1998 Ford Escort Equipment Problems

“While driving at 45 MPH vehicle stalled, and soon after consumer heard something hit the ground. Vehicle was guided to the shoulder, and consumer found that the air conditioner brackets broke. This in turn, caused the AC compressor to fall and rip a hole into the oil pan.”

“I read that that NHTSA conducted a study on tie rod end failure in Ford cars at some point. I have just had two sets of tie rod ends replaced on my Ford Escort (98 model year) within a span of a year and a half. If you are still collecting data for this issue, I respectfully submit my case.”

“In a crash, I was hit by a car going approx. 40 MPH, the airbags did not deploy. However, for 4 days following the accident there was an overwhelming odor of propellant in the car. This odor brought on a severe asthma attack for me. Also, the car hesitates and loses power when the air conditioning compressor kicks in. The car loses power enough so that it slows itself down when traveling on the highway. Also it is very alarming when it kicks on when accelerating from a stop sign or stoplight. The hesitency and power loss causes great concern for the welfare of the car.”

“Ac drainer area somehow clogged and would not drain properly. Was draining inside cabin causing musty odor and wet carpet. Dealership said not a common problem, not covered by extended warranty since no actual failure, had to remove AC motor, drain and reinstall, align and seal. This seems like a design defect. Ac should not suck up debris like it does causing clogs.”

“Air conditioner leaked into passenger compartment and made loud noise. Learned that vehicle ingests leaves and other matter into the air conditioning system. Fix made and carpet liner replaced, but problem recurred. Dealer cheerfully and completely repaired each time, but I was counselled to not allow leaves to fall onto vehicle as they are ingested. Apparent design defect.”