Overview & Reviews

Last year for the second-generation Escort. The 1.9-liter engine gets 100,000-mile tune-up interval. Automatic transmissions have lower final drive ratio when coupled with 1.9-liter engine to improve acceleration. Sport/Appearance Group available on four-door models. Ultra Violet decor no longer offered on GT. Integrated child safety seat, added during 1995 model year, continues for 1996 on sedan and wagon.

User Reviews:

Showing 11 through 20 of 39.00

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  Great econo-box - 1996 Ford Escort
  By missouri_escort - February 14 - 2:58 pm

  I purchased the car new on April Fools day of 1996. It has been great with no major problems. I replaced the speedometer at 84,000 miles, a weak point with all Fords of this era miles and timing belt, it will happen to all of them, at 100000+ miles. I replaced the ignition pack at 110,000. It will do 30+MPG on trips and 26 MPH town and country. With 113,000+ miles it still runs like new on original tune and spark plugs.

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  Great Car For the Money - 1996 Ford Escort
  By Matt - November 29 - 1:13 am

  Bought this car in Aug. of 05. So far it has been a good investment since it has taken me back and forth from work and school with little complaint. It is definitely a good car to have with the uncertain gas prices although the engine could use more power. The only major problem I had with this car is the heater core and the AC still doesnt work but I consider this pretty good for an almost 10 year old car. Overall Im satisfied with my Escort and would definitely buy one again.

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  Hate Fords? - 1996 Ford Escort
  By TAllen - September 6 - 6:53 pm

  I vowed never to own another Ford after owning a Tempo. HA! Bought this Escort because of its style and drive. Only had 100,000 miles when bought at 9 years old. The only major problem was I had to replace the harmonic balancer because it threw the timing off and made the car literally not want to move. Got it fixed and that 1.9L gets up and goes. Gets great gas mileage. And roomy for a small compact car. This was a good pick from someone who hates Fords. This one has helped change my mind although my wife still says CHEVY!

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  I love my escort - 1996 Ford Escort
  By Kelly - August 11 - 4:26 pm

  I really enjoy my escort. I bought it at 33,000 miles. I had no repairs for about a year and that was brakes. Its been a great car. I am outgrowing it. Its great for me, just not big enough for a family of 4.

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  Born to Last - 1996 Ford Escort
  By Need2know - July 19 - 12:52 am

  My Escort has 129,00 miles and is still going strong. My friends wanted me to purchase a new car years ago, but I am glad I didnt. Beside normal maintenance (oil, belts, brakes, spark plugs), I replaced the water pump and radiator. Sure those last two repairs costs a few bucks, but it is a lot cheaper than a new car payment. The car has always started (even in the MN cold). The car has plenty of power, but I dont believe in going over 65 miles/hour. If you want a car to do 90 on the interstate, this car isnt for you Small cars do not handle the road vibrations and noise at high speeds. My only real complaint is that the speedometer went out in year three.

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  Overall Good Car - 1996 Ford Escort
  By goodcar125 - June 12 - 11:26 pm

  I bought my 96 escort in 10/04 with 50,300 miles on it from an older man that couldnt drive it anymore. Reliability has been ok i guess. Needed 4 new springs and various emissions sensors when I bought it, but now it needs a new sway bar, a new blower motor and a/c repair. The 1.9L is peppy if you arent trying to pass on the expressway then its dangerous but I have the auto which may explain that. I love how well it takes corners and how easy it is to zip in and out of tight places. Its also a beast in the snow minus the lack of ABS which you have to be careful about. Also, fuel economy rocks! I put 15 bucks in it and it lasts 2 weeks its so amazing with gas being as much as it is.

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  Going and going and ....... - 1996 Ford Escort
  By sasam - November 28 - 7:56 pm

  Bought it hoping to keep for a year, but after three it is still running without any problems, other than oil changes and basic maintenance.

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  Dependable - 1996 Ford Escort
  By jrossodi - May 1 - 2:00 am

  This car wont die. It has had a few minor expectable problems, such as brakes, tires, battery, etc. But the engine is tough, the mileage is great, an it has NEVER missed a start in its 8 years of life. I am now looking for another one for my son, same year. I know what to expect from the Escort.

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  Springs Scort - 1996 Ford Escort
  By Spring - March 28 - 2:00 am

  I just bought a used 1996 Escort. It was a steal and the mileage, 40,000! This simple and economic and RELIABLE car gets me places. I see a lot of elderly people driving around here in the 80s Civic hatchbacks and other subcompacts, so Im guessing that this particular Escort was one of those "elderly cars," being operated within the warranty as long as possible. This ones gonna last me a long while, I know it. So, if theres a 96 Escort out there for sale, - dont be a fool - buy it. Its the last of its kind. Great mileage, decent looks, easy to maintain.

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  Dont Want to Give It Up!! - 1996 Ford Escort
  By The Rave - December 29 - 2:00 am

  I dont even want to sell this old car!! Ive had it for 2 years, it had high mileage on it when I bought it, plus I put 1000 miles on it in one trip from NY to Ohio, and back. It never gave me any problems, always started right up, the AC and heat are phenomenal, and the gas mileage is great. I drove this car through two bad winters and it still never failed. I just graduated college and my father urged me to purchase a brand new car, but Im afraid it wont be as reliable as this one!