Overview & Reviews

For more than 100 years now, Ford Motor Company has been selling mass-produced automobiles in the United States and around the globe. Known as one of the Big Three American manufacturers, Ford has attracted millions of loyal customers with a wide range of vehicles that offer considerable value. The automaker's trucks and SUVs have been especially popular. For decades, Ford's F-Series truck has been the best-selling vehicle in America.

The company was founded by Henry Ford in 1903. Ford dreamed of building a car for the masses, and that's precisely what he did, most notably with the immortal Model T of 1908-'27. The latter was bought by 16.5 million Americans during its 20-year lifespan and was affordable enough for Ford's own factory workers to purchase. Ford's early years were also distinguished by its introduction of the moving assembly line. It was the first to utilize this more cost-effective method of production, and its innovation became a mainstay of the manufacturing process.

Ford expanded into the luxury-car market with its purchase of Lincoln Motor Company in 1925. Over the next few years, the company broadened its focus even further by creating the Mercury division to produce mid-priced cars. By the late '30s, Ford had unveiled the stylish Lincoln Zephyr, introduced a low-priced V8 engine and built more than 25 million vehicles.

The 1950s saw the introduction of the legendary Thunderbird. Offering sleek styling and spirited performance wedded to available luxury features like power windows and a signal-seeking radio, the car was a huge hit. Another model of that decade, the Edsel, met with a somewhat less enthusiastic reception. In the wake of abysmal sales, the Edsel was discontinued just a few months into its third model year.

Ford regained its footing in the early 1960s with the introduction of the compact Falcon, a model that was warmly received by the public. By the middle of the decade the automaker had given enthusiasts something to cheer about with the launch of the sporty Mustang, a car that went on to become one of the biggest sellers of its day. Buyers adored the Mustang's low price, available powerful V8 engines and sporty styling. The Mustang even created a brand-new vehicle category: the pony car.

By the 1970s, Ford, like other domestic automakers, was starting to suffer the effects of changing consumer tastes and new government regulations. Many of its cars became shadows of their former selves. But the seeds of rebirth were planted in this decade. In 1979, the company acquired a stake in Mazda; this move would later aid Ford significantly in co-development projects. The company also emerged with a new mindset of global competitiveness.

By the mid-to-late '80s, Ford was showing new strength with its popular Escort and Taurus models while further expanding its empire with the purchase of the Aston Martin and Jaguar brands. Meanwhile, its full-size LTD sedan (later renamed the Crown Victoria) remained a staple of taxi companies and police forces throughout America.

Ford rode a wave of popularity in the 1990s, thanks in part to the huge success of its Explorer midsize SUV. The truck played a huge role in ushering in the era of the SUV. In 1999, Ford expanded its family yet again with the purchase of Volvo's car division, and, in 2000, it acquired Land Rover. For awhile, there was talk of Ford even taking General Motors' spot as the No. 1 automaker in the world.

But the new millennium initially saw a downturn for Ford. Increased competition, a continuing operating loss for Jaguar, legacy costs and a reliance on SUVs for profit took their toll. To compensate, the company sold Aston Martin, Jaguar, Land Rover and Volvo and introduced a wave of successful new products. Models like the F-150, Fusion, Fiesta, Focus, Flex and Mustang have allowed Ford to regain its health and standing as a very competitive manufacturer.

User Reviews:

• 

  It did what we needed, when we needed - 2001 Ford Expedition
  By SAL LOYA - March 20 - 12:10 pm

  We did all the maintenance, it never left us stranded. We liked going on long trips, because of the comfort. I chose for my wife for safety, she chose for looks and how easy it was to drive.

• 

  Would buy it again. - 2003 Ford Ranger
  By Roady - March 20 - 12:04 am

  My third Ranger. A dependable truck, gets maybe 21 on the highway, never had a problem with it and has 68,000 miles now. I would buy it again.

• 

  Just keeps running - 1999 Ford Explorer
  By grahame - March 19 - 8:52 pm

  Purchased new and maintained. Kind of wish it would give me excuse to get rid of it, after almost nine years it would be nice to drive something different. It just keeps running and at this stage is not worth much as a trade in. It hauls construction materials, has pulled trailer, been in Northern Ontario and Quebec in the winter and is safe and reliable. I read about people with transmission issues and drive train issues but so far its been bulletproof.

• 

  Awesome car! - 2000 Ford Taurus
  By rudedog36 - March 19 - 8:48 pm

  We bought this car when it was a year old back in 2001, and I have to say its been one of the best cars Ive ever owned. Ive only had two problems with the car. One was a starter, and the other a coil pack, both of wich i fixed myself. I plan on keeping this car until it dies.

• 

  Starting to have small issues - 2004 Ford Explorer
  By DW - March 19 - 5:42 pm

  Still drives like new at 63000 miles however had to have the water pump replaced and right after pulling out from the dealer about a week later my engine light went on they claimed it would cost $700 for the repairs but the SUV still ran great! Um I wonder after complaining and basicly stopping short of accusing them for this, I dropped it off at the dealer and after picking it up the light now goes off after starting the vehicle! Ummmm I wonder if I was not mechanically inclined person I would of paid the $700?

• 

  05 STX 4X4 Apple Inside - 2005 Ford F-150
  By I-Gotta-Mac-Truck - March 19 - 5:11 pm

  Quiet, smooth ride, safe, reliable. As always, it is a Ford truck after all. This is why they are #1. The 4.6L in the 4x4 is not a speed demon, itll get there though. It is a great pulling truck, can handle heavy loads with ease. Last but not least you gotta admit, it is a pretty truck!

• 

  So far, so good - 2008 Ford Expedition
  By Kayemtee - March 19 - 4:52 pm

  In the first month of ownership, I have no regrets about my choice. I traded a 2003 Explorer with many problems at 55k miles so I am leasing this one. I enjoy the room (at 6 feet 2, I have lots of head room and extra seat travel both of which the Explorer lacked. The ride quality is excellent, much better than the 2008 Toyota Sequoia I tested, particulary over less than perfect pavement. Power is adaquate although I havent towed my boat yet. Turning circle is fine for such a large truck. Gas usage is not terrible given its 5625 lb. As per the trip computer, I an averaging 15.2 on mostly highway compared to 16 on the Explorer. 6 speed transmission very smooth and low revving.

• 

  Ponys in Snow - 2008 Ford Mustang
  By Pittsburgh - March 19 - 4:50 pm

  My wife and I special ordered this Mustang, and I have to admit that is the way to go. Ford offers the same price whether you buy off the lot or get it custom, so why not get what you want? We live in Pittsburgh, and I have had to drive the car several times in snowy and icy conditions. It handles as well as a rear wheel drive sports car can (with a few cinder blocks in the trunk). The dealer told me the 8 cylinder will not - I definitely believe him now. I love to drive this car, and it looks great in Grabber Orange with the Pony Package added. We also got the ambient lighting, MobileEaze, and interior upgrade package. The accessories are well worth the price. Enjoy!

• 

  Last Word - 2002 Ford Windstar
  By grrover - March 19 - 12:04 pm

  Well I after reading these reviews before I bought the car I thought gee everyone is pretty positive. I bought the car I was happy for about three years great van and I have owned three Caravans before. The Ford was lot more comfortable on the highway and lot more preppy. But whoa! When it hit the fourth year the thing just started to fall apart! I have spent over $ 5000 on repairs in the last year! $2,500 in one month alone. My mechanic says hey its cheaper than buying a new car! Sure its lining his pockets. The he tells me that my engine shaking is a a minor engine overhaul for replacing the head gaskets a mere $1,200. I decided to trade it in on a new Outback this week.

• 

  Dissapointed owner - 2003 Ford Windstar
  By Estella Delgado - March 19 - 11:42 am

  We purchansed and have enjoyed this vehicle until recently when the van with only 70,000 miles on it broke down and we are told that it needs a new transmission. We cannot believe this has happened. It is now sitting in the garage because of the economy we cannot afford to dish out over $1,500 for the repair.