Ford Escort Common Problems and Solutions
Damp smell from air conditioning
Problem:
If you have noticed a damp musty smell coming from the air conditioning, then this is usually caused by a build up of bacteria in the evaporator.
Solution:
To solve this problem you will need to purchase an anti bacterial deodorising agent. Spraying this onto the evaporator will help to solve this issue and kill the bacteria. Switching the A/C off a good few minutes before the end of the journey also helps to stop this problem, as it allows the evaporator to dry off.
Difficulty level
Aircon Evaporator
Engine idle problem
Problem:
This problem is common on the 1.8 Endura diesel engines and causes a high idling engine. This is caused by a broken idle speed return spring.
Solution:
This problem can be fixed by installing a revised spring. Check out the video below.
Difficulty level
Idle Speed Control Stepper Motor
Fuel injection pump problem
Problem:
The Escort 1.8 Endura before April 97 was known to have problems with starting and running. The timing on the fuel injection was out due to a faulty pump cam actuator.
Solution:
This problem is fixed by fitting a new pump cam actuator.
Difficulty level
FEAD belt problems
Problem:
The FEAD (Front End Accessory Drive) belt on a 1996 Escort can be prone to a really high pitched noise. This is due to lack of tension on the belt.
Solution:
This can be solved by fitting a new belt and tightening the tensioner.
Difficulty level
Radiator hose problems
Problem:
These problems were common on diesel engines from 1996 to 1998 which led to the engine overheating and coolant leakage at the top radiator hose. The radiator fan shroud was known to damage the hose.
Solution:
To rectify this you have to trim the shroud down and fit a new top hose.
Difficulty level
Radiator Hose
Blower motor problems
Problem:
This problem is common on Escorts between 1992 and 1998 where the motor doesn't work giving off a smell of melting plastic. This is caused by corrosion on the blower motor resistor contacts or could even be by a missing cover.
Solution:
This is resolved by fitting a new blower motor resistor or fitting a motor cover if there isn't one already fitted.
Difficulty level
Heat Blower Motor
Noises from underneath the vehicle
Problem:
The Ford Escorts has been commonly known to hear noises from below the vehicle. This is due to a worn flexible joint gasket.
Solution:
This can be fixed by fitting a new gasket.
Difficulty level
Cylinder Head Gasket Set
Clutch disc problem
Problem:
The Escort from 1995 was known to have problems with the clutch in either cold or wet conditions. This is due to an over-sensitive clutch disc in these types of weather conditions.
Solution:
It is remedied by fitting the revised clutch friction disc.
Difficulty level
