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:

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  Never One Regret - 2006 Ford Focus
  By nursesrock - July 3 - 10:19 pm

  I bought my 06 SE Sedan in 8/06. I have never regretted the purchase for one moment. Im probably going to trade it tomorrow, knowing its resale value is worth well more than what I owe. Its a good feeling knowing Ford builds cars like the Focus. Im done with Japanese products. The Focus has been an awesome, reliable car, and Ive had nothing but compliment feedback from observers and guests. High marks, Ford is only getting better.

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  Good simple truck,redux - 2009 Ford Ranger
  By Kevin - July 3 - 5:34 pm

  Still love the little thing after one short year. I had to beef up the rear springs to handle the landscaping equipment I haul around. The am/FM radio seems to have a mind of its own. Moves off the line like an ice flow. Do not buy a ranger unless you want one.

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  Poor Transmission Life Expectancy - 1995 Ford Taurus
  By Pete - July 2 - 5:58 pm

  I bought this car with 44,600 mi on it. At 77,000 MI The transmission failed completely (Trans fluid not burned or discolored) and without any warning. I was driving at a steady 45 MPH and when I stepped on the gas the engine rpm increased, but the car didnt accelerate. After coasting to the side of the road, I found that the car wouldnt move in any gear. I spent $2400.00 on towing, and a trans rebuild. I am not impressed with this car. It reminds me of the junk GM built in the 70s. The trans shop reported that the splines were stripped from the main shaft. Also, the gas gauge only works sometimes. My 93 Pontiac Transport has 294,100 MI and no major repairs ever needed. (still runs well).

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  Fox on the Run - 1993 Ford Mustang
  By reefblue - July 2 - 2:33 pm

  I bought the car in 97 in stock/unmolested condition. When I bought the car I intended to leave it stock, but like so many others, that approach didnt last long. Started with aftermarket exhaust, gears, pulleys, and progressively replaced the intake, cam, heads, and then a supercharger. Despite being heavily modified, the car has been quite reliable and beau coup fun. I left the exterior stock [ extreme sleeper ] and the car came fully loaded, save cd player. The color is reef blue, a one time hue that is beautiful. The car has become automotive history and is criminally fast.

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  Radiator broke again - 2006 Ford Explorer
  By Adam - July 2 - 2:04 am

  I bought the explorer with about 17,000 miles 3 years ago. At approximately 34,000 miles the radiator sprung a leak. While the dealer was fixing the leak they broke 2 instrument clusters. Just this week the radiator started leaking again. The dealership stated it would be at least $1,000.00 to fix it. After complaining to the dealership they said they will help with some of the costs. Ford needs to step up and do something about this radiator problem. I am a huge Ford fan and I have owned numerous ford vehicles, but this is the most disappointed I have been with a Ford vehicle.

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  1993 GL V6 Tempo - 1993 Ford Tempo
  By D. Goodrode - July 2 - 12:43 am

  Got it with 86k on it, needed complete tune-up, 3.0 V6 is great, trans has no O.D. or lock up converter, but shifts great, (shades of the 1960s), put 10% over size tires on front, get 22 to 26 MPG average, everything works on the car, 42 Degree A/C on 95 Degree days, change oil with 15w40 Diesel oil every 4k miles, runs like a Swiss watch, no oil leaks, usual maintenance items, car now has 102k on it, good riding car, kind of boring to drive, but so far very very reliable, good daily driver, what more could you want for $900.00? Looking for a reason to get a newer car but the darn thing just wont give me a reason to retire it!

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  10 good years - 2000 Ford Expedition
  By Tuscaloosa Tom - July 1 - 9:54 pm

  Bought this XLT new and it has had only one maintenance issue, a short in the rear sonal wiring. Other than that is has been close to perfect as far as reliability. I do all routine maintenance as required and this may have helped. ground clearance good, power sufficient. Hwy mileage 18-20, city maybe 14. Great A/C and good engine cooling. Good NHTSA safety ratings.

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  Bigger and Better - 2005 Ford Excursion
  By Beowulf - June 28 - 6:31 pm

  As with another reviewer, this is my second Ex (also had an 01). Replaced after transmission had repeated problems ending in new transmission (fortunately it was still under warranty). I actually liked the 7.0 engine better, but this one does have better mileage and I can carry my entire extended family and tow a boat when we go on vacation. Towing and carrying full load, can cross Snoqualmie Pass in worst winter conditions with just winter tires, no problems. I love this car and am glad I got one of the last ones - will care for it and probably replace the engine if it ever fails. Oh, and by the way - runs great on Biodiesel - Ive had it up to B100 but B5-B20 is best for coldest winter weather.

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  Seat belt comfort sub par - 2010 Ford Fusion
  By Wiggin - June 28 - 2:33 pm

  My wife and I bought this car in may 2010. The car drives nicely. We bought the sel model fwd with charcoal black leather interior and sport blue metallic paint. We purchased the car with the blis system and the upgraded Sony stereo. The blind spot monitoring system is nice. A little sensitive but nice. The 3.0 v6 has good pickup and is quiet. I have two issues with this car. First, the fuel economy in city driving is abysmal. I only get 13 mpg in the city. The car only has 1100 miles on it though. The other issue I have is that the seat belt pinches my side when I buckle it. This makes for an uncomfortable ride. It is hard find a comfortable seating position.

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  Boring is good - 2002 Ford Taurus
  By richard risatti - June 28 - 7:42 am

  This is my second Taurus and its even more reliable than my 98 was. It has 114k on it and only problem was a starter at about 110k. The wagon is not as comfortable for a tall person as the sedan. Seems as though they had to move the seats up a little for more room in the back. Was the perfect car for servicing copiers, lots of room and easy access for parts, plus the door handles and locks have held up well on the job.