlights would not come on when ca ris warm. If consumer runs the car for an hour with headlights on, then shuts car and lights off, then turns sit back on within an hour or two, headlights will not come on. Dealer checked and replaced relay, but still didn't fix the problem. Possible faulty wiring.

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.

Dt:headlights are fogging up due to moisture. Caller is concerned that they will not pass inspection if they get any worse. Dealer said headlights need to be replaced, and that was all they coulddo. Manufacturer has not been called yet. The 2 headlights were replaced.consumer thought when the right directional malfunctioned , it was due to the mositure too.

While driving at any speed,turn signal forright side will activate without a prior warning to other drivers that consumer will make a turn.consumer feels there is a short.

While driving down road, turn signals come on and off intermittently. Vehicle gives no prior warning. When using turn signas, both lights will blink on dash, but one will blink on outside. Consumer was told it might be flasher, and flasher was replaced.but, problem was still there.had not contacted dealer. Consumer filed a complaint around march.

While driving down road, turn signals come on and off intermittently. Vehicle gives no prior warning. When using turn signas, both lights will blink on dash, but one will blink on outside. Consumer was told it might be flasher, and flasher was replaced.but, problem was still there.had not contacted dealer. Consumer filed a complaint around march.

While driving vehicle had noticed a gas odor & the engine check light had came on. Stopped vehicle & lifted hood. Smelled & noticed smoke & fumes coming from engine area. Took to dealer.

1997 ford escort rubber fill pipe deteriorates spilling gasoline on ground when refilling fuel tank.

There is a bad odor in the car , please describe.

Dt: the contactowns a 1997 ford escort.while he drivingand when the vehicle was idling there were fuel fumes inside the vehicle.when driving the vehicleit took approximately 5 minutesforthe fumes to enter the vehicle.while idling the fuel fumes were worse upon entering the vehicle.the fumes become so bad at times that the contact had to pull over and let the vehicle air out.the service dealer stated that it was the perch valve inside the gas tank that released the fumes. The fuel pump will have to be replaced to remedy the problem.the contact has not called the manufacturer.

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

The vehicle stalled without warning, the dealer replaced the fuel pump.

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.

Smelled gas fumes in car. Brought to dealer. Fuel tank was leaking due to coming apart at the seams. Tank had to be replaced at a cost of $400.

Fuel tank has developed cracks, resulting in fuel leakage.please give any further details.

While traveling and without any indication engine indicator light flashed intermittently.dealer has repaired, but problem returned.please provide further information.

Within 4 mths had problem w/ transmission, took 4 mins for dealer to say theres nothing wrong, when i got my new tires for pepboys i had to fix my brakes, transmission,suspension, even got speed tickets for no reason,i keep my car in very good condition and i still have my engine light on and i have about 70% of the same problems others have in the nhtsacmplt section. I think the escort should be recalled for so many unsafe problems.( dot number: uj956klp12 tire size: p19570r14 )

There is a hole ingas tank which makes a way for the gas to get out of the tank. Consumer doesn't know how or when the hole got in the tank.

My concern is that ford may have defaulted fuel tanks for this car model.i did not run over anything, or do anything to cause my fuel tank to leak gas.the leak is right on the seam in the middle of the tank, where the manufacturer had put it together. I fill up my tank one day and notice gas pouring out from underneath. I have no idea how long it was leaking before i noticed it, therefore i was driving around a timebomb just waiting to blow up. By the simple act of someone flicking a cigarette out of their window, or if someone ran into me.my car could blow up at any time. That is why i am writing this complaint to prevent such death from happening. Thank you very much for your time.

Gas gauge doesn't show the correct amount of gas once it reaches 1/4of a tank. The vehicle also stalls on highways.the anti-theft alarm goes on for unknown reason.the horn malrunctions too.

I believe that the dash has been tampered with as the airbag did not deploy and there appears to be velcro attached to the dash

Dashboard lights failed.

The "wasp" design of the rear door locks make the locks extremely vulnerable to breakage.exact replacements are very hard to find.when locl plunger is broken off, the passengers in the back seat are trapped in the cat until someone in front releases the electric doorlocks.i do not know if it is at all possible to get back door open with manual door locks.

If there is a movement of the vehicle, forward, if a person is on a grade forward and if a strong wind is comingfrom the rear forward, the front door will swing open and will hit anything without anyone being able to control it.one must use both hands to securely lock the door.scc

Front door lock posts too short, can only be opened with handles and handles stick

Hood latch and cable assembly failed.

Hood latch pops loose while driving.hood does not come up/ latch does not stay tight. Consumer has not contacteddealer.please provide any further information.

The car that i had purchased has not lived up to it's expectations since i purchased it. Since i have had the car, i purchased it in sept. Of 1998, the brakes have completely gone out, the emergency light comes on constantly even thought the emergency brake is not on.when purchasing the car, i had explained to the car dealer the i, being of only 19 yrs of age and this being my first big purchase i could not afford to buy a car then end up having to put tons of money into it. I am very upset at the fact that i have had the car for only a short while, the warranty has passed (how conveinient) and i refuse to be held responsible for a faulty sensor.

Brakes failed. Pedal went to the floor, resulting in an accident. Dealership mechanic said the problem was due to the emergency brake driveline.

The power train failed.*et

When consumer attempted to put the vehicle into drive, it did not move, the vehicle was taken to the dealer where they put in transmission fluid.

While driving speedometer works very erratically. Vehicle will not give knowledge of speed it's traveling when moving.

Request for restitution of losses resulting from a vehicle fire. *mr the passenger area trans equipment/electrical wire)the consumer requested restitution. *scc the consumer stated she many mechanical problems with the vehicle.

While driving vehicle jerks or vibrates and hesitates when shifting gears.dealer cannot identify the problem.please give any further details.

Ten transmission failures.qcaw

While driving vehicle died and had a fire in the engine compartment without prior warning.dealer cannot determine the cause.another times, the transmission fell out without warning.after repairs, the vehicle started making noises and was slow to take off. Vehicle was traded in..et.

Transmission has prematurely malfunctioned and burned out, has been replaced four times.

My mom bought the car, certified used, with only 16,000 miles on it. As it neared 37,000 miles it needed a new transmission. I had to pay for it. After that the transmission had to be replaced 2 more times before it reached 70,000 miles.

I do not drive my escort "wild"i try to take care of my car.i have contacted the company to get it repaired; they only cover part's.i am fighting the warranty company that cancelled me; that paid for this at the time.no safety defect listed.

Consumer stated vehicle will not shift gears properly.dealer indicated transmissionmalfunctioned.

Engine check light will come on when operatingvehicle for a long period of time or climbing a hill.the transmission failed twice and was replaced by the dealer.but the transmission's erratic shift uphill andcheck the engine soon light continued.

Car was towed to local station as dealer could not find the problem. We understand that we purchase one of the last selector shaft assembly shifters available. Total cost: $349.00.

Everytime when in park consumer is not able to disengage the shift lever gear.in the owner's manual it tells consumerwhichscrewdriver to use in orderto release overdrive.

While drivingvehicle vibrates and jerks and hesitates when shifting gears. Dealer cannot identify the cause. Please give any further details.

Vehicle can be put into gears without applyingbrakes, also, at timesgears will not release frompark position, cause unknown.dealer cannot identify the problem.please give anyfurther details.

While driving on highway without warningvehicle will completely shut down, cause unknown.the dealer had replaced the transmission twice.

I have a 1997 ford escort.at approximately. 37,000 miles the transmission required service.took car to board ford in whittier, ca.two days after service the transmission failed.board ford allowed an esp for power train and replaced transmission.at time of replacement, board ford indicated the new power train was warranted for 75,000 miles.at approximately 45,000 miles on the new power train, it literally exploded from the inside out (completely cracked the core).called board ford and ford motor and was told that because the car has 80,000 miles on it, the power train wasn't warranted even though the power train only has 45,000.00 miles on it.

How can a dealership not acknowledge the motor/transmission are both foreign items.if i wanted to purchase a foreign car i would have.and for both motor replacement cost $2600 and transmission $2800 to go out the same time. Isn't there some law that states a dealership/mfg must acknowledge the type of equipment (parts) being used in a automobile??

The gear shift handle safety lock failed.

Consumer complained abouttransmission axle slippage and defective brake problems.vehicle vibrated when accelerating. Consumerhad the vehicle inspected by a private mechanic.

Consumer was getting ready to make a left handturn and parts of the transmission started to fall off.consumer could hear the parts falling off, and car stopped. Vehicle had to be towed . Mechanic told consumer that it was parts of the transmission thatfell off.

I was driving my 1997 ford escort at 70mph down interstate 75 when all of a sudden the wheels locked up. Here to find out the transmission was what locked up the gears just locked up tight causing the wheels to lock. I am 48 years old and have a cdl drivers license. I drive a 40ft. Bookmobile everyday for a living. My complaint is ford needs to look into this because a less experianced driver would have rolled the car or been run over by other traffic. I had the transmission replaced with a used one at a cost of 887.24. I contacted ford 2 times and they do not care. Just told me there was no recall so the problem was all mine.

Everytime when in park consumer is not able to disengage the shift lever gear.in the owner's manual it tells consumerwhichscrewdriver to use in orderto release overdrive.

The gear shift handle safety lock does not perform its function. By inadvertently touching the handle, the gear changed without pressing the safety lock on the handle.

Consumer complained abouttransmission axle slippage and defective brake problems.vehicle vibrated when accelerating. Consumerhad the vehicle inspected by a private mechanic.

While drivingat 65 mph, suddenly the right axle broke ,damaging the transmission/ steering wheel, forcing the consumer to pull out of the road. Dealer notified.

Transmission "blew" going at the speed of 35 miles an hour in heavy rush hour traffic. Cause of failure has been linked to the differential in the transmission. Outer case of the transmission box was cracked becuase of the force of impact. Loss of power almost caused a major accident because of loss of power and coming to a complete stop

While driving under normal conditions, the crank shaft pulley slipped off the shaft and lodged against the inside of the engine compartment. Vehicle could not be driven and had to be towed in for repair. Neither ford nor fidelity warranty service, inc. (extended warranty purchased at the time the vehicle was purchased from the dealer, would cover the repair.

Consumer purchased the vehicle.within the same week the vehicle demonstrated problems with the transmission, consumer states the vehicle is of no service to her.*jg

Manual transmission failure.

While driving at 70 mph vehicle went over a patch of ice, causing owner to lose control of vehicle. Vehicle then rolled over 3-4 times, and the middle rear lap belt did not hold child seat in place.

False deployment of both air bags.

Automatic seat belts on rear left/ right is not operating properly.

While in motion, consumer was involved in a collision and the airbags did not deploy. The seat belt also did not hold.consumer suffered chest injuries to the rib cage.consuemr wishes to have airbags opened and inspected at the local dealership.*jg

The back seat belts which have never been used to just recent to not retract. You put them on and can not move.ford will not cover this expense since it is out of the warranty period.i bought the car out of the warranty period.this should be covered since it is a matter of life and death.the seat belts are on so tight you can't breathe.these were probably defective from the beginning.we usually don't have anyone in the back of the car and just discovered it.i would like it fixed since if someone is back there they will not where the seat belt since you can not breathe.they want over $400.00 to change the retractor.i believe it was defective since it is on both sides and if no one is back there how would we know it was defective.since this is a safety issue i feel they should be liable.i can not understand how this is not covered.dt

Rear seat belt onpassenger's side, fails to latch properly.latch fails to enter the buckle becauseinside locking mechanismwas broken. Taking vehicle to dealer to have mechanic check it.

While driving on a rampvehicle was involved in an accident and the air bags did not deploy, and the seatbelts did not lock up. Please provide any futher information.

Driver's side seatbelts never locked down. When the passenger side airbag was deployed it shattered the windshield. Glass was on the passenger's seat and if some one was there they would have been cut.

While vehicle was involved in a collision front drivers side belt buckle seperated.

Vehicle was involved in acollisionat 45mph,seat beltsdid not retract properly, and the airbag did not deploy until the vehicle came to a complete stop.dealer and manufacturer have been notified.

While driving about 50 mph consumer's son pulled out the shoulder belt.but when seat belt retracted, they couldn't take it off his neck and they had to cut the belt.dealer was contacted.

The rear driver's side seat belt locked around child's neck and almost caused a fatal injury.the retractor would not release.*nlmthe rear driver's side seat belt locked around child's neck and almost caused a fatal injury.the retractor would not release.*mr

Driver's seat that ismounted to the seat track broke, causing the seat to "rock"which may cause loss of vehicle control. The metal around the mounting nut fatigued and broke out.

Manual seat adjuster on the driver's side disengages from locked position and collapses.

During rear impact at 40mph, the driver's side seat back collapsed backwards. Please describe details.

My seatback broke during a crash w/side impact.

During a rear impact collision the driver's seatback twisted and the passanger seat back broke straight back

The driver's seat remains in the down position only.

During rear impact, the driver's side seatback broke, causing seat to collapse backwards.please provide details.

The brakes failed while my wife was driving this car. It was not very difficult to diagnose the problem. The brake fluid leaked out of a brake line in the rear of the car. The location of the brake line failure is where the line is fastened to the body when the car was manufactured. It is my opinion that this defect may exist on many other vehicles of this type, that is why i am reporting it to you.

Two broken rear spring and a right side outer tie rod end, in addition to front brake pads, possible springs were of poor quality

Steering wheel locked up,brakes failed to operate properly resulting in an accident, no deployment of air bags during collision.

Vehicle makes squeaking noise during travel, squeak stops while braking.brakes pulse while being depressed.

Consumer complained abouttransmission axle slippage and defective brake problems.vehicle vibrated when accelerating. Consumerhad the vehicle inspected by a private mechanic.

Usually after getting the brakes serviced brakes will make a real lousd noise whne coming to a complete stop. Please provide more information.

When the brake was applied, there was a loud noise.

1997 ford escort had rear springs problems.**ccboth rear springs on the vehicle broke.the breaks were identical, the lower coils.the consumer contacted the manufacturer and indicated that they showed lack of interest.

Consumer requesting restitution for a house fire that was caused by a vehicle fire.*mr. Prior to the fire the vehicle also experienced a problem with the alternator and the brakes squeaking.

While pulling out from a light consumer applied brakes and they went straight to the floorboard, causing the consumer to rear end vehicle in front. Consumer had just had the rotors turned and frontbrakesreplaced.

When brake pedal is applied it has to be pumped several times beforebrakes respond.also, there isa grinding sound whenbrakes areapplied. It causes extended stopping distance.dealer has been contacted.

Abs brakes; when applying brakes in a sudden stop, the pedal went to the floor and brakes failed to stop the vehicle, causing an accident.please provide details.

Have foot on brakes & would shift gear; hear loud noise, like a metallic sound; would shift into drive & makes the same noise;took to dealer & can not locate cause of problem.

Vehicle makes a knocking noise when braking and turning a corner. Dealer contacted and ran oasis, found no repair for the vehicle and cannot duplicate the problem.

I purchased a new 1997 ford escort in september 1996. After driving the car for about a week the anti-lock brake light came on and the car was losing brake fluid. This happened a couple of times. I took the car back to the dealer and was advised that the brake fitting was missing some threads. Dealer fixed problem. This past january i got a letter from ford about the recall for the air bag monitor/sensor problem and had to take it to the local dealer to have that problem corrected. Now the car has a slow coolant leak. I took it to a repair shop and was advised that the head gasket is leaking. The car only has about 62,850 miles on it and has been very well maintained. It will cost approximately $800.00 - $1000.00 to replace the head gasket. I feel this head gasket failure is premature and ford should pay for it. This was the first ford vehicle i ever purchased and it will probably be the last. I want to know why they cannot put a $14,000 car together correctly and assure its quality to last. I looked at some of the service bulletins and previous complaints on the nhtsa web site regarding the 1997 ford escort and they are distressing to say the least. My next vehicle will be a gm product.

While appying brakesvehicle will not stop.a braking light appeared on panel. Dealership is aware ofproblem.

The car that i had purchased has not lived up to it's expectations since i purchased it. Since i have had the car, i purchased it in sept. Of 1998, the brakes have completely gone out, the emergency light comes on constantly even thought the emergency brake is not on.when purchasing the car, i had explained to the car dealer the i, being of only 19 yrs of age and this being my first big purchase i could not afford to buy a car then end up having to put tons of money into it. I am very upset at the fact that i have had the car for only a short while, the warranty has passed (how conveinient) and i refuse to be held responsible for a faulty sensor.

Brake system experiences continued extended stopping distances. Mjs

The contact owns a 1997 ford escort.when making a right turn at various speeds, the contact heard a clunking sound coming from the front end ball joints.the dealer stated that the brake pads, rotors, drums, and front wheel bearing on the passenger side needed to be replaced.the contact stated that the odometer and speedometer have both been replaced three times, but she does not trust that the speedometer is currently working properly.the failure mileage was 115,000.updated 06-03/08. *ljthe tie rod end, rear spring, windshield, upper ball joint, odometer knob, real passenger seal were all replaced. Updated 05/30/08

Intermittently when the brakes are appliedvehicle makes a popping noise. The dealer has replaced various parts of the brake system.the manufacturer has been notified.

Brakes failed, causing the front wheels tolock.

Brakes failed and vehicle rear ended another vehicle at 25mph, and airbags on both sides did not deploy.

While driving 20mph there was a popping sound. Driver appliedbrakes and pedal went to the floor,andvehicle would not stop.vehicle hit another vehicle. Brake system has been repaired.

When applying the brakes a popping/grinding sound occurs, an vehicle takes a longer time to stop.owner's daughter was in vehicle crash due to loss of braking ability.`

Brakes failed, causing accident.

Owner's son was driving the car and the steeringwheel and column locked up, forcing him to go off the road. Also brakes failed to operate properly.

When applying force to the brake pedal goes to the floorboard, causing extended stopping distance and brakes fade away.consumer has contacted the dealer, dealer adjusted the rear brakes.

At any speeds brakes will continuously fail, causing a longer stopping distance which could result in an accident.

While appying brakesvehicle will not stop.a braking light appeared on panel. Dealership is aware ofproblem.

Vehicle had to havethe rotors/pads replaced.when the brakes are applied they make squeaking noise.the dealer has been notified.

Consumerhad to replace shoes and rotors 4 -5 times. Dealer said it wasdue to disc brake calipers causingrotorstowarp.please add additional information.

Brakes are not working properly, extended stopping distance.

Brake padswere wearing out quicker then normally. Therewere also clips thathave broken because consumer has hadrotors changed, andpads changed soon aftervehicle was bought. Has contacted dealer, anddealerwas not willing to do anything.

Brake shoe pin failed. Mjs

While pulling out from a light consumer applied brakes and they went straight to the floorboard, causing the consumer to rear end vehicle in front. Consumer had just had the rotors turned and frontbrakesreplaced.

Within 4 mths had problem w/ transmission, took 4 mins for dealer to say theres nothing wrong, when i got my new tires for pepboys i had to fix my brakes, transmission,suspension, even got speed tickets for no reason,i keep my car in very good condition and i still have my engine light on and i have about 70% of the same problems others have in the nhtsacmplt section. I think the escort should be recalled for so many unsafe problems.( dot number: uj956klp12 tire size: p19570r14 )

Ford brake engineers designed to brake effort proportioning the master cylinder to allocate 85-90% of the braking to the front wheels and only 10 to 15%to the rear wheels. Thisproportion is incorrect and results in the inability to stop the car under emergency braking situations.it is not possibly to lockup the rear wheels even with the brake pedal to the floor.when the front wheel break traction on slipery surfaces the car looses its ability to stop in a reasonable length.this miss allocation of braking effort resulted in a near rear end accident in 1997 and resulted recently in totalling the vehicle this april.this braking system should have been recalledyears ago to correct the embalance of the braking action.i tried to bring this design problem to the attention of ford motor company in 1995 but it fell on deaf ears.this is a real dangerous safety problem that should have been addressed.

Brake pedal linkage was excessive and out of adjustment, allowing unnecessary brake pedal travel.

Brake pedal and gas pedal too close together.

Consumer's foot contacts the bar on the brake pedal before contacting pedal itself.

While applying the brakes the owners foot hit the accelerator pedal and ran into a tree. Owner says the gas and brake pedals are too close together.

Brake pedal depresses further down than accelerator pedal which causes one foot to hit both pedals.

Owner states that brakes do not grab and that once vehicle was involved in anaccident as aresult of this. Brake pedal goes to the floor .no abs brakes, they are standard power brakes. Dealer cannot find problem.

Consumer was enterning the expressway when vehicle lost control.took consumer across three lanes before hitting concrete divider. One injury was sustained. Dealer was not notified at the time.

Steering column makes noise.

Steering wheel locked up,brakes failed to operate properly resulting in an accident, no deployment of air bags during collision.

Owner's son was driving the car and the steeringwheel and column locked up, forcing him to go off the road. Also brakes failed to operate properly.

Steering wheel assembly replaced.

Ignition locks up and will not unlock until the sterring wheel is pulled from left to right several times. The sterring wheel and column is locked up and the ignition will not work.

Gas gauge doesn't show the correct amount of gas once it reaches 1/4of a tank. The vehicle also stalls on highways.the anti-theft alarm goes on for unknown reason.the horn malrunctions too.

Steering gear noise is present, however no remedy to solve noise problem. Mjs

Steering gear noise is present, however no remedy to solve noise problem. Mjs

Steering gear noise is present, however no remedy to solve noise problem. Mjs

While driving at 10mph on flat surface power steering went out, and consumer lost control of vehicle. Dealer notified.there was a loud grinding noise and burning smell and smoke from the belts.*jg

Crankshaft pully separated from engine block, causing sudden loss of power steering.vehicle only had 30m miles.

While getting an oil change technician informed consumer that both rear springs were broken. Dealer and manufacturer were not notified at this time. The rear spring and top mount failed and was replaced. The rear coil springs failed and was replaced. Both tie rods failed and was replaced.

Went in for repair to bad spot on tire. Mechanic found that all 4 gas struts and both sets of coil springs were broken, and had to be replaced, along with a tie rod, and all 4 tires. I had not struck anything at all to cause this, and all of these defective parts would cause a major accident if they failed at highway speed. $ 1136.48 in repairs after only 30k miles is completely unconscionable!!

Two broken rear spring and a right side outer tie rod end, in addition to front brake pads, possible springs were of poor quality

While getting an oil change technician informed consumer that both rear springs were broken. Dealer and manufacturer were not notified at this time. The rear spring and top mount failed and was replaced. The rear coil springs failed and was replaced. Both tie rods failed and was replaced.

Both rear springs & right rear outer tie rod broke.

The contact owns a 1997 ford escort.when making a right turn at various speeds, the contact heard a clunking sound coming from the front end ball joints.the dealer stated that the brake pads, rotors, drums, and front wheel bearing on the passenger side needed to be replaced.the contact stated that the odometer and speedometer have both been replaced three times, but she does not trust that the speedometer is currently working properly.the failure mileage was 115,000.updated 06-03/08. *ljthe tie rod end, rear spring, windshield, upper ball joint, odometer knob, real passenger seal were all replaced. Updated 05/30/08

While driving , the steering wheel felt loose and made aloud noise. The dealer replacedthe tie rod at owner's expense.consumer feels that she should be reimbursed for the cost ofrepairs.the vehicle's rear coil springs broke at 16219 miles. The front coil spring broke at 16279 miles and was replaced under warranty.catalytic converter failed causing noise.

Consumer's daughter was drivingand vehicle shook when in reverse. Tookvehicle to dealer,and they told her tie rods were defective. Another dealertold her it was the motor mounts.

While driving the vehicle made a clunking noise, and the vehicle got stuck in an intersection. Both front tires were facing inward due to inner tie rod failure.

Rear coil springs are cracked - both sides.vehicle only 5 years old.used in primarily in city, running errands - for retired couple.also:left outer tie rod end is worn out and has to be replaced.this causes a vibration at highway speeds and also rattles when going over small bumps (<1") at low speeds (<10 mph).

While pulling out of a parking spacevehicle lost control due tofailure oftie rod end. Dealer and manufacturer were not notified at this time. Feel free to provide any further information.

Front left tie rodwas replaced bydealership becausecomponent was experiencing excessive wear, and were very noisy while the vehicle was in operation. Left outer tie rod end assembly was replaced.

I bought a 1997 ford escort wagon new and love it and has only 30000 miles on it.recently i had a problem with steering the vehicle so i had it checked out at an auto repair shop.the mechanic told me i needed new tie rod ends and both rear coil springs were broken.as i do not drive this vehicle hard and do not haul anything except my puppy and groceries, i had a hard time believing this.so i took it to another garage and another mechanic told me the same thing and showed it to me.i am no longer driving this vehicle as it is unsafe and this vehicle should be placed on a recall list and fixed by ford free of charge.neither me or my husband have ever had this happen and we feel that definitely this has to be a factory defect.please advise me as soon as possible what to do about this defective vehicle so that i can know which direction to pursue this matter, a.e., newspapers, tv stations, etc.thanks for your help.

1997 ford escort lx wagoncomponent: structure:hatchback hydraulic cylinder:trunk cylindermanufacturer: ford motor companythe clips that hold the hydraulic cylinder to the frame have come off the passenger side liftgate assist.how this was determined was i opened the hatchback and leaned in and the hydraulic arm came off and the hatchback fell on me.both scary and painfuli contacted ford attempting to obtain replacement clips, but they are requiring me to purchase an entire assembly.i am disappointed with their response, because 1) this might potentially cause injury to other owners of the ford escort lx wagon, 2) it only needs the clips i don't want to have to purchase unnecessary components for monetary and environmental reasons, 3) this is part of the frame and should never become a hazard to people. Gas cylinder bracket on the right hand bodyside outer panel was incorrectlywelded.the gas cylinder bracket may not properly support the liftgate increasing therisk of personal injury.

Paint on rear bumper is defective. At first it seemed to be fading in one spot but soon the coating cracked and the spot is getting larger.

Vehicle was in an collision and was hit on the driver's side.the driver side door armrest was like a spear, causing injuries to the driver of vehicle.

Rubber door seal failed.yh

During normal operation ofvehicle a metal to metal grinding/rubbing noise was being emitted fromvehicle, unknown location. . then,vehicle would not maintain control when going over bumps, and in general seemed bouncy.a private mechanic informedconsumer thatrear bolt springs were busted, and thatgas struts were busted/ leaking fluid.rear struts and springs broke and leaking.

The hood flew off, which caused consumer to lose control of the vehicle.

No summary listed for abov evehicle.

The contact owns a 1997 ford escort.when making a right turn at various speeds, the contact heard a clunking sound coming from the front end ball joints.the dealer stated that the brake pads, rotors, drums, and front wheel bearing on the passenger side needed to be replaced.the contact stated that the odometer and speedometer have both been replaced three times, but she does not trust that the speedometer is currently working properly.the failure mileage was 115,000.updated 06-03/08. *ljthe tie rod end, rear spring, windshield, upper ball joint, odometer knob, real passenger seal were all replaced. Updated 05/30/08

While driving , the steering wheel felt loose and made aloud noise. The dealer replacedthe tie rod at owner's expense.consumer feels that she should be reimbursed for the cost ofrepairs.the vehicle's rear coil springs broke at 16219 miles. The front coil spring broke at 16279 miles and was replaced under warranty.catalytic converter failed causing noise.

Whenever turningsteering wheel it would make loud/squeaking noises. Its sounded like the fan belt was coming off. Took to dealer & informed by mechanic it wasonly a buzzing noise, but the noise wasgetting worse.

Engine check light is coming and staying on.vehicle is vibrating upon acceleration.contacted dealer after numerous repairs, not able to find the problem.

Noise that could not be located in rear. Rear springs were broke .

Both back rear coil springs are broken.my car has never towed anything, and there was never any excessive weight in the back seat.why would these break?this has way to little mileage to have this problem.ford is recalling taurus and voyagers....what about escort. Please contact me at [xxx] (night) or [xxx] ext [xxx] (daytime).i would hope that ford would fix this problem and start recalling the ford escorts. Thanks [xxx]information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(b)(6).

While driving at 70 mph vehicle went over a patch of ice, causing owner to lose control of vehicle. Vehicle then rolled over 3-4 times, and the middle rear lap belt did not hold child seat in place.

When attempting to make a right or a left hand turn consumer noticed a loud sound coming from the front end of the vehicle. Consumer has contacted the dealer, dealer aware of problem. Manufacturer has no corrective action. Please provide any further details.

When vehicle reaches speeds of 35 mph and over the steering wheel shakes and the front end vibrates.the dealer has repaired the vehicle prior to this incident.

Consumer hears a noise in the front end of the vehicle , so she took it into the dealer.the dealer inspected the vehicle and determined that the problem is not safety related and will not repair the vehicle.the manufacturer will be notified.

The vehicle experienced a problem with the lower control arm. The vehicle was purchased used, as is. However, the owner was told that if there were any safety features that were effected, the dealership would repair. The dealership refused to pay for towing the vehicle back to their lot. Provide furtherdetails.

During normal operation ofvehicle a metal to metal grinding/rubbing noise was being emitted fromvehicle, unknown location. . then,vehicle would not maintain control when going over bumps, and in general seemed bouncy.a private mechanic informedconsumer thatrear bolt springs were busted, and thatgas struts were busted/ leaking fluid.rear struts and springs broke and leaking.

Both rear coil springs were broken. According to auto repair shops openions, coil spring failure was a common occurrance with this type of vehicles.also, the broken pieces could damage tires.

Went in for repair to bad spot on tire. Mechanic found that all 4 gas struts and both sets of coil springs were broken, and had to be replaced, along with a tie rod, and all 4 tires. I had not struck anything at all to cause this, and all of these defective parts would cause a major accident if they failed at highway speed. $ 1136.48 in repairs after only 30k miles is completely unconscionable!!

Both rear coil springs broke at the same time which may have caused a loss of vehicle control.there is a national back order on the rear coil springs.the vehiclewas not involved in a crash.

During normal operation ofvehicle a metal to metal grinding/rubbing noise was being emitted fromvehicle, unknown location. . then,vehicle would not maintain control when going over bumps, and in general seemed bouncy.a private mechanic informedconsumer thatrear bolt springs were busted, and thatgas struts were busted/ leaking fluid.rear struts and springs broke and leaking.

Vehicle was in for tire rotation, mechanic noticed both front coil springs were cracked. As mechanic removed one of the wheelscoil spring broke/ flew across the area, and brokeshop window. Both front coil springs were replaced.

While traveling in the country vehicle was difficult to control. Consumer took vehicle in for examination bydealership and was informed thattwo rear coil springs had broken,and needed to be replaced.please provide any additional information/attachments.

Consumer went to have vehicle serviced, and he noticed that left and right side coil springs broke. The dealer was aware of the problem.consumer replaced the coil springs after receiving no response from ford, consumer was informed by mechanic that springs contained inferior steel, bad heat treating and bad design.*nlm

The contact owns a 1997 ford escort.when making a right turn at various speeds, the contact heard a clunking sound coming from the front end ball joints.the dealer stated that the brake pads, rotors, drums, and front wheel bearing on the passenger side needed to be replaced.the contact stated that the odometer and speedometer have both been replaced three times, but she does not trust that the speedometer is currently working properly.the failure mileage was 115,000.updated 06-03/08. *ljthe tie rod end, rear spring, windshield, upper ball joint, odometer knob, real passenger seal were all replaced. Updated 05/30/08

1997 ford escort failed inspection due to a leak in the right rear spring coils.*mr

Noise that could not be located in rear. Rear springs were broke .

Auto repair center tells me this is very common! no safety defect listed in the summary.

Manufacturer contacted - owner told warranty not covered manufacutrer's defects.no safety defect listed in summary.

1997ford escort wagon. Having had this car for eight years, where i needed to replace the rears spring once, i am now in the process of scheduling to replace the rear springs a second time to the amount of $700.00. After some research i have found from mechanics and from the internet that this is a 'common problem" with ford. Since this has happen a second time, for me i feel i should get some financial support from ford for this obvious defect in the suspension. This suspension problem should be a recall from ford.

Both rear coil springs broke.mechanic stated coil springs were broken in two, however invoice stated that springs were weak, consumer paid 20% of the costs.

Consumer heard a clicking sound coming from rear of vehicle. Dealer determined both rear coil springs were broken and had to be replaced.nlm

Premature failure of both rear springs, 1997 ford escort lx, vin [xxx], resulting in replacement of spring assy's at customer cost for all parts, labor and associated parts.information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(b)(6).

Rear suspension coil spring broken. Please provide any further information.

Dt: aproblem with springs.a broken rear spring; they fixed it, and installed new springs.consumer later found out from other people that they were having the same problem.received a recall on the front springs; but he was having a rear spring problem.

Rear suspension spring failure.

1997 ford escort had rear springs problems.**ccboth rear springs on the vehicle broke.the breaks were identical, the lower coils.the consumer contacted the manufacturer and indicated that they showed lack of interest.

Consumer states both rear coil springs were broken near the bottom of the springs, where the plastic covering begins, the breaks were difficult to find, however there was a noise coming from the rear end of the vehicle to lead consumer to the rear coil springs.

The rear suspension in my car is all out of whack.i have been told that i need to replace the rear springs. My mechanic says that he has seen a lot of problems like with rear suspension in these cars.i drive an escort wagon.i don't go off roading so i don't understand why the rear springs are broken.seems like this could be an issue of a faulty part or suspension system.when i have people in the back seat of my car the handling is awful and i have to go really slow over any sort of bump because the car will bottom out!just thought others may be experiencing this problem.*nlm

Rear springs on the strut assembly were completely rusted through causing rough handling of vehicle especially when car had passangers in rear seat.both rear struts/springs were replaced at cost of $500.mechanic said he saw many o f the same broken springs on escort model.car only had 34,000 miles on it when spring rusted through making this either a design defect or part defect.

It was found during an inspectionthat the rear suspension springs were broken. *ph

Rear coil spring found broken at state safety inspection. Break occurred at bottom, inside the vinyl covering of spring. New springs were $165.

Having taken car into dealership for routine state inspection have been informed that the left rear coil spring is broken and would need to be replaced for inspection.very shocked since car has never been used to haul anything more than groceries and is driven very safely due to lack of horse power.called other dealerships to see if this problem is common with ford escort and to my surprise have been told that it is not uncommon. Reported to ford motors at detroit and was told to get it fixed and keep receipts just incase there maybe a recall. It appears from the various dealers and ford motors that this is a known problem that they plan to do nothing about unless forced to by people being killed or injured.would appreciate my governments intervention on behalf of unfortunate ford consumers.

While getting an oil change, the mechanic informed the consumer that both rear springsbroke. The dealer was not notified.this is the consumer's third ford escort with broke rear springs (1991, 1993 and 1997).

Vehicle being serviced and technician noticed that both rear springs were broken in the same location.no indication from drive of vehicle that there was a problem but was told by technician that spring could come into contact with tire thus causing a blow-out.

Whilevehicle was being insepected by an independent repair shop, consumer was informed that both rear coil springs broke at 27906 miles, and need to be replaced.dealer notified, and informedconsumer vehicle was out of is warranty, and not covered under a manufacturer's recall.repairs were made at consumer's cost.

Rear spring broke on a 1997 ford escort.this is the 5th escort our agency owns that has had broken rear springs.

I took my car into my dealership for routine state inspection and was informed that both rear suspension coil springs were broken and would need to be replaced. I was very shocked since car has never been used to haul anything more than groceries. I was told by the mechanic this is a common problem and they check for it. I reported this to ford motors and was for the most part told "sorry but not our problem". It appears from the various dealers and ford motors that this is a known problem that they plan to do nothing about unless forced to by people being killed or injured. If they cannot own up to poor workmanship, then i will be buying my vehicles elsewhere.

Replacement of rear springs on 1997 ford escort.*mr the consumer wanted an explanation as to why her 2000 ford taurus was recalled but not her 1997 for escort.

Rear coil springs are cracked - both sides.vehicle only 5 years old.used in primarily in city, running errands - for retired couple.also:left outer tie rod end is worn out and has to be replaced.this causes a vibration at highway speeds and also rattles when going over small bumps (<1") at low speeds (<10 mph).

1997 ford escort had both rear springs broken at the same place.had them replaced by mechanic who told me they should have never broken.i want ford to be accountable for this and reimburse me for the repair.if 1 spring was broken then i could see it being possible, but both at the same place???? they were manufactured poorly.

The rear coil spring was rusted completely through causing unusual handling, a plastic sleve placed around the steel coil may have trapped moisture between the steel and plastic causing rust over time and eventually breaking the coil.nlm

Two rear air springs broke on vehicle.dealerdiscovered it while rotating tires.this could cause vehicle to lose control.please provide any further information.

The rear coil springs were cracked.*mr *nlm

1997 ford escort rear coil springs broken after 60k miles.

I bought a 1997 ford escort wagon new and love it and has only 30000 miles on it.recently i had a problem with steering the vehicle so i had it checked out at an auto repair shop.the mechanic told me i needed new tie rod ends and both rear coil springs were broken.as i do not drive this vehicle hard and do not haul anything except my puppy and groceries, i had a hard time believing this.so i took it to another garage and another mechanic told me the same thing and showed it to me.i am no longer driving this vehicle as it is unsafe and this vehicle should be placed on a recall list and fixed by ford free of charge.neither me or my husband have ever had this happen and we feel that definitely this has to be a factory defect.please advise me as soon as possible what to do about this defective vehicle so that i can know which direction to pursue this matter, a.e., newspapers, tv stations, etc.thanks for your help.

We heard a clunking sound in the rear end.took to the mechanic and the rear springs are completely shattered.

Rear springs on my escort i believe to be cheaply made.both have busted.i have found that my escort is not the only one.there are many other escorts with the same problem.

I had taken my 1997 ford escort in for its annual state inspection, where my rear springs were replaced at my cost.the mechanic working on my car had found that both of the original factory rear springs were broken directly below their plastic covering about one-fifth from the top of the spring.he had said that there were several escorts that he had worked on that had the same breakage at the same section of each of the rear springs.he had advised me to check to see if there were any recalls or service bulletins posted on this problem.i was also told to buy a new set of rear tires as soon as possible, as my present ones have irregular wear. I would like to know if there was or will be a recall on this problem.

Took car (1997 fordescort) to shop for routine state inspection and was informed that the right rear coil spring was broken and would need to be replaced to pass inspection. I was very surprised since the car only has 30,000 miles on it and has been driven very conservatively. Mechanic stated that premature failure of rear suspension coil springs was a common problem with ford escorts. Request government intervention to make ford co. Reimburse consumer expense caused by faulty coil springs.

1997 ford escort swrear spring breakage.

Both rear springs found broken at state inspection. I was informed that this was a very common problem and it is the first thing that the inspectors look at because of this. Evidently very well known in the trade. What can i do about it. Evidently this occurred "quite awhile ago". I now have to spend $250.00 to fix it. If this is that common why has ford evidently chosen to ignore this problem?*nlm

Both rear springs broke at approximately 60000 miles. Broken spring has a high potential to puncture a tire and if at high speed cause major wreck and personnal injury. Investigation at several repair facilities i discovered that this vehicle and model year has a systemmatic problem with the rear springs breaking at 60000 miles.the auto company has not issued a recall or notification of a potential concern.

Rear spring leaf on the rear shocks cracked in half, causing the wheel to wobble.the part has been ordered. However, it is on back order.

While in for state inspection, was told by local garage that car would fail due to rear spring being broken. They informed me that they had replaced springs on other '97 escorts and recommended i call the dealer about possible recall. Called pleasant valley ford, spoke to steve in service, said no recall yet but wouldn't be surprised if one soon. Said not safe to drive car since spring could puncture tire. Said save receipt. Had car repaired, have receipt and broken spring. Will be calling ford customer service 2/27/01

Went for an inspection for my escort and the dealer said that my springs were broken in the rear. They also said that it was common for that to happen. There was no indication that they were bad when the car was driven, as a matter of fact the car drove perfectly. This is very suspiciuos to me because i have never seen or heard of coil springs breaking befor on any vehicle. Is this a way for car companys to make the consumer foot the bill and toss you a bone to make you happy. I believe that they are not broken and is a major cover up for fords already poor reputation!

While getting an oil change technician informed consumer that both rear springs were broken. Dealer and manufacturer were not notified at this time. The rear spring and top mount failed and was replaced. The rear coil springs failed and was replaced. Both tie rods failed and was replaced.

Had taken vehicle for inspection & mechanic noticedrear suspension springs were broken in the same place. Vehicle was rejected. Took vehicle to a different place & it passed inspection.break is 1/8 inch long & its the 2nd coil spring from the bottom. Will be taking it to be repaired.

Two broken rear spring and a right side outer tie rod end, in addition to front brake pads, possible springs were of poor quality

Both rear springs & right rear outer tie rod broke.

The consumer has owned 2 ford escort and have had to replaced the rear springs in both vehicles on more than one occasion consumer believes the are cheaply made and too light.nlm

No abuse at all.reported to dealer.they said to save recept in case of recall. Both springs failed inside plastic protective sleeve.

The rear leaf springs broke, which caused uneven wear on the rear tires.

During normal operation ofvehicle a metal to metal grinding/rubbing noise was being emitted fromvehicle, unknown location. . then,vehicle would not maintain control when going over bumps, and in general seemed bouncy.a private mechanic informedconsumer thatrear bolt springs were busted, and thatgas struts were busted/ leaking fluid.rear struts and springs broke and leaking.

Vehicle would stall out at different speeds. Almost rearended because of stalling unexpectedly. Had vehicle towed back to dealer. Was informed could not find problem for stalling, even had vehicle test driven. Air conditioner blew hot air, dealer repaired wiring assembly.tires experienced wear, consumer did not give specific tire information.engine light illuminated and vehicle was hard to restart, vehicle also lost power and dealer has not been able to resolve the problem.

Vehicle was sitting inside of driveway, consumer was inspecting tires, and noticed that both rear tires were splitting inseams. All four tires were dry rotted and were replaced . Uniroyal awp tiger paw, p185/65r14, dot ap7jjkuu426.2 years after replacing tires, consumer had to replace 4 more due to splitting around the tread part of th tire.

Daughter was driving car, had a tire blow out, and car suddenly accelerated out of control.she tried shifting gears, using brakes, and pulling parking brake to no avail.she crashed into parked cars after traveling about 200 yards uphill.witnesses say she was going about 30 to 40 mph. After the blowout, which happened as she was leaving a stop.car will not be repaired, will be junked.it is too dangerous for anyone to drive.

While driving down highwayhad a tire blowout that cracked the rim, causing vehicleto lose control.

If my car wasn't sitting still when this part came lose i could have been in an accident.this should have never happened with this car.it shredded the belt that was attatched to this and came to rest on my timing belt and it had to be replaced.i know that the warenty is up and there is nothing that the dealership can do but i feel as though the car should be recalled before this happens again!

The original equipment tires on my 1997 ford escort station wagon are cracking on the inside sidewall or have cracked through to expose the steel cord.i have contacted the dealership who said that they do not warranty the tires and there was nothing they could do.i have contacted the local authorized goodyear dealer where they inspected the tires and indicated that the failure looked like a manufacturing defect.they said that goodyear would authorize them to give me a partial credit for the tires if i replaced them with another set of goodyear tires but that they would not excahnge them for new tires at no cost. (dot number: md7jtiresize: 185/65r14)

Goodyear, conquest tire dot mdj1agwr246, 195/65r14 size.tires had ripped from inside along sidewall. Tires were originals on a 1997, ford, escort.

While having a routine maintenance performed, consumer was informed that 2 of the 4 tires were coming apart, one of the tires was replaced with the spare tire, the consumer was shown in 3 places on the interior of the sidewall of the tire the outer rubber layer had separated, or was about to separate from another layer.(goodyear conquest gl p185/65r14)

Sidewall separation at turn-up.(dot number: md7j a6wrtiresize: p185/65r14)

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.

While traveling and without any indication engine indicator light flashed intermittently.dealer has repaired, but problem returned.please provide further information.

Engine check light illuminated, indicating a malfunction within the system. Cause unknown. Please give any further details.

Check engine light illuminates, indicating a problem with the emission control system.please give any further details..et

While traveling noticed air bag indication light flashing. Then, stopped the next day and indication light flashed. Also,cooling indication light came on. Consumer parked vehicle and air bags deployed. Please provide further information.

I would like to know all the things ford escort lx's of 1997 have been recalled for

Engine check light is coming and staying on.vehicle is vibrating upon acceleration.contacted dealer after numerous repairs, not able to find the problem.

The radio and clock displays are not visible on sunny days.

No summary listed for above vehicle.

Engine check light appears ondashboard whenconsumer tookvehicle to dealership.whendealership dropped vehicle off there was a knocking noise coming from underneath vehicle. Engine locked up.

Mechanic was told by prts suppliers this part in '97 escorts "are dropping like flies"-to me that is bad design and possibly a hazard to drivers when this part fails.i was lucky and going very slow speed when mine broke loose.

When pulling out vehicle lurches forward. This may cause a crash. Also,engine check light stays on.dealer cannot determine the problem.

While sitting at a lightvehicle shut down, andengine check light came on.vehicle shut completely down due to computer module failure.also, alternator andbattery died out, and engine belt, that runs everythng within the vehicle, disconnecteddue to the harmonic balancer that almost came off. Three sensors were also replaced.

Engine check light comes on and stays on for long periods of time, although nothing is mechanically wrong with the car. The defroster stays on when button is not engaged.

Engine stalled at 55 mph. After the repair the check engine light came on, and the dealer couldnt fix the problem with the egr valve.

Engine check light will come on when operatingvehicle for a long period of time or climbing a hill.the transmission failed twice and was replaced by the dealer.but the transmission's erratic shift uphill andcheck the engine soon light continued.

While driving vehicle had noticed a gas odor & the engine check light had came on. Stopped vehicle & lifted hood. Smelled & noticed smoke & fumes coming from engine area. Took to dealer.

On two occasions the dashboard "engine light" will not go off.

When stopped with foot on brake pedal, the engine check light comes on, and engine starts racing. Causing unknown.please provide details.

Vehicle had unwanted acceleration with the automatic transmission due to stuck throttle,causing extended stopping distances and difficulty in steeringcontrol.

While pulling into parking lot with foot on the brake the vehicle suddenly accelerated and crashed into a building, again with foot on brake the consumer put the vehicle into reverse and the vehicle accelerated backwards and crashed into a sand pile and building, the sandpile plugged the tailed pipe causing vehicle to stall, accidentresulted in 1 injury.nlm

Vehicle experienced sudden acceleration resulting in vehicle collision.

Daughter was driving car, had a tire blow out, and car suddenly accelerated out of control.she tried shifting gears, using brakes, and pulling parking brake to no avail.she crashed into parked cars after traveling about 200 yards uphill.witnesses say she was going about 30 to 40 mph. After the blowout, which happened as she was leaving a stop.car will not be repaired, will be junked.it is too dangerous for anyone to drive.

Idle air control valve failure resuliting in idle being erretic will race up to 2,500 rpm by it's self and when in gear sudden acceleration also engine fan will not shut off even when key is off

While pulling into parking lot with foot on the brake the vehicle suddenly accelerated and crashed into a building, again with foot on brake the consumer put the vehicle into reverse and the vehicle accelerated backwards and crashed into a sand pile and building, the sandpile plugged the tailed pipe causing vehicle to stall, accidentresulted in 1 injury.nlm

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.

Vehicle experinces 2 incidents of sudden accelration resulting in vehicle collisions.yh

When pulling out vehicle lurches forward. This may cause a crash. Also,engine check light stays on.dealer cannot determine the problem.

Vehicle was going 65mph and slowing down to 30mph while still accelerating. Heater core was leaking onto computer for airbag module. This was the second time it happened.the leaking heater core caused alot of damage to the airbag, spark plugs, ignition cable, and oxygen sensors. Consumer paid out of pocket for damaged parts.heater core replaced under warranty.*jg

The vehicle accelerated and lurched forward while pulling into a parking space, causing the vehicle to hit a brick wall.upon impact, both frontal air bags failed todeploy.the driver sustained minor injuries, andwas transported to the local hospital.the dealer and the manufacturer were not notified.

When stopped with foot on brake pedal, engine does not "idle down"; if placed in neutral or park, engine will race up to as much as 3500 rpm.first experienced this problem on 3/23/99...veh. Was placed in shop @ akins ford in winder, ga (where purchased) and they replaced "tps and cleaned throttle plates."all o.k. Until 4/4, when problem reappeared.car will literally pull itself along in first gear.

My cruise control did not turn off when i applied my brakes causing me to have a serious accident.i need to find out if this has happened to others.

Vehicle experienced sudden acceleration on two occasions, first incident resulted in collision with property. Mjs

While driving at 45 mphvehiclewas racing high without no prior warning. Manufacturer was aware ofproblem.

Idle air control valve failure resuliting in idle being erretic will race up to 2,500 rpm by it's self and when in gear sudden acceleration also engine fan will not shut off even when key is off

The cruise control stopped working/worked 5 times during the weekend of nov 11, 2002.the first time it caused the speedometer to be erratic and then it started working.from the second time on, it caused the check engine light to come on and stay on.the second time it didn't work but it caused the speedometer to stick on 0 and the odometer to stop working.the 3rd time it also didn't work, but it caused the speedometer to peg out over 120 mph and the odometer stopped working.i had decided at that point to not try the cruise control again.the 4th time the cruise control seemed to kick in by itself for a few seconds, it caused the speedometer to be erratic, and then the cruise control stopped working again.the 5th time was the scarriest.it again try to kick in by itself, and this time it disabled the gas pedal.during this entire time i was driving the posted speed limit of 65 mph.i've stopped driving the car for right now.the cruise control seems to be too erratic and i don't want to get in a accident because of it.dt

Speed control off switch does not work 1 out of 100 times; it speeds up the car.

Cruise control quit working a few days later i blew a fuse for the brakes lights. I replace the fuse and blew that one. At this same time i noticed that i could not shut off the air conditioning. I will contact dealer next buisness day.

When stopped with foot on brake pedal, the engine check light comes on, and engine starts racing. Causing unknown.please provide details.

Vehicle experienced sudden acceleration on several occasions.

The engine revs high without gas pedal being applied. Vehicle also accelerates after brake application. Dealer can't fix problem.

I turned right into a parking lot and slowly turned right again into a parking space. While i was braking, the car accelerated and hit a building.

Sudden acceleration on several occasions, on two occasion minor accidents occurred.

Intermittently sudden acceleration occurred while driving or braking. Thisresulted in a rear end collision.also, while the mechanic was test driving the vehicle, sudden acceleration occurred, which resulted in front bumper damage.mechanic replaced several components, but the problem still occurred.dealership was contacted and performed a eec test, in which ,the dtc code was pu1143, bad purge fuel.intake air hose was loose. Dealership tightened the clamp, and a sensor wasreplaced. Sudden acceleration occurred 3 times after the dealership serviced the vehicle.

Consumer complained abouttransmission axle slippage and defective brake problems.vehicle vibrated when accelerating. Consumerhad the vehicle inspected by a private mechanic.

Upon accelaration to 35mph, the gas pedal voluntarily dropped towards the floorboard. The tachometer was redlining with the brakes engaged, at this point the car was traveling at appox. 50mph. When the gear lever was moved into neutral the car continued to rev at 7000 rmp's until the key was shut off. Upon restarting the vehicle it began to rev at redling rpm's once again. From that point it was towed to the dealership.

Unintended accelleration. Within the last 12 months, on approximately 6 occasions, the vehicle would suddenly accelerate when braking to a stop. The vehicle would be placed immediately into neutral and the idle speed would return to normal. This was not caused by floormats or inadvertant pressing of the gas pedal.

Vehicle in for routine service, and mechanic noticed accelerator cable was chafed and worn, it was replaced. Contacted ford company, and they saidthat they would get back with consumer.never contacted him. Consumer concerned with safety of other drivers.the accelerator cable was abraded and was replaced.

The engine revs high without gas pedal being applied. Vehicle also accelerates after brake application. Dealer can't fix problem.

While starting vehicle with foot on brake pedal, vehicle accelerated and took off. Accident occurred. Dealer not aware of the problem. Problem still exists. Provide further information.

Engine check light comes on and stays on for long periods of time, although nothing is mechanically wrong with the car. The defroster stays on when button is not engaged.

The air intake for the heating and a/c system is right at the opening between the windshield and hood, and no grate covers it.leaves get into the system.they spit out at you when you run the a/c or heat.when a/c runs, they plug up drain, and water sloshes around in compartment and gets into interior.when heater runs, burning leaves can be smelled.

Defroster does not work properly.

Consumer states there is a fine mist coming out of right climate vent, developing film on outside of windshield, possible heater core, a/c leak or a/c condenstation.also getting a noise when blower motor is running.heater/air conditioner blower motor, air conditioner blower resistor, and blower motor wiring harness have been replaced.air conditioning system disodorized.

Consumer stated there was a very fine mist coming from the vent and there was a noise when blower motor was on, the dealer replaced motor assembly for the air conditioner and heater.

On the 1997 ford escort the airbag control module is installed directly underneath the heater core.on my car the heater core developed a leak and antifreeze flowed over the airbag control module and the electrical connector associated with it.this resulted in burnt insulation on the wiring for the airbag control and blowing the associated fuse.it came very close to causing a fire. The main problem with this is that you do not get indications of an antifreeze leak until it is to late and the air bag system is no longer usable.

Vehicle experienced fire in the passenger compartment, fire may have started in ignition switch, consumer feels the fire may have occurred due to a prior collision, heater core leaking into the ecs module, causing a short in the wiring harness, claim 40-2188-822.

Since vehicle was purchase in 1999 the consumer has replaced four defective heater cores.the first failure in 04/01 resulted in damage to the airbag module due to leakage from the heater core.the most recent failure was in 10/02.nlm

Consumer had left vehicle at repair shop for the transmission to be checked and to find out why a light in the dash had illuminated, consumer was informed that the heater core had a hole in it, when demanding her vehicle back, she discovered that the vehicle had caught on fire under the dash and that the windshield was burned, nobody contacted her to let her know about the fire, claim 24-5124-338.

Vehicle experienced passenger compartment fire, it appears to have started at the ignition switch, consumer suspects the fire was due to a prior collision, however an inspector stated the heater core was leaking into the ecs module, this caused a short in the wiring harness, thus causing the fire, claim 40-2188-822.

This is pertaining to a 1997 ford escort, vin [xxx]1. My heater core developed a leak2. I had the heater core repaired at the dealership--in the service ticket they noted "air bag light will be on.coolant damaged air bag monitor will need to be replaced"(prior to this, the air bag monitor appeared to be working--i.e. The dash light showed normal operation.)since they had already put the dash back on and i was told that it would cost about $800 to take it back off and replace the monitor, i waited until i had both the money and time.3. I received a recall notice (02s44):this was to have a shield placed over the air bag monitor to prevent damage from water and other liquids.4. I took the car in for the recall repair and informed them of the fact that the damage had already occurred but was told that the recall only covered putting in a shield and not the repair of the damage.5. I called ford motor company asking them to repair the damage that occurred prior to the recall at no cost to me but i was informed that they will only install a shield to prevent future damage.(that seems to me like closing the barn door after the animals have left).updated 07/19/2012 information redacted pursuant to the freedom of information act (foia), 5 u.s.c. 552(b)(6)

There's a leak from the heater core to the air-bag monitor (and other places) which has caused the air-bag warning light to light up, and coolant to be emitted through the rear-passenger air vent onto the floor of the car. There are many previous complaints from others about the same thing, yet no recall, so hopefully adding my complaint will help. I will have to replace the air bag monitor and the heater core, but somebody could have been seriously hurt because this leak could cause (and has caused with others) fire and/or unexpected air-bag deployment resulting in crash and/or other problems. Ford should recall this item and have it fixed!!!

Vehicle experienced fire in the passenger compartment, fire may have started in ignition switch, consumer feels the fire may have occurred due to a prior collision, heater core leaking into the ecs module, causing a short in the wiring harness, claim 40-2188-822.

Heater core leaked onto the airbag monitor which caught on fire and short circuited the electrical system.

Vehicle experienced passenger compartment fire, it appears to have started at the ignition switch, consumer suspects the fire was due to a prior collision, however an inspector stated the heater core was leaking into the ecs module, this caused a short in the wiring harness, thus causing the fire, claim 40-2188-822.

While driving andstopping at a stop sign air bag deployed. Vehicle started to smoke, and the heater coil went out. There was anti freeze all over the floor of the vehicle, and the air bag busted the front windshield.ford will not do anything to help the consumer.

Dt*:the contact stated there was a recall for the vehicle, nhtsa # 02v323000, concerning the air bag sensor.however, the recall remedy did not correct the problem.the vehicle was parked at an independent repair shop. The technician noticed the windows fogging up and opened the driver side door.while inside looking at the gauges the air bag deployed.this pinned the technician between the seat and steering wheel.the deployment cracked the windshield.upon inspection, the technician determined it is the same problem indicated in the recall. There was water accumulated in the integrated air bag monitor.updated 3/1/2006 - the consumer still has the defective parts in her possession.

The heater core leaked onto the air bag diagnostic module, causing it to short out and catch on fire. This item was replaced along with the heater core for a cost of $955.00. I had to remove the battery cable to keep the car from catching on fire and burning up, the service manager at stegall ford in pontotoc stated i should not have this problem again because the new part was sealed in plastic. I believe this is a serious design flaw after looking at your odi id logs of 865884,867236,845896 and 845837 along with numerous air bag deployments for this model car for no reason. I believe this part was changed by ford and should have been recalled on all models. I work as a design engineer and if an electrical item is subject to moisture injestion, it should be sealed or potted to eliminate shorts and failure. The placement of this module under the heater core was wrong, i notified ford and they only apoligized for the heater core leak, they did not acknowlege anything about the air bag module, i again notified them that they should be responsible for payment on this item, since the design had been changed, they have not replied to this in over a week, stating it would only take 3 days for a reply. To me this is a serious issue, i have worked in the past under fda guidelines in the medical industry with reporting and i do not like the way this is being handled by ford, they are acting like they are trying to hide something, a persons life or personal injury is not something to sweep under the rug, although no one in my family sustained any injury, they could have, i will now try to sell this car as soon as i am able. Thank you jeffrey l plunk

Heater core is leaking causing fluid to get into air bag sensor and as a result the air bag light flashes off/on, the engine stalls while driving dealer replaced the computer, some electrical wire were replaced because the car began to smoke.*nlm

Vehicle was going 65mph and slowing down to 30mph while still accelerating. Heater core was leaking onto computer for airbag module. This was the second time it happened.the leaking heater core caused alot of damage to the airbag, spark plugs, ignition cable, and oxygen sensors. Consumer paid out of pocket for damaged parts.heater core replaced under warranty.*jg

Consumer left vehicle at repair shop to determine why a light in the dash was illuminating, dealer stated that the heater core had a hole in it, consumer saw that vehicle had caught fire under the dash and that the windshield was burned, claim 24-5124-338.

Consumer had left vehicle at repair shop for the transmission to be checked and to find out why a light in the dash had illuminated, consumer was informed that the heater core had a hole in it, when demanding her vehicle back, she discovered that the vehicle had caught on fire under the dash and that the windshield was burned, nobody contacted her to let her know about the fire, claim 24-5124-338.

Heater core leaked onto air bag sensor and module causing air bag warning light to come on.had to replace heater core,air bag sensor and module.

Manufacturer's recall 02544 concerning heater core failure. Heater core fluid dripped on the air bag module,causing a short. Vehicle was repaired once, but the problem recurred.

Consumer had left vehicle at repair shop for the transmission to be checked and to find out why a light in the dash had illuminated, consumer was informed that the heater core had a hole in it, when demanding her vehicle back, she discovered that the vehicle had caught on fire under the dash and that the windshield was burned, nobody contacted her to let her know about the fire, claim 24-5124-338.

Consumer left vehicle at repair shop to determine why a light in the dash was illuminating, dealer stated that the heater core had a hole in it, consumer saw that vehicle had caught fire under the dash and that the windshield was burned, claim 24-5124-338.

Dt:the contact stated the heater core ruptured,which caused water to get into the electrical system, and vehicle caught on fire.the vehicle has not been inspected to determine the cause of the problem.upodated11/29/05.

Heater core failure resulted in failure of airbag system due to placement of airbag computer without moisture shield.

Was driving vehicle when suddenlyrear passenger side window was shattered. Nothing had hit it.

The rear window on my 1997 ford escort shattered while the car was under the carport.the window exploded from the inside.the incident happened at approximately 7:30 p.m. Cdt.there was no prior structural damage to the window.there was no vandalism involved, monroe police dept. Was called and they found no evidence of a criminal act.on observing the window, the officers commented that the window shattered from the inside.there seems to have been a structural defect in the window.*nlm

Consumer had recall 02v323000 remedied in 03/03. The airbag warning light illuminated again and the consumer was very concerned for her safety.the air bag light came on while driving.the air bag light stayed on for two days.the dealer stated they were unable to do anything about it unless it had come back on. *sccthe power window failed to roll down.

The contact owns a 1997 ford escort.when making a right turn at various speeds, the contact heard a clunking sound coming from the front end ball joints.the dealer stated that the brake pads, rotors, drums, and front wheel bearing on the passenger side needed to be replaced.the contact stated that the odometer and speedometer have both been replaced three times, but she does not trust that the speedometer is currently working properly.the failure mileage was 115,000.updated 06-03/08. *ljthe tie rod end, rear spring, windshield, upper ball joint, odometer knob, real passenger seal were all replaced. Updated 05/30/08

Driver's side air bag deployed while vehicle was parked, causingwindshield to blowout.

Wipers suddenly failed to work while driving in a rain storm and passing a semi-truck.

Windshieldwiper motordoes not work properly which causeswires to blow a fuse. Contacted dealer, and did not know what to do.

Within 4 mths had problem w/ transmission, took 4 mins for dealer to say theres nothing wrong, when i got my new tires for pepboys i had to fix my brakes, transmission,suspension, even got speed tickets for no reason,i keep my car in very good condition and i still have my engine light on and i have about 70% of the same problems others have in the nhtsacmplt section. I think the escort should be recalled for so many unsafe problems.( dot number: uj956klp12 tire size: p19570r14 )

Steel wheel rim welding is defective, causing air to escape from the wheelrim which could also cause the rim to separate from the welding.please give any further details.

Defective welds on the original rims of the wheels causing tire deflation becoming a safety concern at any speed. These failures were caught prior to any possible accident. Two wheels have failed through the welds on the original steel rims. These were found by costco, tire repair services and so documented at the chula vista, ca. Location.*la




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