1997 Ford Escort Fuel system Problems

“Dt: the contact owns a 1997 Ford Escort. While he driving and when the vehicle was idling there were fuel fumes inside the vehicle. When driving the vehicle it took approximately 5 minutes for the 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.”

“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. …”

“The rubber fuel filler neck hose that connects the metal fuel filler neck to the gas tank failed for the first time in 2013. During fueling, a large pool of gasoline leaked onto the pavement under the vehicle, presenting an environmental and fire hazard. The filler neck hose was replaced with a Ford OEM hose purchased from a local Ford dealer in Sacramento, CA. The replacement hose failed in a similar manner the original hose in less than two years time - thus requiring replacement in 2015. A genuine Ford OEM replacement was obtained from a dealer in the Sacramento area and installed. …”

“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.”

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